On Thursday, 21st November, the Reverend David Bowles was licensed and commissioned to serve as Priest-in-Charge of the Moviddy Union of Parishes to the west of Cork City, and also as Assistant Hospital Chaplain at Cork University Hospital.

The small church of Saint Mark, Kilbonane in Aherla, County Cork was full to capacity for the Service at which the Bishop, the Right Reverend Dr Paul Colton, presided.  David was joined by members of his family, and supported also by friends and colleagues from throughout the Diocese and beyond. Cork University Hospital was represented by the Chaplain, the Reverend Canon Dr Daniel Nuzum, and other members of the chaplaincy team, including Fr Kieran O Driscoll.  Fr Bernard Cotter, parish priest of Newcestown was joined by Fr Con Cronin.  Also present was the Reverend Geraldine Gracie from Cork Methodist Church.

The sermon was preached by Archdeacon Adrian Wilkinson, rector of Douglas Union with Frankfield, where David served most recently as curate-assistant.  Afterwards everyone was welcomed to supper at Cloughduv GAA Club nearby.

Pictured following the licensing in St Mark’s Church, Kilbonane were (l-r) John Jermyn, Diocesan Registrar, the Reverend David Bowles, the Bishop, the Reverend Paul Arbuthnot, Bishop’s Chaplain, and Archdeacon Adrian Wilkinson.