The Bishop of Cork, Dr Paul Colton, is pleased to announce that, on foot of a nomination to him by the Diocesan Board of Patronage, he has appointed the Reverend Robert Ferris to be the next Incumbent of Carrigrohane Union of Parishes.

The Reverend Robert Ferris is currently associate minister in the parish with particular responsibility for the Blarney area. Robert was made deacon in 2009 and was ordained priest in 2010 in the Diocese of Down. He served his first curacy in that Diocese in the parish of Saint Columba, Knock from 2009 until 2012 before moving to Cork.

Robert has a first class honours science degree and also a diploma in industrial studies-computer science from the University of Ulster. In 2006 he completed a post-graduate certificate in education. In 2009 he was awarded a Bachelor of Theology by the University of Dublin, Trinity College. More recently he completed an MA in Mission (Pioneer Ministry).

Speaking about his appointment Robert says:

It is an immense privilege and responsibility to have been appointed Incumbent of Carrigrohane Union of Parishes. Having spent 8 years in the parish already I realise I will be building upon the great foundations laid by Canon Ian Jonas and others before him. The parish is at a unique and exciting point in its history. Noelle and I are thrilled to continue to serve God in Carrigrohane, Blarney, Inniscarra, Ballincollig and beyond.  

There are many opportunities open to us – It is my hope and prayer that we together as a Parish family continue to see what growth God has in store as we serve him faithfully together. I look forward to continuing to work with the fantastic team of dedicated people across this Union who are serving God in this place. 

Bishop Paul Colton expressed his delight at Robert’s appointment and said:

Robert has already made a significant contribution to ministry in this Diocese since he first arrived here in 2012, not only in the Blarney area and as part of the team in Carrigrohane Union of Parishes, but also at diocesan level in taking on the chairmanship of our ongoing programme Charting a Future with Confidence. I know that everyone here will share my delight in welcoming the news that Robert and Noelle are staying in Cork.