Derry and Raphoe Mothers’ Union commissioning service

Mrs Jacqui Armstrong and Rev Katie McAteer were commissioned as Diocesan President and Diocesan Chaplain respectively of Derry and Raphoe Mothers’ Union at the organisation’s annual Festival Service in St Columb’s Cathedral in Londonderry on Wednesday evening.

The Service of Praise and Thanksgiving was led by the Dean of Derry, Very Rev Raymond Stewart, assisted by Rev Canon John Merrick and Rev Canon Sam McVeigh. The new office holders were commissioned by the Archbishop’s Commissary, Ven. Robert Miller. The address was given by Mrs Avril McNee – who was Diocesan President from 1995-2000 – and the congregation included many other recent past Presidents.

Following the Service, the congregation sang a rousing rendition of ‘Happy Birthday’ for Rev Canon Bill McNee who was celebrating his birthday.

The MU’s annual prize-giving also took place after the Service. The Eileen Moore Memorial Award for Overseas Giving went to Clondehorkey MU and was received by Roberta Merrick. The Livingston Trophy for Best Programme was awarded to Stranorlar MU and was accepted by Elsie Stewart. Both presentations were made by Helen Livingston.