The Rev Kevin Graham, rector of St Bartholomew’s, Stranmillis, has been elected a Canon of the Chapter of St Anne’s Cathedral, Belfast.
The election took place at a meeting of the Chapter held on Tuesday 26th March 2019.
Kevin succeeds Brother David Jardine as the Connor Diocesan Chapter Canon. He has been rector of Stranmillis since October 2013, and is also Connor Warden of Readers and Rural Dean for South Belfast.
The Dean of Belfast, the Very Rev Stephen Forde, said: “A chapter canon is elected from among his or her peers to take their place in the life of St Anne’s Cathedral.
Kevin will bring many gifts and skills to the Cathedral, and I look forward to working closely with him across a range of ministries, from the formal occasions of special Cathedral services, to standing on the steps of the Cathedral in December for the Black Santa Sit-out.
I hope that the parishioners of St Bartholomew’s will not only share a sense of pride that their rector has been elected canon, but they will come to feel part of the wider life of the Cathedral community in this city.”
Kevin said: “Having got over the shock of being informed of the outcome of the Chapter election I feel extremely humbled and honoured to be chosen by my peers to be a Chapter Canon of St Anne’s Cathedral.
I have no doubt that St Bartholomew’s parish will be delighted also and I am very chuffed for them.
I am pleased to accept this honour and really look forward to being part of the Cathedral community and supporting the Dean in his mission in this place.
This Cathedral plays such an important role in our city, not least in the Black Santa week, and I look forward to sharing in that.
As I look forward to my installation please pray for me and the Dean, the Cathedral community and our Bishop Alan.”
The date for the Installation Service at Belfast Cathedral will be announced shortly.
Read more news from Belfast Cathedral on their website here.
