Rev Ruth O’Kelly has taken up her position as a part-time priest in Clane Union of Parishes. A Service of Introduction was held for her on the evening of 19th September, led by Bishop Pat Storey. The service took place in St Michael and All Angels, Millicent.
Clane Union of Parishes comprises of two churches, St Michael and All Angels, Millicent (between Clane and Sallins) and St Peter’s, Donadea as well as providing chaplaincy to a private chapel at Coolcarrigan.
Rev Ruth was ordained in the Diocese of Meath. She is originally from Coolock Parish in Dublin and is married to Martin. They have three adult children Daniel, Owen and Rachel. Ruth has just completed her curacy in Rathfarnham Parish, in Dublin diocese.
Rev Ruth was joined by her husband Rev Martin, family and friends, parishioners and friends of Clane Union. Colleagues from across the dioceses of Meath and Kildare, as well as parishioners from Rathfarnham parish where she had previously been curate, attended the Service. Local clergy from other denominations, members of the community as well as local public representatives were also in attendance.
The preacher was Canon Kevin Brew, rector of st Mary’s Parish in Howth.
At the conclusion of the Service speeches were made, to welcome Rev Ruth to Clane Union and to the dioceses of Meath and Kildare.
After the Service everyone was invited for refreshments in the nearby Westgrove Hotel.