St Jude’s Parish Church, Muckamore, was packed on Wednesday 28th June 2017 for the institution of Rev John McClure as rector of Muckamore, Killead and Gartree.
Parishioners of the Grouped Parishes were joined by well-wishers from John’s last parish of Ballymena and Ballyclug, where he was curate assistant. There were also visitors from parishes where John has previously ministered in, all within the Connor Diocese.
Not only was the church packed, but there wasn’t a seat to be had in the parish hall. The service was played live on a big screen in the hall. The preacher was the Very Rev John Bond, former Dean of Connor.
John is married to Margot and they have two grown-up daughters, Stephanie and Rachel.
St Jude’s Church in Muckamore was the venue for the recent Institution of Rev John McClure as Rector of Muckamore, Kilead and Gartree.
He was ordained in the Non-Stipendary Ministry in 2007. He served curacies in the Parish of Skerry, Rathcavan & Newtowcrommelin (Broughshane). Next it was the Parish of St Michael, Belfast. He then switched to Stipendary Ministry and moved to Ballymena Parish three years ago.
Before ordination, John worked with Michelin Tyres in Mallusk for 11 years. Later he spent 15 years with the Police at Belfast International Airport.
He was then Deputation Secretary with Irish Church Missions. In this role he focused on helping people with social issues including drugs and alcohol dependency. He supported families who had lost a loved one through suicide and set up groups in Northern Ireland to deal with suicide related issues.
John was a member of the former Connor Training Council and currently serves on Connor Diocesan Council. His interests include walking, golf and ‘watching all sports.’
Following the institution service refreshments were served in a marquee.
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