Blackburn retirement
THE Ven. Mark Ireland, Archdeacon of Blackburn since 2016, is to retire in April. During his tenure, he has had responsibility for the delivery of the “making disciples” arm of the Diocesan Vision 2026: “healthy churches transforming communities”.
Archdeacon Ireland trained for ministry at Wycliffe Hall, Oxford, and was ordained priest in 1985. He served two curacies in Blackburn diocese, before holding incumbencies in both Blackburn and Lichfield dioceses; in the latter diocese, he was also Diocesan Missioner.
He is a member of the General Synod, speaking last year on the National Burial Grounds survey, rest periods for office-holders, and on tackling bullying by lay officers.
He is also a co-author of books on mission, spirituality, and evangelism.
There will be a farewell service at Blackburn Cathedral on 6 April, at which he will preach.
DELAFIELD. The Revd Peter Delafield, Assistant Curate of Mosborough (Sheffield).
HARRIS. The Revd Peter Harris, NS Assistant Curate of the Ascension, Hanger Hill, with West Twyford (London).
HOUGH. The Revd Adrian Hough, NS Assistant Curate of Pinhoe with Poltimore (Exeter).
SYKES. The Revd Dr Gerald Sykes, Vicar of Highgate (Birmingham).