GoreyCUhonours workofvolunteers
AS the Gorey Credit Union 50th anniversary celebrations continue, the organisation recently held an interdenominational service in St Michael’s Church.
The service of thanksgiving was led by Fr Matt Boggan, assisted by Methodist Minister Rev Cheryl Patterson; Canon Mark Hayden from Christ Church; Rev Margaret Sykes; and Canon Aidan Jones. Among those in attendance were two founder members, Joe Sheehan and Tony Woulfe, while apologies were received from the other surviving founding members Stan Hempenstall and Paddy Doyle.
In an address to the congregation, Gorey Credit Union president Tom Fitzpatrick thanked all who were part of the credit union for the past 50 years, and all who gave so generously of their time. Those present included directors, staff and credit union members. Mr Fitzpatrick said that the services offered by the organisation ‘do not just happen.’ ‘It is down to our current staff and the foresight of previous staff members,’ he said.
He added that the service was being held to give thanks to everyone who helped to build Gorey Credit Union to be what it is today, ‘from the founder members to the volunteer collectors, from past directors and supervisory committee members to the current board and board oversight committee.
A special jubilee candle was lit by Tony Woulfe to celebrate the lives of the founders and their vision and commitment. Symbols presented at the altar included: the Credit Union flag, placed by Rosanna Carroll; an old minute book, presented by Andrew Cullen; a photograph of the founding directors by Joan Hughes; a photograph of the current directors by Joe Kinsella; and a photo of the current staff, placed by Caroline Kavanagh.
A special prayer of thanksgiving was read by Rev Cheryl Patterson, and a reading delivered by Enda O’Connor, one of the longest serving members of the board of directors. The prayers of intercession were led by manager Barry Monaghan, staff members and directors.
Music was provided by students from Gorey Community School, Bunscoil Loreto, and St Joseph’s primary school.