Motorbiking C of I minister takes up new Killanne post
SCOTSMAN Rev Ian Cruickshank was instituted as Church of Ireland Rector of Killanne Union of Parishes at St Anne’s Church, Killanne, on Friday night. Originally from Aberdeen, North East Scotland, the Reverend previously served in Wicklow, Tipperary, Tyrone and Belfast before making the move to live in the rectory in Clonroche with his wife Donna.
Rev Cruickshank succeeds Canon Roger Harmsworth who retired last July and has worked in psychiatric nursing, on oil rigs, in residential care for adults with learning difficulties and has also served as chaplain to Bray Wanderers Football Club. He has a big interest in motorbikes and is a member of the Christian Motorcyclists Association.
‘It is lovely to have Ian back in this Diocese again and we look forward to having a biker in the Diocese again,’ Bishop Michael Burrows said. ‘It is marvellous that you’ve decided to return to these parts where you were well loved and well valued and where those on the land came to realise your special empathy with them.’
The preacher at the service was Ian’s friend, the Reverend William Bennett, Incumbent of Newcastle parish in the Diocese of Glendalough, and he spoke of how Ian will turn heads travelling through the area in full leathers on his motorbike and of his great gifts as a communicator. He was welcomed to the parish by parish secretary, Margaret Jacob, who wished him and his family every joy and blessing in his ministry here.
Fr Brian Broaders, speaking on behalf of priest colleagues in the wider area including Fr Bernard Cushen and Fr Jim Fegan, said that they are looking forward to working with Rev Cruickshank and they welcomed him and his family to the local area.
‘It’s great to be here with family and friends and guys from all different circles,’ Rev Cruickshank said. ‘I am looking forward to the coming year as we get to know each other and learn to grow in the majesty and peace and love and joy of Christ.’