Powerscourt parish gets new rector
THE parish of Powerscourt with Kilbride will get a new rector, with the announcement that the Revd Cathy Halissey, who is currently a curate in Taney, will be instituted in the new year.
Cathy began life in Glenageary Parish and moved to Dundrum at the age of 11. She attended St Ann’s Church on Dawson Street for the first 20 years of her life. Cathy brings with her a lifetime of experience.
She worked as secretary/ administrator with the PARC Group and Aer Lingus and was full time in the home prior to commencing training.
She is married to Ed, who was recently appointed HR Manager with the Church of Ireland and they have three children – Claire (23), Robert (21) and Lizzy (19).
Her appointment to Powerscourt with Kilbride is the culmination of eight years of study and training beginning with the Archbishop’s Course, through selection, study for the MTh and three years of curacy in Taney Parish.
‘I have been privileged to work with many fine rectors during my training, with particular thanks to Canon Robert Warren, the Revd Nigel Pierpoint; the Revd Bernie Daly and Mrs Trilly Keating and the people of Christ Church Taney and St Nahi’s churches for their guidance and support and for the joy in ministering with and to them as well as being a parishioner of Taney for almost 20 years,’ Cathy said.
‘I look forward with enormous gratitude and excitement to my incumbency in the beautiful united parishes of Powerscourt with Kilbride while acknowledging the hands that have cared for them in the past.’
Cathy is a creative spirit and loves writing poetry, songs and music.
This feeds into the preparation of courses for adults as well as plays, poems and songs to bring the scriptures to life for children.
She has just finished her book ‘Piccolo Topo’ (Little Mouse) which uses contemplative prayer and sound effects to encourage children to sit with God and imagine the scriptures.
She is also interested in ecumenism, reconciliation, contemplative prayer and guidance as well as CPE (Clinical Pastoral Education) training for chaplaincy and the gentle accompaniment of those who are ill or at the end of life.
‘Now more than ever I am aware of God’s grace and guidance in my life along with his strength and peace,’ said Cathy.