06.12.2008
New Vicar of St Ann's and St Stephen's
It was announced today that the Revd David Gillespie, Rector of Moy (Dungannon, Co Tyrone) in the Diocese of Armagh will be the next Vicar of St Ann's and St Stephen's Churches in Dublin City Centre. He will be succeeding the Revd Canon Tom Haskins, who retired earlier in the year.
The Revd David Ivan Gillespie was born in 1968 in Derry and was educated in Faughan Valley High School in the City. Upon leaving school he worked as a Journalist with Morton Newspapers. In 1999 he moved to Dublin to study for Ministry in the Church of Ireland Theological College (now institute). He was ordained a Deacon in 2001 and a Priest the following year.
In 2001, he was appointed Curate in Agherton (Portstewart, Co Derry) in the Diocese of Connor and in 2004 was appointed Rector of Moy.
Following the announcement of his appointment as Vicar of St Ann's and St Stephen's, the Revd David Gillespie said, "I'll have very mixed feelings leaving Moy as I've enjoyed every minute of my ministry here. While I'll greatly miss the people in Moy, I am also looking forward to the opportunities and challenges presented by ministering in an urban setting, particularly in two of Dublin's most historic and recognised churches, both with a long history of social outreach to the city at large."
In his spare time David enjoys walking, reading, swimming and travel, particularly to Spain.
St Ann's and St Stephen's are two of Dublin's best known churches. Built in 1707, St Ann's on Dawson Street is situated close to the Mansion House and many Lord Mayors have worshipped in the Church. Others who have worshipped in the Church were historical figures such as Thomas Barnardo, Hugh Lane, Bram Stoker, Wolfe Tone and Douglas Hyde. St Stephen's is known to many Dubliners as 'the pepper canister' from the distinctive tower. As well as being active centres of worship, both are also regular venues for concerts, recitals and other musical events.
A date has not yet been set for David's institution.
