Tullow Group of Parishes
United Diocese of Cashel and Ossory
Tullow - Shillelagh - Aghold - Mullinacuffe

 July 29th 2007

PRESENTATION TO WILLIAM PATON
in St. Columba's Church, Tullow
to mark the occasion of his
retirement after 21 years service as a Parish Reader.

Dear Friends

Having heard so many nice statements being made about myself from the pulpit last Sunday I had to pinch myself several times to check if I was still alive. Usually you only get to hear words like "legendary" and "long and fruitful ministry" at a funeral service so you can imagine that I was totally over awed and feeling so unworthy of such wonderful compliments.

I am deeply grateful to so many people along the past 21 years who inspired me so much. The life and example of Canon Guy Studdert needs no explanation from me except to say his was a truely "legendary" and a "long and fruitful ministry". My thanks to the late Canon Noel Young who trained me in, to his successors Nigel Sherwood and David Oxley and to our current Rector, William Ritchie who is a wonderful servant of God.

To my fellow Parish Readers - Richard, Helen and Trevor who supported me and each other over many years. Together we were a great team and they each played an integral part in inspiring and encouraging me in my ministry.

To the church wardens and organists who worked alongside me each Sunday - sincere thanks.

To the parishioners who from the very first day supported, helped and encouraged me in the office of Parish Reader - you helped me to strive for the best.

Finally, to my loving wife Connie, my Dad and my children Lauren, Jamie and Rachel - all of you are the wind beneath my wings.

WILLIAM