‘Although it has been a very difficult decision, I wish to announce my retirement at the end of January next year – my last service as your Rector will be on Sunday 24th January 2010. Sheila and I have enjoyed our time immensely in Ardess and are filled with many wonderful memories. However, after almost 40 years in fulltime ministry, I feel that it is the right time to step down. I will be 67 years old and, as you can imagine, it is hard to cope with the physical and spiritual demands of working six days a week, and yet give all that I would want to my work. I would rather quit when I am ahead!’
‘We pray that the Lord will bless us, as a couple, with many more years of good health so that we can visit our children and grandchildren, living in far-away places, and support them as best we can. Of course, we will continue to work for the Kingdom wherever we are led – but maybe at a slower pace!’
Eric McGirr
