TKA Annual National Schools Service took place in Saint Mary’s Cathedral, Tuam on Friday 10th November. Pupils and teachers from every school in the diocese were present and it was excellent to see the Cathedral nearly bursting at the seams with enthusiastic young folk.

The Service of the Word was led by Revd. Jen McWhiter who organised readers and children to lead the prayers. Steve Brickenden, TKA youth Officer, had visited the schools ahead of time to speak about the upcoming service and to teach the children the songs. On the day, the music was enthusiastically led by Michelle with an upbeat and joyous rythm.

The preacher this year was Very Revd Alistair Grimason, Dean of TKA. He chose as his theme ‘Currahee!’, a Native Armerican cry which means ‘We Stand Alone Together’. His emphahsis was on the support and encouragement we as individuals gain by being a part of something bigger; school, parish, diocese, church. The children, teachers and clergy were a great help to the Dean as he illustrated what this means for each person.

During the address, the Dean installed the newly appointed Archdeacon of Killala and Achonry, Venerable Stephen McWhirter, to his Prebend Stall of Balla and Killabegs.

At the end of the service, Bishop Rooke thanked all those who had arranged, organised and participated in the worship and then everyone walked over to the Synod Hall for lunch.