More on the new LLLMs for the Aughaval Group of Parishes
Lay Ministry in the Aughaval Grouped Parishes
Recently we shared with you the good news of six newly-licensed 'LLLMs' - Local Lay Liturgical Ministers, previously known as Parish Readers - for the grouped parishes. (See 10 October, reprinted towards the end of this post.) Here are bios for two more of the six - Susie Fry and Chris Gibbs - commended to you for your prayers and encouragement.
Susie Fry
Christ Church, Castlebar
Susie, who is also a Rector's Church Warden, writes:
I grew up in Tullow Parish in south Co. Dublin. I studied Natural Sciences at T.C.D. and came to Mayo in 1984 to work for the Western Care Association as a horticultural instructor with young adults. Later on, I developed and managed the Rural Training Centre in Castlebar with the H.S.E. as part of the mental health services. Since retiring, I have had some involvement with gardening projects for the Karen and more recently, the Ukrainian communities. For many years, I helped organise the Castlebar International 4 Days’ Walks. I enjoy being outdoors whether gardening, walking or seeking inspiration in nature for the occasional poem!
Two years ago, I brought my visiting “Australian” aunt to the Sunday morning service in Christ Church. The welcome was friendly and warm, and I found myself coming back. It has been, and continues to be, a nourishing experience.
Earlier this year, I felt ready and decided to be Confirmed, having declined the opportunity to do so at fourteen.
I have a curiosity about Contemplative prayer and as a “blow-in”, I appreciate the need for community and connection, especially in these times of increasing isolation, individualism and disconnection from the natural world.
Christine ('Chris') Gibbs
Holy Trinity, Inishbiggle
Chris is Rector’s Church Warden for Holy Trinity Church, Inishbiggle, where she is helping lead and oversee the restoration of the church, if not to its former glory, at least to its former functionality! Often this is demanding and hands-on work. The church's transformation from a sacred space which had fallen silent and close-to-abandoned, to one which quietly exudes a sense of the Spirit and of life, is evident, both indoors and out, and perhaps is crowned by the 'Easter Garden’ pointing to the Resurrection of Jesus Christ and our share, through faith and baptism, in his glorious Resurrection.
Chris says, “Before I retired most of my working life was spent in conservation, both as an advisor and lecturer. During that time I had the extraordinary privilege of going behind the scenes of some of the world’s greatest libraries and archives. I also got used to wearing a hard hat when creeping into cathedral crypts! These experiences have shown me the results of Faith, Dedication and Prayer.”
10 October 2025 Lay Ministry in the Aughaval Grouped Parishes
Six newly licensed Readers/ 'LLM's
Over the next short while I will be introducing to you our six newly-licensed 'LLLM's - Local Lay Liturgical Ministers - who have been licensed by the Bishop to serve across the Aughaval Group. They are (in no particular order) Christine Gibbs, Jennifer McCormack, Susie Fry, Kenn McLaughlin, Brad Thien, and Kena McWilliam. I congratulate them all on their appointments and licensing, and thank them for their willingness to serve.
What they will be doing? Their ministry
In the diocese we are getting used to this new designation, 'LLLM', so what is an LLLM and what can and will the LLLMs be doing in the parishes? To answer...
Like the existing Parish Readers with whom our Aughaval Group is blessed, LLLMs work closely with the rector and are licensed, at the invitation of the rector, to read (from the Book of Common Prayer) Morning and Evening Prayer and to assist with the chalice at Holy Communion. They are not licensed to preach (as are Diocesan Readers) but they are permitted to read sermons or reflections provided by, or discussed with and approved by, the Rector. Their ministry is not pastoral or administrative but liturgical - ie, in the context and leading of worship in our church services.
LLLMs are Garda Vetted and licensed for a period of three years at a time, after which a new license can be reapplied for by the rector to the bishop.
Working together, and the vision: Going wider and digging deeper
The LLLMs and Parish Readers are one group and team, a Liturgy Team, and those previously known as Parish Readers are now designated as 'LLLM's. These are Fiona Kelly, Ros Potter, Trevor Ardill, Barbara Shepphard, Steve Brickenden, Alan Cousins, and Benita Stoney. We are also blessed to have as a member of the Christ Church Castlebar congregation and parish, Eamon Smith, who is a Diocesan Reader. And I am grateful to Rev’d John Wesley ( ordained and who served as a priest for over 13 years in the Church of South India), for his fellowship and assistance in liturgical ministry in Christ Church Castlebar.
I am delighted at this expansion of our lay ministry team as it will allow an expansion in the raft of services we can offer in local situations (= going wider), plus a deepening and enriching (= digging deeper), I anticipate, of our shared life of faith, friendship and engagement with God and one another.
Not only will each one serve with the rector in their own parish, they will be sent out from time-to-time, as each volunteer is able and willing, in twos or threes, to take services (MP or EP) to other parish locations.
What happens now?
The LLLMs have completed the required training provided by the diocese and now that they are licensed by the TLK bishop, the frequency of their contribution to the leading of public worship, and with that their 'on-the-job' training, will increase and intensify. At the same time their training will be gentle and gradual, and I am confident that you, the good people of these parishes, will encourage and support the team and each member, when they first don the surplice.
I have invited each of the newly licensed LLMs to provide a short 'bio' as a means of introducing themselves to you. The first two bios are below, belonging to Jen and Kenn, both from Castlebar. Other introductions and bios will follow.
I commend each Local Lay Liturgical Minister - 'old' and 'new' - to your prayers, and I give thanks to God for them - and you!
"I thank my God upon every remembrance of you, always in every prayer of mine for you all making request with joy" (Philippians 1: 3-4)
Revd Suzanne Cousins
10 October 2025
Jennifer McCormack, LLLM
Christ Church, Castlebar*
I’m Jennifer, a grateful mother to a precious little boy and now a licensed liturgical lay minister. My heart is inspired by Jesus — how He fought injustice and stood with the most vulnerable. Each day, I try to follow His example by seeing the good in everyone I meet. I believe love is the greatest ministry, and I hope my life reflects that truth.
If you cross my path, I pray you feel seen, valued, and deeply loved.
Kenn McLaughlin recently retired after a thirty-six year career in theatre in the U.S. His credits range from working with such acclaimed actors as Hal Holbrook, Ruby Dee, Piper Laurie, Robert Foxworth and Tom Hanks, to directing at venues across the U.S. Mr. McLaughlin was Artistic Director for Stages Theatre in Houston for the past twenty four years where he produced more than 150 productions and led the team that built a new state-of-the-art theatre facility. Mr. McLaughlin has taught at Rice University, Sam Houston State University and Santa Fe University School of Art and Design. He holds a degree in theatre performance from DePaul University and a certificate in nonprofit management from Stanford University School of Business.Kenn worshipped in the Congregational tradition in the US from 1993. He served in leadership roles at both Liberation United Church of Christ and First Congregational Church of Houston where he recently led a successful capital (fundraising) campaign. He has served as youth leader, director of stewardship, strategic planning and pastoral relations for FCC Houston. He is thrilled to be part of the Church of Ireland family at Christ Church Castlebar and looks forward to serving in this community and in the Aughaval Group.
Revd Suzanne Cousins
Aughaval Parishes' Website aughaval.tlk.ie
