21.09.2018
Dublin & Glendalough Diocesan Councils Lead Tributes to Retiring Archdeacon
Members of Dublin & Glendalough Diocesan Councils have paid tribute to the Archdeacon of Glendalough, the Ven Ricky Rountree, who is retiring at the end of this month. Ricky has been Archdeacon of Glendalough for 10 years and was praised for his contribution to the dioceses before yesterday evening’s (Thursday September 20) meeting of Diocesan Councils. He has been Rector of Powerscourt and Kilbride for 20 years.
On behalf of Diocesan Councils, Derek Neilson, reminded the gathering that most of Ricky’s ordained ministry had been spent in Dublin & Glendalough. The Archdeaconry of Glendalough spanned a huge area, he said, adding that Ricky worked quietly and efficiently, coming up with suggestions and solutions to problems.
Within his own parish, Derek added, the Archdeacon had been involved in the 150th anniversaries of both St Patrick’s Church in Powerscourt and St Mary’s Church in Enniskerry and was well known for his ecumenical work. In recent years he had ensured the continuation of the parish with the building of a new rectory and a new parish school.
Archbishop Michael Jackson paid tribute to the way in which Ricky had integrated his work for the parish and the wider Church. He said Ricky’s way of thinking meant that parish life was invigorated by his work centrally. The environmentally conscious rectory and school, the construction of which Ricky had overseen, was also highlighted.
The Archbishop also praised Ricky’s work on liturgy for the Church of Ireland and said he had shown that there was no need for new liturgy to become tired.
Wishing him a long and happy retirement with his wife, Elizabeth, the Archbishop added: “You know everyone and that is part of your friendship and you have a personal curiosity which means a lot to a lot of people. That motivates people. Our hope would be that you and your wife will at least spend a bit more time together. Thank you for everything you have consistently given and done for these dioceses”.
Ricky said it had been a great privilege to be Archdeacon and to spend 38 years in the dioceses. “I don’t know where the years have gone,” he stated. “It’s been a privilege to serve in parish ministry and to be involved in so many other ministries over the years… The dioceses is very close to my heart and it is in good shape.”
Referring to his involvement in both the United Dioceses and the Central Church, he spoke of the great satisfaction of being able to give something back which he described as an enriching experience personally and for parish ministry.