18.12.2023
Civic Carol Service Celebrates Dublin City Life
A broad spectrum of Dublin’s civic life was represented at the city’s Civic Carol Service in St Ann’s Church, Dawson Street yesterday evening (Sunday December 17).
The readers of the traditional nine lessons were drawn from the spheres of politics, sports, media to medical and many areas in between.
The first reading was delivered by Bertie Ahern, 11th Taoiseach of Ireland. He was followed by Professor Sean Daly, Master of the Rotunda Hospital; Cormac Bourke, Editor, Irish Independent; Professor David Shepherd, Professor in Hebrew Bible/Old Testament, School of Religion and Loyola Institute; Jack Boyle, Leinster Rugby Team; Ruth Kennedy, Revenue Commissioner; Drew Harris, Commissioner, An Garda Síochána; and The Lord Mayor of Dublin, Mr Daithí de Róiste. The Most Reverend Dr Michael Jackson, Archbishop of Dublin read the final Gospel reading.
The Choir of St Ann’s under the direction of Charles Marshall led the music. There were prayers at the end of the service for all who serve the city.
The service also marked the end of an era. Longstanding verger of St Ann’s, Fred Deane retires at the end of the month and the Vicar, Canon Paul Arbuthnot, led tributes to his dedication and service which spanned more than a decade.
There are more photos on our Facebook page.
