Bishop Michael Burrows has announced that the next Dean of Tuam and Incumbent of Tuam and Omey Group of Parishes in succession to the late Dean Grimason, will be the Reverend Diane Matchett.
Ms Matchett was ordained in 2005 and is currently rector of Kildress and Altedesert (near Cookstown) in the diocese of Armagh.
The West however is not new to her as for many years as she grew up her family holidayed in Roundstone and she has for some time been contemplating the possibility of a move to our part of Ireland. You will find her to be a person of great warmth, energy and pastoral commitment.
The planned installation date in Tuam Cathedral is the afternoon of Sunday January 14th, 2024 and Diane looks forward to moving to the deanery in Cong along with her husband and young son.
I am very conscious of the length of this vacancy and the demands it has made on parishioners and on all who have sustained the worshipping life of a very large parish. I am grateful to the parochial nominators for their careful work, and to all who are diligently and generously working to ensure that the extensive refurbishment of the deanery will be completed on time.
I am also aware that an understanding exists that there should be an assisting priest, perhaps on a part time basis, on the ground in the Omey area. I intend to consult appropriately and to work with the dean – elect regarding this matter over the coming months.
With every warm wish as always and I am glad at last to be sending this good news.
Michael, Tuam Limerick and Killaloe.
Rev Matchett is married to Mark who she would say “deserves a medal” – Mark is from Barnsley in South Yorkshire. The couple have a son, Casper. “We as a family are passionate about many things, and over time, they will become apparent. To highlight a few things, we are very passionate about reducing waste, we are passionate about food and cooking and love to grow most of what we eat – my husband keeps bees and hens, and we have a fantastic black Labrador called Big Ron. In ministry, I am passionate about so much, but particularly Pastoral Care, hospitality, and Worship – I love singing and enjoy an eclectic mix of music. My love for people, their stories and their passions are so strong, family just grows with love and commitment to one another. One of my abiding influences will always be my beautiful mother. Mummy passed away on 16th February 2021, and her death has left an enormous hole in our lives. Equally, our wonderful mother would wish us to serve the Lord and live our best life. My Mummy battled with dementia and our large family, along with a team of excellent carers, cared for her at home – which remains amongst the greatest honours of my life. She was our world, and she loved Jesus and lived for her family. We are the beautiful Body of Christ, and I look forward to getting to know you over the next while. I don’t speak Irish – yet – but I look forward to learning as much as possible as the weeks pass.
Go raibh maith agat. Thank you”
Diane!
