Revd Mike Buchanan
​​Growing up, I was always oriented towards faith, and in Secondary School I felt particularly drawn to a life of service in the priesthood. As I matured, however, a deeper examination of faith and conscience led me down a diverse path, and towards a different form of Public Service.
Thirty one years later I found myself studying for a Masters in Theology, finally surrendering myself to God in ordained service.
This journey has stirred up in me a mix of emotions. Surprise, apprehension, acceptance, joy, fellowship, and above all, privilege. And it is to this last emotion that I find myself returning as I grow into my role as Curate Assistant.
As a member of An Garda Siochana, I was given great power, and how I used that authority defined not only my legacy as a police officer, but also that of my colleagues. I served mainly in Dublin city, and I enjoyed my 31 years in service, despite some challenging, surreal, and even terrifying moments. At the end of each shift, however, I knew that I could hang up my uniform and return to the relative anonymity of civilian life.
As an ordained servant of God, however, I find myself thinking very differently.
The trust that has been placed in me by Archbishop Michael, by Canon Adrienne, by the Parish, and by our Church, requires from me an altogether different approach to an even more significant confidence that has been placed in me.
​Of course, I have quality time to spend with my family.
But this great commission with which I have been entrusted deserves a level of commitment that is fundamental. In 1 Corinthians, St. Paul speaks about the gifts that each of us have been given, and each of us in choosing to follow Christ have been gifted various ministries. For me, I return to that word I have used before. Privilege.
I consider myself most fortunate to have not only been chosen by God at an early age to serve Him, but also blessed that He was prepared to wait for me to recognise the truth of my calling, and to finally respond in a manner worthy of His trust.
As I embark on this new role in your service as your Curate, I look forward to working with Canon Adrienne, with the ministry team in Rathfarnham Parish, and most of all, with each of you, as we grow God’s kingdom here on earth!
Mike