The church of Ireland Archbishop of Armagh, Dr Robin Eames, has appointed Archdeacon Patrick Rooke as the next dean of Armagh. Archdeacon Rooke is currently rector of Agherton parish, Portstewart, and archdeacon of Dalriada.
The archdeacon is also chair of the Church of Ireland's Hard Gospel Committee, and a co-opted member of the standing committee.
Dr Eames said yesterday he was very pleased with the appointment. "I am delighted that the archdeacon has accepted my invitation to the position of Dean of Armagh and keeper of the historic Robinson library.
"I know the new dean will bring with him an intimate knowledge of the diocese, having previously served as rector in Tandragee," he said.
After the announcement, Archdeacon Rooke said: "Whilst sad to leave Portstewart and Connor diocese, I feel privileged to have been offered this appointment and I am excited by the challenge it presents.
"I would hope to build on the sound liturgical tradition in Armagh, to develop the strong links that already exist between the cathedral and the parishes of the diocese, and to provide a welcome and hospitable environment for all who come to visit on 'the hill of St Patrick'," he said.
He added that he hoped that the atmosphere at the cathedral and its environs could be further cultivated to become a central place of retreat and spiritual renewal.
His installation at the cathedral will be on Thursday, April 27th. He succeeds the Very Rev Herbert Cassidy on his retirement.
Archdeacon Rooke was ordained in 1978. He served as curate in Mossley parish (Connor) and then in Ballywillan parish, Portrush.
In 1983 he became rector of Craigs, Dunaghy and Killagan and in 1985 was appointed rural dean of Ballymena.
In 1988 he became rector, Ballymore parish, Tandragee (Armagh) and from 1992 was appointed assistant provincial and diocesan registrar. In 1993 he became honorary vicar choral of St Patrick's Cathedral, returning to Connor diocese as rector of Agherton in 1994.
He is also chairman of Connor Diocesan Training Council and chairman of the board of directors of The Good Book Shop, Belfast. Archdeacon Rooke is married to Alison, and they have three children.