Ven. Robert Boyd appointed new Archdeacon of Derry

The appointment took effect on Sunday, meaning the new Archdeacon will have to quickly get used to his new title – Venerable Robert Boyd.

"I have known Robert for more years than either of us would care to remember,” said Bishop Foster. “In all that time, he has been a faithful and valued friend. For a number of years we served in neighbouring parishes in the Diocese of Armagh.”

He added: “He is extremely affable, as his parishioners will attest, but his geniality belies an inner steel. He is a gifted and resilient leader, a superb administrator, a wise counsellor, a man of utter integrity, and a wonderful pastor. He has a remarkable ability to bring people with him – gentle leadership, I would call it – but, above all, he is a very Godly man.”

Archdeacon Boyd became the second Rector of Glendermott to be appointed Archdeacon, following in the footsteps of The Ven. William Colquhoun who retired in 1914.

"After the initial shock, I feel very humbled and honoured to be appointed Archdeacon of Derry by Bishop Andrew,” he said. “I wish to pay tribute to my predecessor, The Venerable Robert Miller, who has served with such distinction.

"I pray that in the years ahead, and with God's help, I may be of assistance to the Bishop and my colleagues throughout the Diocese as we seek to build a team which proclaims the Good News of the Gospel to our Diocesan family and the wider community.

"I thank my wife, May, my family, and the parishes in which I have served, for their support of my ministry over the last 36 years.”

Archdeacon Boyd succeeds Ven. Robert Miller who will be taking up a new role, in November, as Chaplain of the Chapel Royal, Hampton Court Palace. Bishop Andrew paid tribute to Archdeacon Miller for his service in a role he had held since 2012.

"Nobody knows better than me – or appreciates more than me – the outstanding service Robert has given to the Diocese, and to me as Bishop, during his time as Archdeacon,” he said.