Rev Stephen Lockington to say ‘goodbye' after 15 years in town

Rev Stephen Lockington is leaving Mullingar for the First Antrim Presbyterian Church in September.

It will be with “mixed emotions” that the Reverend says goodbye to the Mullingar congregation, saying he had many good years here with his family.

“I’m here since 2002, I saw the Church grow. We moved from the old building on Castle Street and moved into our new church. That was definitely one of the highlights, bringing the church into a 21st century building.

“There was always great feeling in Mullingar town and throughout the wider community. There was a great sense of welcome,” continues Rev Lockington, who moved to Mullingar following a three-year apprenticeship ministry in Derry.

“I especially enjoyed the summer camps, and when people would call into us while we were still in Castle Street, and then slowly but surely we grew. The Presbyterian Church has been in the town since the 1920s and it will continue to thrive.

“We have to say goodbye to friends, and it will be a big move not only for myself but for my wife Lesley-Ann and our two sons, aged 10 and six, who will be moving to new schools. But it’s a new chapter in our family life.

“And I am leaving Mullingar with a good, happy impression. I am looking back with happiness but I am also looking forward to embracing the next stage of the journey.”

A new minister has yet to be appointed for September. For any time when there is no minister, a neighbouring minister will guide the congregation until a new minister is appointed for the area.