Lynda Patterson facts for kids

Lynda Jane Patterson was an important religious leader from Northern Ireland. She was born on February 6, 1974, and passed away on July 20, 2014. Lynda became the 13th dean of Christchurch, New Zealand. She was the first woman to ever hold this important role, serving from 2013 until she died in 2014.

Lynda's Early Life and Education

Lynda Patterson was born in County Down, Northern Ireland. Her parents were Cedric and Evelyn Patterson. She went to Dromore Central Primary School. Later, she studied at Banbridge Academy. Lynda then went to Mansfield College, Oxford to study theology. She taught there for twelve years. During her time at Mansfield, she held several roles. She was a Junior Dean, Junior Chaplain, and Director of Studies.

Lynda's Career in New Zealand

In 2002, Lynda visited New Zealand. She liked it so much that she decided to move there. First, she lived in Auckland. There, she learned the Māori language. She also studied to become a priest.

She was ordained as a deacon in 2004. A year later, in 2005, she became a priest. In 2006, she was made assistant dean of ChristChurch Cathedral. She also became the director of Theology House in Merivale.

Lynda became the acting dean in December 2011. This happened after the previous dean, Peter Beck, resigned. On November 1, 2013, she officially became the dean. This made her the very first woman to hold this position.

During the big 2011 Christchurch earthquake, Lynda was inside ChristChurch Cathedral. There were 19 other people with her. It was amazing that no one was hurt.

Lynda's Passing

Lynda Patterson passed away in July 2014. She died of natural causes at her home in Christchurch. Two funeral services were held for her. One was in Christchurch, New Zealand. The other was at Dromore Cathedral in Dromore, County Down, Northern Ireland.