The Columban st. columba’s church, knock
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February 2015
RECTOR’S LETTER Dear Parishioner, NEW EDITOR It is a great joy to welcome our new Editor, Billy McAlpine, and to assure him of our support as he commences his new responsibilities. He recently picked up the editorial pen and this edition of the Columban is the first under his watchful eye. Billy is a long standing member of St. Columba’s and is well known to us all. He brings a wealth of experience to this important role and has inherited a strong and vibrant magazine from his predecessor Ian Noad. I look forward to working with Billy as he takes the Columban forward into this New Year and beyond. The Columban performs an essential function for both members of the parish and the community by keeping its readers in touch with our parish news and developments. If we don’t know what is happening how can we be expected to attend church services or the activities which our Parish Organisations provide? It is imperative that we include Billy’s email address in our contacts on our computer or Smartphone without delay. He has created an easily remembered address which refers specifically to his work as Columban Magazine Editor which is: colmaged@outlook.com We need to keep the Editor well informed of parish news and activities including forthcoming dates for diaries. Please email your articles and news items to Billy in good time before the monthly deadline. THE COLUMBAN The Columban is a wonderful ambassador for St. Columba’s and has a wide circulation beyond the parish boundaries. While hard copies are available for our use from the back of church on the last Sunday of each month, visitors who call to our home may also have an opportunity to read it. Do please show it to them or indeed take an additional copy for a neighbour or friend. It is also uploaded onto the parish website and is easily accessible on the homepage. I was interested to read our Webmaster’s report about the external and global reach of both the website and the magazine. Between June and December last year the magazine was read 4,270 times by people living in various countries including the United Kingdom, Ireland, United States, Canada, Cyprus and South Africa! So often when new families join the parish they tell me how much they enjoyed reading it on-line and how it encouraged them to come along and experience parish life for themselves. I wish the Columban continued success under its new Editor. Yours in His service,
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St Columba’s Parish Friday 6th February @ 7.30pm
Church Hall Come along for a night of fun and friendship! ALL WELCOME!
Wine & Savoury
Voluntary donations in aid of Church Hall Refurbishment fund.
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SERVICES IN FEBRUARY Sunday 1st Saint Brigid (White) 8.15am Holy Communion Reader Ronny Martin 1 John 1: 1-4 Gospel Clergy John 10: 7-16 10.30am All Age Worship followed by refreshments Reader Grace Owens John 10: 7-16 Preacher: Lyndsey Miles SU East Belfast E3 School’s Worker 7.00pm Choral Evensong Reader Noel Higginson Isaiah 61: 10 – 62: 5 Reader Noel Higginson 3 John 2-8 Occasional Prayers Karen McAlpine th Thursday 5 The Presentation of Christ in the Temple (Transferred)(White) 10.30am Holy Communion followed by refreshments in the Choir Vestry th Sunday 8 The Second Sunday before Lent (Green) 8.15am Holy Communion Reader Michael Davey Colossians 1: 15-20 Gospel Karen McAlpine John 1: 1-4 10.30am Holy Communion Reader Andrew Hirst Colossians 1: 15-20 Gospel Clergy John 1: 1-4 Intercessions Helen Donaghy 7.00pm Late Evening Office Reader Gina Greeves Luke 8: 22-35 Thursday 12th (Green) 10.30am Holy Communion followed by refreshments in the Choir Vestry th Sunday 15 Transfiguration (White) 8.15am Holy Communion Reader Elizabeth Miller 2 Corinthians 4: 3-6 Gospel Clergy Mark 9: 2-9 9.30am Family Communion Gospel Clergy Mark 9: 2-9
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10.30am Morning Prayer followed by refreshments hosted by Mums & Tots Reader Moira Dawson 2 Kings 2: 1-12 Reader Brian Acheson Mark 9: 2-9 Occasional Prayers Clergy 7.00pm Holy Communion Reader Eileen Anderson 2 Peter 1: 16-21 Gospel Clergy Mark 9: 9-13 Wednesday 18th Ash Wednesday (Purple) 10.30am Service for Ash Wednesday with Holy Communion 7.30pm Service for Ash Wednesday with Holy Communion Thursday 19th (Purple) 10.30am Holy Communion followed by refreshments in the Choir Vestry nd Sunday 22 The First Sunday in Lent (Purple) 8.15am Holy Communion Reader Paddy Malone 1 Peter 3: 18-22 Gospel Clergy Mark 1: 9-15 10.30am Holy Communion Reader David Craig 1 Peter 3: 18-22 Gospel Clergy Mark 1: 9-15 Preacher: The Very Revd Victor Stacey Dean of St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Dublin Intercessions Gina Greeves 7.00pm Evening Prayer Reader Carol Willis Genesis 2: 15-17; 3: 1-7 Reader Carol Willis Luke 13: 31-35 th Thursday 26 (Purple) 10.30am Holy Communion followed by refreshments in the Choir Vestry Readers and Intercessors: If you cannot read or lead the prayers on the appointed day, please arrange a swap with someone else on the rota and let the Churchwardens know. We are always delighted to add new names to the Rota of Readers and Intercessors. If you would wish to serve your church in this way, please contact Muriel Arndell (028 90655500) The readings are from Year B of the Revised Common Lectionary and are printed on our parish website: www.coiknock.org 5
PARISH PRAYER
God, our Heavenly Father, make the door of our Church wide enough to welcome all who need human love, fellowship and a Father’s care; but narrow enough to shut out all envy, pride and hatred. Here may the tempted find help, the sorrowing receive comfort and the penitent be assured of your mercy. And here may all your children renew their strength and go on their way in hope and joy; through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen. Bishop Thomas Ken 1637-1711
Sidesperson’s Rota for February. Sunday 1st February.............................. Charles and Henry Auchmuty Sunday 8th February........................... Eleanor and Geoff Launchbury Sunday 15th February..........................Lilias Smith and Pauline Darke Sunday 22nd February...................................... Sandra and John Little
Clergy Parish Visiting It is always a great privilege for the Clergy to visit parishioners in their homes. If you would like to request a Clergy Visit, please telephone the Rector (9047 1514) or the Assistant Priest (9145 8706). In addition to requested Parish Visiting, the Clergy will be visiting parishioners in the following districts during February: Rector
Assistant Priest
Orby Grove
Orby Mews
Ormiston Crescent
Ormiston Drive
Ormiston Parade
Ormiston Park
Pembridge Mews
Richhill Park
Quarry Road
Roddens Crescent
Richhill Crescent
Rosepark
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HOSPITAL VISITING
The Clergy would appreciate being informed if parishioners are in hospital, going into hospital, are being transferred or if they have been discharged, and will be pleased to offer them pastoral support. Do not assume the Clergy already know the information as situations have occurred recently when they have not been informed. Please telephone the Rector (9047 1514) or the Assistant Priest (9145 8706) to enable them to take careful note of the details.
FOR DATES DIARY YOURit or miss it!)
Parish Table Quiz
Friday, 6th February (7.30pm) (in the church hall)
(Mark
PARISH LENT LUNCH The Parish Lent Lunch will take place in the Church Hall on Sunday, 1st March following the 11am service. We hope that you will be able to join us for this popular fundraising event for the Church Hall Refurbishment Fund. Tickets are required for catering purposes and will be available in church throughout February. Thank you The Fundraising Committee.
TALK BY CANON MARK OAKLEY Saturday 21st February - The Agape Centre, Belfast South Methodist Church, 238 Lisburn Road, Belfast BT29 6GF. 10.30am (coffee from 10am) Speaker: Canon Mark Oakley, St Paul’s Catherdral, London - ‘Relevant or resonant - Christan Faith and the Public Imagination’ followed by discussion. Padraig O’Tuama, the leader of the Corrymeela Community, poet and theologian, will share poetic reflections. Lunch will be served at 12.30 (£5). Please register with Rev. David Cooper by 14 February - tdavidcooper@ btworld.com or text/phone: A Christian faith and culture event 07962 947283
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From the Registers Our Joys Holy Baptism Sunday 21st December Emily-Rose RenĂŠ Kirkwood 18 Sandown Drive Our Sorrows Christian Burials Tuesday 25th November Lucinda Stanfield Strathearn Court Nursing Home 229 Belmont Road Monday 12th November Annie Anderson 3 Knock Grove
Flower Rota for February 2015
Sunday 1 ..................................................................... Vera Hewitt Sunday 8th............................................................... Brenda Clingen Sunday 15th.......................................... Geraldine & Anella Gallen Sunday 22nd.................................................... John & Sandra Little st
Ladies Bowls
Monday afternoons.
We started back on Monday 5th January when we had a fun day with Christmas fare and prizes. Â (This was postponed from 15th Dec.) We will now have two matches to play before the end of the season end of March - as well as our own club competitions. We are looking forward to our regular Monday afternoons - this part of the year seems to go past very quickly. 8
In each magazine parishioners will be invited to share with us something which has encouraged, comforted, inspired or,perhaps,even amused them. I thank the Rector for contributing this months ‘Thought’. The March ‘Thought for the Month’ will be written by Michael Davey.
Thought for the Month
Recently I was invited by Alfred McCreary to complete his short survey “A Question of Faith” for the Saturday edition of the Belfast Telegraph. It was a great privilege to be invited to participate in this weekly survey and to join the many contributors who have answered the seven questions in recent months. One of the quotations, “Name the person you most admire and why?” started me thinking. Where was I to start as there are so many people that I could choose from- people who have supported and influenced me in so many ways. After careful reflection I chose my Great Aunt Lilian Roger, who despite experiencing great suffering, offered me a wonderful example of how to live life. Lilian trained as a nurse and while working in Singapore felt that she should remain there when war broke out rather than take the opportunity to leave on the last boat to Australia. She remained to help others who were in need of medical support, and was subsequently captured by the Japanese and interred in Changi Concentration Camp for three years. Those were extremely difficult years when she was treated very badly. Following such a harrowing experience she was eventually released when the war ended. Even though she was then very ill and had lost everything, Lilian moved forward and rebuilt her life with her husband who was also interred in the men’s section of the same camp. Neither of them was aware if the other was alive throughout that time. In the years that followed she was never bitter about the cruelty and starvation she had experienced in such horrific conditions. In my conversations with her she influenced me greatly about what is of ultimate importance in life, namely to help people when opportunities arise without being bitter, no matter what we experienced in the past. As we approach Ash Wednesday and the season of Lent we would do well to focus on that example of my great aunt and on these words of Jesus who taught us to “love one another, even as I have loved you”. (John 13: 34). The Rector 9
All Age Worship Tea & Coffee A very big thank you to everyone who supported The Simon Community at our January AAW service where we raised £155. This month I hope to see you after the service on Sunday 1st February when we shall be raising much needed funds for Autism NI. In Northern Ireland alone there are over 20,000 families living with the challenges of Autism. At present there is no known cure however there are a range of interventions that can help individuals reach their full potential. Please come along and support this very worthwhile cause and at the same time enjoy a chat and a cuppa. Roberta
There was a very encouraging turnout of young families at the children’s Christmas party in December. Great fun was had by all and we finished the afternoon by walking up to church carrying our handmade lanterns. There we sang Christmas songs and carols as well as meeting our very special visitor!! Once again Crèche will be available each Sunday (except during All Age Worship) and I would encourage all those with young children to use this facility. It enables parents to participate fully in the morning services, knowing that their children are well looked after in a safe and friendly environment. During the next few weeks the children will have the opportunity to make spring crafts as well as time to play and listen to stories. Could I also remind everyone that there will continue to be a box at the back of the church for any donations of toys for Crèche. Lynn Ryan
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Brownie Notes Some of the Brownies joined the Church Christmas party when everyone had a great time and then, for those who were unable to attend, we had a small party with the Doves . 2014 was our Centenary year and a very busy year with lots of activities. We hope 2015 will continue in the same way. Over the next couple of weeks we hope Emma and Marissa will become full members of the unit when they go through their enrolment ceremony. Rachel will join them when she reaches her magic 7th birthday. We also hope to welcome visitors from the Guide Dogs Association with one of their dogs to tell us about their organisation and explain how we can fund raise for them. This will allow us to complete our Friend to Animals badge. Please remember we still have spaces so if anyone is interested please come along on a Friday night at 6.30pm. Beth Cairnduff
MUMS AND TOTS One of our young members Lucy celebrated her second birthday just before Christmas at Mums and Tots. She kindly brought her lovely birthday cake to share with everyone. We sang Happy Birthday to her and then enjoyed the cake. It was a lovely occasion. I hope you agree that her cake was beautiful. In case you are wondering it did taste as good as it looks!! Patricia
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PAUSE We began 2015 (I can not believe it!) with coffee at the Park Avenue Hotel. We had two visitors who enjoyed the chat and intend to join us again if they are free. It was great to be back to normal after the excitement of Christmas and the New Year. I hope that we all can enjoy a healthy and happy 2015. If you are free then do come and meet us as we PAUSE for coffee or lunch at various coffee shops, restaurants or hotels. You do not have to sign up or make any commitment to come again! We would love to see you. We plan to meet on: Tuesday 27th January, 10.30am Belmont Towers for coffee Tuesday 17th February, 12.30pm Hillmount Garden Centre for lunch If you require further details or help with transport please contact me. Eileen (9020 3684)
Saint Columba’s Craft & Hobby Circle The Craft & Hobby Circle continues to meet on the first Monday of each month at 10.30 am in the Choir Vestry. The times are not set in stone and if anyone appears at 11am we are always very pleased to see them. We were delighted to present the Church with £45 from the sale of the little knitted Christmas stockings and crocheted throw. Robbie showed us the felt Santas she had made and she had other ideas for new projects which anybody could tackle. Kyleen has started a new tapestry and myself another throw. Needless to say quite often not much is done as we are so busy chatting. Everybody is welcome. Look forward to seeing you then. Carol Willis 12
Mothers’ Union Activity Group On the 16th December 2014 the Activity Group visited Neill’s Hill restaurant, Ballyhackamore for our annual Christmas Dinner. On arrival we were warmly greeted by the staff and so settled down to good food and plenty of chat. All too soon it was time to go and as we wished each other “Merry Christmas” a happy group left for home. It was good to see a full turnout of the group at our first outing in 2015 when we visited the Lyric Theatre on Wednesday 7th January, 2015 to see Mistletoe and Crime. There is nothing like a good Irish comedy to start the year and it was a most enjoyable evening. Maureen
Young Families The Young Families Group hosted their first event of 2015 when more than 30 gathered in early January in the Rectory for wine, pizza and plenty of chat. It was really encouraging to welcome a number of new parishioners and to take the time to get to know the each other a bit better in an informal setting. Thanks go to Caroline and John for hosting, and to their two handsome assistants, Henry and Charles. Thanks also for contributions made on the night to the Hall Refurbishment Fund. We will be planning another event soon, so please do not hesitate to be in touch if you have any new ideas regarding format. Suzanne Allen
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Sunday School Sunday 1st February Sunday 8th February Sunday 15th February Sunday 22nd February
10.30 10.30 9.30 10.30
All Age Worship Sunday School Family Communion Sunday School
Our Christmas party on Saturday 6th December was a great success . For the first time all age groups were accommodated in the Upstairs Hall. It was lovely to see the older children helping the younger ones enjoy their games. The children all made a lantern, played with the parachute,enjoyed musical statues and we all had a scrummy tea. At 4.30pm we took our lanterns and headed to the church. After some lively Christmas songs a very special visitor appeared to great excitement. A brilliant time was had by all. Thanks to all who gave of their time, contributed food etc. The children sang and read with great confidence throughout the Christmas period. Sunday 11th January saw our return to Sunday School. This term will be fundraising for the hall refurbishment and your child should have received a tube of Smarties on 25thJanuary which they are welcome to enjoy. We would like them to fill the tube with 20p coins and return this by the end of April Joyce Stevenson
CONFIRMATION The Bishop of Down and Dromore will be with us in St. Columba’s to administer the rite of confirmation on Sunday 26th April at the 10.30am service. I am very pleased that our Parish Reader, Karen McAlpine, will be assisting me with the classes which have recently commenced. Please remember the candidates and their families in your prayers as they prepare for this most significant occasion in their lives: Jonathan Kelly
Henry Auchmuty
Emma Craig
Christine McKee
Sarah Craig
Rachel Martin
Ellie Fullerton
Jonathan Martin
The Rector
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Ladies Guild Firstly may I wish all our members,friends and readers a very healthy and happy New Year. 2014 concluded with two very enjoyable but different events for our group. In November, as our contribution to the World War One memorial celebrations, we had a very interesting evening with Mr Jim McDonald who spoke eloquently about the George and Victoria Crosses. We learnt that the Victoria Cross was for gallantry in the face of the enemy and the George Cross was for gallantry. WW1- “ the war to end all wars”, changed the face of war forever with the development of aircraft and tanks, although many early tank men were gassed by their own fumes There was no conscription in Ireland but many men volunteered from all over the country and there were 13 battalions of the Irish Rifles. These men came back to a changed country due to the Irish Rising in 1916. 368 Victoria Crosses were awarded in WW1 and 6 of these were presented to the Ulster Division. At first only officers were awarded medals. Right up to the present day our brave men continue to receive these awards and the latest was a Royal Marine diver from Portadown who was awarded the George Cross in November. Our final event was our Christmas dinner at Shandon Golf Club. This was a fun evening, the food was delicious and the craic was pretty good too. The fact that some members brought family and friends made the evening even better, so thanks from all the Committee for your support. More fun is planned as we start off 2015 with a film but more about that next time. On behalf of our Chairman and Committee may I thank Ian Noad for all his hard work and welcome Billy Mc Alpine as our new Editor- hope I won’t give him too much grief!!! Imelda Shephard
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Mothers’ Union - Christian care for families Thank you to all those members who attended our last event of 2014, the Christmas evening at the Old Mill, Dundonald. Our first event in 2015 was a masterclass in Skincare by Christina Dalzell, proprietor of the Little Beauty Box. Christina and her colleagues, Rachel and Elizabeth imparted excellent advice and information on skincare, treatments and the product range available at the Little Beauty Box. We also sampled some products and experienced face-mapping. A whole new world to me!! The next Mothers’ Union meeting will take place in the Church hall on 3 February 2015 when we will be sampling some delicious traditional breads prepared by our guest speaker, The Bread Man, Fred Strickland. Looking ahead, the Diocesan Festival service will take place in Shankill Parish, Lurgan on Wednesday 25th March at 8.00 pm. Any members wishing to attend please contact Irene Gray, our Gilnahirk Area Representative (Tel No : 9065 3438), who will arrange transport if required. Arrangements can also be made if there are large numbers attending from our area. Finally, members will wish to note that our meeting on 5th May 2015 is the Gilnahirk Area Meeting. All parishioners are also invited to attend. Katrina Dukelow
WIDEN MY VISION God open my eyes so I may see And feel your presence close to me. Give me strength from my stumbling feet As I battle the crowd on life’s busy street. Widen the vision of my unseeing eyes So in passing faces I’ll recognize Not just a stranger, unloved and unknown, But a friend with a heart that is much like my own. Give me perception to make me aware That scattered profusely on life’s thoroughfare Are the best Gifts of God that we daily pass by As we look at the world with an unseeing eye. 16
Presentation to Columban Editor On Sunday 21st December at the morning service the Rector paid a warm tribute to Ian Noad and thanked him for all his hard work as Editor of our highly acclaimed parish magazine. Throughout the past seven years Ian was well supported by Moranne in so many ways. To mark his retirement, the Honorary Secretary of the Select Vestry, Alan Rogers, presented Ian and Moranne with gifts as an expression of the parish’s deep appreciation for all their hard and dedicated work. They received an enlarged framed copy of the December 2014/ January 2015 cover page with the inscription: Ian Noad Columban Editor 2007- 2014
Men’s Club Notes The second half of our 2014/2015 season is now in full swing. A regular membership are actively enjoying the bowling and fellowship. All our competitions are progressing along nicely under the guidance of Ian and Jim. The first half of the season proved to be very successful ending with our annual Christmas competition. To date we have been victorious in all bowling matches. We entertain Knock Methodist on 19th January followed by our last .match away to St Colmcilles on 26th February. Our first fundraising event, in aid of the Church Hall Refurbishment Fund was held on 17th November when we hosted a talk by Mr George Busby on the topic “The Secret Listeners of Gilnahirk”. This proved an extremely interesting talk attended by visitors from within and outside the parish. His talk highlighted the work done behind the scenes during the 2nd World war in premises set in the Castlereagh hills. Our second event will take place on 2nd March when we will host a talk by Mr Raymond King entitled “Shipwrecked in the Antarctic”. This should prove to be a very interesting evening in his company as he relates his ordeal. This talk will again be open to everyone from within and outside the parish. Posters and leaflets will be available in due course. John Robb Hon Secretary
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St Columba’s Mens Club presents
“Shipwrecked in the Antarctic”
Mr Raymond King will be telling of his experiences when he and others were shipwrecked in the Antarctic in November 2007 as the liner they were traveling in was struck by an iceberg.
St Columba’s Church Hall Monday 2nd March 2015 7.30pm. Light refreshments served. Proceeds in aid of Church Hall Refurbishment Fund All Welcome 18
ASH WEDNESDAY.
Lent begins with Ash Wednesday. This year it is the 18 February. But why ‘Ash’ Wednesday? The reason has to do with making things right between you and God, and the tradition goes back to Old Testament times . In the Old Testament, the Israelites often sinned . When they finally came to their senses, and saw-their evil ways as God saw them, they could do nothing but repent in sorrow. They mourned for the damage and evil they had done. As part of this repentance, they covered their heads with ashes. For the Israelites, putting ashes on their heads, and even rending their clothes, was an outward sign of their heart-felt repentance and acknowledgement of sin. (See Genesis 18: 27; 2 Samuel 13: 19; Job 2:8, 30:19; Isaiah 58:5; Jeremiah 6:26; Jonah 3:6). In the very early Christian Church, the yearly ‘class’ of penitents had ashes sprinkled over them at the beginning of Lent. They were turning to God for the first time, and mourning their sins. But soon many other Christians wanted to take part in the custom , and to do so at the very start of Lent. They heeded Joel’s call to ‘rend your hearts and not you r garments’ (Joel 2: 12-19) . Ash Wednesday became known as either the ‘beginning of the fast’ or ‘the day of the ashes’. The Bible readings for today are Joel 2:1-2, 12 - 18, Matthew 6 : 1-6,16 - 2.1 and Paul’s moving catalogue of suffering, “as having nothing and yet possessing everything.” (2 Corinthians 5:20b - 6: 10) The actual custom of ‘ashing’ was abolished at the Reformation, though the old name for the day remained. Today, throughout the Anglican Church, receiving the mark of ashes on one’s forehead is optional. Certainly the mark of ashes on the forehead reminds people of their mortality: “Remember that you are dust and to dust you will return ... “ (Genesis 3:19) The late medieval custom was to burn the branches used on Palm Sunday in the previous year to create the ashes for this day . The collect for Ash Wednesday stresses the penitential character of the day. It encourages us with the reminder of the readiness of God to forgive us and to renew us. It reads: Almighty and everlasting God, you hate nothing that you have made and forgive the sins of all those who are penitent: Create and make in us new and contrite hearts that we, worthily lamenting our sins and acknowledging our wretchedness, may receive from you, the God of all mercy, perfect remission and forgiveness; through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord, who is alive and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. God is inviting you to come to him this Ash Wednesday. What a wonderful offer ‘ Make the most of it, and remember how the prodigal son was welcomed back by his compassionate father.
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The Presentation of Christ in the Temple, known as Candlemas Day. In bygone centuries, Christians said their last farewells to the Christmas season on Candlemas, 2 February. This falls exactly 40 days after Christmas Day. In New Testament times 40 days old was an important age for a baby boy:. it was when they made their first ‘public appearance’. Mary, like all good Jewish mothers, went to the Temple with Jesus, her first male child - to ‘present him to the Lord’. At the same time, she, as a new mother, was ‘purified’. Thus we have the Festival of the Presentation of Christ in the Temple. This can be found in Luke 2:22-40 . Simeon’s great declaration of faith and recognition of who Jesus was is related in the Nunc Dimittis, which is embedded in the Office of Evening Prayer in the Western world. But in medieval times, the Nunc Dimittis was mostly used just on this day, during the distribution of candles before the Eucharist. Only gradually did it win a place in the daily prayer life of the Church. So, why Candlemas7 Jesus is described in the New Testament as the Light of the World, and early Christians developed the tradition of lighting many candles in celebration of this day. The Church also became accustomed to blessing their year’s supply of candles on this day - hence the name, Candlemas.
TIME FOR REFLECTION You are invited to spend a few moments this month or, perhaps, each week or even every day to consider the following: “The grass is always greener on the other side of the fence.” You could ask yourself what is my ‘Grass’? Does ‘always’ imply that at present you are discontent? In what way is ‘greener’ reflected in your life? The ‘other side’ suggests choice. Have you prayed for guidance? What in your life is the ‘fence’ referred to? Is this an opportunity for change in your life? If so, will that change benefit you? Do you believe you are the only one facing benefit issues?
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CROSSWORD CLUES ACROSS 8 Interrogated (Acts 12:19) (5-8) 9 ‘Burn it in a wood fire on the - heap’ (Leviticus 4: 12) (3) 10 Tobit, Judith, Baruch and the books of Esdras and the Maccabees are part of it (9) 11 Science fiction (abbrev.) (3-2) 13 Clay pit (anag.) (7) 16 Went to (John 4:46) (7) 19 ‘ Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God’s mercy, to - - your bodies as living sacrifices’ (Romans 12:1) (5) 22 David’s plea to God concerning those referred to in 14 Down: ‘On - - let them escape’ (Psalm 56:7) (2,7) 24 Royal Automobile Club (1 ,1,1) 25 How the book of Ezekiel refers to God more than 200 times (Ezekiel 2:4) (9,4) DOWN 1 Seas (Proverbs 8:24) (6) 2 One of the sons of Eli the priest, killed in battle by the Philistines (1 Samuel 4: 11) (6) 3 Specialist in the study of the Muslim religion (8) 4 ‘Do not rebuke an older man harshly, but-him as if he were your father’ (I Timothy 5:1) (6) 5 One of Esau’s grandsons (Genesis 36: 11) (4) 6 Taking a chance (colloq.) (2,4) 7 God’s instructions to the Israelites concerning grain offerings: ‘ - salt to - your offerings’ (Leviticus 2:13) (3,3) 12 Confederation of British Industry (1,1,1) 14 ‘ All day long they twist my words; they are always - to harm me’ (Psalm 56:5) (8) 15 The crowd’s reaction to Jesus bringing back to life a widow’s son in Nain (Luke 7:16) (3) 16 Disappear (Psalm 104:35) (6) 17 How Jeremiah was likely to die if he wasn’t rescued from the cistern where he was imprisoned (Jeremiah 38:9) (6) 18 What the prophets do to a wall, with whitewash (Ezekiel 13: 10, RSV) ( 4,2) 20 Made by a plough (Job 39:10) (6) 21 Noah was relieved when the flood waters continued to - (Genesis 8:5) (6) 23 Jesus gave the Twelve the power and authority to do this to diseases (Luke 9: 1) (4) (Answers on page 25)
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TEAM KNOCK EMBARKS ON 2015 MISSION POSSIBLE
2015 is set to be an important and engaging year, full of possibilities at St. Columba’s as we roll out a series of events and activities to mark our ‘Diocesan Year of Mission 2015.’ Our mantra is, ‘Nothing is Impossible’ and we want to involve everyone of all ages! Churches are a fantastic place of sustenance for the very young right up to our ‘eldest’ church members and everyone can be involved and contribute in their own way to ‘Team Knock.’ Team Knock can also play a beneficial and enjoyable role within the local community and part of our 2015 ‘Mission’ is to become further involved and engage with our friends and neighbours in the local East Belfast area. The St. Columba’s Mission Team members are busy putting plans in place to engage with church, children and the community, as we build up to a special ‘Week of Focus’ from Sunday 27 September to Sunday 4th October 2015. Our ‘Chef de Mission’ for this week will be The Right Revd Alan Abernethy, Bishop of Connor - a familiar face at St. Columba’s - who will lead worship and activity sessions. But of course it is not all about one week - it is an all year round initiative! We look forward to welcoming as many of you as possible - and remember nothing is impossible !
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Celebrating Achievement We send our heartiest congratulations to Robert McKay, 151 Kings Road, who celebrated his 100th birthday on Sunday 4th January. The Rector and the Assistant Priest visited Robert following the morning service in St. Columba’s to convey the good wishes and prayers from the parish to him on this wonderful occasion. He spent the day at home with his wife Patricia and their family, Sheila, Eileen and Brian. riends and neighbours called to see him. Robert and Patricia also recently celebrated their 65th Wedding Anniversary on 22nd November 2014 and received a letter from the Queen!
Fiona Haldane competed for Northern Ireland at the Commonwealth Veteran Fencing Championships held in Largs, Scotland in November. She was absolutely thrilled to come away with three medals: Bronze in Women’s Epee Gold Age Group medal (60-69) in Women’s Epee The Northern Ireland Women’s Epee team won a bronze medal, after defeating Scotland in a very exciting and tactical match.
Congratulations to Ross Thompson who has recently been awarded a PhD in Psychology. The title of his thesis was ‘Affective educational and demographic predictions of poor numeracy and performance in undergraduate students.
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CHRISTIANS AGAINST POVERTY There was an amazing response to our Christmas Hamper Appeal. May I thank you specifically for your thoughtfulness and kindness with the choice and number of items which you gave for the hampers. Contributions were such that 50 hampers of food were distributed and surplus put into the Food Store for continuous future use. This was a tremendous outcome from the contributions of the parishes of St. Columba’s, St. Donard’s, St. Finnian’s, Knockbreda and McQuistion Memorial Presbyterian Church. Of course food is not only required at Christmas but also throughout the year. I am suggesting that if anyone has extra in their larder then please bring it to Church any Sunday and I will take it to the Food Store located at Willowfield Parish Church. Many, many thanks, Murray
The General Register of Vestry Members In accordance with Down and Dromore Diocesan Regulations, the Register of Vestry Members is now open for review and available to parishioners for inspection. If your name is not already on the Register, and you wish it to be included, you must: be over 18 years of age; be a recognised contributor to church funds; and sign a Form of Declaration, which is available on request from the Rector or the Churchwardens. Forms must be returned to the Rector or Churchwardens no later than 12 noon, Tuesday 24th February 2015. All completed Forms of Declaration will be considered by the Select Vestry at its Register Review Meeting on 24th February 2015.
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MARCH PARISH MAGAZINE Please note, any articles or photographs for publication in the March parish magazine should be handed or e-mailed to the editor, Billy McAlpine, by 6.00pm on Wednesday, 4th February. His contact details are as follows:10 Old Quay Court, Holywood BT18 0HT Tel: 028 9042 4390
Email: colmaged@outlook.com
We are looking for volunteers to use the clicker for counting the number of people at our 10.30am services each Sunday. All we ask is that you can arrive and collect the clicker at 10.10am each Sunday and use it to count the number of people present in church for that service‌. Simple! If you are interested in helping out, please contact the Rector during this month. Thank you!
CROSSWORD ANSWERS ACROSS: 8 Cross-examined, 9 Ash, 10 Apocrypha, 11 Sci-fi, 13 Typical, 16 Visited, 19 Offer, 22 No account, 24 RAC, 25 Sovereign Lord. DOWN: 1 Oceans, 2 Hophni, 3 Islamist, 4 Exhort, 5 Omar, 6 On spec, 7 Add all, 12 CBI, 14 Plotting, 15 Awe, 16 Vanish, 17 Starve, 18 Daub it, 20 Furrow, 21 Recede, 23 Cure. 25
PARISH ORGANISATIONS New members are always welcome at any of our organisations! SUNDAY 10.30am Sunday School (2nd, 4th and 5th Sundays) Superintendant Joyce Stevenson 9058 3381 Bubbles (3-5 years) Splash (5-8 years) X-treme (8-11 years) The Grid (11-14 years) 10.30am Crèche (2nd, 3rd, 4th and 5th Sundays) Lynn Ryan 07955 479065
WEDNESDAY 7.00pm Railway and Model Club David Beattie 9028 5868 7.30pm Bible Study Group Anella Gallen 9065 8077 7.45pm Ladies Guild (3rd Wednesday) Imelda Shephard 9079 7683 THURSDAY 9.30am Art Club Bob Killen 9079 0210 7.30pm Choir Practice Dr Joe McKee 07976 294574
MONDAY 10.30am Craft & Hobby Circle Carol Willis 9079 9997 2.00pm Ladies Bowling Phyllis Newton 9048 2113 2.30pm MU Afternoon Group (2nd Monday) Joy Montgomery 9029 5427 7.30pm Men’s Club John Robb 9058 1438
FRIDAY 9.45am Mums & Tots Anne Clarke 9065 1412 3.45-4.30pm Toddler Soccer 3-5 years Tim Wareing 07740 120788 6.30pm Doves Moira Saunders 07739 041392 6.30pm Brownies Beth Cairnduff 9087 4047
TUESDAY 10.30am Ladies Badminton Vi Dowie 9067 1051 2.00pm Ladies Badminton Kyleen Clarke 9079 7155 7.30pm MU Activity Group (except 1st Tuesday) Maureen Irwin 9079 5155 8.00pm Mothers’ Union (1st Tuesday) Katrina Dukelow 9029 0625
Pause: Bi-monthly outings as arranged Eileen Anderson 9020 3684 Youth Etc (11 – 15 years): Monthly outings as arranged David Kelly 9079 6658 Young Families Group: Social events as arranged Victor Dukelow 9029 0625
Requests for the occasional use of church halls must be submitted to the Premises Convenor, John Little, on 07732 494151 or e-mail: little_large@hotmail.com 26
WHO’S WHO IN ST. COLUMBA’S PARISH WEBSITE:
www.coiknock.org
RECTOR The Revd John R. Auchmuty St. Columba’s Rectory 29 Kings Road BT5 6JG Tel 028 9047 1514 Email johnauchmuty@btinternet.com ASSISTANT PRIEST The Revd Canon Ken Smyth 3 Mount Royal Bangor BT20 3BG Tel 028 9145 8706 PARISH READER Karen McAlpine Email readercolumba@gmail.com DIOCESAN LAY READER (EMERITUS) Bryn Harris 22 Dalton Glade Glen Road Comber BT23 5SZ Tel 028 9187 8816 RECTOR’S CHURCHWARDEN John Macpherson 10 Sandhill Gardens BT5 6FF Tel 028 9028 2076 PEOPLE’S CHURCHWARDEN Jon Allen 9 Cabin Hill Gardens BT5 7AP Tel 028 9065 3511 JUNIOR CHURCHWARDENS Andrew Kelly, Charles Auchmuty RECTOR’S GLEBEWARDEN Jim Stevenson 44 Casaeldona Rise BT6 9RA Tel 028 9058 3381 Mob 07973 392448 PEOPLE’S GLEBEWARDEN Mark Reid 54 Knocklofty Park BT4 3ND Tel 028 9028 4367 Mob 07810 648167
HONORARY SEXTON John Proctor 13 Richhill Park BT5 6HG Tel 028 9087 0526 Mob 07989 469773 SELECT VESTRY Rector, Churchwardens, Glebewardens, Hon. Secretary, Hon. Treasurer, Asst. Hon. Treasurer, David Craig, Helen Donaghy, Jill Gillespie, Patrick Good, Elizabeth Leonard, John Little, Mark Ryan, Gillian Sadlier, Mark Wilson HONORARY SECRETARY Alan Rogers 50 Cabin Hill Gardens BT5 7AQ Tel 028 9065 6183 Email alanrogers53@gmail.com HONORARY TREASURER Josephine Kelly 15 Manse Road BT6 9SB Tel 028 9079 6658 ASSISTANT HONORARY TREASURER Victor Dukelow 19 Thornhill Park BT5 7AR Tel 028 9029 0625 GIFT AID SECRETARY Ronny Martin 8 Gillycourt Manor 309 Gilnahirk Road BT5 7SL Tel 028 9079 0821 Mob 07526 396838 Email ronny.martin@sky.com PAROCHIAL NOMINATORS Victor Dukelow, Patrick Good Elizabeth Leonard Moranne Noad DIOCESAN SYNOD MEMBERS Patrick Good Moranne Noad Ross Thompson (under 30) 27
ORGANIST AND CHORAL DIRECTOR Dr Joe McKee 76 Sandown Road BT5 6GU Mob 07976 294574 ASSISTANT ORGANIST Brian Clements 8 Lacefield BT4 3PA Tel 028 9079 3641 READERS & INTERCESSORS CO-ORDINATOR Muriel Arndell 18 Kinedar Crescent BT4 3LY Tel 028 9065 5500 SIDESPERSONS’ ROTA COORDINATOR Rosemary Coffey 44 Thornyhill Road Killinchy BT23 6SJ Tel 028 9754 2198 CRÈCHE ROTA CO-ORDINATOR Lynn Ryan 2 Ballyregan Road Dundonald BT16 1HY Tel 07955 479065 MAGAZINE EDITOR Billy McAlpine 10 Old Quay Court Holywood BT18 0HT Tel 028 9042 4390 Email colmaged@outlook.com
PARISH WEBMASTER Ivan Roche 49 Richhill Park BT5 6HG Tel 028 9514 0141 Email ivan.roche@me.com C of I GAZETTE DISTRIBUTOR Moranne Noad 36 Shandon Park BT5 6NX Tel 028 9079 3704 BIBLE READING FELLOWSHIP NOTES Evan Preston 12 Carrowreagh Gardens Dundonald BT16 ITW Tel 028 9048 9884 CHURCH FLOWERS Paddy Nesbitt 30 Knockhill Park BT5 6HY Tel 028 9065 0716 PREMISE’S CONVENOR John Little 59 Leathem Square East Link Road Dundonald BT16 2QL Tel 07732 494151 Email little_large@hotmail.com ST. COLUMBA’S PARISH OFFICE Parish Administrator/Financial Giving Secretary: Karen Patterson Office hours Monday to Friday: 9.00am – 1.00pm Tel 028 9065 6891 Email office@coiknock.org
SAFEGUARDING TRUST The Rector, Select Vestry and parish leaders are committed to upholding good practice in the parish’s ministry with children and young people. Should you have cause for concern or suspicion regarding child welfare in the parish, please contact a . The Rector.........................................................................028 9047 1514 Patrick Good.....................................................................028 9065 6908 Elizabeth Leonard...........................................................028 9065 3162
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