The Columban
Time to Relax
st. columba’s church, knock
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July & August 2015
RECTOR’S LETTER Dear Parishioner,
PARISH ENCOURAGEMENTS.
I have been encouraged by the number of positive developments in St. Columba’s since the beginning of the year. They are all a source of great blessing as we seek to serve Christ and make Him known through our daily lives. These have been in addition to our daily activities and include: •
Organising the replacement of the Church Hall windows and gutters during the summer. • The visit of our three local Clergy who preached at our morning services in Lent. • The confirmation of ten parishioners in April. • Hosting the BBC Gardener’s Corner, in May, for Radio Ulster. • Visit of our Missioner, Bishop Alan Abernethy, as we continue our planning for the Week of Focus (Sunday 27th September to Sunday 4th October). • Parish Choir Concert and the visit of The Primate during our Patronal Festival. • Sunday School Prize Giving for 40 children. It is going to be a busy summer in St. Columba’s as we continue to progress these two specific projects: • The publication of our new Parish Handbook at the end of August. This will be an attractively produced colour booklet with plenty of photographs of our activities and services. It will contain a number of new features in an easy to read format. I thank our Parish Administrator, Karen Patterson for compiling this important resource and also Kirkwoods for their generous sponsorship. • The drawings for the improvements to the West End of the Church have been approved by the Diocesan Council and the Representative Church Body. This is excellent news. The Select Vestry is now required to follow the professional advice of the architect who is advising us on this project. The plans have been prepared by Des Cairns who has done similar work in other churches and are displayed on the notice board. This work when completed will enhance our beautiful church providing the additional space and facilities required for our growing congregation to enjoy refreshments after services. I have been very encouraged by the positive comments which have been expressed in recent weeks about these plans. I thank all those who are supporting St. Columba’s so generously at this exciting time as we work together to plan for the future growth of our parish. Our full schedule of services will continue throughout July and August with the exception of the 9.30am Family Communion service which will resume in September. I hope that you will have an enjoyable summer. Yours in His Service,
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SERVICES IN JULY Thursday 2nd 10.30am Sunday 5th 8.15am
Saint Thomas (Transferred) (Red) Holy Communion followed by refreshments in the Choir Vestry The Fifth Sunday after Trinity Holy Communion Reader Joe McKee Gospel Clergy
(Green) 2 Corinthians 12: 2-10 Mark 6: 1-13
10.30am All Age Worship Reader Jill Gillespie Mark 6: 1-13 7.00pm Compline Reader Anella Gallen Luke 10: 1-11, 16-20 Thursday 9th (Green) 10.30am Holy Communion followed by refreshments in the Choir Vestry Sunday 12th 8.15am
The Sixth Sunday after Trinity Holy Communion Reader Billy McAlpine Gospel Karen McAlpine
10.30am
Holy Communion Reader Jayne Martin Gospel Karen McAlpine Intercessions Helen Donaghy
7.00pm
Late Evening Office Reader Tony Greeves
(Green) Ephesians 1: 3-14 Mark 6: 14-29 Ephesians 1: 3-14 Mark 6: 14-29
Luke 10: 25-37
Thursday 16th (Green) 10.30am Holy Communion followed by refreshments in the Choir Vestry Sunday 19th 8.15am
The Seventh Sunday after Trinity Holy Communion Reader Irene Gray Gospel Karen McAlpine
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(Green) Ephesians 2: 11-22 Mark 6: 30-34, 53-56
10.30am
Morning Prayer Reader Murray Hunter Reader Victor Dukelow Occasional Prayers Karen McAlpine
7.00pm Compline Reader
Eileen Anderson
2 Samuel 7: 1-14a Mark 6: 30-34, 53-56
Luke 10: 38-42
Thursday 23rd Saint Mary Magdalene (Transferred) (White) 10.30am
Holy Communion followed by refreshments in the Choir Vestry
Sunday 26th 8.15am
The Eighth Sunday after Trinity Holy Communion Reader Ronny Martin Gospel Karen McAlpine
10.30am
Holy Communion Reader Alison Acheson Gospel Clergy Intercessions Karen McAlpine
7.00pm Thursday 30th 10.30am
Late Evening Office Reader Clare Best
(Green) Ephesians 3: 14-21 John 6: 1-21 Ephesians 3: 14-21 John 6: 1-21
Luke 11: 1-13
Saint James the Apostle (Transferred) (Red) 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 wish to serve your church in this way, please contact Muriel Arndell (9065 5500) The readings are from Year B of the Revised Common Lectionary and are printed on our parish website: www.coiknock.org 4
SERVICES IN AUGUST Sunday 2nd 8.15am
The Ninth Sunday after Trinity Holy Communion Reader Paddy Malone Gospel Clergy
10.30am All Age Worship Reader 7.00pm Compline Reader
Olivia Budde Billy McAlpine
(Green) Ephesians 4: 1-16 John 6: 24-35 John 6: 24-35 Luke 12: 13-21
Thursday 6th 10.30am
The Transfiguration of our Lord (White) Holy Communion followed by refreshments in the Choir Vestry
Sunday 9th 8.15am
The Tenth Sunday after Trinity Holy Communion Reader Muriel Arndell Gospel Karen McAlpine
10.30am Gospel
Holy Communion Reader Ronny Martin Karen McAlpine John 6: 35, 41-51 Intercessions Gina Greeves
7.00pm
Late Evening Office Reader Robin Haldane
(Green) Ephesians 4: 25 – 5:2 John 6: 35, 41-51 Ephesians 4: 25 – 5:2
Luke 12: 32-40
Thursday 13th (Green) 10.30am Holy Communion followed by refreshments in the Choir Vestry Sunday 16th 8.15am
The Eleventh Sunday after Trinity Holy Communion Reader Billy McAlpine Gospel Karen McAlpine
10.30am
Morning Prayer Reader Ross Thompson Reader Gillian Sadlier Occasional Prayers Karen McAlpine
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(Green) Ephesians 5: 15-20 John 6: 51-58 1 Kings 2: 10-12; 3: 3-14 John 6: 51-58
7.00pm Compline Reader
Fiona Haldane
Luke 12: 49-56
(Green) Thursday 20th 10.30am Holy Communion followed by refreshments in the Choir Vestry Sunday 23rd 8.15am
The Twelfth Sunday after Trinity Holy Communion Reader Irene Gray Gospel Clergy
10.30am
Holy Communion Reader Ian Noad Gospel Karen McAlpine Intercessions Noel Higginson
7.00pm
Late Evening Office Reader Victor Ryan
(Green) Ephesians 6: 10-20 John 6: 56-69 Ephesians 6: 10-20 John 6: 56-69
Luke 13: 10-17
Thursday 27th Saint Bartholomew (Transferred) (Red) 10.30am Holy Communion followed by refreshments in the Choir Vestry Sunday 30th 8.15am
The Thirteenth Sunday after Trinity Holy Communion Reader Michael Davey Gospel Clergy
10.30am 7.00pm
Songs of Praise
(Green) James 1: 17-27 Mark 7: 1-8, 14-15, 21-23
Healing Service with the Laying On of Hands Reader Esther Templeton Matthew 4: 23- 5: 20
The 9.30am Family Communion service, on the third Sunday, will resume in September.
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Flower Rota for July 2015 Sunday 5th........................................................ Elizabeth Leonard Sunday 12th..................................... Geoff & Eleanor Launchbury Sunday 19th...............................................................Wendy Killen Sunday 26th.................................................................. Carol Willis
Sidesperson’s Rota for July & August 05 July 12 July 19 July 26 July
Charles Auchmuty and Andrew Kelly Irene Gray and Helen Proctor Yvonne and Eddie Cadden Maureen Irwin and Peter Greer
02 August 09 August 16 August 23 August 30 August
Rosemary and Ivan Coffey Joan Madill and Maura Saunders Jill and Brian Gillespie Linda and Mark Wilson Jayne and Ronny Martin
Flower Rota for August 2015 Sunday 2nd....................................................... Elizabeth Leonard Sunday 9th......................................................... Margaret Stewart Sunday 16th..................................................................Lilias Smith Sunday 23rd............................................................. Ella Wilkinson Sunday 30th....................................................... Elizabeth Scholes
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. 7
From the Registers Our Joys
Wedding Saturday 16th May Lisa Hamilton and Glen Cunningham 26 Lineybrook Lane, Bangor
Our Sorrows
Christian Burials Saturday 30th May Esther Mary Devine 38 Knockwood Crescent Monday 8th June Mary Elizabeth Uprichard 14 Ascot Park
St Columba’s Week Of Focus Sunday 27th September - Sunday 4th October Conductor: The Bishop of Connor, The Right Reverend Alan Abernethy Plans for the week include: • • • • • • •
Opening and closing church services in St. Columba’s with Bishop Abernethy. Holy Communion Monday - Friday with Thought for the Day from Bishop Abernethy. Question and Answer Evening in Bloomfield Collegiate School. Young Families Cookery Evening. Struggle with Faith Seminar. Hog Roast and Barn Dance on Friday 2nd October in the home of Tony & Clodagh Reid. And much much more...
SAVE THE DATES! Further details will be in the September Columban.
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Archbishop Clarke Visits St. Columba’s It is not every Sunday that the congregation of St Columba’s has the opportunity to greet the serving Archbishop of Armagh and so it was with great joy that we welcomed the Most Reverend Dr Richard Clarke to our Patronal Service at the beginning of June. It was fitting that, in his address, Dr Clarke spoke with passion about the life of St. Columba and how his witness of courage, faithfulness and prayer has resonated through the centuries. Dr Clarke challenged us all to re-examine the lessons that can be learned from St. Columba and to apply them to our everyday life – particularly reflecting on the importance of prayer and outward looking mission. Parishioners enjoyed meeting Archbishop Richard during the refreshments that followed the service.
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For my thought for the month I must start quite a few years back. 1944 to be exact, when my great aunt came screaming up the street calling for my own mother. At 5years old, I remember it frightened me a lot. Only much later I was to learn that my memory was of the day when my mother’s cousin, Joseph Larkin, was killed in the Second World War. On D Day, in fact. I became determined to visit his grave, but this led to another mystery. He wasn’t buried in France!
Thought for the Month
My youngest son did a lot of searching and also contacted Joe’s regiment. We discovered that he had been killed while still on the landing craft. Standing at the head of his men, he had been hit in the face when they were still about half a mile off Juno beach. Joseph’s body was brought back out to the ships off shore and used to test their boat derricks. This was to ensure there would be no problems when the wounded were brought out to be taken back to England. His body was then returned to England and buried in the Commonwealth War Graves Cemetery at Southampton. Joseph was a junior officer in 48 Royal Marine Commando. They lost almost half of their men on D Day in the savage struggle for St Aubin and beyond. I visited Joseph’s grave on 6th June 2014, with my son. After all those years I was able to say thanks to Joe and lay my wreath. As I thought of that awful day in June 1944 I was OK until I read his age….22 years. It was then that the tears came. I am 76 years of age and I am able to come to church, freely, each Sunday. I enjoy singing in our church choir, and playing bowls on a Monday night, and of course I enjoy building and operating our model railway layout. All of that is due, in large part, to the sacrifice of thousands who, like Joe and his mates, gave their lives that we might live in peace. Let us never forget them. David Beattie Our sincere thanks to David for sharing his ‘Thought’ with us. The September ‘Thought for the Month’ will be written by Beth Cairnduff. 10
Christian Aid Week I would like to thank very much Hazel Reid for all her hard work in organising the door to door collections for Christian Aid Week in our parish. She has worked tirelessly to make sure that there were collectors covering all of the districts of our parish. Thank you also to our parishioners who helped Hazel by collecting door to door during May and to those who gave generously to this very worthy cause. The total amount of money raised was £3,900.76 of which the loose cash collection in St Columba’s on Sunday 17th May was £259.55. This excellent result will be of great benefit to the people in Nepal following the earthquakes. The Rector
SEPTEMBER PARISH MAGAZINE Any articles or photographs for publication in the September parish magazine should be handed or e-mailed to the editor, Billy McAlpine, by Wednesday, 12th August. His contact details are as follows:10 Old Quay Court, Holywood BT18 0HT Tel: 9042 4390
Email: colmaged@outlook.com
We all love to see photographs of people enjoying our Church activities. So we can all benefit fully from this, and for reproduction purposes, it is very important that photographs are clear and in focus. Many thanks
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 11
Brownies We finally managed to transplant our seeds into the flower bed outside the Choir Rooms a couple of weeks ago and we hope that over the next weeks they will continue to grow well. If the wild flowers do come up we hope to be able to see lots of butterflies, bees and little insects enjoying them. Unfortunately the weather has not allowed us to have our normal outdoor programme so we set off to Lisburn Leisureplex and the lazy river instead. Great fun was enjoyed by all and the ice cream, sweets and doughnuts we had afterwards were very welcome. Unfortunately this will be my last report as, after over 43 years, I have decided to resign from the pack. As most will know my family have moved to Kilkeel 90 minutes journey to and from home to brownies every Friday night is just too long particularly in the wet, dark nights. Over those many years I have seen girls come along and develop into young women often leaving for the mainland but they never forget to acknowledge me when they come home for their Christmas holidays. Our parish reader and the current leader of the Doves are both former Brownies. Some of my earliest Brownies have sent their children along!!! I am glad to say that Amanda and Kathryn, my current assistants, are going to carry on, with Amanda taking over my role, so I hope everyone will give them the same support that I have received over the years. We are looking for some help for them so if anyone feels they would like to be involved please speak to the Rector. I am glad to say that I will still be involved in Guiding as I have been asked to help out with a new Brownie pack starting in Newcastle in September with over 20 girls wishing to join. I am hoping that once we get established Amanda and I might be able to run a joint Stayaway or Pack Holiday so that I can see how all my current girls are getting on. Beth Cairnduff 12
The Rector writes... On behalf of the parish I thank Beth for her diligent and conscientious work with our Brownie Pack throughout the past 43 years. She has worked extremely hard with the Assistant Leaders to plan and deliver interesting, exciting activities for the Brownies throughout this substantial period of time. I was delighted that her work and commitment was recognised with the presentation of her 40 years Service award in May last year in Belfast City Hall. We all wish Beth and her family God’s richest blessing as they continue to settle into their new home in Kilkeel. Thank you. John
Wanted – Book Reviewers Interested? The Church of Ireland Gazette is offering parishioners of St. Columba’s the opportunity, from time to time, to write a book review for publication in the Gazette. If you would like to be included on the ‘Book Reviewers’ Panel’ please either speak to me in church, contact me on 9079 3704 or email: noadfamily@hotmail.com As a thank you – you keep the book! Many thanks, Moranne Noad.
The Non - Subscribing Presbyterian Church Of Ireland The Rector was invited to represent the Church of Ireland at the General Synod of the Non-Subscribing Presbyterian Church of Ireland which took place in Moneyreagh on Tuesday 9th and Wednesday 10th June. He attended the opening Holy Communion service which included the installation of their new Moderator, The Right Reverend Chris Wilson and was invited to address the General Synod on the second day of their proceedings where he brought greetings from the Church of Ireland. 13
Choir Concert and Choral Services, June 2015 Following last year’s successful concert, my first as Choral Director in St. Columbas, this year, again over the weekend of our Patronal Festival, the members of the choir and three guest instrumentalists excelled themselves with a further programme of attractive music performed to a very high standard. The only (slight) disappointment this year was the weather. Last year the church gardens were bathed with late sunshine so that many members of the audience were able to enjoy the post-concert refreshments in the garden. This year there was a chilly air that kept most of us indoors. The choir sang music by S. S. Wesley, John Rutter, Gabriel Faure, Herbert Sumsion, Rodney Bambrick and Malcolm Williamson. Many of these items, moreover, were being performed for the first time in St Columba’s Church. I was particularly pleased that Herbert Sumsion’s superb evening canticles in G major, written for his choir at Gloucester Cathedral, were sung so well, and I felt the choir gave a truly spirited performance of one of Wesley’s best-known anthems, Blessed be the God and Father. There were fine vocal solos from Christine McKee, Ruth McCartney and her daughter Caroline. We were indebted to Dr Peter Thompson for his colourful and sympathetic accompaniments and for his solo playing. David McCann gave a most sensitive performance of music by J. S. Bach for unaccompanied cello and Grahame Harris enthralled us with a variety of pieces on the border pipes. As a group of musicians we were delighted to see the nave of the church well filled and it was most encouraging to hear so many kind remarks afterwards about the choir’s singing. Best of all, we were able to present to the Rector a contribution of £924 for parish funds. Thank you, our audience, for your support. I would like to record my thanks to Brian Clements and the choir members for their personal commitment over the past year and throughout the busy Patronal weekend in particular. Quite apart from our concert on the Saturday evening, on the same day the choir sang at the Annual Members’ Recital of the Ulster Society of Organists and Choirmasters in the afternoon and on the following day there were full choir stalls for both the Choral Communion at 10.30am and at Choral Evensong at 7.00pm. The singing at these impressive services was greatly helped by the fine organ playing of our regular guest organist, the Reverend Noel Williamson. Over the two summer months the members of the choir will be enjoying a well-deserved break. The music at our services during July and August will obviously be more congregational in style, so I look forward to hearing some hearty singing from the body of the church! Joe McKee 14
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Sunday School Prize-Giving
On Sunday 14th June the children of St. Columba’s Sunday School, together with their parents and some grandparents, arrived for the Sunday School Prize–Giving at the All Age Worship Service at 10.30am. There was great excitement and an air of anticipation as they gathered and looked forward to what would take place within the service. The children were prominent in leading the worship throughout the service with a bible reading, singing a melody of anthems, reading the prayers and taking the collection. Over the past year we have been delighted to see a significant increase in numbers, with over 40 children attending regularly. This is most encouraging for our Church Family and adds to the vibrancy of our worship and fellowship. The Rector presented the prizes to the children who were very pleased with their books as recognition of their hard work and achievement during the past year. We look forward to seeing everyone back in September and to welcome as many new members as possible. Have a great Summer, see you soon! Patricia 16
Gardner’s Corner Roadshow On 19th May the BBC accepted the Rector’s invitation to hold its Gardener’s Corner Roadshow at St Columba’s and a very successful event it was. It attracted about 35 enthusiasts but, as so often, I did wonder why there were so few men - perhaps they were out in their gardens - a likely story! The broadcast was introduced by an interview with the Rector who agreed that the King’s Road area was particularly attractive with its mature trees and generally green ambience. He made sure to give full credit to the team of volunteers who kept the Church grounds in such good order. An early appeal had elicited 19 questions, which the BBC’s team whittled down to 10. The questioners were warned and the order arranged by Cherrie McIlwaine and we were introduced to the two experts, Jim Bradley and Brendan Little. Questions ranged from “What’s wrong with my rhododendron?” - to “How can I get rid of slugs humanely?” The first elicited the response that the specimen would be ideal for teaching students about a wide range of plant diseases, particularly iron deficiency and various pests - a sobering assessment but certainly helpful. The response to the question about slugs omitted the obvious “Crush them under a heavy boot” but one of the audience suggested putting them in a bag and leaving them in your mother-in-law’s garden! When asked about weeds in the lawn, I liked the proverbial “If dandelions were difficult to grow we’d all be trying hard to have them.” During an interlude we saw some fine and unusual flowering plants and heard some useful and economical tips such as using a plastic bottle cut in half to protect vulnerable courgette plants from unexpected frosts. There was also, on the radio broadcast only, an interview with the head gardener at Clandeboye, telling us about its history and a spring fair to be held that weekend. The evening ended with refreshments and a further chance to pick the brains of the experts. Richard Clarke 17
Mothers’ Union - Christian Care for Families On Saturday 30th May we boarded our Comfi Coach and set off for Enniskillen. We stopped at the Linen Green at Moygashel for retail therapy and lunch before heading onwards to Castlecoole. Desi our driver was able to drop us off outside the big house, where we were met by our guide, Ryan, who was a great hit with the ladies. Ryan proved to be informative and entertaining and we enjoyed our private tour despite the temperature inside the house being lower than outside. The tour ended in the Grand Yard where we discovered a tea room and a gift shop-more retail therapy. Next stop was St Macartin’s Cathedral where we were met by the Dean, who also proved to be an informative and entertaining guide as he showed us around the cathedral, where he had earlier conducted a service to commemorate the Battle of Waterloo. The book of remembrance for the Enniskillen regiments was open at the list of names of the casualties of the battle, and lists over 5000 names of those killed in action since 1815. We also posed with the Mothers’ Union banners displayed in the cathedral. We then made our way to the church hall where the members of Enniskillen branch had prepared a delicious evening meal, and both the Dean and his wife Stephanie joined us. They then had to rush off to another function but we stayed a while longer, chatting with our Enniskillen counterparts. We hope that they will come to visit us in Belfast to cement the link between our branches and parishes. Finally, we enjoyed a little refreshment on the homeward journey, and all agreed it had been a good day out! Our first activity following the summer break is a fundraising coffee morning after the 10.30am ‘Back to Church Sunday’ service on 13th September. We would be grateful if members could bring buns, cakes and traybakes to the back of church before the service commences. Funds raised at the coffee morning will be contributed to the Mothers’ Union ‘Mums in May’ initiative which helps to fund the development of the Mothers’ Union Literacy and Financial programme into Ethiopia. It will also help to finance the All-Ireland Mums in May Fund so that dioceses can continue to deliver projects such as ‘Away From It All holidays’. Wishing you an enjoyable summer break and looking forward to seeing you all in September. Jill and Katrina
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Pause The children have finished school until September, most parish organisations have ‘paused’ until September or even October but PAUSE, as usual, will continue throughout the summer months. Three dates have been planned: Wednesday 1st July at The Secret Garden for tea/coffee at 10.30 am. Tuesday 28th July at the Culloden Hotel for tea/coffee/shortbread at 10.30 am. Wednesday 19th August at the Park Avenue Hotel for tea/coffee at 10.30am If you are free on any or all of these dates please do come and join us. You may be tempted to indulge in a scone with fresh cream and jam (front cover). If you require further details or help with transport please contact me. Eileen Anderson (Phone 9020 3684).
Youth Etc. By the time of publication Youth Et. will have been, on the 19th June, kayaking and paddle boarding at a new venue at Ormiston House Lake off the Belmont Road. This was the last one before the summer break. The activity is run by the Belfast Kayak Academy who are developing the lake, along with changing rooms that are being built adjacent to a large disused swimming pool which is currently being restored for canoe water polo. Youth Etc. will be recommencing in September and is open to all of secondary school age. Details of the selected activity will be given nearer the time. New members are very welcome and they can bring their friends along as well. Activities are normally around once a month and have included ten pin bowling, crazy golf, Vertigo, Aunt Sandra’s workshops and snow tubing. If any new young people would like to join, could you let me know by emailing David Kelly at: davykly@gmail.com David
Editor: We look forward to reading about this outing in our next issue.
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Railway & Model Club
In last month’s Columban it was mentioned that the members were working on many items of scenery e.g. a railway station, a church, a hillside farm and several others. The enclosed photographs show the progress being made. Doesn’t it look well!
Saint Columba’s Craft & Hobby Circle Where on earth has the time gone since September? It all seems to pass so quickly since we started meeting monthly instead of weekly. I will miss all the chat and laughter over the summer months. It is time now to finish off projects already started and perhaps think up some things we can produce between now and Christmas. I wish you all a good summer break and look forward to meeting up again on Monday, 7th September and, perhaps, at the odd “Pause” between now and then. Look forward to seeing you on 7th September. Carol 9079 9997 / 07831 345560 or Email: pchwillis@hotmail.co.uk 20
Art Club The 17th Annual General Meeting of the Art Club was held on Thursday 28 May 2015, chaired by our President, the Reverend John Auchmuty. The following officers were elected to serve for the year 2015-2016. Chairperson
Billy Nelson
Honorary Treasurer
Rena Robbins
Honorary Secretary
Vida Shaw
Assistant Honorary Secretary
Kyleen Clarke
Committee
Billy McAlpine Margaret Hirst George Burch Betty Gregory
Ex Officio
Bob Killen
The Rector thanked club members, the committee and office bearers for their commitment and support during the year. In particular he thanked Bill Anderson for his chauffeuring duties, Esther Templeton for her years of service as a committee member and Rena Robbins for her dedication to the club who even from her hospital bed had made sure that the Treasurer’s report was available on time for the AGM. He also reminded all members that Christmas card designs should be ready for selection by early October. After the meeting tea and buns were served and there was also plenty of chat. Painting (with slightly less chat – Bob Killen’s instructions!) to be resumed at 9.30am on Thursday, 10th September 2015 when it is hoped that all those members, currently indisposed, including our Chairperson who is to have a hip operation shortly, will be fully recovered and in good health for the start of the new year. Vida Shaw
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M.U. Activity
We were lucky to have such good weather On Saturday, May twenty third You could have knocked me down with a feather When no forecast of rain had I heard. So we started out early to Antrim To explore gardens and historic sights Castle ruins and motte and a carved Irish wolfhound To mention only a few Having walked by the river and along many paths It was time to partake of some food So off we went to the Templeton Inn Where our lunch was pronounced very good. Relaxed and content we headed for home From a place we enjoyed very much Thank you, Maureen again, for all you have done We had a beautiful day in the sun It was lovely to have Laura with us She walked everywhere without fuss I think she also enjoyed ice cream with us Now, that’s it from all eight of us. Nan 22
Yes! It is that time of year again‌. During the summer months it will still be busy in the parish office as I will be ordering the Free Will Offering and Charity & Mission envelopes. If you are considering change to Standing Order or if you do not currently contribute but would to like to then please contact the Parish Office. Thank you. If you have changed any of your contact details since last summer and have not advised the parish office, please do so as soon as you can so that we can keep our records up to date. If you are a leader of an organisational please contact me, very soon to arrange the printing of programmes for 2015-2016 as soon as you can. The Parish Office will be closed from Thursday 10th July and re-open Monday 20th when I will deal with all correspondence. I hope you all have a wonderful summer! Karen Patterson, Parish Administrator
Can you help? The recent increase in the number of parishioners attending Holy Communion services combined with the use of the Side Chapel to administer Holy Communion means that we now require two new large silver chalices for the administering of the wine. We would be very grateful if any parishioners would be willing to donate one or both chalices to the parish, either as a personal gift, or in memory of a family member. If you can help, please contact the Rector who will provide you with the information required . Thank you! 23
Ladies Guild Our final meeting of this season was our AGM on Wednesday 20th May. Our Chairperson, Maureen Beckwith reported on the year’s activities and, on reflection we have covered a large variety of topics. The Honorary Treasurer, Yvonne Cadden, gave us a breakdown of our financial affairs and, thanks to her guidance, we are still in the black. Phillis Newton, the Chair of our Bowling Section, used the last two pages of her report book - which was started in 1964 - to bring us up to date with their activities. Membership is still very strong and the closure of St. Dorothea’s Club brought three new members to us. Phyllis also remembered Jean Fulton who sadly died early in the year and Jean Lockhart who celebrated her 90th birthday. Following these reports the Rector thanked all of us for another successful year of fun, fellowship and fundraising. He then accepted an additional donation of £450 towards the Church Hall Refurbishment Fund - presented by our Vice Chairperson, Caroline Cleland-Higginson and our Honorary Treasurer. Once the business was over our Patron Mrs Caroline Auchmuty entertained us with some memorable incidents from her life: • A dinner with Princess Anne before a ball - when Caroline worked in London. • Helping to foil a burglary attempt on her family home when her parents were away.
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But, the funniest and most memorable for us - getting locked in the bedroom of our rectory two days after they moved in.!!!!!! If you ask Caroline ‘very nicely’ I’m sure she’ll share the outcome with you as well. The evening finished with tea and chat as always. May I take this opportunity, on behalf of all of the members of our Guild, to congratulate our chairperson ‘ on a job well done’ at the end of her first year and we look forward to many many more to come.
Officers and Committee for 2015/16. Chairperson Deputy Chairperson Honorary Secretary Honorary Treasurer Bowling Club Secretary Honorary Chaplin Committee
Maureen Beckwith Caroline Cleland-Higginson Imelda Shephard Yvonne Cadden Phillips Newton Joan Madill Vickie McMonagle, Eileen Anderson, Helen Proctor, Lilias Smith and Jennifer Beattie
Have a very happy summer everyone. Imelda Shephard.
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Musical Sojourn in Cambridge This wonderful trip had its origins when I talked to Joe McKee in April about a television programme I’d watched called “Easter at King’s.” Joe asked me if I’d ever been to Cambridge and in what seemed like no time at all we were on a flight to Stansted, followed by a short train ride to that ancient University City in the Fens. What was even better, we were staying in guest rooms in King’s College itself, looking out at the home of one of the most famous choirs in the world and its iconic 17th century organ case. We only had time to dump our cases and head to the Chapel for our first evensong. How Joe did it I don’t know, but we were shown to reserved seats by the Director of Music at King’s, Dr Stephen Cleobury. I was sitting in the Fellow’s stalls at King’s, open-mouthed, wide-eyed and totally mesmerised by my surroundings. The service that followed, sung by one of the most celebrated choirs in the world, left me feeling that I’d died and gone to organists’ heaven! But there’s more. After 50 minutes in King’s we legged it down the street, just in time for a second choral evensong, this time in St John’s College. Here again we had prime seats and were sitting next to the choir. I was conscious that my great friend and fellow tenor in St Columba’s, Tony Greeves, had been an undergraduate student in this very Chapel where he read the lesson on at least one occasion. After a very good meal we returned to our rooms in King’s where I eventually got off to sleep, such was my sense of euphoria. On day two I had a stroll around the front court at King’s before breakfast in the Hall, which looks for all the world like a mini version of the Chapel, complete with fan vaulted roof. Later in the morning we had coffee in the Fellows’ combination room with Dr Cleobury and his wife Emma, a former Chaplain of King’s and a fine musician in her own right. In the course of the conversation
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I was asked if I’d ever been up to see the organ in King’s, and to my further amazement a few minutes later Joe and I were being given a demonstration by Stephen Cleobury who has been looking after this amazing instrument for nearly 30 years and knows it better than anyone. Later in the morning we were shown the organ in the Chapel of Corpus Christi College by Stranmillis-born organ scholar Catherine Olver who accompanied our Parish Carol Service in Knock last year. From there it was another short train ride to Ely where Joe and I were brought up to see and play the famous organ in this vast building. To round off day two we returned to King’s where we sat in the empty Chapel, with only Stephen Cleobury and his choral scholars (the boys have a day off on Wednesdays), as they rehearsed for that afternoon’s evensong. It can be nothing short of an understatement to say that I found it the greatest privilege imaginable to sit and observe a choir of this calibre rehearsing in a space which is beamed to millions of viewers every year in the days before Christmas. After evensong we again sprinted to St John’s for a similar experience. To be able to hear two very similar choirs, but singing in different styles and in two very different buildings, was a terrific learning experience for me. The next evening I was back in our own choir vestry, my feet back on the ground, but completely convinced about Joe McKee’s resolve that even at our level in a suburban parish church, we should be aiming for the best possible standards we can achieve, both in singing and in organ playing. I am personally very indebted to Joe for this truly inspirational and lifechanging experience which I can only hope will help me to improve and further add to the quality of music and worship in this parish. Brian Clements We are hoping that Stephen Cleobury will be in St Columba’s on the evening of Friday 11th September when he will direct a choral workshop with local choirs, followed by a short service.
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Time For Reflection Traditionally the summer months provide opportunities for rest and relaxation. Schools are finished, organisations are taking a break, many of us are planning some time away from home, perhaps abroad. It is really important to take ‘time out’ from the hustle and bustle of our busy lives. Jesus recognised the necessity for this for Himself and His disciples. We read in Mark 6:31 how He encouraged them to come away and get some rest. In Luke 5:16 we learn how Jesus spent time alone in prayer. So how do we rest? Do we schedule time alone? Do we turn off the technology constantly demanding our response? Do we pursue a hobby? Do we relax with a cup of tea? (See front cover). Do we turn to God? Our God provides for all our needs and we are reminded in Jeremiah 31:25 ‘I will refresh the weary and satisfy the faint’ and in Matthew 11:28 ‘Come to me all who are weary and burdened and I will give you rest’. We can indeed find our rest in Him.
What are these? Are they abstract paintings by a member of the Art Club? Are they the doodles of a parishioner listening to a sermon (by a visiting preacher, of course)? Are they the pattern of a local cat’s paw after he has walked over wet paint? No, they are none of these. When faced with such a dilemma I asked the nearest 5 year old who, in a disgusted voice, told me they were QR codes. I was only testing you I mutter while my brain is shouting ‘they are what?’ Dear old Google tells me a QR code is a symbol produced by a computer for a computer. Apparently if you scan this code with your mobile phone it gives you instant access to an internet site thus saving time. Armed with this information I started seeing QR codes everywhere. Think of the time I am going to save. I may even be able to relax with a cup of tea (front cover) or join some parishioners on a ‘Pause’ excursion. So please give a warm welcome to our latest friends which will appear on the Columban. Perhaps we should give them names? Suggestions to the Editor before noon on Friday, 26th June 2015. Late entries will not be considered. Editor
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PARISH ORGANISATIONS New members are always welcome at any of our organisations!
SUNDAY
WEDNESDAY
10.30am Sunday School (2nd, 4th and 5th Sundays) Superintendent 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
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 (1st Monday) 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 Amanda Fee 07739 039750
TUESDAY
10.30am Ladies Badminton Gillian Popplestone 9080 3799 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 Stewart Beckwith Telephone: 9048 6622
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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
PEOPLE’S CHURCHWARDEN Jon Allen 9 Cabin Hill Gardens BT5 7AP Tel 028 9065 3511
ASSISTANT PRIEST The Revd Canon Ken Smyth 3 Mount Royal Bangor BT20 3BG Tel 028 9145 8706
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
JUNIOR CHURCHWARDENS Emma Craig, Jamie Sadlier
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
HONORARY SEXTON John Proctor 13 Richhill Park BT5 6HG Tel 028 9087 0526 Mob 07989 469773
RECTOR’S CHURCHWARDEN John Macpherson 10 Sandhill Gardens BT5 6FF Tel 028 9028 2076
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PAROCHIAL NOMINATORS Victor Dukelow, Patrick Good Elizabeth Leonard Moranne Noad
SELECT VESTRY Rector, Churchwardens, Glebewardens, Honorary Secretary, Honorary Treasurer, Assistant Honorary Treasurer, David Craig, Helen Donaghy, Jill Gillespie, Patrick Good, Elizabeth Leonard, Jonathan Stewart, Mark Ryan, Gillian Sadlier, Keith White, Moira Saunders
DIOCESAN SYNOD MEMBERS Patrick Good Moranne Noad Ross Thompson (under 30)
HONORARY SECRETARY Elizabeth Leonard 28 Knockdene Park South BT5 7AB Tel 028 9065 3162 Email elizabeth.leonard@me.com
ORGANIST AND CHORAL DIRECTOR Dr Joe McKee 76 Sandown Road BT5 6GU Mob 07976 294574
HONORARY TREASURER Josephine Kelly 15 Manse Road BT6 9SB Tel 028 9079 6658
ASSISTANT ORGANIST Brian Clements 8 Lacefield BT4 3PA Tel 028 9079 3641
ASSISTANT HONORARY TREASURER Victor Dukelow 19 Thornhill Park BT5 7AR Tel 028 9029 0625
READERS’ & INTERCESSORS’ CO-ORDINATOR Muriel Arndell 18 Kinedar Crescent BT4 3LY Tel 028 9065 5500
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
SIDESPERSONS’ ROTA CO-ORDINATOR Rosemary Coffey 44 Thornyhill Road Killinchy BT23 6SJ Tel 028 9754 2198
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BIBLE READING FELLOWSHIP NOTES Evan Preston 12 Carrowreagh Gardens Dundonald BT16 ITW Tel 028 9048 9884
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
CHURCH FLOWERS Paddy Nesbitt 30 Knockhill Park BT5 6HY Tel 028 9065 0716 PREMISE’S CONVENOR Stewart Beckwith 26 Stormont Park BT4 3GX Tel 028 9048 6622
PARISH WEBMASTER Ivan Roche 49 Richhill Park BT5 6HG Tel 028 9514 0141 Email ivan.roche@me.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
C of I GAZETTE DISTRIBUTOR Moranne Noad 36 Shandon Park BT5 6NX Tel 028 9079 3704
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: The Rector.........................................................................028 9047 1514 Patrick Good.....................................................................028 9065 6908 Elizabeth Leonard...........................................................028 9065 3162
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