The Columban st. columba’s church, knock, july/august 2016
Ulster Memorial Tower, Thiepval, France
CHURCH OF IRELAND PARISH MAGAZINE OF THE YEAR 2016
RECTOR’S LETTER Dear Parishioner,
THANK YOU I wish to thank all those who supported and contributed to our Patronal Festival celebrations as we marked the 120th anniversary of St Columba’s. It was a most significant and memorable weekend which included a magnificent Choir Concert, the dedication, by Archbishop Robin Eames, of the refurbished West End of the church and the stained glass in the Rose Window and which culminated with two former Rectors, Bishop Gordon McMullan and Archdeacon Gregor McCamley, participating in Choral Evensong with myself. Our Organist and Choral Director, Dr Joe McKee, the Choir and the Catering Committee excelled themselves with the highest of musical and culinary standards. It was a wonderful weekend which was so successful in every way, including the weather!
NEW PARISH BOOK LAUNCH The new version of the popular parish book “An House Not Made With Hands” was launched by Ivan Coffey during the Patronal Festival Eucharist. This longawaited version of Betty Rainsford’s original book is now available for purchase at the back of church. It was a great delight for me to present Betty with a copy of the new book at her home in Bangor just before the launch took place. She was delighted to have received it and was extremely pleased that her hard work had been so comprehensively updated by our Organist Emeritus, Gerald Hill. I commend this beautiful book to you, which is enhanced with many colour photographs of parish events and organisations. You may well read about yourself in the book or feature in one of the photographs!
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PAINTING OF THE CHURCH INTERIOR Through the generosity of those who supported the recent Painting Appeal, the contract for this essential work has just been placed. It is over twenty years since the interior of our church building was painted and fresh paint is now urgently required. The contractors will commence their work in July and we will continue to have the use of the church for our services while it is being painted. Whether you will be at home or away during the summer, I hope that you will have an opportunity for a period of refreshment and that you will take good care while out and about. Full details of all our church services are contained in this edition of The Columban. Yours in His Service,
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
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.
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SERVICES IN JULY Sunday 3rd 8.15am
St Thomas Holy Communion Reader Billy Nelson Gospel Karen McAlpine
10.30am
All Age Worship and Holy Baptism Reader Moira Saunders
(Red)
Ephesians 2: 19-22 John 20: 24-29 John 20: 24-29
7.00pm Compline Reader Irene Gray 1 Peter 1: 3-12 Preacher Karen McAlpine Thursday 7th (Green) 10.30am Holy Communion followed by refreshments in the Choir Vestry Sunday 10th The Seventh Sunday after Trinity (Green) 8.15am Holy Communion Reader Carol Willis Colossians 1: 1-14 Gospel Karen McAlpine Luke 10: 25-37 10.30am
Holy Communion Reader Gillian Sadlier Gospel Karen McAlpine Intercessions Noel Higginson
7.00pm
Late Evening Office Reader Noel Higginson
Colossians 1: 1-14 Luke 10: 25-37
Mark 7: 1-23
Thursday 14th (Green) 10.30am Holy Communion followed by refreshments in the Choir Vestry Sunday 17th 8.15am
The Eighth Sunday after Trinity (Green) Holy Communion Reader Muriel Arndell Colossians 1: 15-28 Gospel Karen McAlpine Luke 10: 38-42
10.30am
Morning Prayer followed by refreshments Reader Jill Gillespie Amos 8: 1-12 Reader Murray Hunter Luke 10: 38-42 Occasional Prayers Karen McAlpine
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7.00pm Compline Reader
Fiona Haldane
John 4: 31-35
Thursday 21st Saint Mary Magdalene (Transferred) 10.30am
(White)
Holy Communion followed by refreshments in the Choir Vestry
Sunday 24th The Ninth Sunday after Trinity 8.15am
Holy Communion Reader Elizabeth Miller Gospel Karen McAlpine
10.30am
Holy Communion Reader Alison Acheson Gospel Karen McAlpine Intercessions Karen McAlpine
7.00pm
Late Evening Office Reader Esther Templeton
(Green)
Colossians 2: 6-15 Luke 11: 1-13
Colossians 2: 6-15 Luke 11: 1-13
Matthew 13: 24-30
Thursday 28th Saint James the Apostle (Transferred) 10.30am
(Red)
Holy Communion followed by refreshments in the Choir Vestry
Sunday 31st The Tenth Sunday after Trinity 8.15am
Holy Communion Reader Billy McAlpine Gospel Karen McAlpine
10.30am
Morning Prayer Reader Reader
7.00pm
Healing Service with the Laying On of Hands Reader Tillie Heyburn Mark 6: 45-52 Preacher Karen McAlpine
(Green)
Colossians 3: 1-11 Luke 12: 13-21
Alexander Doubleday Hosea 11: 1-11 Brian Gillespie Luke 12: 13-21
The 9.30am Family Communion service on the third Sunday will resume in September.
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SERVICES IN AUGUST Thursday 4th The Transfiguration of our Lord (Transferred) (White) 10.30am Holy Communion followed by refreshments in the Choir Vestry Sunday 7th 8.15am
The Eleventh Sunday after Trinity (Green) Holy Communion Reader Joe McKee Hebrews 11: 1-3, 8-16 Gospel Karen McAlpine Luke 12: 32-40
10.30am
All Age Worship Reader
Joyce Stevenson
Luke 12: 32-40
7.00pm Compline Reader Linda Wilson Mark 7: 24-30 Thursday 11th (Green) 10.30am Holy Communion followed by refreshments in the Choir Vestry Sunday 14th The Twelfth Sunday after Trinity (Green) 8.15am Holy Communion Reader Paddy Malone Hebrews 11: 29 -12: 2 Gospel Karen McAlpine Luke 12: 49-56 10.30am
Holy Communion Reader Chris Heatley Gospel Karen McAlpine Intercessions Elizabeth Leonard
Hebrews 11: 29 -12: 2 Luke 12: 49-56
7.00pm
Late Evening Office Reader Billy McAlpine Preacher Karen McAlpine
Matthew 20: 1-16
Thursday 18th (Green) 10.30am Holy Communion followed by refreshments in the Choir Vestry Sunday 21st 8.15am
The Thirteenth Sunday after Trinity (Green) Holy Communion Reader Irene Gray Hebrews 12: 18-29 Gospel Karen McAlpine Luke 13: 10-17
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10.30am
Morning Prayer followed by refreshments Reader Helen Donaghy Jeremiah 1: 4-10 Reader David Craig Luke 13: 10-17 Occasional Prayers Karen McAlpine
7.00pm Compline Reader
Clare Best
Matthew 21: 28-32
Thursday 25th Saint Bartholomew (Transferred) 10.30am
(Red)
Holy Communion followed by refreshments in the Choir Vestry
Sunday 28th The Fourteenth Sunday after Trinity 8.15am
Holy Communion Reader Clergy Gospel Clergy
10.30am
Holy Communion Reader Joy Montgomery Gospel Clergy Intercessions Marie McCordick
7.00pm
Late Evening Office Reader Anella Gallen
(Green)
Hebrews 13: 1-8, 15-16 Luke 14: 1, 7-14
Hebrews 13: 1-8, 15-16 Luke 14: 1, 7-14
John 3: 22-36
The 9.30am Family Communion service on the third Sunday will resume in September.
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 C of the Revised Common Lectionary and are printed on our parish website: www.coiknock.org
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SUNDAY SCHOOL PRIZEGIVING It was a great joy and delight for me to present the Sunday School children and the toddlers from Crèche with their attendance prizes on Sunday, 12th June at the All Age Worship service. They were very well supported by such a large congregation which included their families and friends on such a special day. There were a number of very proud grandparents in our congregation who had travelled some considerable distances to be in St. Columba’s on that day. The children took an active part in the service through the readings and prayers under the watchful eye of Rachel Leacock who gives them such tremendous encouragement. In addition they also took up the collection in a most careful manner. This has been a terrific year for our Sunday School with a good increase in attendances. In congratulating the children for all their hard work throughout the year, I also thank the Superintendent Joyce Stevenson, the teachers Louise Craig, Patricia Wilson, Alan Boyd along with the Assistants Helen Proctor and Michelle Jamison for their detailed preparations for each class and for the support they give to our children. I hope the children and toddlers will enjoy their prizes during the summer months. The Rector
FLOWER ROTA JULY Sunday 3rd................................................................... Pam Hunter Sunday 10th..............................................................Wendy Killen Sunday 17th..................................................................Carol Willis Sunday 24th............................................................. Kyleen Clarke Sunday 31st..........................................Geraldine & Anella Gallen
AUGUST Sunday 7th...............................................................Muriel Arndell Sunday 14th........................................................ Eileen Anderson Sunday 21st..................................................................Lilias Smith Sunday 28th...........................................................Moranne Noad 8
From the Registers Our Joys
Holy Baptism Sunday 19th June Hope Rose McConville 17 Wanstead Avenue Dundonald
Our Sorrows
Christian Burials Tuesday, 24th May David Lowry Greenaway 76 Campbell Park Avenue Friday, 27th May Mrs Sarah Elizabeth Morrow 19a Kings Road
SIDESPERSON’S ROTA Sunday, 3rd July Sunday, 10th July Sunday, 17th July Sunday, 24th July Sunday, 31st July
The Allen family Eileen Anderson and Ann McGarvey Moira Saunders and Liz McCaughey Joan Madill and Vickie Mc Monagle Moranne and Ian Noad
Sunday, 7th August Sunday, 14th August Sunday, 21st August Sunday, 29th August
Rosemary and Ivan Coffey Jill and Brian Gillespie Pauline Darke and Lilias Smlth Joy Montgomery and Irene Gray
Christian Aid Week I would like to thank very much Hazel Reid for organising the door to door collections for Christian Aid Week from Sunday, 15th to Saturday, 21st May. She has put a huge amount of work into organising collectors to cover all of the parish districts. This would not have been possible without the parishioners who kindly assisted Hazel by collecting door to door, and to those who gave so generously to Christian Aid. The total amount of money raised was ÂŁ3,527.57. Thank you to everyone involved in making this charitable collection so successful. The Rector
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When our editor Billy McAlpine asks you to do something it is very hard to say no. He always asks in such a pleasant and charming way and so I agreed to write this piece for our magazine.
Thought for the Month
Some weeks after agreeing to do so I realised I would actually have to sit down and write something. What on earth would I say? Had I anything worth saying? In this situation I did what I usually do when I don’t know what to do. I play the piano. That usually relaxes me and my mind wanders (you now know why I make so many errors when playing the organ – my mind is wandering!) After playing for a while two phrases from the Bible came into my mind. These are the two phrases that I probably quote more than any others and I can just see my wife Rosie and sons Michael and Stephen raise their eyes heavenward as I self contentedly churn them out on a regular basis. Well, what are these phrases?
LET HIM THAT IS WITHOUT SIN CAST THE FIRST STONE and
DO UNTO OTHERS AS YOU WOULD HAVE THEM DO UNTO YOU. I am not sure how many times I have used these phrases but it must be hundreds and I have said them in a very self contented and self righteous way. Had I ever thought about the real message that Jesus was trying to express in both these phrases? Probably not. Had I ever really tried to examine my own actions as they both suggest I should? Probably not. Now I have thought a lot more about the message Jesus was giving us in these phrases and hopefully, with His help, I can be more thoughtful and less judgmental in what I say and do. Brian Clements Our sincere thanks to Brian, our Assistant Organist, for sharing this ‘Thought’ with us. The September ‘Thought for the Month’ will be written by Emma Macpherson.
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The Battle of the Somme and St. Columba’s The 36th Ulster Division, formed in 1914, was an infantry division of the British Army. It was one of the few divisions to make significant gains on the first day of the Battle of the Somme. This came, however, at a heavy price with the Division losing, in two days of fighting, 5,500 officers and enlisted men killed, wounded or missing. Of nine Victoria Crosses given to British forces in the battle four were awarded to 36th Ulster Division soldiers. The Ulster Memorial Tower, Thiepval, France (front cover) was unveiled, by Field-Marshal Sir Henry Wilson, on 21st November 1921 in dedication to the contributions of the 36th Ulster Division during World War I. The tower is a replica of Helen’s Tower at Clandeboye, Co. Down and it was at this tower that the men of the Ulster Division drilled and trained following the outbreak of the war. For many men of the Division the distinctive sight of Helen’s Tower, rising above the surrounding countryside, was one of the last abiding memories of home before their departure to England and, subsequently, the Western Front. We remember four men from our parish who were all killed on that first day of the battle, Saturday, 1st July. Private John Burke 2nd Lieutenant Thomas B Elliott Lieutenant Henry Hooton Private John Purvis Four men who sat in the same pews as you. Four men who knelt at the same communion rail as you. Four men who sang some of the same hymns as you. Four men who listened to their Rector’s sermons as do you. Four men who prayed to the same God that you do. Four men who were part of the St. Columba’s community just like you. Four men who went to war, never to return. Pro Deo, Pro Rege, Pro Patria Editor 11
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, 10th August. His contact details are: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
PAUSE Summer is here! In my garden the birds are singing and the wild flowers are blooming. I hope that every reader of the Columban will have a relaxing time, whether at home or away. If you are at home please PAUSE with those of us who are meeting for coffee/ scones/traybakes on three occasions during July and August. The first of these will be on Friday, 1st July. The parish of Ballymacarrett on the Newtownards Road (formerly St Patrick’s Church) is holding a Flower Festival to mark the Centenary of the Battle of the Somme. PAUSE will meet for refreshments in their church hall at 10.30am. We will then meet on Tuesday, 26th July at 10.30am for coffee and scones in Binkies. On Friday, 19th August we will meet for coffee and scones at 10.30am in the Park Avenue Hotel. If you are free on any or all of these dates please come along – on your own or with a friend. All are welcome! If you require further details or help with transport please contact me. Eileen 9020 3684
CHOIR MEMBER’S FAVOURITE HYMN My favourite hymn is ‘O Praise ye the Lord’, number 708. We chose this for our wedding a week before Christmas 1955. Paul was doing National Service in the Fleet Air Arm and had come home on leave four weeks earlier with the news that he was being posted to Singapore for a year. No phone calls, no emails, no Skype! Only letters to sustain us. We decided to get married before he was due to depart early in January and just had time for the Banns to be read. We sang this hymn towards the end of the service when we were standing at the altar steps. It was a very poignant moment and Paul was moved to tears, which is more than I can say for the bride’s mother. We survived our first year of marriage with no arguments and whenever we hear this hymn now we say “They’re playing our tune”. Mary Beard
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Now I know they say time flies when you are having fun but this year has flown by so quickly! We have been super busy making the most of every last second and this month we went for a Brownies treat night to Spoon Street. We finished the year in style with our first ever camping experience! On Friday, 3rd June we gathered at Lorne with 150 fellow Brownies for the, “Snores and S’mores” camp. On our first night we went orienteering and explored the sights and we were very excited to get into our tents. Most of us were asleep by midnight but when the sun came up at 4.30am it seemed to confuse the campsite who were all wide awake and ready for the day by 6.00am! It was going to be a long day but we had so much to do we were kept motivated by all the fun and exciting activities. We raced on grass sledges, built a small campfire and in true survivor style I managed to light the fire using a flint! We made and decorated canvas shopping bags, went to the shop and prepared for a huge campfire and, of course, ate s’mores! We made a banner and performed Alice the Camel in front of the whole camp and fell into our tents at 1.00pm. To say the Brownies were late risers on Sunday is an understatement and myself and Kathryn had to wake the girls in time for breakfast! Then it was off to the high ropes course and archery before we closed the camp and packed up our tents. We all had such a wonderful time and the weather couldn’t have been better for us. We are already looking forward to next year so we can do more exciting things! If you are 7, or indeed, interested in becoming a leader and would like to join us please get in touch. Happy summer everybody and see you in September. Amanda and Kathryn
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THE STRUGGLE OF PRAYER Following his challenging and thought-provoking contributions to our Week of Mission last year we were delighted to welcome The Bishop of Connor, The Right Reverend Alan Abernethy, back among us for an evening seminar entitled ‘The Struggle of Prayer’. He shared with us some of his thoughts on how, as Christians, we can sometimes find it difficult to communicate effectively with God. Bishop Alan told us that prayer is about giving thanks, asking for forgiveness and requesting God’s blessing on others. Sounds simple, but why do we so often consider it a struggle? Bishop Alan explained that our understanding of prayer may have originated in our formative years and been influenced by our early experiences of building relationships. We must come to an appreciation that God’s love for us is unconditional and unfailing and then we will find it easier to communicate with Him. Prayer, we learnt, is interacting with God on a personal level and may happen anywhere and at any time. We should avoid feeling pressurised to conform to our own (or others) preconceived ideals of how we should pray.
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Bishop Alan acknowledged that we will all struggle with prayer at some time and he made some helpful suggestions on how we can overcome this. He recommended seeking spiritual direction from a mentor, relaxing with music, reading articles on prayer or, perhaps, consider attending a retreat. Those attending this seminar found it both enlightening and encouraging and felt that whilst the struggle with prayer might continue they were better enabled to succeed. We thank Bishop Alan for sharing with us this seminar and in more informal ways during the time for refreshments. Murray Hunter
PARISH OFFICE POST BOX A black post box has been attached to the wall to the right of the entrance into the Hall. This is exclusively for leaving documents or information for the Parish Office. During this time, it would be very much appreciated if you could leave any items for the office in this post box as the office is currently closed for software installation and upgrades. Thank you very much for your consideration. Karen Patterson Parish Administrator
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OUR PATRON
Each year the St Columba’s Church community remembers its Patronal Saint’s day of 9th June. For some time now, in addition to worship, the observance has taken the form of a festival weekend with a special emphasis on music. This year a large gathering of parishioners and friends was present in church on Saturday, 4th June for that evening’s wide-ranging musical programme. The greater part comprised uplifting pieces of music by the church choir conducted by choral director Dr Joe McKee and accompanied by Mr Nigel McClintock.
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NAL FESTIVAL
Interspersed in and with the choral items were solo and duet renditions by talented choir members Caroline and Christine. Noted Northern Ireland soprano Lynda Barrett, herself a St Columba’s parishioner, also contributed magnificent solos. Television presenter and journalist Linda Bryans entertained the audience with a selection of wistful and humorous readings. Following the musical programme we all adjourned to the lawn for refreshments and chat well into what was a balmy summer evening.
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Sunday morning was a very significant occasion for St Columba’s. The congregation was privileged to have the dignified presence of Archbishop Robin Eames whose address was based on St John’s Gospel theme “We want to see Jesus”. During the service Archbishop Eames dedicated the newly refurbished west end of the church and also the new stained glass rose window – a generous gift from the Cramp family.
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A history of the church’s first 100 years, entitled “An House Not Made With Hands”, had been compiled by parishioner Betty Rainsford and published in 1996. Fittingly, the St Columba’s story was meticulously updated by parishioner Gerald Hill, former longstanding choirmaster and organist of the church. I was privileged to launch the new version of “An House Not Made With Hands” after the morning service.
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On Sunday evening, the Right Reverend Dr Gordon McMullan, former curate, rector and one time parishioner during his incumbency as Bishop of Down and Dromore, was welcomed as the preacher at a choral evensong. Dr McMullan’s sermon focus was on the past endeavours of and ever-present need of St Columba’s to adjust to change, to deal with challenges and to continue to commit to witness and service. The prayers were led by Archdeacon Gregor McCamley whose highly regarded stewardship of St Columba’s extended over 27 years. The arrangements for the patronal festival clearly demanded a great deal of preparatory work on the part of many, including the choir under the direction of Dr McKee, the rector and his associate clergy, the parish administrator, the Select Vestry and many other church members especially those who prepared and dispensed the welcome refreshments. Ivan Coffey The Rector writes “As a parish we have received fresh encouragement from our 120th Anniversary celebrations. The weekend has been a great success as together we gave thanks to God for the life of St. Columba’s in years past and sought His guidance for the years ahead.”
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Hi Ladies, Just to let you know that our opening night on Tuesday 6th September will also be our Annual Gilnahirk Area Service at 8.00pm in St Columba’s. This is always a lovely service with our five churches taking part. As it will be my final service as Gilnahirk Area Representative, I know that all my friends in the Mothers’ Union will endeavour to attend . . . please! I would like to thank you all for your support over the last six years and to say that without you it would have been a very lonely time. I wish my successor all the very best in the years to come. I would also like to thank our Rector for his invaluable support, which meant so much to me. I will be here until December and if I can be of help in any way, please let me know. I wish you all every blessing and continued success for the work of the Mothers’ Union. With love, Irene
ACTIVITY NOTES On Saturday, 28th May 2016 we set off for our annual outing. Our first stop was Dobbies Garden Centre where we enjoyed coffee and scones. We then set off for Lurgan town and Brownlow House where we were met by Andrew who gave us a tour of the house and a talk on some of its history. Much of the house has been damaged by fire and we were very impressed by all the restoration work that has been done. There is still so much to do before it returns to its former glory. As it was a warm and sunny day we enjoyed some time exploring the lake area before setting off to Ballydougan Pottery for a late lunch. On arrival we enjoyed a very warm welcome from Bridget and settled down to excellent food. To end the day we strolled around admiring the amazing pottery that is made on the premises, taking time to make a few purchases, before heading home. We had a lovely day out. Maureen
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ART CLUB The 18th Annual General Meeting of the Art Club was held on Thursday, 26th May 2016 chaired by our President, the Revd John Auchmuty. The following officers were elected to serve for the year 2016-2017. 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 Mentor Roy Williamson Honorary Tutor Julian Friers Both the Rector and Billy Nelson paid tribute to Bob Killen for his skill, wisdom, loyalty, encouragement and support from 1998 when he started the club until his death in April this year. We will miss him greatly. The Rector thanked club members, the committee and office bearers for their commitment and support during the past year. The Rector also welcomed Roy Williamson in his new role as mentor and reported that Julian Friers, a longstanding friend of Bob Killen and past President of the Royal Ulster Academy, had offered to help on club mornings on a casual basis and to give occasional demonstrations. His role is to be described as Honorary Tutor. After the meeting Ray Elwood gave a very informative watercolour demonstration, full of useful hints and amusing anecdotes. The club is to reconvene at 9.30am on Thursday, 8th September 2016 when hopefully Christmas card designs will be well underway. It is hoped that all those members currently unwell will be fully recovered and in good health for the start of the New Year. Vida
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. Now is an opportunity 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 at the odd “PAUSE� between now and then. Carol 9079 9997 / 07831 345560 or Email: pchwillis@hotmail.co.uk
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Railway and Model Club Well, it’s that time again . . . the Summer Break. I suppose I could say that “Due to circumstances beyond our control etc. etc.”, but I won’t. I will just say that we are ‘knakin’ aff’ for the summer. Our big layout, in 00 scale, has grown considerably during the Winter/Spring. We don’t take up any more space, but lots of features have been added, and continue to appear. Our cricket team have now received their team caps, and the cricket crease will be laid out in early September. We have advised the Rector that the funeral cortege is now complete, with four pall bearers carrying the coffin, and the funeral is scheduled for early September. The Guards, in their fine uniforms, will also be placed at the completed War Memorial by early September. All this in time for our OPEN DAY, which will be SUNDAY, 18th SEPTEMBER. We will also be showing our 1/1200th scale harbour layout on that day, and we hope to have our 000 gauge layout, which is in the initial stages of construction, on show. These two layouts will be on display at the back of the church. Exciting times ahead . . . but in the meantime we hope you all have a wonderful summer and . . . Keep ‘er rollin! David
A GARDEN PARTY I was invited to a Garden Party at Buckingham Palace on 18th April as part of the celebrations for Dr Barnardo’s 150th Anniversary. I was an employee of Dr B’s Cafe in Bridge Street, Belfast until recently which is part of Dr Barnardo’s and who train people in the catering industry and then find them employment. There were 20 employees from Dr B’s who travelled to London for the Garden Party and it was in the presence of TRH The Duchess of Cornwall, Princess Alexandra, the Honourable Lady Ogilvy and the Duchess of Gloucester. The party was from 3pm to 6pm and there were 7,000 guests in total. It was a lovely sunny day and we all queued for our sandwiches and cake. I couldn’t imagine catering for that amount of people but it was all very well organised and everything went smoothly. There was also a special celebration cake made for Dr Barnardo’s. Unfortunately I didn’t meet any of the Royal Party but saw the Duchess of Cornwall who was speaking to a group close to us. It was a tiring day as we left early in the morning and didn’t fly back until 10pm that evening. I really enjoyed my day and was proud to be there representing Dr Barnardo’s. Anna Mercer
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AN HOUSE NOT MADE WITH HANDS History of St. Columba’s Parish Church 1896-1996 by Betty Rainsford Updated 1996-2016 by Gerald Hill
This splendid publication, with its attractively illustrated Cambridge blue cover and timed to coincide with the celebration of St. Columba’s 120th Anniversary in June this year, offers readers a unique opportunity both to revisit the first one hundred years of the history of St. Columba’s Parish Church, admirably penned by Betty Rainsford, as well as enjoy a recent account of the past 20 years thanks to an excellent update compiled by our Organist Emeritus, Gerald Hill. Betty Rainsford’s story opens with the consecration of St. Columba’s Church on 13th June 1896 and closes a century later, just as the parish prepares to celebrate its centenary year in 1996. Gerald Hill continues and completes the former’s original chapter 10 with an account of those centenary celebrations, and adds two further chapters of contemporary history of his own. The reader is assisted by the skilfully interspersed use of a distinctive font to identify the narrative of events from 1996 to the present time, including updates of the original chapters on memorials, parish organisations and the names of past clergy and parish officers. Delightfully embellished with colour photographs, Gerald Hill portrays the life of a busy and thriving parish. It is interesting to note that a mere seven 24
incumbents and eleven organists have served St. Columba’s throughout the 120 years of its history thus far, a remarkable tribute to ecclesiastical stamina and liturgical harmony! He describes the significant improvements to the fabric of the building – new interior lighting, boilers and heating, speaker systems as well as replacement windows and blinds in the church hall; and most striking of all, the recent major renovation of the West end of the church to provide parishioners with welcome space and facilities for refreshments and fellowship after morning service. Such improvements have, of course, required continuous fundraising, with generous contributions both from parish organisations and individual parishioners, as well as the running of successful events such as the Patronal Flower Festival in 2010 and, two years later, the Dinner and Auction of Talents in the Stormont Hotel. Nothing, however, has been allowed to eclipse St. Columba’s commitment to outreach far beyond the parish boundaries. As well as a major mission team of experienced and younger parishioners to Zambia in 2012, there have been individual and group visits since 1996 to Ethiopia, Southern Sudan, Kenya, Rwanda, Malawi, Uganda, Serbia and Thailand, including regular support for a multitude of charities nearer home. The author also tells of a pleasing growth in Sunday School attendance and youth groups, including the Crèche, and enthusiastic participation by young people in the monthly All Age Worship service. No less than 22 organisations currently offer opportunities for parishioners and visitors to meet, share interests and hobbies, and make new friends. This is a book of meticulous research, packed with a depth of detail expertly gathered, and will be of immense interest to parishioners, family members and friends alike, well beyond these shores. A reference book to keep always to hand, it is more than just a history of a church or a parish. It is a history of people – many named, but even more unnamed – as they have lived and worshipped together during times of peace, strife, war, poverty and prosperity in East Belfast since the end of the 19th century to the present day. Above all, it is a powerful testament to 120 years of determination, faith, steadfastness, compassion and foresight, qualities that today show little sign of diminishing. Ian Noad Copies of the book are available from St Columba’s Parish Church, The Parish Office (028 9065 6891 Mon-Fri 9.00am-1.00pm) and The Bookwell (Richard Ryan: 07581 143596). See www.thebookwell.co.uk/stcolumbas for more information. 25
LADIES GUILD It’s lovely to report that summer is here once again and this year the sun is also shining. Our Annual General Meeting on Wednesday, 18th May was very well attended and our Chair, Maureen Beckwith, gave a very positive report on our varied events during the past year. Maureen reminded us that the Ladies’ Guild was founded 56 years ago to promote Christian fellowship through recreational and social activities. We are working to extend our Christian fellowship into the wider community. The Rector was also very generous in his thanks for our work, particularly our Health and Safety Morning and our donations to Church funds to contribute to the major projects this year. The Rector then presided over the election for Officers and Committee for 2016-2017 and the results were as follows: President Patron Chairperson Deputy Chairperson Honorary Secretary Honorary Treasurer Honorary Bowling Secretary Honorary Chaplain Committee Members
The Rector Mrs Caroline Auchmuty Mrs Maureen Beckwith Mrs Caroline Cleland Higginson Mrs Imelda Shephard Mrs Yvonne Cadden Miss Phyllis Newton Miss Joan Madill Mrs Eileen Anderson Mrs Jennifer Beattie Miss Vickie McMonagle Mrs Helen Proctor Mrs Lilias Smith
Our Bowling Club Secretary, Phyllis Newton also presented a very positive report, mentioning how quickly the year had gone. Sadly two club members died last year and we fondly remember Wendy Gunning and Molly Clarke. Happily the Club also celebrated the 90th birthday of Vi Erskine. Following the custom of the past few years a member of our Church Community shares some of the paths and events that led them to this moment in time. This year it was the turn of our Organist and Choral Director Dr Joe McKee to treat us to some aspects of his life. As I write this the Scot Joplin tune ‘The Entertainer’ is running through my head! What a life! Musician, fireman, teacher, broadcaster and producer, Principal of the City of Belfast School of Music, adjudicator, journalist. Joe presented each phase of his life with such enthusiasm and carried us all along with the same breakneck speed that he seems to live his life. We thank him most sincerely for ending our year on such a very, very happy ‘high’. Work is almost completed on next year’s programme and we look forward to presenting it at the end of August. On behalf of our Officers and Committee may I thank you for your support during our 20152016 Season.
DATE FOR YOUR DIARY, WEDNESDAY 21st SEPTEMBER A little hint about our first topic . . . A walk on the wild side! Ssssssh don’t tell the Committee I told you. Imelda
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CHANGES TO FREE WILL OFFERING ENVELOPES During the summer months, I will be updating the Free Will Offering envelopes records and placing an order for 2017 envelopes. If you have not completed the short questionnaire forms which were available in church during May, where we asked for information for our records, please contact me as soon as possible in the office, Monday – Friday 9.00am – 1.00pm (Tel 9065 6891). If you have already completed the form, you do not need to contact me. Free Will Offering and/or Mission & Charity envelopes will be available for collection in October. This will be earlier than the usual time of December and is due to our busy schedule of events during November and December. If you contribute by Free Will Offering envelope, your numbers may have changed from 2016. Please use your current envelopes until the end of December then destroy old envelopes and start with your new pack. If you contribute to the parish by Standing Order, please take your allocated packet of Mission & Charity envelopes for use at your discretion. Every parishioner who contributes by this way will have envelopes to collect. If you find you are unable to collect your envelopes it would be helpful if you could arrange for someone to collect them for you. Thank you for your assistance. Karen Patterson Parish Administrator/Financial Giving Secretary
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St Columba’s Parish Church St Columba’s Parish Church St Columba’s Parish Church
th Thursday 24 Thursday 24th November – th November – Thursday 24 th Sunday 27 th November – Sunday 27 November 2016 th
Sunday 27 November 2016 November 2016 Refreshments provided Full details in September magazine. Refreshments provided Refreshments provided Full details in September magazine. Full details in September magazine. www.coiknock.org
www.coiknock.org www.coiknock.org 28
St. Columba’s Parish Walk & BBQ Saturday 10th September
Starts at 3pm from the Comber Greenway, walking back to St. Columba’s. Transport to Comber available from the church car park at 2.30pm.
The BBQ Party starts at 5pm at the church. “Who do you think they are?” Quiz during the BBQ – can you identify your fellow parishioners from a brief historical fact?
Everyone is welcome to join us for any part of the day! Proceeds for the Church Hall Refurbishment Fund. Please sign the sheet on the noticeboard indicating if you can attend the walk, BBQ or both, or if you can provide transport to Comber.
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PARISH ORGANISATIONS New members are always welcome at any of our organisations! Sunday
Monday
Sunday School Bubbles (3-5 years) Splash (5-8 years) X-treme (8-11 years) The Grid (11-14 years) Crèche Craft and Hobby Circle Ladies Bowling MU Afternoon Group Mens’ Club
Tuesday
Ladies Badminton Ladies Badminton Activity Group Mothers’ Union
Wednesday
Brownies Doves Railway and Model Club Bible Study Group Ladies Guild
Thursday
Art Club Choir
Friday
Mums & Tots
Bi-monthly
Toddler Soccer (3-5 years) Pause
Monthly
Youth Etc. (11-15 years) Young Families
2nd, 4th and 5th Sundays 10.30am
Superintendent: Joyce Stevenson 9058 3381
2nd, 4th and 5th Sundays
Lynn Ryan 07955 479065 1st and 3rd Monday each month Carol Willis 10.30am 9079 9997 2.00pm Phyllis Newton 9048 2113 2nd Monday each month 2.30pm Joy Montgomery 9029 5427 7.30pm John Robb 9058 1438 10.30am Gillian Popplestone 9080 3799 2.00pm Kyleen Clarke 9079 7155 Maureen Irwin Except 1st Tuesday 7.30pm 9079 5155 Katrina Dukelow 1st Tuesday each month 8.00pm 9029 0625 6.30pm Amanda Fee 07739 039750 6.30pm Moira Saunders 07739 041392 7.00pm David Beattie 9028 5868 7.30pm Eileen Anderson 9020 3684 Imelda Shephard 3rd Wednesday each month 7.45pm 9079 7683 9.30am Billy Nelson 9048 3889 7.30pm Dr Joe McKee 07976 294574 9.45am Anne Clarke 9065 1412 3.45 - 4.30pm Tim Wareing 07740 120788 As arranged Eileen Anderson 9020 3684 As arranged David Kelly 9079 3684 Social events as arranged Emma Macpherson 9028 2076
Requests for the occasional use of the church halls must be submitted to the Premise’s Convenor.
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WHO’S WHO IN ST. COLUMBAS Parish website: www.coiknock.org
Rector
The Reverend John R Auchmuty
St. Columba’s Rectory 29 Kings Road BT5 6JG 028 9047 1514 johnauchmuty@btinternet.com
Assistant Priest
The Reverend Canon Ken Smyth
3 Mount Royal Bangor BT20 3BG 028 9145 8706
Diocesan Lay Reader
Karen McAlpine
readercolumba@gmail.com
Diocesan Lay Reader (Emeritus)
Bryn Harris
028 9187 8816
Rector’s Churchwarden
Andrew Hirst
028 9065 8785
People’s Churchwarden
Andrew Ellis
07920 112818
Junior Churchwardens
Henry Auchmuty, Jonathan Kelly
Rector’s Glebewarden
Jim Stevenson
028 9058 3381 07973 392448
People’s Glebewarden
Mark Reid
028 9028 4367 07810 648167
Honorary Sexton
John Proctor
028 9087 0526 07989 469773
Select Vestry
Rector, Churchwardens, Glebewardens,Honorary Secretary, Honorary Treasurer, Assistant Honorary Treasurer, Suzanne Allen, David Craig, Helen Donaghy, Jill Gillespie, Patrick Good, John Macpherson, Mark Ryan, Moira Saunders, Mark Wilson
Honorary Secretary
Elizabeth Leonard
28 Knockdene Park South BT5 7AB 028 9065 3162 elizabeth.leonard@me.com
Honorary Treasurer
Gillian Sadlier
70 Kensington Road BT5 6NG 028 9040 3278
Assistant Honorary Treasurer
Victor Dukelow
028 9029 0625
Gift Aid Secretary
Ronny Martin
028 9079 0821 07526 396838 ronny.martin@sky.com
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Parochial Nominators
Victor Dukelow, Patrick Good, Elizabeth Leonard, Moranne Noad
Diocesan Synod members
Patrick Good, Moranne Noad, Ross Thompson (under 30)
Organist and Choral Director
Dr Joe McKee
07976 294574
Assistant Organist
Brian Clements
028 9079 3641
Reader’s and Intercessor’s Co-ordinator
Muriel Arndell
028 9065 5500
Sidespersons’ rota Co-ordinator
Rosemary Coffey
028 9754 2198
Crèche rota Co-ordinator
Lynn Ryan
07955 479065
Magazine Editor
Billy McAlpine
028 9042 4390 colmaged@outlook.com
Parish Webmaster
Ivan Roche
028 9514 0141 ivan.roche@me.com
C of I Gazette Distributor
Moranne Noad
028 9079 3704
Bible Reading Fellowship notes
Evan Preston
028 9048 9884
Church flowers
Eleanor Launchbury
028 9028 1204
Premise’s Convenor
Stewart Beckwith
028 9048 6622
Parish Office Administrator/ Financial Giving Secretary
Karen Patterson Office hours: Monday to Friday 9.00am – 1.00pm
028 9065 6891 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: The Rector...............................................................................................................028 9047 1514 Patrick Good...........................................................................................................028 9065 6908 Elizabeth Leonard................................................................................................028 9065 3162
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