The Columban
Ballycastle
st. columba’s church, knock, july/august 2017
Front cover photograph courtesy of Paddy Malone
Rector’s Letter
Dear Parishioner,
SUMMER During these coming days and weeks, many of you will be heading off on your summer holidays for a period of rest and recreation. Whether your destination is far away or nearer home, I hope that you will enjoy a break from the daily routine with some good weather! Whilst a holiday gives us an opportunity to enjoy a slower pace of life, equally importantly, it also enables us to face the coming months with fresh energy and vision. The importance of spending time with our families was clearly emphasised in a recent interview which Sir David Attenborough gave to the Radio Times when he said that his only career regret is missing out on time with his children. He said that his work took him away for months at a time when his two children were growing up. “If you have a child of six or eight and you miss three months of his or her life, it’s irreplaceable. You miss something…” I hope that the summer will provide a welcome opportunity for you to enjoy quality time with your family. Perhaps these months have come just at the right time, especially if you have been particularly busy recently or even working away from home. I am very grateful for all the time you generously give, in busy schedules, to support the work of our parish. It is only through God’s grace and your commitment to St Columba’s that we have achieved so much together throughout these past months. I have written separately in this edition of The Columban expressing my personal thanks for your involvement. During the summer, we must not forget that church life in St Columba’s continues with our Sunday and Thursday Holy Communion services. We must always remember that it is indeed a privilege to worship Almighty God, and an important part of our weekly summer worship will be thanksgiving for all the benefits we receive throughout each day, including the opportunity for rest and recreation. May God richly bless you all throughout the summer. Yours in His Service,
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Come along and give it a try! St Columba’s is a busy church with activities and services for everyone. However, we need everyone to join in – by attending church, joining organisations and by financial support. What is a parishioner? The dictionary definition is “someone who lives in a particular parish and regularly goes to church”. We have around 550 families on the parish database. Of this, we have around 130 families who do not participate in services or organisations, or contribute in a recognised manner (by Free Will Offering envelopes or by Standing Order). If each of these families contributed the cost of 1 cup of coffee per week, £2 becomes £260 per week, which amounts to £13,520 per year. With increasing costs, we would appreciate it if EVERY FAMILY on our database in the parish contributed time, money - or both! Please come along to our services to see how you can become actively involved in the friendly atmosphere and contribute to the church. The door is open for everyone and we would appreciate seeing you there, however frequently it suits you. Don’t just be a name on a database – come and join us - you may be surprised at what you are missing! Thank you very much to the many families who contribute in a recognised manner to the work of your parish, who support our organisations and who attend our church services. It is only by your generosity that we can continue to grow and maintain our church!
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SERVICES IN JULY Sunday 2nd The Third Sunday after Trinity (Green) 8.15am Holy Communion Reader Joe McKee Romans 6: 12-23 Gospel Karen McAlpine Matthew 10: 40-42 10.30am All Age Worship followed by refreshments Reader Andrew Ellis Matthew 10: 40-42 7.00pm Compline Reader Billy McAlpine Luke 17: 20-37 (Red) Thursday 6th Saint Thomas (Transferred) 10.30am Holy Communion followed by refreshments in the Choir Vestry Sunday 9th 8.15am 10.30am 7.00pm
The Fourth Sunday after Trinity (Green) Holy Communion Reader Carol Willis Romans 7: 15-25a Gospel Karen McAlpine Matthew 11: 16-19, 25-30 Holy Communion Reader Eleanor Launchbury Romans 7: 15-25a Gospel Clergy Matthew 11: 16-19, 25-30 Intercessions Karen McAlpine Late Evening Office Reader Gerald Hill Luke 18: 31- 19: 10
(Green) Thursday 13th 10.30am Holy Communion followed by refreshments in the Choir Vestry Sunday 16th The Fifth Sunday after Trinity (Green) 8.15am Holy Communion Reader Paddy Malone Romans 8: 1-11 Gospel Karen McAlpine Matthew 13: 1-9, 18-23 10.30am Morning Prayer Reader Murray Hunter Genesis 25: 19-34 Reader Alexander Doubleday Matthew 13: 1-9, 18-23 Occasional Prayers Noel Higginson 7.00pm Compline Reader Anella Gallen Luke 19: 41- 20: 8 Preacher Karen McAlpine 4
(White) Thursday 20th Saint Mary Magdalene (Transferred) 10.30am Holy Communion followed by refreshments in the Choir Vestry Sunday 23rd 8.15am
The Sixth Sunday after Trinity (Green) Holy Communion Reader Billy Nelson Romans 8: 12-25 Gospel Karen McAlpine Matthew 13: 24-30, 36-43
10.30am
Holy Communion Reader Mary Beard Gospel Karen McAlpine Intercessions Helen Donaghy
Romans 8: 12-25 Matthew 13: 24-30, 36-43
7.00pm Late Evening Office Reader Eileen Anderson Mark 6: 30-34, 53-56 Thursday 27th Saint James the Apostle (Transferred) (Red) 10.30am Holy Communion followed by refreshments in the Choir Vestry Sunday 30th 8.15am 10.30am 7.00pm
The Seventh Sunday after Trinity (Green) Holy Communion Reader Carol Willis Romans 8: 26-39 Gospel Karen McAlpine Matthew 13: 31-33, 44-52 Morning Prayer and Holy Baptism Reader Joy Montgomery Genesis 29: 15-28 Reader Yvonne Robb Matthew 13: 31-33, 44-52 Healing Service with the Laying On of Hands Reader Tillie Heyburn John 6: 1-21 Preacher Karen McAlpine
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 C of the Revised Common Lectionary and are printed on our parish website: www.coiknock.org
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SERVICES IN AUGUST Thursday 3rd (White) 10.30am Holy Communion followed by refreshments in the Choir Vestry Sunday 6th The Transfiguration of our Lord (White) 8.15am Holy Communion Reader Paddy Malone 2 Peter 1: 16-19 Gospel Clergy Luke 9: 28-36 10.30am All Age Worship followed by refreshments Reader Noel Higginson Luke 9: 28-36 7.00pm Compline Reader Caroline Cleland- Higginson 2 Corinthians 3: 1-18 Thursday 10th (Green) 10.30am Holy Communion followed by refreshments in the Choir Vestry Sunday 13th 8.15am 10.30am 7.00pm
The Ninth Sunday after Trinity (Green) Holy Communion Reader Muriel Arndell Romans 10: 5-15 Gospel Karen McAlpine Matthew 14: 22-33 Holy Communion Reader Brian Gillespie Romans 10: 5-15 Gospel Clergy Matthew 14: 22-33 Intercessions Karen McAlpine Late Evening Office Reader Jill Gillespie John 6: 35, 41-51
Thursday 17th (Green) 10.30am Holy Communion followed by refreshments in the Choir Vestry Sunday 20th 8.15am 10.30am
The Tenth Sunday after Trinity (Green) Holy Communion Reader Carol Willis Romans 11: 1-2a, 29-32 Gospel Karen McAlpine Matthew 15: 21-28 Morning Prayer Reader Andrew Hirst Genesis 45: 1-15 Reader Muriel Arndell Matthew 15: 21-28 Occasional Prayers: Jill Gillespie 6
7.00pm Compline Reader Fiona Haldane John 6: 51-58 Preacher Karen McAlpine Saint Bartholomew Thursday 24th 10.30am Holy Communion followed by refreshments in the Choir Vestry
(Red)
Sunday 27th The Eleventh Sunday after Trinity (Green) 8.15am Holy Communion Reader Billy McAlpine Romans 12: 1-8 Gospel Clergy Matthew 16: 13-20 10.30am Holy Communion Reader Victor Dukelow Romans 12: 1-8 Gospel Karen McAlpine Matthew 16: 13-20 Intercessions Barbara Laverty 7.00pm Late Evening Office Reader Eileen Anderson John 6: 56-69 Thursday 31st (Green) 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 wish to serve your church in this way, please contact Muriel Arndell (9065 5500). The readings are from Year C of the Revised Common Lectionary and are printed on our parish website: www.coiknock.org
From the Registers Our Joys Holy Baptism Sunday, 28th May
Daisy Louise Chambers
8 Knock Grove
Amy Olivia Noble
284 Orby Drive
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25th ANNIVERSARY OF ORDINATION On Sunday 14th June 1992, I was ordained Deacon by the Right Reverend Dr Gordon McMullan in Dromore Cathedral for the Curacy of St Mark’s, Dundela. So much has happened throughout the intervening years which, apart from 4 ½ years when I served as Rector of Eglish and Killylea in the Diocese of Armagh, have been in this diocese. On Thursday 15th June at the Holy Communion service, I reflected about the people I have had the privilege of meeting and friendships made in different settings. There were prayers seeking God’s blessing to sustain me as, together in St Columba’s, we continue to serve Christ and meet future needs. I am immensely grateful to God for His unfailing strength; to Caroline, Charles and Henry for their constant love and support, and for the fellowship we experience together in the parish which is reflected in so many ways. Following the service, the congregation enjoyed celebratory refreshments in the Choir Vestry to mark the occasion with everyone singing upon my entrance. The Rector
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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. Please do not assume the Clergy already know the information as situations change and there have been occasions recently when they have not been informed. Please telephone the Rector (9047 1514) or Canon Ken Smyth (9145 8706) to enable them to take careful note of the details. Thank you. The Clergy would be most grateful if you could inform them when you have been discharged from hospital, to ensure a better use of time and resources to prevent them making unnecessary visits to the hospital. Thank you.
SEPTEMBER PARISH MAGAZINE
Any articles or photographs for publication in the September parish magazine should be handed or emailed to the editor, Billy McAlpine, by Wednesday, 9th 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
Ladies Afternoon Badminton Club On Tuesday afternoons, when we meet from 2.00pm in the church hall, each member usually plays three games. With the spruced up floor and the new blinds conditions are good. If you would like to join us and play ‘gentle’ badminton please come to the church hall on Tuesday, 5th September 2017 when the new season begins. Kyleen 9
PATRONAL FESTIVAL SERVICES Sunday, 4th June By a happy co-incidence, this years’ annual celebration of our Patronal Saint, Columba, fell on Whit Sunday, the Day of Pentecost, with two magnificent services to mark the occasion. The Patronal Festival Eucharist at 10.30am was attended by a large congregation who welcomed the preacher, The Right Reverend Patrick Rooke, Bishop of Tuam, Killala and Achonry, his wife, Alison, and daughter, Susanna to St. Columba’s. Reflecting on St. Columba, whose motivation to cross the Irish Sea for a life of extraordinary mission on the remote island of Iona may never be truly known, the Bishop laid down a challenge – how should the Christian today respond to a modern world of terror, cruelty, division, sectarianism, uncertainty, misery and poverty? Taking his theme from the prophet Ezekiel, who had been sent by the Lord to admonish the rebellious Israelites in exile, Ezekiel instead ‘sat in the place where they sat’ and thus, through tolerance, was able to understand the suffering the Israelites were enduring. Wisdom and friendship, the Bishop suggested, were above all the best ways to confront the terrible problems of today’s troubled Clergy L-R world. Under the directorship of The Reverend Nigel Craig (Belmont Dr Joe McKee, with Brian Clements Presbyterian), The Reverend Britt Gilmore on organ, the Choir provided (Knock Methodist), The Reverend Canon a beautiful musical backdrop Walter Laverty, The Rector, The Reverend Helene Steed (St. Mark’s Dundela), Father complete with intercessions, chants Ciaran Feeney (St. Colmcilles), The Reverend and rousing hymns. Refreshments Nigel Kirkpatrick (St. Dorothea’s), The Reverend and fellowship followed at the rear Canon David Brown (Knocknagoney). of the church on conclusion of the service, generously provided
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and served by members of the Catering Committee. The Choral Evensong at 7.00pm welcomed parishioners and clergy from across the local Belmont and District Council of Churches when the preacher was the Reverend Helene Steed, Rector of our neighbouring church, St. Mark’s, Dundela. She, too, reflected on the complex and diverse character of St. Columba, deftly summarising his evangelical message in the phrase ‘jump, sparkle and pass it on’. The enhanced Choir, once again directed by Dr Joe McKee with guest organist Mr Alfred Casement of Gilnahirk Presbyterian Church, delivered a magnificent programme of choral singing and liturgy, including a beautiful Magnificat and Nunc Dimittis (both Stanford in C). The service was most ably and graciously assisted by Junior Churchwardens, Sarah Craig and Grace Owens. Once more, the congregation gathered in convivial fellowship at the end to enjoy the delightful refreshments most kindly provided by members of the Catering Committee at the rear of the church. Two inspiring, joyous and well attended services to celebrate our Patronal Saint in the finest tradition of choral music and fellowship now well established in St. Columba’s. Ian Noad
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
To close our session this year we had a great evening out at The Dock café and toured on the “Wee Tram” around the Titanic Quarter. It was great fun and many of us looked very chic in a “duncher cap” !! Reverend Chris Bennett, a Chaplain, working in Titanic Quarter was the tour guide and we were greatly encouraged to hear of his work and share his uplifting thoughts. At the end of the evening Caroline expressed our thanks to Jill Gillespie and her committee for the past three years work on our behalf. Have a good summer everyone. I look forward to seeing you all at our opening service on: Tuesday 5th September, at 8.00 p.m. Barbara Laverty
SUNDAY SCHOOL PRIZE GIVING There was a large number of children at the All Age Worship service on Sunday 12th June ably supported by many friends and family. Well done to Adam who read so confidently and the SEVEN children from the senior classes who collaborated to deliver the prayers. The children sang a Medley of their favourite hymns with great enthusiasm. There have been many lovely comments from the congregation during the year about the children’s participation. All the children from crèche to confirmation received a prize and I hope they enjoy reading their books in the summer. Sunday School numbers have continued to increase this year and I would like to thank all the teachers Alan, Rachel, Patricia, Louise and our assistants Helen and Michelle for their dedication and hard work throughout the year. Wishing everyone a lovely summer Joyce 12
Ladies Guild It’s hard to believe that another year of Guild activities is over. Our Annual General Meeting was tinged with sadness as it was so close to Yvonne’s death. The Rector remembered her in our opening prayers and Caroline gave a moving tribute to Yvonne recalling her strict control over our finances and her dedication to the Ladies’ Guild for thirty years. We then completed the business of the evening. The annual elections took place and the new Committee are, Chairperson
Eleanor Launchbury
Deputy Chairperson
Jennifer Beattie
Honorary Secretary
Imelda Shephard
Honorary Treasurer
Joan Madill
Honorary Bowling Secretary
Helen Coates
Honorary Chaplain
Eileen Anderson.
Committee Members, Lilias Smith, Vickie McMonagle, Helen Proctor, Caroline Cleland Higginson and Joy Murphy. Reverend Canon Walter Laverty was our speaker and he too had an Yvonne ‘gem’ to share. The Scottish Dance Group meet in St. Johns and when he was Rector there he would call in at the end of the evening which coincided with refreshments, so Yvonne would often remark, “Were you born at teatime Rector?” Canon Walter then encouraged us to be joyful in our Faith and Worship. Joy is a deep felt emotion and brings contentment even in dark days. So it’s time to set off on our summer travels - an opportunity to make some more joyous memories to share when we meet again in the Autumn. Imelda
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What a year it has been ! We have earned so many badges and been on some awesome trips to the fire station, Aunt Sandra’s and the pantomime to name a few and we have just finished the year in style with our second visit to Pack Holiday at Snores and S’mores. We went on zip lines and high ropes courses, we decorated bandanas, we learned how to chop wood and start fires and so many other amazing experiences! Our Unit has shown great growth this year with quite a few new Brownies and with this I am appealing for anyone interested in becoming a leader to contact me as without a few new leaders the ability to provide such a fun and diverse programme for the girls becomes impossible. Sadly this year we are losing some of our older Brownies as they move on to new pastures and I just want to take the opportunity to express what a pleasure it has been to have them in our unit over the years. We will miss you girls, please come and visit!!!! All being well we will start back at the end of September for another jam packed year of fun so if you are 7 or older and looking for adventure you know where to come! Amanda 14
Art Club The 19th Annual General Meeting of the Art Club was held on Thursday 25th May 2017 chaired by our President, Canon John Auchmuty and the following officers were elected to serve for the year 2017-2018. 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 Honorary Tutor
Roy Williamson Julian Friers
The Chair reported on the activities which had taken place during the year which included a Julian Frier’s workshop, a visit to the Royal Ulster Academy exhibition, the Christmas tree festival, Christmas lunch at the Royal Northern Ireland Yacht Club, cinema outings, an exhibition and sale of paintings where club members had some success and a planned visit to Rathlin Island on 22nd June. The Rector thanked club members, the committee and also Roy Williamson, mentor and Julian Friers, Honorary Tutor, for their commitment and support during the past year. Three new members joined this year and Club membership now stands at twenty seven. Anyone interested in joining should come to the church hall on a Thursday morning and see for themselves what it is all about and meet the members. About 10.45am is a good time to call, refreshment time! The club is to reconvene at 9.30am on Thursday, 7th September 2017 when hopefully Christmas card designs will be well underway. Vida
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Railway and Model Club WOW....what a month!!! We were contacted by a friend of our member Richard Beckwith, and asked if we would accept the gift of a large complete layout. After some negotiations (about 30 seconds), we said “YES PLEASE”. Our latest benefactor is Phil Hunter, one of the Scout Leaders at Knock Presbyterian. The complete layout is approximately, 7ft x 4ft and came with all the lines, buildings and even an express engine and coaches. Now we are clearing space for the layout (Oh what a lovely problem), and hope to have it installed and running before too long. This means we now have three working layouts in the Society. Many, many thanks, Phil. Yes three layouts, because Ian Parsons has the ‘N’ gauge in full operation, with station, fiddle yard etc etc. Scenery is now being added, and it looks fantastic. All credit to Ian and helpers. Two of our members, John Robb, our layout park ranger, and myself, went down to the very large Model Railway Exhibition at Bangor. There were four large rooms filled with railway layouts of every gauge. From the big .O. gauge down to the world’s smallest, i.e. T gauge. In T gauge, a complete train, engine and coaches, is about the total volume of a small ballpoint pen. We had a great time at the exhibition, making contact with other local railway buffs, who expressed an interest in seeing our layouts. Of course we also got lots of ideas from the show....including a model house with a working water feature in the garden!!!! Busy and exciting times for us. If you want to join in, remember membership is open to males and females, young and not so young. Hope you all have a wonderful summer. And remember....keep ‘er rollin’. David.
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DOVES Here we are again at the end of another successful year with Doves. We have all had fun together and enjoyed taking part in many activities ranging from seasonal crafts to baking, and playing games. The summer term was rounded off with some extra special evenings. On the 1st Wednesday in May Spoon Street was taken over by St Columba’s Doves for frozen yoghurt, fun and parent chat. The following week we had a workshop with Sinead from Relax Kids, Ballyhackamore in the hall. This included games to help us with breathing, gentle exercise and children’s’ yoga. The 3rd week in May was baking night. Busy Doves made lots of rice crispie buns for our annual bake sale the following Sunday. They even did the dishes afterwards. Many thanks to everyone who supported the Bake Sale which raised in excess of £190.00-not bad for six kids and some tray bakes! (well, along with the help of their parents and an enthusiastic parishioner or two) We wrapped up the year with a visit to IKEA where we enjoyed private playtime in the crèche, a quick walk in the showroom and chicken nuggets with chips. Yum! Special thanks go to Rachel Greeves who joined earlier this year and has been a welcome additional support with the children. Rachel and I love spending time each week with your children. Moira
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Reverend Canon John R Auchmuty 29 Kings Road BELFAST County Antrim BTS 6JG 23 May 2017
Dear Reverend Canon
Thank You!
I would like to thank you for your recent donation of £464.88 to Vision Aid Overseas. We are extremely grateful for this generous gift which will help us to continue fighting poverty in developing countries by transforming access eye tests and glasses. This is Catherine, a seven-year-old Student living in Zambia. Catherine dreams of becoming a nurse but that didn't seem possible when she was struggling to see the blackboard and falling behind at school. Thanks to generous donations like yours, Vision Aid Overseas was able to provide Catherine with an eye test and a pair of glasses. She is now doing well at school and her dream of becoming a nurse and helping her community could now become a reality. Did you know that over £200 billion worth of productivity is lost every year worldwide simply because people do not have the glasses they need? Vision Aid Overseas relies on the generosity of supporters like you to be able to continue our work in Africa and help transform the lives of some of the estimated 640 million people around the world who are suffering from poor vision simply because they do not have access to the eye care and glasses they desperately need. Thank you again for your support. Yours Sincerely,
Andy Holliday Director of Fundraising and Communications- Vision Aid Overseas
helping the world to see
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Thought for the Month
If you were arrested for being a Christian would there be enough evidence to convict you? This question by David Otis Fuller certainly gives food for thought. Lots of things went through my mind when I read it. First of all I clapped myself on the back thinking about the times I try to be a better person and show kindness and thoughtfulness to as many people as I can. Then I realised, with horror, how smug is that, actually congratulating myself for doing what any decent person would do.
Then my thoughts travelled to my friends and fellow parishioners in St. Columba’s who, over the past year and particularly the last few months, have shown so much kindness, love and support during my many trials and tribulations. Despite evidence to the contrary, I am not trying to get my name in the Guinness Book of Records for the number of times I have disrupted Sunday morning service. In fact, the question I am most often asked on a Sunday is “Do you think you will manage to remain upright today?” Attention Seeker/Drama Queen or whatever, I have been overwhelmed by the care, compassion and love from our Rector, Canon Smyth, Canon Laverty and everyone in St. Columba’s. I would state, categorically, that indeed there is more than enough evidence to convict St. Columba’s clergy and parishioners and, I hope that includes me, for being Christians. I feel truly blessed and extremely proud to be a part of this loving and caring parish. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for everything you have done for me and I leave you with this thought. Great opportunities to help others seldom come but small ones surround us every day. May we always recognise and take advantage of these opportunities. Irene My sincere thanks to Irene for sharing this ‘Thought’ with us. The September ‘Thought for the Month’ will be written by Karen Patterson.
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At a loose end? We are looking for volunteers to do a bit of gardening and tidying of the church grounds during the summer and autumn months to keep the church and hall looking smart. If you can spare any time and would like to help, just come along whenever it suits you, with whatever equipment you may need and work at a time and speed to suit yourself. All help will be greatly appreciated. Bring along a friend or relative who enjoys gardening to help if you like! The area includes the church gardens, car park, path and area around the church hall. Thank you for your time and consideration!
Can you make the change? To protect our parishioners and staff, we would be grateful if you would consider making the change from church envelopes to Standing Order as a means of financial giving. Our local parish bank, First Trust in Ballyhackamore is closing shortly and accounts are transferring into Belfast city centre. This poses an increased security risk for our banking team. Many people already use Standing Order in St Columba’s. Instead of hunting for cash or writing cheques for your church envelopes each week, this means that you give directly to our bank, making it faster and more convenient for you. It allows us to reduce the costs of ordering church envelopes as well as protecting those who handle the cash, and reducing the potential for errors. You can check your bank statement each month to see how much you have given. Did you know that you can also pay Charities and Mission gifts by this method also? Why not speak to our Parish Administrator on 02890 656891, who would be delighted to help you organise this, Mon – Fri 9am – 1pm. Thank you to those parishioners who already use Standing Orders!
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Christian Aid Week 14-20 May 2017 I would like to thank Hazel Reid who very kindly organised the door to door collections during Christian Aid Week. Hazel and her team of helpers covered the parish districts to ensure that everyone had a chance to help with this very important fundraising. The collections require a considerable effort of planning and Hazel has been carefully coordinating this for many years. Last year we raised £3,527.57. The fundraising total to date this year is £3,720, which is a fantastic achievement! Thank you very much to everyone involved – both contributing money and assisting with the door to door collections. The Rector CONGRATULATIONS On 26th May, Hazel was invited, by Christian Aid, to the Lord Mayor’s parlour to receive, from him, a card/plaque to commemorate her service of over 40 years as a volunteer. Well done.
UPDATE ON THE PARISHES RELATIONSHIP WITH ZAMBIA The Parish Zambian Committee met on the 22nd May 2017 to further discuss our involvement with the Diocese of Zambia. During our earlier discussions we were very surprised to discover that all contact with Zambia had indeed stopped. Apparently this resulted from a suggestion that we would send the £4000, which is the balance of fundraising for the new school, directly to an “Early learning School Programme” which is managed by Delores. Jayne Martin had met Delores when she visited Zambia and Jayne proposed that we support this very worthwhile project. Archbishop Chama stated that all monies be channelled through CMS Belfast. This has now been agreed and a Funding Proposal, through CMS, has been sent to the Archbishop for his approval. We have requested that we must have regular updates on the expenditure incurred by this Early Learning Project and there must be renewal of the contact between Delores and Jayne. When we receive confirmation from CMS for this very worthwhile project we will request the release of the £4000 from our Parish Funds through the Select Vestry. Murray Hunter
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MEN’S CLUB Another season has passed. The club has had another successful year despite its small numbers. As many of you may be aware the club was originally founded in 1960. The history of the foundation of the organisation is well documented in publications produced during its past. Although it has experienced many changes during those years the one thing that has not changed is the combination of fun, fellowship and friendship that has been enjoyed by the membership through its many events. In its heyday I witnessed a membership of over 50 members on most nights playing bowls on 5 mats taking up the whole hall floor. The club also organised amateur dramatic performances in the hall. It ran Treasure Hunts and also hosted speakers, as we still do today. The membership admittedly has been declining (I must add that we are not alone in that aspect as many a club in our area has sadly closed) and we are attempting to widen the scope of activities similar to the early days to compliment the bowling. To reach our objective of giving the men of the parish an organisation that can provide the services and activities we need a very important ingredient. We need you, the men of the parish. It does not matter if you cannot bowl. Most of the membership didn’t either when they took that first step in to the hall. We need people who can offer their time or talents to benefit the membership. Many a friendship has been formed by the members within the club. We want ideas, help in pointing us in the right direction. It is after all the one and only organisation purely for the men of our church. The church has several organisations for the ladies as well as mixed groups. I appeal to the men of the church to come and talk to us, give us your views, ideas and time. You won’t regret it. We will be working closely with the Rector to ensure the ongoing survival of what was and still is a vital part of the life of the church. I hope I have given you all food for thought over the summer months. We open our doors again on the 4th September at 7.30 and extend a warm welcome to any gentlemen who wishes to come down and experience even a small taste of what we as a club have to offer. You are ensured fun, fellowship and friendship. Help us to share and extend those values even further. Enjoy your summer. We are hoping to have our Annual Dinner and Prize giving in September this year. John
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St Columba's Parish Church
Hog Roast AND Barn Dance at the home of Tony and Clodagh Reid Unicarval House 88 Ballyrainey Road Comber BT23 5JU on Friday 15th September at 7.00pm Everyone welcome IN AID OF CHURCH FUNDS Tickets available from Clodagh Reid (07967 181638)
Elizabeth Leonard (07778 169292)
Lynn Ryan (07955 479065)
Linda Wilson (07850 309097)
Moira Saunders (07739 041392)
David Craig (07771 822411)
Patricia Clements (07470 474527)
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would like to extend most sincere thanks to the many people who actively work hard to make St Columbaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Parish Church such a success.
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There are so many people who give their time, talents and financial support to the parish, often quietly behind the scenes. These people are the backbone of our parish, which simply couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t function without their valuable contributions.
We have seen growth in the numbers of people attending services, joining organisations, fundraising and helping where
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needed. This is thanks to the hard work and dedication of many people, who quietly work away in their own time. The increasing numbers of people sharing fellowship, attending functions and participating in the life of the parish has continued to flourish. The
summer months have arrived and our Parish Organisations and are now enjoying a well-earned break. I hope this time can be spent attending our church services, spending time with family, and resting before the new season commences. I look forward to welcoming back the members of our enthusiastic organisations and all our parishioners as a new programme of activities and services begin in September. Our Dedication of Parish Organisation Leaders will take place at our 10.30am All Age Worship Service on Sunday 3rd September. Thank you to everyone who actively contributes in any way to parish life, and by giving so much of yourself to St Columbaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s. Have a wonderful summer break everyone!
The Rector.
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“Stay calm and enjoy the ham!”
Pick your piece of Hammy the Hog! Simply add your name and phone number to the HOG poster at the back of church during August.
All entries cost £10. Names will be entered into a ballot and the winning entry will be selected at the Hog Roast and Barn Dance on Friday 15th September. (see noticeboard for more details)
and enter this fun competition as many times as you like!
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PAUSE Summer is here and I hope that every reader of the Columban will enjoy a happy and relaxing season, whether at home or away. Many organisations take a break during the summer months but PAUSE continues. It provides an opportunity for those of us who are at home to meet with other parishioners and friends in a relaxed environment to catch up on news and have a chat - hopefully with someone new. Three dates have been arranged: Monday 17th July at Hillmount Garden Centre for lunch at 12.30pm. Tuesday 8th August at the Park Avenue Hotel for tea/coffee at 10.30am. Wednesday 30th August at the Stormont Hotel for tea/coffee at 10.30am. If you are free on any or all of these dates please come along. WE would love to meet YOU. If you require further details or help with transport contact me. Eileen (02890203684)
JULY FLOWER ROTA Sunday 2nd July
Pam Hunter
Sunday 9th July
Irene Gray
Sunday 16th July
Margaret McConkey
Sunday 23rd July
Margaret McKee
Sunday 30 July
Geraldine and Anella Gallen
th
AUGUST FLOWER ROTA Sunday 6th August
Muriel Arndell
Sunday 13th August
Acheson Family
Sunday 20 August Imelda Shephard th
Sunday 27th August McKee Family 27
Choir A week after our Patronal Festival, when the Parish Choir made a significant contribution to the principal services, the choir was invited to sing Choral Evensong in Down Cathedral. Down is unique amongst British cathedrals in terms of its architecture and scale. The building that survives today represents only a fragment of the original monastic foundation. The distinctive box pews, the Chapter Stalls under the Organ Screen and the lack of traditional Choir Stalls, all add to the quirkiness of this wonderful landmark building on one of Downpatrick’s hills. For musicians, the sheer quality of the organ and the superb acoustic in which it speaks, combine to make Down a most attractive space in which to sing. In the past year the Dean of Down, the Very Reverend Henry Hull and his organist, Michael McCracken, have participated in services in St Columba’s, so it was a great pleasure to be able to accept an invitation for our choir to sing on the afternoon of Trinity Sunday. The choir sang music by the two leading Irish composers of the early 20th century, Stanford and Wood. At Down, the choristers sing from the organ loft where the organist is able to direct performances from the console. Another unique feature of the cathedral is the existence of a rank of large Trombone pipes in the corner of the choir loft. These were added in the 1960s, but were too big to be accommodated within the existing handsome gothic organ case, so they were tucked away in a corner where they make a most unsettling racket when heard upstairs, yet they blend perfectly when heard from the ground floor. All in all, the choir and our Rector, now firmly established as a member of the Cathedral Chapter, had a most enjoyable visit to the Mother Church of our Diocese. At St Columba’s we are always seeking to recruit fresh voices into the choir. If you think you would like to be a member, please speak to Joe McKee after any service. The role of a chorister is at times challenging, but it’s also very enjoyable and rewarding. Please give this some thought over the summer months and think about joining in the Autumn. You’ll be made very welcome. Joe
SIDESPERSON’S ROTA Sunday, 2nd July Sunday, 9th July Sunday, 16th July Sunday, 23rd July Sunday, 30th July
The Macpherson family Rosemary and Ivan Coffey Jayne and Ronny Martin Helen Donaghy and Joy Montgomery Suzanne and Jon Allen
Sunday, 6th August Sunday, 13th August Sunday, 20th August Sunday, 27th August
The Ryan family Patricia and Adrian Clements Yvonne and John Robb Elizabeth and Hugh Miller 28
CHURCH CAR PARKING When parking to go to church services or Parish Organisations please be sensitive to the residents in the local community by taking care not to block entrances or pavements. Thank you!
Facebook St Columba’s Parish Church is now on Facebook. ‘Like’ our page to see updates on events, services and photos. Search coiknock on Facebook or Messenger to find us easily. For those who are new to St Columba’s and would like more information about the life and membership of the parish, please give your name and phone number to our Churchwardens or contact the Parish Office during office hours Monday-Friday, 9.00am-1.00pm on 028 9065 6891.
Pastoral Care: If anyone has a pastoral concern and would like to
speak to someone, please contact the Rector (028 9047 1514) or Canon Ken Smyth (028 9145 8706).
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 29
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 and 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 Helen Coates 9065 8977 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 Baraba Laverty 1st Tuesday each month 8.00pm 9573 8743 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 10.00am Anne Clarke 9065 1412 3.45 - 4.30pm Tim Wareing 07740 120788 As arranged Eileen Anderson 9020 3684 As arranged David Kelly 9079 6658 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 Canon John R Auchmuty
St. Columba’s Rectory 29 Kings Road BT5 6JG 028 9047 1514 johnauchmuty@yahoo.com
The Reverend Canon Ken Smyth
3 Mount Royal Bangor BT20 3BG 028 9145 8706
The Reverend Canon Walter Laverty
6, Hanwood Heights Dundonald BT16 1XU 028 95738743
Diocesan Lay Reader
Karen McAlpine
readercolumba@gmail.com
Diocesan Lay Reader (Emeritus)
Bryn Harris
028 9187 8816
Rector’s Churchwarden
Jonathan Stewart
028 9041 0514
People’s Churchwarden
John Kerr
028 9076 0027
Assistant Priests
Junior Churchwardens
Sarah Craig and Grace Owens
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, Richard Caldwell, David Craig, Andrew Ellis, Andrew Hirst, Elizabeth Leonard, Mark Ryan, Moira Saunders, Mark Wilson
Honorary Secretary
John Macpherson
10 Sandhill Gardens BT5 6FF 028 9028 2076 jdmacpherson@hotmail.com
Honorary Treasurer
Gillian Sadlier
70 Kensington Road BT5 6NG 028 9040 3278
Assistant Honorary Treasurer
Victor Dukelow
028 9029 0625
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Gift Aid Secretary
Jack Dunlop
028 9065 4103
Parochial Nominators
Victor Dukelow, Patrick Good, Elizabeth Leonard, Linda Wilson
Diocesan Synod members
Patrick Good, Elizabeth Leonard Hollie Wilson (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
Sidesperson’s 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
Crucifer
Mark Laverty
028 9573 8743
Parish Office Administrator/ Financial Giving Secretary
Karen Patterson Office hours: Monday to Friday 9.00am-1.00pm
028 9065 6891 office@coiknock.org
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