March 2013
RECTOR’S LETTER
Dear Parishioner,
LENT, HOLY WEEK AND EASTER SERVICES Rather than focusing on “giving things up” during Lent we are doing the exact opposite! In addition to attendance at church services, we are using the Love Life Live Lent booklets. They provide us with an opportunity to do something positive each day by carrying out a simple action which will make our parish and community a better place. Often it is the small everyday things of life that can make all the difference. I hope that you are finding these booklets to be a helpful resource and also an important part of your Lenten preparations. Our focus will turn towards Calvary on the fifth Sunday of Lent, known as Passion Sunday. On that day, the large wooden cross will be placed beside the lectern as we begin our reflections on the passion and suffering of our Lord Jesus Christ. On the following Sunday, Palm Sunday, we will go with Jesus into Jerusalem and then travel with him to Calvary. On Good Friday, we will stand at the foot of the cross and witness the terrible suffering which Jesus endured because of our sins. As the Archbishop of York said, “The cross of Christ is like the underside of a piece of embroidery – revealing a tangled mess of pain and suffering. But the beautiful front side has a clear message writ large: GOD IS LOVE.” The preacher at the morning and evening services in St. Columba’s throughout Holy Week will be the Bishop of Connor, The Right Reverend Alan Abernethy. The theme of his addresses will be “Jesus in Luke’s Gospel”. On Good Friday, we will welcome back the Right Reverend Dr. Gordon McMullan who served both as Curate and Rector of this parish. In addition to his faithful ministry here, Bishop McMullan also ordained me while he was Bishop of Down and Dromore. As Christians, we rejoice that Good Friday was not the end – rather it was just the beginning. After all the candles are extinguished during the Tenebrae service that evening, the church will briefly be left in total darkness. Then just before we leave, the Christ candle will be relit. On Easter Sunday, we return to celebrate the good news of the Resurrection – “Christ is risen. The Lord is risen indeed. Alleluia.” Now that will be a joyful occasion. However, that joy will only be fully experienced if we have first travelled to the cross. I invite you to share in this journey by making attendance at all these services a priority. Caroline, Charles and Henry join me in wishing you a very Happy Easter. Yours in His service,
2
SERVICES IN MARCH Sunday 3rd The Third Sunday in Lent (Purple) 8.15am Holy Communion Reader Michael Davey 1 Corinthians 10: 1-13 Gospel Clergy Luke 13: 1-9 10.30am Informal Recital by Members of the Music Group 11.00am All Age Worship and Holy Baptism followed by Parish Lenten Lunch in the church hall Reader Sarah Craig Luke 13: 1-9 7.00pm Choral Evensong Reader Patricia Wilson Genesis 28: 10-19a Reader Patricia Wilson John 1: 35-51 Occasional Karen McAlpine Prayers Thursday 7th (Purple) 10.30am Holy Communion followed by refreshments in the Choir Vestry Sunday 10th The Fourth Sunday in Lent (Mothering Sunday) (Purple) 8.15am Holy Communion Reader Patricia Wilson 2 Corinthians 1: 3-7 Gospel Karen McAlpine Luke 2: 33-35 10.30am Holy Communion Reader Jennifer Pyper 2 Corinthians 1: 3-7 Gospel Karen McAlpine Luke 2: 33-35 Address Roberta Rogers (Former Mothers’ Union Diocesan President) Intercessions led by Mothers’ Union Members 7.00pm Compline Reader Esther Templeton Luke 15: 1-3, 11b-32 Thursday 14th (Purple) 10.30am Holy Communion followed by refreshments in the Choir Vestry Sunday 17th Passion Sunday 8.15am Holy Communion Reader Ronny Martin Gospel Clergy 9.30am Family Communion Gospel Karen McAlpine 10.30am Morning Prayer Reader Murray Hunter Reader Ross Thompson Occasional Muriel Arndell Prayers 7.00pm Holy Communion (St. Patrick) Reader Fiona Haldane Gospel Karen McAlpine 3
(Purple) Philippians 3: 4b-14 John 12: 1-8 John 12: 1-8 Isaiah 43: 16-21 John 12: 1-8 (White) Isaiah 8: 19 -9:2 Luke 6: 20-31
Thursday 21st 10.30am
St. Joseph of Nazareth (Transferred) (White) Holy Communion followed by refreshments in the Choir Vestry
Sunday 24th 8.15am 10.30am 7.00pm
The Sixth Sunday in Lent (Palm Sunday) (Red) Holy Communion Reader Paddy Malone Philippians 2: 5-11 Gospel Clergy Luke 19: 28-40 Holy Communion Reader Moranne Noad Philippians 2: 5-11 Gospel Karen McAlpine Luke 19: 28-40 Intercessions Elizabeth Leonard Palm Sunday Praise in Knock Methodist Church Preacher: The Bishop of Connor, The Rt Revd Alan Abernethy No Service in St. Columba’s
Monday 25th 10.00am 1.15-1.45pm 8.00pm
Monday in Holy Week (Red) Holy Communion Thought for the Day: The Bishop of Connor Lunchtime service in Knock Methodist Speaker: The Reverend Dr. Gary Mason Service of the Word Preacher: The Bishop of Connor
Tuesday 26th 10.00am 1.15-1.45pm 8.00pm
Tuesday in Holy Week (Red) Holy Communion Thought for the Day: The Bishop of Connor Lunchtime service at Knock Methodist Church Speaker: The Reverend Dr. Gary Mason Service of the Word Preacher: The Bishop of Connor
Wednesday 27th Wednesday in Holy Week (Red) 10.00am Holy Communion Thought for the Day: The Bishop of Connor 1.15-1.45pm Lunchtime service in Knock Methodist Church Speaker: The Reverend Dr. Gary Mason 8.00pm Service of the Word Preacher: The Bishop of Connor Thursday 28th 10.30am
Maundy Thursday (White) Holy Communion for Housebound Parishioners followed by refreshments Celebrant: The Bishop of Connor Preacher: The Rector 4
1.15-1.45pm 8.00pm
Lunchtime Service in Knock Methodist Church Speaker: The Reverend Dr. Gary Mason Holy Communion according to the Methodist Liturgy followed by the stripping of the altar. Preacher: The Bishop of Connor
Friday 29th 10.30am 12-3.00pm 8.00pm
Good Friday Children’s Service followed by refreshments The Three Hour Devotions Conductor: The Right Reverend Dr. Gordon McMullan (former Bishop of Down and Dromore) Tenebrae Service Preacher: The Bishop of Connor
Sunday 31st 8.15am 10.30am 7.00pm
Easter Day (White) Holy Communion Reader Carol Willis 1 Corinthians 15: 19-26 Gospel Clergy John 20: 1-18 Holy Communion Reader Olivia Budde 1 Corinthians 15: 19-26 Gospel Clergy John 20: 1-18 Intercessions Karen McAlpine Healing Service with the Laying on of Hands Reader Clergy John 20: 19-23
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
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 5
HOLY WEEK SERVICES 2013 EVENING SERVICES IN ST. COLUMBA’S 8.00pm Monday – Good Friday Preacher: The Bishop of Connor, The Right Reverend Alan Abernethy
PALM SUNDAY, 24TH MARCH 8.15am Holy Communion 10.30am Holy Communion 7.00pm Palm Sunday Praise MORNING SERVICES IN ST. COLUMBA’S 10.00am Holy Communion (Monday – Wednesday) 10.30am Holy Communion for housebound parishioners on Maundy Thursday
Title for the week: ‘Jesus in St. Luke’s Gospel’
The Bishop of Connor writes… I am very grateful for the opportunity to be with you during Holy Week this year. Holy Week has always had a special place in my own faith journey. This year, GOOD FRIDAY I want to share some thoughts with 10.30am Children’s Service you on the journey Jesus made from the stable in Bethlehem to the cross followed by refreshments outside Jerusalem. My reflections will 12 noon - 3.00pm be through the eyes and ears of St. The Three Hour Devotions Conductor: Bishop Gordon McMullan Luke. He has a particular way of sharing these events, so I would describe my For those unable to stay for the full thoughts as a journey with Jesus and duration of the meditations, it is Luke. It will begin in Bethlehem and possible to enter and leave at the end of move to the liturgy of Good Friday as each section. we contemplate the death of Jesus. LUNCHTIME SERVICES Journeys are such a critical part IN KNOCK METHODIST of the scriptural stories. There is a constant movement of people, and 1.15pm-1.45pm in the journeys people discover new Monday - Maundy Thursday understandings of the God whom they Preacher: The Superintendent are trying to worship and serve. My Minister of East Belfast Mission, prayer is that as we journey together The Reverend Dr. Gary Mason with Jesus and Luke, we will find our As the Superintendent Minister of East hearts warmed, our faith renewed and Belfast Mission, Dr. Mason has been our delight in God enriched. centrally involved in delivering the Please pray for me as I prepare for the recent Skainos project, a £22 million journey we will make, that we will know new centre on the Newtownards Road God’s blessing, joy and peace. which will continue to serve the needs Grace and peace to you all, of those in the area and further afield. +Alan. His ministry has led him to be involved in the social and political arena, and he The loose cash collections at all of has played a significant role seeking to these services will be given to the work bring a Christian influence to loyalist of East Belfast Mission and Christians Against Poverty. paramilitaries. 6
GOOD FRIDAY – THE THREE HOUR DEVOTION Friday, 29th March: 12 noon – 3.00pm Conductor: The Right Reverend Dr. Gordon McMullan. I very much value the Rector’s invitation to lead this Good Friday observance. As some worshippers will be able to join for only part of the service and some for the full three hours, the structuring of the devotions offers each person the opportunity to take to heart some spiritual truth applicable to Christian discipleship. In the first hour, we accompany mother Mary and son Jesus from Bethlehem’s Cradle to Calvary’s Cross. Embracing scripture, prayer and interpretation, we enter spiritually, emotionally and sensitively into the intimate dynamics of that mother and son bond. We reflect on the tenderness and tensions that arise as each seeks to deal with the hopes, fears, joys and sorrows encountered by individuals searching to deal with the opportunities and obstacles of serving God in the relationships of family life and daily realities. The second hour focus sets the Mary and Jesus bond in more detailed consideration of the development of the child into boyhood, youth and manhood. We read and reflect on the normalities and perplexities that parental love must seek to understand as a young person grows towards greater independence, and his or her personal choice of moral and spiritual values and commitments. This can result in anxieties for a parent and for the outcomes of parental actions taken with the best of loving intentions. For the son or daughter, the stress of not being able to remove parental concerns or fulfil parental hopes can be deeply upsetting. For Mary and Jesus, these realities are milestones along the road from his adult Baptism at the Jordan, through the three years of his preaching, healing, witnessing, ministry and on to the final days in Jerusalem, and his self-offering on Calvary’s central Cross. Reflecting on the Devine Love for humanity revealed in the commitment, ministry and total self-surrendered life of Jesus the Saviour, we spend a quiet time meditating on the call of God in Christ Jesus for us to embrace this gift of Devine Love, and share it with others in each day’s relationships and events. In the third hour, we listen attentively to the words of Jesus from the Cross in the three hours that he hung and suffered there. We meditate on them and the persons whose words and actions, or inactions, contributed to his persecution, betrayal, denial and desertion. Alongside this, we take positive account of those who with faith and courage supported Jesus right to the very end, and none more so than his mother Mary. Her presence and Jesus’ words of loving provision for her welfare are testament to the final victory of God’s incarnate love over all that would suppress and defeat it in the realities of earthly pilgrimage. +Gordon McMullan. 7
MARCH SIDESPERSONS’ ROTA Sunday 3rd.....................................................Charles and Henry Auchmuty Sunday 10th..................................................Jill and Brian Gillespie Sunday 17th..................................................Jayne and Ronny Martin Sunday 24th..................................................Yvonne and Eddie Cadden Sunday 31st...................................................Irene Gray and Margaret McConkey
THE ANNUAL EASTER GENERAL VESTRY MEETING will take place in the CHURCH HALL on Wednesday, 13th March 2013 at 7.30pm All parishioners are encouraged to attend but only those who are registered as Vestrypersons can vote to elect: The People’s Churchwarden The People’s Glebewarden 12 Select Vestry Members Honorary Auditors Refreshments will be served during the meeting
HOLY COMMUNION FOR HOUSEBOUND PARISHIONERS in St. Columba’s Parish Church on MAUNDY THURSDAY, 28th March, at 10.30am With Holy Week hymns and seasonal refreshments Please phone the Parish Office 028 90656891 (Monday to Friday 9.00am - 1.00pm) to arrange transport. 8
DECORATING THE CHURCH FOR EASTER Saturday, 30th March, 10.30am – 12.30pm No flower arranging skills necessary! Gifts of flowers and a willingness to help is all that is required. Children and young families will be particularly welcome to help with the decorating! Refreshments in the Rectory
PRIVATE HOLY COMMUNION SERVICES It is always a privilege for the Clergy to conduct private Holy Communion services for those housebound parishioners who will not be attending Easter services in St. Columba’s. Please telephone the Parish Administrator (028 90656891) by Friday, 8th March, to make an appointment if you would like a private Holy Communion service in your home.
ST. COLUMBA’S LENT BOOK STALL The Good Book Shop will supply us with seasonal material to assist with our Lent, Holy Week and Easter devotions. When: Sunday, 3rd March Where: At the back of church What: Books for Lent & Easter – including Love Life, Live Lent
Children’s Books, Bibles, CDs,
Prayer Books, Mothers’ Day Cards,
Easter Cards, Large Print Hymn Books
I encourage you to support this important resource in our parish. The Rector 9
St. Columba’s Parish Church
Lenten Lunch Sunday, 3rd March 10.30am: Informal Recital by Members of the Music Group 11.00am: Morning Worship followed by Lenten Lunch in the church hall Voluntary Contributions towards the Church Hall Refurbishment Fund
CLERGY PARISH VISITING It is always a great privilege for the Clergy to visit parishioners in their homes. If you would like to request a Clergy Visit, please telephone the Rector (028 90471514) or the Assistant Priest (028 91458706). Both the Rector and the Assistant Priest will be visiting parishioners in Residential and Nursing Homes throughout the parish during March. In addition, they will also be conducting private Holy Communion services in the homes of those housebound parishioners who are unable to attend any of the Easter services.
WOMEN’S WORLD DAY OF PRAYER (interdenominational)
Friday, 1st March 2013 11.00am: May St. Presbyterian Church and 8.00pm: Gilnahirk Presbyterian Church Theme: “I was a stranger and you welcomed me” Prepared by the Christian Women of France. ‘All are welcome, men and women, young and old to join this prayer service held across the world’ 10
SUNDAY SCHOOL NOTES Sunday, 3rd March
10.30am Musical Group 11.00am All Age Worship
Sunday, 10th March
10.30am Sunday School
Sunday, 17th March
9.30am Family Communion
Sunday, 24th March
10.30am Sunday School
Sunday, 31st March
10.30am Easter Sunday (Family Communion)
Our numbers continue to be retained despite the bad weather, so it is great to see so many children in Sunday School. A few more boys in the junior class would be great to keep the boys already there company. They are currently outnumbered by the girls! It is just a pity that we practice our singing so hard on the last Sunday of each month and then find our numbers are smaller on All Age Worship Sunday. Please, parents, let the rest of the congregation see just how many we really have in Sunday school! We are starting our new books at the beginning of March, so lots more interesting activities and stories for all! Beth Cairnduff
PAUSE Following on from our ‘Pause’ at Hillmount Garden Centre on Shrove Tuesday, we are planning to meet as follows: Wednesday, 6th March 10.30am – coffee at SKAINOS (on the Newtownards Road) Tuesday, 26th March 10.30am – coffee at Belmont Towers If you are free on one or both of these dates, please do come along! No commitment, no ‘joining’ – just turn up and ‘pause’ for a while in company. Should anyone require transport or further details, please do not hesitate to contact me. Eileen (028 90203684)
MUMS & TOTS There will be no Mums & Tots on Friday, 29th March (Good Friday) and Friday, 5th April, due to Easter holidays. Many thanks, Anne Clarke 11
ST. COLUMBA’S ART CLUB Bob Killen, a former Vice-President of the Royal Ulster Academy, has very generously donated to the Art Club three framed oil paintings which we are going to use to raise funds for the Church Hall Refurbishment Fund. One of the paintings, ‘Landevennec, Brittany’, will be the prize in a raffle organised by the Club. Tickets will be limited to 200, priced at £3 each and may be bought from Art Club members. The draw for this will be made on Thursday, 7th March. The other two paintings, ‘Mist over Donard’ and ‘Morgat, Brittany’ will be the subjects of a sealed bid auction and they will be on display at the back of the church each Sunday during April. To place a bid for either painting, or both, it will be necessary to complete a proforma (available in the church) during April, seal it in an envelope provided and place it in the box beside the paintings. The bidding box will be closed on Thursday, 2nd May, the winning bid drawn and the winner informed and asked to complete the purchase. In the event of two highest bids being equal for any one painting, the earlier dated bid will be the successful one. If the dates should still remain equal, the winning bid will be drawn by Bob. Billy McAlpine
Landevennec, Brittany
Mist over Donard
Morgat, Brittany
LADIES GUILD NOTES
Dear Ladies, The Ladies Guild is pleased to announce that we are holding a FILM NIGHT for everyone in the parish and the proceeds will go towards the Church Hall Refurbishment Fund. It will take place on the evening of Wednesday, 20th March, at 7.45pm in the church hall. The film will have an Irish theme as it is so close to St. Patrick’s Day. We will provide nibbles during the film and a special supper afterwards. Voluntary donations will be taken at the door and we hope that the congregation will support us enthusiastically! Many thanks, Lilias Smith (Hon. Sec.) 12
two thousand springs In a world of sharp contrast, of joy and despair, It’s hard to be certain – does God really care? We see the new blossom, hear ambulance wail, The smoke of the fire in the fair verdant vale. Hear sound of the gunfire, the baby’s first cry, See Austrian mountains, read ‘Arbeit Macht Frei’. The song of the blackbird, the howl of deep pain, And the widow’s sharp tears in the soft April rain. Yet nigh on two thousand long years have gone by, Since another poor woman saw her dearest friend die. Sharp, too, were her tears of confusion and woe, As she to her Master’s cold tomb had to go. But – to add to her burden and deepen her care, She found to her horror – his body not there! In sorrow she turned to a man who stood near, And discovered, alive, the one she held dear! The rain eases off, but the widow weeps still, Can such an old story cure such a fresh ill? Yet, two thousand times since that day by the tomb Have autumn leaves died, but spring blossoms bloomed. Two thousand times have deep frosts and dark hours Given way to bright fields of daffodil flowers. In grief or confusion, our certain hope clings To the story of life told by two thousand springs. Nigel Beeton
DOVES Wow! We have welcomed new Doves recently and look forward to 12 children meeting every Friday evening between 6.30 and 7.30pm. We are enjoying making music, constructing crafts and playing games together. It is so encouraging to have more children with us and this will enable us to plan a greater variety of activities. There is still room for any more three to six year olds to come and join us and share our fun! Karen 13
Hello Ladies, We are really looking forward to listening to Liz Fetherstonhaugh speaking at our next Mothers’ Union on Tuesday, 5th March. She will be sharing with us her overseas adventures in Cambodia and her investigations into human trafficking. I would ask if you would please bring your overseas donations. On Mothers’ Day, Sunday, 10th March, the Mothers’ Union will be providing tea, coffee and home made tray-bakes after the morning service. Donations will go to the Church Hall Refurbishment Fund. A big thank you to all of you who put your name on the list for baking. The Mothers’ Union Project are inviting you to give an ethical gift on Mothering Sunday to fund the work in some of the world’s most deprived countries. Gifts start at as little as £3 for food, blankets or mosquito nets; to teaching basic literacy and financial skills, parenting and bereavement skills, and providing environmentally friendly stoves. More information can be obtained at www.makeamothersday. org or phone 020 72225533. Wishing you all a happy Mothers’ Day this year,
Sandra
Candles in Lighthouses Tallow was animal fat and was used to make cheaper candles than the more expensive beeswax candles. Lighthouse keepers were often glad of the extra fat in tallow candles with which to cook their rations! Until the end of the 18th century, lighthouses were sometimes lit by inadequate oil lamps or by candles. Robert Stevenson, engineer and grandfather of Robert Louis Stevenson, recorded in 1801 that the Eddystone lighthouse was still lit by candles and had been since the first tower was erected in 1698. Smeaton, who built the third tower in 1759, noted that 24 oil lamps were made for it but sooted up the lantern panes to such an extent that they had to be replaced by the same number of candles. Kyleen Clarke The Rector writes... Candles will have a particular significance in St. Columba’s at the Tenebrae service on Good Friday. During the reading, a candle is extinguished on the Holy Communion table at the end of each section. The church will be in complete darkness as St. John tells us Jesus died saying, “It is finished.” Following a loud sound, the reading of the final section of the passion narrative is done in total darkness. Then the Christ candle will be relit. We will leave with that light flickering in the dark church in the knowledge that Good Friday was not the end. Rather, it was just the beginning as the Resurrection is still to come on Easter Day. 14
After a successful outing to the Bowling at Dundonald Ice Bowl last month followed by supper at MacDonald’s, this month’s Youth Etc outing was to Urban Assault, also at Dundonald Ice Bowl. After splitting into two teams, a girls’ team with a few reinforcements, namely Aaron and Charles, and a boys’ team, we were all kitted out with vests and guns and the game was on! After 45 minutes of intense competition the girls’ team came out on top much to the disgust of the boys, especially as the points difference was a massive 200 plus! Brilliant fun was enjoyed by all. Our next outing on Friday, 1st March, is to Ravenhill for an Ulster rugby match. Hope to see you all there. Remember to wrap up warmly! If anyone else is interested in joining our new group, please contact Aaron or the Rector for details of our future events. Helen Cairnduff
BECAUSE THE BIBLE TELLS US SO… A teenage boy had just passed his driving test and inquired of his father as to when they could discuss his use of the family car. His father said he would make a deal with his son: “You bring your grades up from a C to a B average, study your Bible a little and get your hair cut. Then we’ll talk about the car.” The boy thought about it for a moment and decided to settle for the offer. After about six weeks his father said, “Son, you’ve brought your grades up and I’ve observed that you have been studying your Bible, but I’m disappointed you haven’t had your hair cut.” The boy replied, “You know, Dad, I’ve been thinking about that and I’ve noticed in my studies of the Bible that Samson had long hair, John the Baptist had long hair, Moses had long hair... and there’s even strong evidence that Jesus had long hair.” His father replied, “Why yes, son, but did you also notice they all walked everywhere they went?” 15
LADIES BOWLING Last month we had our usual visit to Knock Presbyterian. Although the numbers are smaller, it is good to meet old friends for the bowls and a chat! The following week, we entertained some ladies from St. Colmcille’s and we hope this will be the first of regular meetings. Now it is time to get on with our competitions as the end of the season draws near. Phyllis Newton
BROWNIE NOTES Last month saw all the Brownies learning to cook breakfast. The smell of bacon, sausages, porridge, toast, coffee and tea delighted the parents when they came to pick up at the end of the evening. We also learnt how to handle knives and scissors correctly although the practising of this was scary for some, including the leaders! To accommodate the Bring, Buy & Brunch preparations on Friday, 8th February, we went to the Strand Cinema to see ‘Wreckin Ralph’. Lots of popcorn and soft drinks were purchased, and lots of laughter came from the full row occupied by us all! We will be enrolling three of our new Brownies on Friday, 22nd February, a very important day in the Guiding calendar being also Thinking Day, and we hope to make this a special event for the three girls involved. We are anxiously awaiting the return of the longer evenings so that we can begin our outdoor activities. Beth Cairnduff
Calling all St. Columba’s Young Families ***A Grown – Ups’ night out*** Fun, Friendship and Chinese Food at the Mandarin City Restaurant, Ballyhackamore Friday, 12th April, at 8pm
*** To secure your seat contact: Linda Wilson: 028 90761040 linda_wilson_9@hotmail.com Or Victor Dukelow: 07825 146955 vkj.dukelow@ntlworld.com 16
PATRICK’S SAINTLY LEGACY LIVES ON AT TARA Saint Patrick, whom we once again commemorate on 17th March, is fittingly remembered for many achievements, the most significant being his bringing of the Christian message to Ireland in the 5th century AD. One of his most striking accomplishments is having preached and extended the Christian message at a time when Irish society was volatile and often dangerous, ruled over by local chieftains and kings who followed a pagan system of belief. In Patrick’s time, Ireland may have had around 150 local chieftains who appointed a ‘High King’ on the Hill of Tara – a beautiful and mystical part of the countryside near Navan, in today’s County Meath. Tara means ‘high place’ – and its elevated position above the central plain of Ireland made it one of strategic importance for its ancient rulers. On a clear day, the view from Tara extends south to the Wicklow mountains, northwards to the Carlingford and Mourne mountains, and far west into the lowlands of Westmeath, Cavan, Kildare, Longford and Offaly. There is evidence of human settlement at Tara since around 2,500BC. A large burial mound on the site dates from this time and there are several ringforts – ancient hilltop enclosures that served both an agricultural and defensive purpose. On the highest point at Tara is the Lia Fail or ‘stone of destiny’ – a coronation stone where the High Kings of Ireland were appointed as rulers. This convergence of landscape, pre-Christian settlement and its association with time-honoured leaders has also accorded Tara an important role in a number of ancient Irish legends. When Patrick arrived here around 434AD, he successfully challenged the existing system of pagan belief some of which was based around the worship of water and tree spirits. Patrick and his new Christian faith were able to accommodate some of these elements and holy wells, in particular, later became an important feature not just at Tara, but across Ireland. In Patrick’s time, Tara was a thriving centre of ancient government, farming and commerce. It says something about Patrick’s charisma, courage and diplomatic skill that he was able to convert its rulers and their people to his faith. Chieftains were frequently at war with one another, often to steal cattle, with the ownership of large animal herds elevating the status of local leaders. In a society of this nature, newcomers would have been viewed with suspicion, especially those advocating change to accepted practice. But change did indeed come and Patrick was its herald. On a clear, sunny day there can be something quite heavenly in the green landscape of Ireland as viewed from Tara. It can be visited on a day trip from Belfast by taking the motorway to Dublin, exiting just before the Boyne Bridge at Drogheda and then heading for Navan. At Tara itself, there’s a car park and plenty of opportunity to stroll around the vast open spaces of the hill. There’s also a renowned antiquarian bookshop and a very nice café next door that serves an excellent coffee and terrific buttered scones! Ivan Maginnis 17
WHY GOD MADE MUMS
These were the answers given by some seven year-olds… Why did God make mothers?
•• She got too old to do anything else with him. •• She’s the only one who knows all the •• My grandma says that no one will ever know. passwords we use online. •• Mostly to clean the house, I think. Who’s the boss at your house? •• To help us out when we were getting born. •• Dad is, because mum says so. She just helps by reminding him what to do each day. How did God make mothers? • • Mum. You can tell by room inspection. She •• He used dirt, just like for the rest of us. sees the stuff under the bed. •• I’ve heard it was some amazing experiment •• Dad was, until Mum found what he had on men that got out of hand. written on Facebook about Granny. •• God made my mum just the same like he
What’s the difference between mums and dads?
made me. He just used bigger parts.
What ingredients are mothers made of?
•• God makes mothers out of clouds and angel •• Mums work at work and work at home, and dads just go to work at work. hair, and one part of mean. •• They had to get their start from men’s bones. •• Mums know how to talk to teachers without scaring them. Then they mostly use string, I think. •• They have a lot more hair than dads, are •• Dads are taller and stronger, but they panic when the dishwasher overflows. softer to hug and wear woolly jumpers.
Why did God give you to your mother, What does your mum do in her spare and not to some other mum? time? •• We’re related. •• She takes my brother to football and my sister to violin lessons. •• God knew she likes me a lot more than other kids’ mums like me. •• To hear her tell it, it’s like she pays bills all day long. •• Other mums wouldn’t understand about me being afraid in the dark. •• I think that must happen during the night, because then she just lies there and sleeps. What kind of little girl was your mum? •• My mum has always been my mum and none of that other stuff. •• I don’t know because I wasn’t there, but my guess would be pretty bossy. •• They say she used to be nice.
What would it take to make your mum perfect?
•• On the inside, she’s already perfect. Outside, I think some kind of plastic surgery. •• Diet. You know, her hair. I’d diet, maybe blue. What did your mum need to know about •• She would understand why the dog needs your dad before she married him? to sleep with me at night. •• His last name. If you could change one thing about •• She had to know his background, like has he your mum, what would it be? put anything too disgusting on Facebook? •• She has this weird thing about me keeping •• She needed to check out his bank account my room clean. I’d get rid of that. to make sure he could buy her clothes. •• I’d make my mum smarter. Then she would
know it was my sister who did it and not me. Why did your mum marry your dad? •• My dad makes the best spaghetti in the •• She’d be more relaxed about me not doing world. And my mum eats a lot. my homework. 18
Bring, Buy & Brunch!
Parishioners, neighbours and friends packed the church hall on Saturday, 9th February, for a most enjoyable and successful fund raising event for the Church Hall Refurbishment Fund. A magnificent £1,620 was raised, a tribute to all the hard work and careful planning by the members of the Fundraising Committee, and those parish organisations who manned the different stalls. Our grateful thanks go to all those parishioners who donated such a wonderful variety of articles and, of course, to the generosity of those who bought them. The ‘bacon butties’ served up by Brian Clements and Robin Haldane, the teas, coffees and biscuits provided by Roberta and Alan Rogers, as well as Louise Craig’s face painting and Alan Boyd’s chocolate fountain, were also greatly appreciated!
COURTEOUS CAR PARKING REQUIRED! Parishioners should be aware that the Rector continues to receive complaints from a resident of King’s Vale about car parking during Sunday morning services. The Rector and Select Vestry would be grateful if parishioners and visitors would take care when parking in the vicinity of the church. The Rector and Select Vestry are keen to maintain good relations with our neighbours and are also anxious that road safety is not compromised in any way. We request parishioners and visitors to observe the provisions of the Highway Code in relation to parking. In particular, please note that the Code stipulates that if you have to park on the roadside: •• Do not park in front of, or block in any way, the entrance or driveway of a property •• Do not park facing against the traffic flow •• Do not stop or park where you would prevent access for Emergency Services •• Do not park opposite or within 10 metres of a junction The Select Vestry is grateful to all our parishioners for their co-operation and appreciates that it may not always be our church attendees who are causing the difficulties. However, we have hitherto enjoyed a good relationship with our neighbours and we wish to continue to do so. The Rector Alan Rogers, Hon. Parish Secretary 19
CLIMB PRESENTATION After morning Holy Communion service on Sunday, 10th February, the Mitford family gratefully accepted £500 from St. Columba’s Mission and Charitable Allocations for Noah’s Galaxy Tribute Fund at CLIMB (Children Living with Inherited Metabolic Diseases). Noah’s fund now stands at over £15,000. The fund has contributed to a successful research project into Mitochondrial Disease, and has also enabled CLIMB to provide support and information to families who have received Photograph by Ha rry Mason the devastating news that their child L to R: The Rector, Bishop Ha has a metabolic disease. rold, Gillian Sadlier (Hon. Treasurer), Ashleigh and Nick Mitford Ashleigh and Nick Mitford
THE MARY PETERS TRACK FUND Many parishioners will recall Mary Peter’s famous gold medal in the pentathlon event at the 1972 Munich Olympics…who could forget it? In the years that followed, funds were raised throughout Northern Ireland to enable the construction of the Mary Peters track at Upper Malone, Belfast, which has been in continuous use ever since for athletes of all ages and ability. Members of the St. Columba’s Church Ladies Badminton Club (as it was then known) were involved in one of the many fundraising initiatives at that time and held a “no fuss” coffee evening which raised £27.50. In addition, the young family of Richard and Kyleen Clarke, plus friends and their children, held a cake guessing contest and collected jam jars and newspapers in the Knock area, contributing a further £22.15 towards the track. Thus a grand total of £49.65 was raised which Mary Peters graciously acknowledged in writing, also including an autographed photograph for each of the children. Readers will be interested to know that £49.65 in 1974 would be worth over £400 today, so very well done the St. Columba’s Church Ladies Badminton Club and all their friends and children! 20
KILBRONEY ADVENTURE CAMP Sunday 4th – Friday 9th August 2013 Kilbroney Adventure Camp is an activity summer camp for young people aged 11-14 years from the Diocese of Down and Dromore. An actionpacked and fun-filled six days to look forward to in the middle of the summer holidays! What can you expect at Kilbroney Adventure Camp? Climbing, laser games, survival skills, sleep out, team challenges and much more! Who is it for? The camp is for lads and girls who would like to try new things, make friends, learn about God and have lots of fun! Young people can come with a group from their church or by themselves, as no leader needs to come with you. We’ll assign you a friendly leader as soon as you arrive! A day in the life… Morning and evening blast: A time for everyone to get together for fellowship and to learn more about the Bible and God’s plan for our lives. The theme this year is “Hidden Treasures” from Isaiah 45:3 and will look at how God calls us by name and how we can follow him. Cost: £99 per person. This price includes all activities, food, accommodation and a camp T-shirt! What is Kilbroney like? The Kilbroney Centre has just undergone a recent refurbishment and is now one of the premier centres for youth groups in N.I. It can accommodate up to 54 people and also includes meeting rooms, lounges, classrooms and a games room. It is surrounded by enclosed grounds of 11 acres at the foot of the Mourne Mountains. For more information please visit www. kilbroneycentre.org. Contact details Down and Dromore Youth & Children’s Department, c/o Andrew Brannigan: 028 90828855 or Andrew@down anddromore.org 21
SENIOR MOMENT
WHY DOES THE DATE FOR EASTER MOVE ABOUT SO?
Several days ago, as I left a meeting at a hotel, I desperately gave myself a personal pat down. I was looking for my car keys.
When is Easter in any given year? Easy! Find the first Sunday after the full moon that follows the Spring Equinox (March 20th or 21st). What? If it sounds a bit confusing, well, here’s the history behind it all. It began with the ancient Hebrews. They based their calendars upon the rhythms of the moon. These lunar calendars worked well for them and everything was fine. Then Christianity arrived in the Holy Land where the first century Jews were still using the lunar calendar. But Christianity then moved on to Rome which was using a different calendar, one based upon the sun. The Gregorian calendar, which we use today and which is in widest use throughout the world, is based on the Roman sun calendar. Now establishing certain days in the year became difficult, especially Easter. The results were often confusing. Early church leaders, both Jewish and Roman, agreed that everything to do with the coming of Jesus Christ had been prepared, even the position of the sun, the moon and the stars. They could not agree, however, on how to fix the day for the yearly celebration of Easter. It was not until the fourth century, with the help of astronomers who took into account the position of both the moon and the sun in relation to the earth, that a decision was finally made. At last it was accepted that Easter would always be celebrated on the first Sunday after the full moon that follows the Spring Equinox (March 20th or 21st). That is why Easter falls anytime between 22nd March and 25th April.
They were not in my pockets or my bag. A quick search in the meeting room revealed nothing. Suddenly I realised I must have left them in the car. Frantically, I headed for the parking lot. My husband has scolded me many times for leaving the keys in the ignition. My theory is the ignition is the best place not to lose them. His theory is that the car will be stolen. As I burst through the door, I came to a terrifying conclusion. His theory was right. The car park was empty. I immediately called the police. I gave them my location, confessed that I had left my keys in the car and that it had been stolen. Then I made the most difficult call of all, “Honey,” I stammered. I always call him “honey” in times like these. “I left my keys in the car and it has been stolen.” There was a period of silence. I thought he must have put the phone down but then I heard his voice. He barked, “I dropped you off!” Now it was my time to be silent. Embarrassed, I asked, “Can you come and get me?” He retorted, “I was on my way, but I’ll be delayed.” “Why is that?” I asked. “Because I’ve been pulled over by the police and now have to convince them that I didn’t steal your car!” 22
Children’s Colouring Page
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Celebrate Our Patronal Saint!
A CONCERT by ‘RENAISSANCE’ St. Columba’s Parish Church FRIDAY, 7th JUNE, at 7.00pm Refreshments included
Further details to follow!
S E T A D UR O Y FOR ARY DI Sunday, 3rd March Parish Lenten Lunch Wednesday, 13th March The Annual Easter General Vestry Meeting “It’s funny the way you always decide to get down and pray whenever the Rector scans the congregation for volunteers.”
Wednesday, 20th March Ladies Guild Film Night Friday, 7th June Patronal Festival Concert 24
MONSOON AND CHRISTIAN AID IN AFGHANISTAN What has been called ‘an exciting new partnership’ between the high street retailer, Monsoon, and the development agency, Christian Aid, aims to help revive the 2000-year-old tradition of silk production in Afghanistan. The two year project plans to lift 1,500 women and their families out of extreme poverty and potentially develop an international market access for silk producers in the country. It’s all down to the silkworms living in Herat, in western Afghanistan, which lies on the old Silk Road trade route. Herat has mulberry trees on which the silkworms feed. The project will provide the women with silkworms and training to cultivate the silk cocoons. Some of them will also receive looms and further training to produce silk goods, such as scarves and handkerchiefs, so that they can sell them in the local market. Historically, women have been the backbone of the garment and textile industries in Afghanistan, and this project is focused on helping widows and women-headed households by enabling them to earn their own money.
APRIL MAGAZINE Please note, any articles or photographs for publication in the April parish magazine should be handed or e-mailed to the editor by 6.00pm at latest on Sunday, 17th March. Many thanks
FLOWER ROTA FOR MARCH Sunday 3rd........................................................... Beth Cairnduff Sunday 10th........................................................ Eleanor Launchbury Sunday 17th........................................................ Carol Willis Sunday 24th........................................................ Palm Leaves and Greenery Sunday 31st......................................................... Easter Lilies by Caroline Cramp
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 has not been informed. Please telephone the Rector (028 90471514) or the Assistant Priest (028 91458706) to enable them to take careful note of the details. 25
PARISH ORGANISATIONS SOMETHING FOR YOU? SUNDAY 10.30am Sunday School (2nd, 4th, 5th Sundays) Bubbles (3-5 years) Louise Craig Patricia Wilson
90472512 90401066
Splash (5-8 years) Joyce Stevenson
90583381
X-treme (8-11 years) Alan Boyd
07833 391945
The Grid (11 years +) Beth Cairnduff 90874047 8.00pm Beatitudes Choir David Beattie 90797125 MONDAY 10.30am Craft & Hobby Circle Carol Willis 90799997 2.00pm Ladies Bowling Phyllis Newton 90482113 2.30p.m. Afternoon Group (2nd Monday) Joy Montgomery 90295427 7.30pm Men’s Club Geoff Launchbury 90281204 TUESDAY 10.30am Ladies Badminton Vi Dowie 90671051 2.00pm Ladies Badminton Kyleen Clarke 90797155
TUESDAY (continued) 8.00pm Mothers’ Union (1st Tuesday) Sandra Lowe 90808755 8.00pm Activity Group (except 1st Tuesday) Maureen Irwin 90795155 WEDNESDAY 7.30pm Bible Study Group The Rector 90471514 7.45pm Ladies Guild (3rd Wednesday) Lilias Smith 90592039 THURSDAY 9.30am Art Club Bob Killen 90790210 7.45pm Choir Practice Gerald Hill 90586265 FRIDAY 9.45am Mums & Tots Anne Clarke 90651412 3.45-5pm Toddler Mini Soccer 3-5yrs Tim Wareing 07740 120788 6.30pm Doves Karen McAlpine 90424390 6.30pm Brownies Beth Cairnduff 90874047 Youth Etc (11-15 years) (Monthly outings as arranged) Aaron Wilson 90761040 Young Families Group (Social events as arranged) The Rector 90471514
Please note, requests for the occasional use of church premises must first be submitted to the Premises Convenor, Mark Reid, on 07810 648167 26
WHO’S WHO IN ST. COLUMBA’S PARISH WEBSITE: www.coiknock.org
RECTOR The Revd John R. Auchmuty St. Columba’s Rectory 29 King’s Road BT5 6JG Tel 028 90471514 Email johnauchmuty@btinternet.com
PEOPLE’S GLEBEWARDEN John Proctor 13 Richhill Park BT5 6HG Tel 028 90870526 Mob 07989 469773 SELECT VESTRY Rector, Churchwardens, Glebewardens, Hon. Secretary, Hon. Treasurer, Asst. Hon. Treasurer, Helen Donaghy, Victor Dukelow, Jill Gillespie, Patrick Good, Jennifer Johnston, Elizabeth Leonard, Ronny Martin, Moranne Noad, Roberta Rogers
ASSISTANT PRIEST The Revd Canon Ken Smyth 3 Mount Royal Bangor BT20 3BG Tel 028 91458706 PARISH READER Karen McAlpine 10 Old Quay Court Holywood, BT18 OHT Tel 028 90424390
HON. SECRETARY Alan Rogers 50 Cabin Hill Gardens BT5 7AQ Tel 028 90656183 Email alanrogers53@gmail.com
DIOCESAN LAY READER (EMERITUS) Bryn Harris 22 Dalton Glade Glen Road Comber, BT23 5SZ Tel 028 91878816
HON. TREASURER Gillian Sadlier 70 Kensington Road BT5 6NG Tel 028 90403278
RECTOR’S CHURCHWARDEN Ivan Roche 49 Richhill Park BT5 6HG Tel 028 95140141
ASST. HON. TREASURER/GIFT AID SECRETARY/FREE WILL OFFERING Murray Hunter 13 Knockdarragh Park BT4 2LE Tel 028 90761295
PEOPLE’S CHURCHWARDEN Christopher Heatley 17 King’s Crescent BT5 6PR Tel 028 90913873 JUNIOR CHURCHWARDENS Olivia Budde, Aaron Wilson
PAROCHIAL NOMINATORS Trevor Buchanan Patrick Good Elizabeth Leonard Moranne Noad
RECTOR’S GLEBEWARDEN Jim Stevenson 44 Casaeldona Rise BT6 9RA Tel 028 90583381 Mob 07973 392448
DIOCESAN SYNOD MEMBERS Victor Dukelow Patrick Good Elizabeth Leonard Moranne Noad Ross Thompson 27
MAGAZINE DISTRIBUTOR CO-ORDINATOR Ronny Martin 12 Cyprus Gardens BT5 6FB Tel 028 90654301 Mob 07526 396838 Email ronny.martin@sky.com
ORGANIST AND CHOIRMASTER Gerald Hill Tel 028 90586265 Mob 07954 273755 ASSISTANT ORGANIST Brian Clements 150 Sandown Road BT5 6GX Tel 028 90793641
PARISH WEBMASTER Ivan Roche 49 Richhill Park BT5 6HG Tel 028 95140141 Email ivan.roche@me.com
READERS & INTERCESSORS CO-ORDINATOR Muriel Arndell 18 Kinedar Crescent BT4 3LY Tel 028 90655500
C of I GAZETTE DISTRIBUTOR Moranne Noad 36 Shandon Park BT5 6NX Tel 028 90793704
SIDESPERSONS’ ROTA CO-ORDINATOR Rosemary Coffey 44 Thornyhill Road Killinchy BT23 6SJ Tel 028 97542198
BIBLE READING FELLOWSHIP NOTES Evan Preston 12 Carrowreagh Gardens Dundonald BT16 ITW Tel 028 90489884
CRÈCHE ROTA CO-ORDINATOR Suzanne Allen 9 Cabin Hill Gardens BT5 7AP Tel 028 90653511
CHURCH FLOWERS Paddy Nesbitt 30 Knockhill Park BT5 6HY Tel 028 90650716
ST. COLUMBA’S PARISH OFFICE Parish Administrator: Karen Patterson Office Hours Monday to Friday: 9.00am – 1.00pm Tel 028 90656891
MAGAZINE EDITOR Ian Noad 36 Shandon Park BT5 6NX Tel 028 90793704 Email noadfamily@hotmail.com
Email office.knock@down.anglican.org
SAFEGUARDING TRUST
The Rector, Select Vestry and Parish Leaders are committed to upholding good practice in the parish’s ministry with children and young people. Should you have cause for concern or suspicion regarding child welfare in the parish, please contact a member of the Parish Panel below, or any of the statutory agencies. The Rector 028 90471514 Patrick Good 028 90656908 Elizabeth Leonard 028 90653162 28