The Columban st. columba’s church, knock, june 2016
CHURCH OF IRELAND PARISH MAGAZINE OF THE YEAR 2016
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
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RECTOR’S LETTER Dear Parishioner,
PATRONAL FESTIVAL CELEBRATORY WEEKEND I invite you to join us for our Patronal Festival celebrations on Saturday 4th and Sunday 5th June when we will mark the 120th anniversary of St Columba’s, Knock. This will be a most significant weekend in the life of our parish as we observe in word and song all that has been accomplished since the formation of St Columba’s whilst seeking God’s guidance for the years ahead. There will be four distinctive yet inter-related elements to our celebrations throughout the weekend:
SATURDAY 4th JUNE, 7.00pm
CHOIR CONCERT This will be a most enjoyable evening in the church with our organist and Choral Director, Dr Joe McKee, parish choir along with guests. They have prepared a comprehensive programme of inspirational music which will also include a selection of poetry read by Lynda Bryans, who is well known to us as a former television presenter. Following the concert our catering committee will serve “Celebratory Refreshments” which hopefully, weather permitting, we will be able to enjoy outside on the lawn!
SUNDAY 5th JUNE
10.30am SERVICE We look forward to welcoming His Grace, Archbishop Robin Eames as our preacher at the Patronal Festival Holy Communion service at 10.30am. He will be dedicating the newly refurbished West End of the church and the stained glass in the Rose Window, above the tea/coffee point, which was gifted by Caroline and Alan Cramp. As we reflect on the life and ministry of our patron saint we give thanks that the spirit of Columba continues today through the ministry of our parish as together we seek to proclaim the good news of Christ through Word and Sacrament. In addition to giving thanks for the past, we also need to encourage the next generation to become involved in our parish and together we can move forward to face the future with confidence.
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“AN HOUSE NOT MADE WITH HANDS” The updated version of the book “An House Not Made With Hands” will be launched at the West End of the church immediately after the 10.30am service and before the cutting of our anniversary cake. I thank Gerald Hill for his detailed and diligent work in updating Betty Rainsford’s original book from the Centenary Year in 1996 to the present day. Following his extensive research Gerald has incorporated many of the developments which have been achieved through the hard work and generosity of so many people during the past twenty years. Gerald’s great attention to detail ensures that this excellent publication, with lovely colour photographs, will be a wonderful record for us all to enjoy. I am most grateful to Ian Noad for his meticulous proof-reading of the text. 7.00pm SERVICE We also look forward to welcoming The Right Reverend Dr Gordon McMullan as our preacher at Choral Evensong at 7.00pm. Bishop McMullan served as Curate of St Columba’s from 1969 – 1971 and as Rector from 1976 – 1980. In subsequent years as Bishop of Down and Dromore, he ordained me Deacon in 1992 for the curacy of our neighbouring parish of St Mark’s, Dundela and the following year he ordained me Priest. My immediate predecessor, Archdeacon Gregor McCamley, will be leading us in the Occasional Prayers. It will be a delight to have both former Rectors, who contributed so much to the growth of St Columba’s during many years of distinguished service, participating in our Patronal Festival.
PRESTIGIOUS AWARD FOR
The Columban
The Columban has won the 2016 Church of Ireland Communications Competition in the parish magazine section. Having been awarded Runnerup prize in three consecutive years (2009, 2010 and 2011), it is a great joy that our extremely popular and informative magazine has won the competition in this significant 120th anniversary year for St Columba’s. This is excellent news! I congratulate the editor, Billy McAlpine, his predecessor Ian Noad who was willingly assisted by Moranne, the team at Minprint and all those who contribute articles each month to ensure that our readers enjoy a first class magazine. I received the prize on behalf of the parish from the Archbishop of Armagh and Primate of All Ireland, The Most Reverend Dr Richard Clarke, at the General Synod on Saturday 14th May. Yours in His Service,
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SERVICES IN JUNE Thursday 2nd The Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary (Transferred) (White) 10.30am Holy Communion followed by refreshments in the Choir Vestry Sunday 5th 8.15am
Saint Columba (Transferred) (White) Holy Communion Reader Billy McAlpine Romans 15: 1-6 Gospel Karen McAlpine John 12: 20-26
10.30am
Patronal Festival Holy Communion with the Dedication of the Church Refurbishment and new stained glass Rose Window followed by refreshments Reader Patrick Good Romans 15: 1-6 Gospel Clergy John 12: 20-26 Preacher: The Rt. Revd Lord Eames O.M. Intercessions Elizabeth Leonard
7.00pm
Choral Evensong Reader Gerald Hill Micah 7: 14-20 Reader Suzanne Allen Matthew 28: 16-20 Occasional Prayers: The Ven. Gregor McCamley Preacher: The Rt. Revd Dr Gordon McMullan
Thursday 9th Saint Columba (White) 10.30am Holy Communion followed by refreshments in the Choir Vestry Sunday 12th 8.15am
The Third Sunday after Trinity (Green) Holy Communion Reader Joe McKee Galatians 2: 15-21 Gospel Karen McAlpine Luke 7: 36-8: 3
10.30am
All Age Worship Service with Sunday School prize-giving followed by refreshments Doves Bun sale at the back of church today! Reader Sophie King Luke 7: 36-8: 3
7.00pm
Late Evening Office Reader Henry Auchmuty Preacher: Karen McAlpine
Mark 4: 21-41
(Red) Thursday 16th St. Barnabas (Transferred) 10.30am Holy Communion followed by refreshments in the Choir Vestry
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Sunday 19th 8.15am
The Fourth Sunday after Trinity (Green) Holy Communion Reader Paddy Malone Galatians 3: 23-29 Gospel Clergy Luke 8: 26-39
9.30am
Family Communion Gospel Rachel Leacock
10.30am
Morning Prayer & Holy Baptism Reader Ian Noad Reader Brian Gillespie Occasional Prayers Roberta Rogers
7.00pm
Holy Communion Reader Andrew Ellis Gospel Clergy
Luke 8: 26-39 1 Kings 19: 1-4, 8-15a Luke 8: 26-39
Genesis 24: 1-27 Mark 5: 21-43
Thursday 23rd The Birth of Saint John the Baptist (Transferred) (White) 10.30am Holy Communion followed by refreshments in the Choir Vestry Sunday 26th 8.15am
The Fifth Sunday after Trinity (Green) Holy Communion Reader Irene Gray Galatians 5: 1, 13-25 Gospel Clergy Luke 9: 51-62
10.30am
Holy Communion Reader Josephine Kelly Gospel Karen McAlpine Intercessions Helen Donaghy
7.00pm
Evening Prayer Reader Reader
Eileen Anderson Mark Ryan
Galatians 5: 1, 13-25 Luke 9: 51-62
Genesis 27: 1-40 Mark 6: 1-6
Thursday 30th Saint Peter (Transferred) (Red) 10.30am Holy Communion followed by refreshments in the Choir Vestry
Readers and Intercessors: If you cannot read or lead the prayers on the appointed day, please arrange a swap with someone else on the rota and let the Churchwardens know. We are always delighted to add new names to the Rota of Readers and Intercessors. If you would wish to serve your church in this way, please contact Muriel Arndell (028 90655500). The readings are from Year C of the Revised Common Lectionary and are printed on our parish website: www.coiknock.org
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CLERGY 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 9047 1514) or the Assistant Priest (028 9145 8706). In addition to requested Parish Visiting, the Clergy will be visiting parishioners in the following districts during June: Rector Dundela Gardens Ebrington Gardens Elsmere Park Enid Parade Farmhurst Green Finchley Park Gilbourne Court
Assistant Priest Drinagh Manor, Kensington Road Earlswood Road Eastleigh Crescent Eastleigh Dale Forthill Close, Dundonald Finchley Vale Gilnahirk Park
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 as situations have occurred recently when they have not been informed. Please telephone the Rector or the Assistant Priest to enable them to take careful note of the details.
FLOWER ROTA Sunday 5th....................................... Eleanor & Geoff Launchbury Sunday 12th......................................................... Barbara Laverty Sunday 19th...................................................... Esther Templeton Sunday 26th...................................................................Irene Gray 7
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HAVE YOU HEARD? Our Parish magazine ‘The Columban’ was awarded first prize in the Church of Ireland Communications competition. As a parish we seek to connect with each other, with our local communities and with those living further afield. This would not be possible without your news, your events, your articles, your photographs and your enthusiasm. Thank you and please continue to keep our editor regularly supplied with information. Our Rector and Select Vestry recognise the importance of a monthly magazine and provide the necessary financial resources for this. Thanks are also due to Minprint for their time and expertise in the design and production of our publication. It is exciting to receive this award during our 120th Anniversary celebrations. It reminds us that our church work is based on strong foundations, the magazine being an example of this with the current format built upon the work of Ian and Moranne Noad. Collating and editing our parish news requires time, patience (and lessons in computer skills) and we thank the present editor Billy for his commitment to this over the past twelve months. The Rector travelled to Dublin on Saturday 14th May to attend the General Synod and to receive the award from The Most Reverend Dr Richard Clarke, Archbishop of Armagh. Karen McAlpine
CONGRATULATIONS I was delighted when I heard that all your hard work in writing for our parish magazine had been recognised and that it had been chosen as the winner of the Church of Ireland Communications competition. As editor I collect, collate and oversee the production into booklet form. Without reports, photographs and contributions from both organisations and individual parishioners it would be very different and less informative. Well done everyone!!
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All Age Worship Tea & Coffee Many thanks to everyone who supported Muscular Dystrophy UK at All Age Worship in April when we raised a fantastic amount of £116. This month All Age Worship is on the Sunday, 12th June (please note the change) when we shall be raising funds for Down’s Syndrome NI. The Down’s Syndrome Association is based in Northern Ireland and they work with children and young adults and with parents of young babies. They provide support in many ways: • They are the main point of contact for hospitals, schools and the general public in Northern Ireland providing information and support on all aspects of living with Down’s Syndrome. • They offer training for parents/carers and to all professionals. • They provide workshops for young adults and adults with Down’s Syndrome, improving their self-esteem and confidence. • They facilitate residential events to develop young adults through outdoor pursuits, drama, and many other social activities and they run seven youth clubs throughout Northern Ireland. They also work with hospitals, schools, nurseries and in a range of community settings offering training in all aspects of Down’s Syndrome, from birth to older age. They provide a New Parent’s Day for all new parents in Northern Ireland each year. This involves counselling, physiotherapy, speech and language and Makaton training. Please plan to be with us and support a very worthwhile cause and at the same time enjoy a chat and cuppa. This is our last All Age Worship Tea and Coffee until September and I hope everyone enjoys a summer break, wherever you spend it. Roberta
From the Registers Holy Baptism Sunday 15th May
Our Joys Cody Axyl Drew Jamison
75 Church Road, Dundonald
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Thought for the Month
TIME TRAVEL
A few years ago my husband and I decided to join mainstream retirees and go on a cruise, get a little sun and meet a few new people. “Silver Cloud” was a small cruise ship, a little posh and would visit some of the glamour spots of the Mediterranean. Our first day out we were invited, together with an American family, to join the Captain on the bridge to see how it all worked. They were a mother, son and daughter, the father was resting as they had all travelled from California to join the cruise. The mother introduced herself as Adele and said she and her husband were celebrating their golden wedding anniversary. Adele and I tackled the coffee machine and the others addressed charts and all things nautical. We sat drinking our coffee and watched Piraeus recede into the sunset. I asked Adele if she was from New York as I thought her accent was very different from her son and daughter. She told me she was from Amsterdam, emigrating to America when she was a teenager. I realised she would have been in Holland during the occupation and I said life must have been terrifying for her as a child. She whispered to me “I was one of the hidden children” and she had been kept concealed throughout the war by a family in their own home. I wondered if she ever went back to Amsterdam and she said she went frequently to keep in touch with her Christian family. We later met Adele’s husband, Jack, who was a Russian liberated from Belsen. He told us some of the guards wanted to shoot the prisoners but one guard said no because there wasn’t time. Jack said “The Tommies came and set us free”. I spent a sleepless night trying to imagine the life Adele lived in Amsterdam and also thinking of my own life at that time. I thought of my summers secure with my parents and brothers. I had flashes of memories of gathering bluebells on Cavehill, turning over rocks for crabs on the shore at Whitehead lots of cousins and birthday parties. July of course was “The Field” at Larne with bright colours and Lambeg drums, damp tomato sandwiches, warm lemonade and ice cream sliders. Long long days of Double Summertime. Adele’s childhood was made safe by a family and community who put themselves in great danger to hide and protect her and many other Jewish children during those awful years. There was no sunshine for Adele for a long time. Betty Gregory Our sincere thanks to Betty, a member of the Art Club, for sharing her ‘Thought’ with us. The Summer ‘Thought for the Month’ will be written by Brian Clements.
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MEN’S CLUB Once again the Men’s Club ended another successful season on a high. Our week started off with our Annual General Meeting held in the hall on Monday, 25th April (having first watched the Canon Noble Singles final played between John Robb and Andrew Launchbury). The Rector chaired the meeting during which we elected the following officers for the incoming season. President: The Rector Chairman: Jack Dunlop Hon Secretary: John Robb (Re-elected) Hon Treasurer: Paddy Malone Captain: Stuart Beckwith Vice- Captain: Geoff Launchbury Hon Chaplain: Alan Rogers (Re-elected) Committee Members: Mark Laverty and Jim Stevenson On Friday, 29th April members and guests enjoyed an excellent social evening consisting of dinner followed by the customary prize-giving and ballot. The venue ‘Coast’ in Holywood yet again achieved their high standards of culinary delights, service and surroundings. High praise all round from all who attended. The awards were presented by our Club President, the Rector, with the recipients being: Paul Stewart Cup: Jim Stevenson, Lamont Pairs Trophy: Mark Laverty & Alan Rogers, Captain’s Cup: Dr Billy Nelson, Andy Armstrong Memorial Bowl: Geoff Launchbury, Canon Noble Singles’ Cup: Andrew Launchbury. While closing the evening, the Rector took the opportunity to thank all who were responsible for its success. All that remains is for me to say a big thank you for the kind comments and support given to the Men’s Club during the past season Until we resume in September can I wish everyone a pleasant summer on behalf of all in the Men’s Club. John 12
JULY/AUGUST PARISH MAGAZINE
Any articles or photographs for publication in the July/August parish magazine should be handed or e-mailed to the editor, Billy McAlpine, by Wednesday, 8th June. 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 GUILD It’s hard to believe that our Health and Fitness Forum is over as it has been a substantial time in planning. I am happy to say that all reports and comments have been very positive, both from the participants, who praised the venue and organisation and also from our congregation and other visitors. This began last summer with Elizabeth Leonard, Sarah Sloan and two friends of Karen Patterson’s covering Health and the Fire Service and P.S.N.I. covering Safety. Then a chance meeting with Joy Montgomery steered me in the direction of Belfast Community Development Association and Sharon Traynor opening a whole world of possibilities. The biggest eye opener for me was how much we can achieve by working together 1. Within our Committee we could not have managed, to raise the necessary awareness and finance, if our members had not approached our local supermarkets and small shops, or not dropped leaflets through doors and delivered posters to local churches. Someone even came from Newtownards to collect posters after seeing our advert in The Church of Ireland Gazette. 2. The hall and grounds were not looking their best to welcome newcomers, so after a plea from the Rector, a small group of intrepid workers gathered on Saturday, 9th April and made an impressive change in one morning helped along by a delicious coffee break in the Rectory. Thank you, Caroline. It’s amazing the places you can visit when involved in organising something. My discovery this time was the Boiler Room, a veritable treasure trove hiding away under our feet. Once again Jim Stevenson came to our rescue and found stands to display our posters outside Church. Thank you, Jim for all you quietly do for us. 3. Then came our request for tray bakes, we were literally overwhelmed by your response and thank everyone for their generosity. Actually there was one complaint - the coffee bar area was too small - apparently people could not sit and chat long enough!!!!! The Ladies Guild have enjoyed welcoming so many visitors to our church and also the experience of working with others in our wider community. There is truth in the old saying, “Many hands make light work”. Imelda
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CHOIR MEMBER’S FAVOURITE HYMN As many of you will know I returned home three years ago after a forty one year absence. It’s a well-known fact that all things from ‘home’ take on great importance when you’re an exile and Irish music was high up my list. In 2000 I was asked to help out at a small Church of Scotland church as the organist was ill. I stayed for ten years. In 2002 we changed to the new revised hymnal. What a joy this brought to many people. Many of the new hymns were set to Irish and Scottish traditional tunes and I played Clonmacnoise, Gartan, St Patrick and the Londonderry Air but above all I particularly love ‘Be Thou My Vision’ played to the traditional Irish tune, Slane. Imelda Shephard
SUNDAY SCHOOL Sunday, 5th June, 10.30am
Patronal Service - Children welcome in church
Sunday, 12th June, 10.30am
All Age Worship & Prize Giving
Sunday, 19th June, 9.30
Family Communion
The children will be participating in many ways on 12th June and we would love to see them all receiving their prizes on that day. This year the Sunday School has raised £274 for the Church Hall Refurbishment Fund. Well done! Sunday School has finished until September. I would like to thank all the teachers and helpers - Alan, Rachel, Louise, Patricia, Helen and Michelle who have been so dedicated in their attendance and hard work. I hope everyone has a great summer. Joyce Stevenson
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BAKE WITH ANNE FROM THE ART CLUB At the Art Club exhibition last November the tea/coffee was served with shortbread. This was highly complimented and Anne Stevenson, who baked all of it, agreed to share her family recipe with us.
AUNT JEANNIE’S SHORTBREAD 1 lb Butter (Dromona) 8 ozs Caster sugar 8 ozs Plain flour 8 ozs Self raising flour 4 ozs Farola 4 ozs Cornflower Beat the butter and sugar until pale and fluffy Mix in all the other ingredients Divide among five 8� round sandwich tins Do not press in. I use a fork dipped in boiling water to lightly fork in Bake at 130C for about 90 minutes Cut immediately on removing from the oven Leave in the tins until nearly cold Remove from tins having sprinkled with caster sugar This quantity makes five dozen shortbread If any parishioner has a special recipe they would like to share with us then please email a copy to me at colmaged@outlook.com or give a copy to one of the churchwardens in an envelope addressed to me. Editor
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PAUSE This month PAUSE will visit yet another venue! On Saturday 11th June Willowfield Church will be holding a Tea Party to celebrate the Queen’s 90th Birthday. The party will begin at 10am and finish at 12 noon. All donations will go to the local Christians Against Poverty Debt Centre. We at St Columba’s are firm supporters of this charity throughout the year and this event will provide us with another opportunity to help. If you have not ‘paused’ before this would be an ideal time to join us. We will be sure of a very warm welcome at Willowfield Church. We usually meet at 10.30am but you can come earlier or later and stay as long as you like. I am really looking forward to the party and to meeting lots of familiar (and hopefully some unfamiliar) faces. If you require further details or help with transport please contact me. Eileen Anderson (028 9020 3684)
Hi Ladies, Firstly, thank you to all who attended our Summer Outing to the Secret Garden in Dundonald on Thursday, 5th May. We enjoyed an expert demonstration on how to fill tubs, buckets and baskets with beautiful plants and flowers, browsed the gift shop and ended the evening with first class food and fellowship in the restaurant. Members are invited to come along to our next meeting on Tuesday, 7th June when we will be joined by Lola Armstrong from Clandeboye Estate. Lola will give us an insight into the estate’s yoghurt business and will bring along some pots of home grown goodness for us to try. I hope as many as possible can come along to this meeting, the last before the summer break. Thank you, Katrina 16
AFTERNOON GROUP We welcomed Trevor Buchanan to our April meeting. Trevor arrived complete with projector, laptop and screen and told us about his annual visits to South Sudan. Along with a team of doctors he spends two weeks every year working in a very different hospital to the ones we are used to here. His second week is spent operating on eyes saving people’s sight. We were lucky enough to see photos of the St Columba bore hole and the St Columba obstetrics ward both funded by donations from our parish. I think we all went home very grateful for our National Health Service and the ease with which we can turn on a water tap. Trevor was a wonderful speaker and we all admire his dedication to help people not as fortunate as ourselves. May saw our Summer Outing. A coach collected twenty five intrepid adventurers on the sunniest day of the year so far. Our first stop was Belfast Castle where Catherine gave us a short illustrated talk on the history of the castle. A tour followed with coffee and scones in the restaurant. After a visit to the gardens we hit the road again. Our next stop was Hillside Garden Centre where numerous purchases were made. Our final destination was at the Mission for Seafarers. We were welcomed by Colin Hall-Thompson, the Chaplain, and lunch was provided. After a talk on the work of the Mission and a visit to the chapel and shop we headed home. The journey home was quieter than the outward journey and some of the ladies were even seen resting their eyes!!! My thanks to everyone who made the outing such a great chance to enjoy a bit of craic. Normally after our May meeting we take our Summer break but this year we are holding a very special meeting on the second Monday in June. On Monday 13th June we are holding a vintage tea party to celebrate the Queen’s 90th birthday. Everyone is welcome to join us from 2.30pm in the Choir Vestry for a cup of tea, something to eat and a lot of chat. All donations will go to the Church Refurbishment Fund. If you are free do please come and join us. Joy
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Craft & Hobby Circle A somewhat reduced group this month, probably as we were all enjoying the Bank Holiday weekend. Robbie was showing us patterns of easy to make tree decorations from felt and other fabrics. These can be made by hand and are not too onerous to undertake. We also have patterns for knitted Christmas ornaments for those who ‘don’t do sewing’. We will need to start now to have them made to sell before Christmas, so dig out old pieces of fabric, ribbon, beads and bring them along on Monday, 6th June. Also bring a friend if you wish, it will improve our numbers and also our productivity. Tea, coffee and chat as usual. Looking forward to seeing you then. Carol
MUMS AND TOTS Mums and Tots is thriving with increased numbers of happy Mums/Carers and children enjoying each morning. If anyone could help us on an occasional basis we would be very happy to see them. Please contact Anne 9065 1412. Please note we will be finishing for the Summer on Friday, 17th June.
SIDESPERSON’S ROTA Sunday, 5th June Sunday, 12th June Sunday, 19th June Sunday, 26th June
The Macpherson family Jayne and Ronny Martin Patricia and Patrick Wilson Helen Donaghy and Maureen Irwin
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There is lots of exciting Brownie news to report! We have been busy working on our Entertainer Badge and had a night of Brownies Got Talent which could rival Britain’s Got Talent for superstar performances! Musical interludes, dance/gymnastics, ballet routines and even a penalty shoot out. We had a night out to Crazy Golf which was the first time for some of the younger Brownies but a great time was had by all and we even managed to get a few holes in one! Preparations are also well under way for our Pack Holiday to Lorne where we will be joining up with 150 other Brownies from across Northern Ireland to participate in the ‘Snores and S’mores’ camp. We will be spending the weekend under canvas so hopefully the weather will be kind to us and we will have an action packed weekend. We are also very pleased to welcome our newest Brownie, Charlotte, to the unit and are always keen to welcome new Brownies so if you are interested please get in touch! Amanda and Kathryn
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Doves Doves on Wednesday evenings has been as busy as always for the boys and girls who attend. Despite 3 children moving on to other age appropriate clubs we still have a regular turn out of 12-14 children, 5 of whom are new members this year. We take part in many activities which recently included planting seeds and a keep fit night. The photo shows us enjoying fun games on the lawn on a bright evening in May. Doves annual bun sale will be at the back of church on Sunday, 12th June. We look forward to seeing you and thank you for continued support with our fundraising activity for the church hall. Our last club night will be on Wednesday, 8th June. Moira
Youth Etc. Our trip to Pirates’ Adventure Crazy Golf at Dundonald in April was an enjoyable if very wet experience. The day had been great weather wise until an hour or so before we were due to meet. It seemed like a case of déjà vu, as the last crazy golf outing had also been a damp occasion. The incessant rain was met with good humour and we got round the course in short time as we were the only mad souls braving the weather. The score cards were given up as a lost cause as they rapidly turned to soggy paper. The smiles were there to be seen on completion, as we made our way inside to warm up and dry out in the little cafe. Relief all round I think. Looking forward to a warmer, drier excursion next time after we navigate the exam season. David 20
YOUNG FAMILIES The Young Families Group met recently for a Curry Night at the Rajput restaurant in Ballyhackamore. A wonderful evening was spent catching up and making new friendships while enjoying the excellent food, the attentive service and the lively atmosphere. The conversation really flowed and it surely must be a sign of a good evening that the group was the last to leave the restaurant at the end of the night. The Young Families Group meets every few months in an informal setting and welcomes all adults aged 20 or over, couples and individuals, whether you have children or not. If you would like more information or to suggest future activities then please email evmacpherson@hotmail.co.uk or call 9028 2076. Emma Macpherson
LADIES BOWLS We finished our season on 4th April when the final of the Eileen Madill Shield was played. The worthy winners were Marlene Hempton and Joan Plumpton. Then on 18th April sixteen of us met at Neill’s Hill restaurant for afternoon tea. The Rector joined us and presented the Shield to the winners. A pleasant end to a good season – and now for the outdoor! Phyllis Newton
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Railway and Model Club Lots of work now under way on both railway layouts. On the ‘00’ layout, the Kensington Viaduct is taking shape, just in time for the summer traffic!! Our funeral cortege is being painted, as are the Military Colour Party and War Memorial. The cricket team have their whites, but caps and pullovers are still to be applied. Soon we will have the cricket crease laid out for a practice match. Our ‘000’ layout is also taking shape and some lines are already fixed to the baseboard. On this layout, our ‘000’ scale expert, Ian from Comber, is wiring it so that we have electrically operated points. Geoff, Jon and Ian are now set in their own workroom allowing them to concentrate on this new layout which all fits onto a wallpaper pasting table. Ships and harbour installations have been chosen for our 1/1200th scale layout of a busy shipping port. That is our next big project. Apart from some cruise liners and naval ships, we also have a Dry-Dock for ship repair work. Our next open day is not far off, so do watch Pew News. Keep ‘er rollin’. David B.
Painting Appeal I thank all those members of our parish who have supported the Painting Appeal. There has been an extremely positive and generous response from so many people across the parish in such a relatively short period of time. Not only has the target of £11,000 been met, it has been exceeded as £11,698.50 has now been donated. The Select Vestry and I are very encouraged by this tremendous support and the tendering process for the painting of the interior of our beautiful church has already commenced. The Rector 22
St Columba’s Parish Church, Knock, Belfast
SUMMER SERENADE Music Society of Methodist College Belfast Methodist College Chapel Choir Junior Singers & Soloists Organist Dr Joe McKee The Chapel Choir will perform some of the pieces that they will sing in Westminster Abbey in July.
Tuesday 28 June 2016 7.30pm-9.00pm Retiring voluntary contributions to Westminster Abbey Tour expenses.
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IN JOYFUL HOPE A Small Step in Eucharistic Communion Each year, since its inception in 2010, clergy and laity from a number of Christian traditions have met ‘In Joyful Hope’ four times yearly, at a variety of church venues in Belfast and environs, to experience through the Eucharist/Holy Communion/Lord’s Supper/Mass, the realisation that Christ is present with us. Those promoting the initiative included, at its outset, the late Reverend Dr Dennis Cooke, one time Principal of Edgehill Theological College, Belfast, and Father Gerry Reynolds, a member of the Redemptorist Community at Clonard Monastery, who died some months ago. While acknowledging the differences that exist in theological interpretation and liturgical practice, it has been a shared conviction that the joy of being present at the Eucharistic worship of another Christian tradition is greater than the pain experienced, by some attendees, in being unable to participate fully in the sacrament. On Ascension Day, following an approach to the Rector by the planning group of ‘In Joyful Hope’, St. Columba’s was the host church. The Rector presided at the Sung Eucharist which included beautiful and inspirational music led by the parish choir, directed by Dr Joe McKee. At the invitation of the Rector I was privileged to preach. Clergy and parishioners from St. Columba’s and neighbouring churches participated in the service. At the informal reception afterwards, at the recently re-ordered west end of the church, many favourable comments were made about St. Columba’s and its standard of worship. For some attendees, it was the first time they had attended a Church of Ireland service of Holy Communion. The group who promote this initiative wish to thank the Rector and parishioners at St. Columba’s, who ensured that this was a memorable evening. Readers may be interested to note that the next service of Holy Communion organised by the group will be hosted by Cairnshill Methodist Church, Saintfield Road Belfast on Tuesday 20th September at 8.00p.m. Canon Ken Smyth 24
The Afternoon Group Invite you to join them for a
A Vintage Tea Party to celebrate
THE
QUEEN’S
90TH BIRTHDAY Monday, 13th June from 2.30pm in the Choir Vestry All donations for the Church Refurbishment Fund
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PARISH ORGANISATIONS New members are always welcome at any of our organisations! Sunday
Monday
Sunday School Bubbles (3-5 years) Splash (5-8 years) X-treme (8-11 years) The Grid (11-14 years) Crèche Craft and Hobby Circle Ladies Bowling Afternoon Group Mens’ Club
Tuesday
Ladies Badminton Ladies Badminton Activity Group Mothers’ Union
Wednesday
Brownies Doves Railway and Model Club Bible Study Group Ladies Guild
Thursday
Art Club Choir
Friday
Mums & Tots Toddler Soccer (3-5 years) Pause Youth Etc. (11-15 years) Young Families
2nd, 4th and 5th Sundays 10.30am
Superintendent: Joyce Stevenson 9058 3381
2nd, 4th and 5th Sundays
Lynn Ryan 07955 479065 1st and 3rd Monday each month Carol Willis 10.30am 9079 9997 2.00pm Phyllis Newton 9048 2113 2nd Monday each month 2.30pm Joy Montgomery 9029 5427 7.30pm John Robb 9058 1438 10.30am Gillian Popplestone 9080 3799 2.00pm Kyleen Clarke 9079 7155 Maureen Irwin Except 1st Tuesday 7.30pm 9079 5155 Katrina Dukelow 1st Tuesday each month 8.00pm 9029 0625 6.30pm Amanda Fee 07739 039750 6.30pm Moira Saunders 07739 041392 7.00pm David Beattie 9028 5868 7.30pm Eileen Anderson 9020 3684 Imelda Shephard 3rd Wednesday each month 7.45pm 9079 7683 9.30am Billy Nelson 9048 3889 7.30pm Dr Joe McKee 07976 294574 9.45am Anne Clarke 9065 1412 3.45 - 4.30pm Tim Wareing 07740 120788 As arranged Eileen Anderson 9020 3684 As arranged David Kelly 9079 3684 Social events as arranged Emma Macpherson 9028 2076
Requests for the occasional use of the church halls must be submitted to the Premise’s Convenor.
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WHO’S WHO IN ST. COLUMBAS Parish website: www.coiknock.org
Rector
The Reverend John R Auchmuty
St. Columba’s Rectory 29 Kings Road BT5 6JG 028 9047 1514 johnauchmuty@btinternet.com
Assistant Priest
The Reverend Canon Ken Smyth
3 Mount Royal Bangor BT20 3BG 028 9145 8706
Diocesan Lay Reader
Karen McAlpine
readercolumba@gmail.com
Diocesan Lay Reader (Emeritus)
Bryn Harris
028 9187 8816
Rector’s Churchwarden
Andrew Hirst
028 9065 8785
People’s Churchwarden
Andrew Ellis
07920 112818
Junior Churchwardens
Henry Auchmuty, Jonathan Kelly
Rector’s Glebewarden
Jim Stevenson
028 9058 3381 07973 392448
People’s Glebewarden
Mark Reid
028 9028 4367 07810 648167
Honorary Sexton
John Proctor
028 9087 0526 07989 469773
Select Vestry
Rector, Churchwardens, Glebewardens,Honorary Secretary, Honorary Treasurer, Assistant Honorary Treasurer, Suzanne Allen, David Craig, Helen Donaghy, Jill Gillespie, Patrick Good, John Macpherson, Mark Ryan, Moira Saunders, Mark Wilson
Honorary Secretary
Elizabeth Leonard
28 Knockdene Park South BT5 7AB 028 9065 3162 elizabeth.leonard@me.com
Honorary Treasurer
Gillian Sadlier
70 Kensington Road BT5 6NG 028 9040 3278
Assistant Honorary Treasurer
Victor Dukelow
028 9029 0625
Gift Aid Secretary
Ronny Martin
028 9079 0821 07526 396838 ronny.martin@sky.com
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Parochial Nominators
Victor Dukelow, Patrick Good, Elizabeth Leonard, Moranne Noad
Diocesan Synod members
Patrick Good, Moranne Noad, Ross Thompson (under 30)
Organist and Choral Director
Dr Joe McKee
07976 294574
Assistant Organist
Brian Clements
028 9079 3641
Reader’s and Intercessor’s Co-ordinator
Muriel Arndell
028 9065 5500
Sidespersons’ rota Co-ordinator
Rosemary Coffey
028 9754 2198
Crèche rota Co-ordinator
Lynn Ryan
07955 479065
Magazine Editor
Billy McAlpine
028 9042 4390 colmaged@outlook.com
Parish Webmaster
Ivan Roche
028 9514 0141 ivan.roche@me.com
C of I Gazette Distributor
Moranne Noad
028 9079 3704
Bible Reading Fellowship notes
Evan Preston
028 9048 9884
Church flowers
Eleanor Launchbury
028 9028 1204
Premise’s Convenor
Stewart Beckwith
028 9048 6622
Parish Office Administrator/ Financial Giving Secretary
Karen Patterson Office hours: Monday to Friday 9.00am – 1.00pm
028 9065 6891 office@coiknock.org
SAFEGUARDING TRUST The Rector, Select Vestry and parish leaders are committed to upholding good practice in the parish’s ministry with children and young people. Should you have cause for concern or suspicion regarding child welfare in the parish, please contact: The Rector...............................................................................................................028 9047 1514 Patrick Good...........................................................................................................028 9065 6908 Elizabeth Leonard................................................................................................028 9065 3162
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