The Columban st. columba’s church, knock, july/august 2018
Rathlin Island, East Lighthouse
Rector’s Letter
Dear Parishioner,
HOLIDAYS These summer months provide a welcome opportunity for refreshment, whether you are going away on holiday or staying at home. This comes at just the right time for many of us, following a busy year whether that be at school, college, home, work or here in St Columba’s. For so many people energy levels are currently in short supply and this opportunity to “refresh and recharge” is just what is required! As Jesus said “Come to me, all who are weary and whose load is heavy; I will give you rest. (Matthew 11:28) As the pace of life gets faster and faster, so often it is the case that family time gets squeezed more and more, with parents and children often passing at the front door and having to rely on text messages or social media to communicate with each other. Many years ago, while bringing Charles and Henry to visit our doctor, he said something which I will never forget – “Should I not be here for whatever reason, another doctor can take my daily surgery, but there is no one who can take my place at home”. I hope that the holidays will enable us to benefit from a slower pace of life as we embrace these weeks to enjoy the blessings of our own families by spending quality time together. PARISH OUTING TO RATHLIN On Sunday 1st July, we will be returning to Rathlin Island for our parish outing. This will be a quiet and informal family day away from the busyness of our diaries in beautiful surroundings. We will be travelling on the 10.00am ferry from Ballycastle and will enjoy coffee upon arrival before joining parishioners in St Thomas’ Church for a service of Holy Communion at 11.30am. The service will be conducted by myself, and our Parish Organist and Choral Director, Dr Joe McKee along with some members of our Choir will be leading the singing. After the service, we will have our picnics together before exploring the island during the afternoon, or simply resting and enjoying the quietness and delights of Rathlin. We return on the 5.30pm ferry for fish and chips in Ballycastle. VISITING CHURCHES AND SUMMER SERVICE SCHEDULE Should you have the opportunity to attend a local church while away, please bring greetings from St Columba’s to the clergy and congregation. It is always a delight to welcome visitors to our parish, and to receive greetings from their home parishes.
2
Throughout July and August, apart from the Family Communion service on the third Sunday at 9.30am, there will be a full schedule of services in St Columba’s each week, giving us an opportunity to worship Almighty God. If you are free on a Thursday morning, please join us at 10.30am for the short Holy Communion service followed by refreshments in the Choir Vestry. 50th ANNIVERSARY OF ORDINATION Canon Ken Smyth will mark the 50th Anniversary of his Ordination as a Deacon on Saturday 7th July. On the following day, he will preside and preach at the 10.30am Holy Communion service, where he will be surrounded by his family, parishioners and friends. This will be a lovely opportunity for us to give thanks to God for all the blessings that his ministry has brought to so many people in the parishes where he served. In St Columba’s, we are immensely privileged to be able to continue receiving the blessings of his ministry, where he serves so conscientiously as an Assistant Priest alongside Canon Walter Laverty. It would be lovely if you were able to share in this most significant service by being in St Columba’s on Sunday 8th July. Canon Smyth was ordained by Bishop Frederick Mitchell for the curacy of Bangor Abbey, where he served initially before moving to Holywood parish for a second curacy. In 1974, he was instituted as Rector of our daughter parish, St Dorothea’s, and in 1982, he moved to St Mark’s, Newtownards, where he served as Rector until his retirement in 2011. In addition to his parish responsibilities in Newtownards, he was appointed to the Chapter of St Patrick’s Cathedral, Dublin as the Diocesan Canon for Down and Dromore in 1993 by Bishop Gordon McMullan. He held this canonry until he retired from full time ministry. I convey heartiest congratulations from the parish and myself to Canon Smyth on this significant occasion. May Almighty God richly bless and sustain him together with his family in the years ahead. THANK YOU I want to convey my personal thanks to all those parishioners and friends in the community who have supported St. Columba’s in such a magnificent manner through the generous giving of their time, talents and money throughout this academic year. This has been reflected in so many ways and has brought immense blessing to our parish. I am most grateful for the helpful manner in which this support is given not just for the day to day parish activities but also through your assistance with the GDPR regulations enabling us to comply with this new legislation and the extremely positive response to our Church Roof Appeal. As this prayer reminds us: O God, who givest all things to all people, grant that we, Thy servants, in giving back part of what Thou has given to us, may come to dedicate all our powers of mind and body to Thy service and also live to Thy glory, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. Yours in His Service,
3
SERVICES IN JULY Sunday, 1st 8.15am
The Fifth Sunday after Trinity Holy Communion Reader Karen McAlpine Gospel Karen McAlpine Intercessions Karen McAlpine
10.30am
All Age Worship Reader Preacher:
7.00pm Compline Reader
Billy McAlpine Karen McAlpine Esther Templeton
(Green) 2 Corinthians 8: 7-15 Mark 5: 21-43
Mark 5: 21-43
Jeremiah 5: 1-19
Thursday, 5th Saint Thomas (Transferred) 10.30am Holy Communion followed by refreshments in the Choir Vestry Sunday, 8th 8.15am
The Sixth Sunday after Trinity Holy Communion Reader Muriel Arndell Gospel Karen McAlpine
10.30am
Holy Communion Reader Gospel Intercessions
7.00pm
Late Evening Office Reader Esther Templeton
Eleanor Launchbury Karen McAlpine Suzanne Allen
(Red) (Green)
2 Corinthians 12: 2-10 Mark 6: 1-13 2 Corinthians 12: 2-10 Mark 6: 1-13
Luke 10: 1-11, 16-20
Thursday, 12th (Green) 10.30am Holy Communion followed by refreshments in the Choir Vestry Sunday, 15th The Seventh Sunday after Trinity 8.15am Holy Communion Reader Paddy Malone Gospel Karen McAlpine 10.30am
Morning Prayer Reader Reader
7.00pm Compline Reader Preacher
Murray Hunter Adrian Clements Clare Best Karen McAlpine
4
(Green) Ephesians 1: 3-14 Mark 6: 14-29 2 Samuel 6: 1-5, 12b-19 Mark 6: 14-29 Luke 10: 25-37
Thursday, 19th (Green) 10.30am Holy Communion followed by refreshments in the Choir Vestry Sunday, 22nd Saint Mary Magdalene
(White)
8.15am
Holy Communion Reader Gospel
Joe McKee Karen McAlpine
2 Corinthians 5: 14-17 John 20: 1-2, 11-18
10.30am
Holy Communion Reader Gospel Intercessions:
Rosemary Coffey Clergy Karen McAlpine
2 Corinthians 5: 14-17 John 20: 1-2, 11-18
7.00pm
Late Evening Office Reader Noel Higginson
Mark 15: 40- 16: 8
Thursday, 26th Saint James the Apostle (Transferred) 10.30am
(Red)
Holy Communion followed by refreshments in the Choir Vestry.
Sunday, 29th The Ninth Sunday after Trinity 8.15am
Holy Communion Reader Gospel
Ronny Martin Clergy
10.30am
Morning Prayer Reader Reader
Helen Armstrong Lindsay Brown
7.00pm Compline Reader:
Caroline Cleland-Higginson
(White) Ephesians 3: 14-21 John 6: 1-21 2 Samuel 11: 1-15 John 6: 1-21 Luke 11: 1-13
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
SERVICES IN AUGUST Thursday, 2nd 10.30am
(Green)
Holy Communion followed by refreshments in the Choir Vestry
Sunday, 5th The Tenth Sunday after Trinity 8.15am
Holy Communion Reader Gospel Intercessions
Muriel Arndell Karen McAlpine Karen McAlpine
10.30am
All Age Worship Reader
Andrew Ellis
7.00pm
Compline Reader
Esther Templeton
(Green) Ephesians 4: 1-16 John 6: 24-35
John 6: 24-35 Luke 12: 13-21
Thursday, 9th The Transfiguration of our Lord (Transferred) (White) 10.30am
Holy Communion followed by refreshments in the Choir Vestry
Sunday, 12th The Eleventh Sunday after Trinity
(Green)
8.15am
Holy Communion Reader Gospel
Paddy Malone Karen McAlpine
Ephesians 4: 25 - 5: 2 John 6: 35, 41-51
10.30am
Holy Communion and Baptism Reader Alan Rogers Gospel Karen McAlpine
Ephesians 4: 25 - 5: 2 John 6: 35, 41-51
7.00pm
Late Evening Office Reader Jill Gillespie
Luke 12: 32-40
Thursday, 16th 10.30am
(Green)
Holy Communion followed by refreshments in the Choir Vestry
Sunday, 19th The Twelfth Sunday after Trinity 8.15am
Holy Communion Reader Gospel
Joe McKee Clergy 6
(Green) Ephesians 5: 15-20 John 6: 51-58
10.30am
Morning Prayer Reader Michael Sadlier Reader Geoff Launchbury Occasional Prayers: Elizabeth Leonard
7.00pm
Compline Reader Preacher
Billy McAlpine Karen McAlpine
1 Kings 2: 10-12; 3: 3-14 John 6: 51-58
Luke 12: 49-56
Thursday, 23rd Saint Bartholomew (Transferred) 10.30am
(Red)
Holy Communion followed by refreshments in the Choir Vestry.
Sunday, 26th The Thirteenth Sunday after Trinity
(White)
8.15am
Holy Communion Reader Gospel
Jayne Martin Clergy
Ephesians 6: 10-20 John 6: 56-69
10.30am
Holy Communion Reader Patrick Good Gospel Clergy Intercessions: Clergy
Ephesians 6: 10-20 John 6: 56-69
7.00pm
Late Evening Office Reader David Craig
Luke 13: 10-17
Thursday, 30th 10.30am
(Green)
Holy Communion followed by refreshments in the Choir Vestry.
The 9.30am Family Communion service on the third Sunday will resume in September.
Readers and Intercessors: If you cannot read or lead the prayers on the appointed day, please arrange a swap with someone else on the rota and let the Churchwardens know. We are always delighted to add new names to the Rota of Readers and Intercessors. If you would wish to serve your church in this way, please contact The Rector (02890 471514). The readings are from Year B of the Revised Common Lectionary and are printed on our parish website: www.coiknock.org
7
FROM THE REGISTERS Our Joys
Holy Baptism Sunday 20th May
Ella Carol Eileen May Cairns 56A Kings Road
Sunday 3rd June
Cole Samuel David Kirkwood 18 Sandown Drive
Christian Burials Tuesday 29th May
Our Sorrows Catherine Fisher 34 Sandown Road
DATES FOR YOUR DIARY Floral Evening - Talk and demonstration 28th November in the church hall Ladies Afternoon Badminton Starts again on Tuesday, 11th November.
SIDESPERSON’S ROTA 1st July
Rosemary and Ivan Coffey
8th July
Joan Madill and Lilias Smith
15th July
The Macpherson family
22 July
Eleanor and Geoff Launchbury
29 July
Louise and Stephen Mercer
5th August
Jayne and Ronny Martin
12th August
Pam and Murray Hunter
19 August
Jill and Brian Gillespie
26 August
Tami and Andrew Ellis
nd th
th th
8
JULY FLOWER ROTA Sunday 1st Sunday 8th Sunday 15th Sunday 22nd Sunday 29th
Mandy Fullerton Pam Hunter Carol Willis Margaret Stewart Margaret McConkey
AUGUST FLOWER ROTA Sunday 5th Sunday 12th Sunday 19th Sunday 26th
Barbara Laverty May Preston Lindsay Brown Roberta Rogers
CRAFT AND HOBBY CIRCLE So, that’s it for the summer months! What on earth are we going to do with our time; perhaps be creative and maybe make a few small things which we can sell. We will be hosting a ”Raise the Roof Fund” coffee morning on Saturday, 29th September in the church hall where we can show and sell some of our crafts, eg, jam and chutney, crochet and cross stitch odds and ends, bookmarks and even some decorations we made for our tree. Donations of jams and such will be most welcome as well as volunteers to help on the day. Please don’t hesitate to contact me. L-R: Audrey, Arlene, Anne, After the holiday period we will resume our Norma and Robbie th meetings in the Choir Vestry on Monday, 17 September – the third Monday of the month - and whether you craft or not you will be most welcome to join us. Thereafter the 1st and 3rd Mondays of each month.
Carol 9079 9997 / 07831 345560
Email: pchwillis@hotmail.co.uk
or
9
MUMS AND TOTS We have had a number of changes during the past year, both Lilias and Vicki have retired after several years helping and I am very grateful to them for all their help and support. Their going made me think that it was time for a change and with many willing helpers and Joyce agreeing to take over, I am handing on to her with grateful thanks. Hope all our helpers enjoy the summer break and are ready on 7th September for another busy year. Anne
RACHEL LEACOCK Rachel has contributed so much to the children of St Columba’s through her dedicated work with the Sunday School and the Doves. She has willingly shared so much of her professional skills as a teacher with our younger parishioners which has seen them all grow in confidence. We have seen the positive effects of Rachel’s work when the Sunday School children read lessons and lead us in our prayers at both the All Age Worship and Family Communion services. They have all read with such clarity, with Rachel’s reassurances as she stands beside them to provide valuable support. Similarly, on Wednesday evenings in the Lower Hall, Rachel has organised and delivered an exciting programme of activities for the Doves. While numbers attending are low, the boys and girls always had such fun with Rachel and those who assist. Rachel now wishes to retire from both of these roles in St Columba’s and we wish her well for the future. I thank Rachel for all her hard work and great support, which she has generously given on top of her busy work and family commitments. Rachel received a “big applause” from the congregation at the Prizegiving Service, and I called with her at home the following day to bring a small gift as a token of appreciation for all her hard work. Rachel has kindly indicated that should her diary commitments change in the future she may be able to assist us again in St Columba’s. I am very pleased that Linda Wilson and Emma Macpherson will be assisting the Sunday School children when they read in church. I look forward to welcoming them to this important role in September. The Rector 10
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. The fundraising total to date this year is £3,255. Thank you very much to everyone involved in both contributing money and assisting with the door to door collections. The Rector
SUNDAY SCHOOL PRIZE GIVING The All Age Worship incorporating Prize Giving on 3rd June brought our Sunday school year to a close. The service was well attended by the children and their families. As usual the children played a prominent part in the service with Hazel confidently reading the lesson and others from all the classes involved in the prayers. It was particularly pleasing to see Susannah who has just turned 5 playing her part. The children sang a medley of their favourite hymns with great enthusiasm. All the children from Crèche to confirmation received a prize for their attendance. We have had a successful year with growing numbers in Sunday school. I would like to thank all the teachers and helpers for their commitment and hard work throughout the year. Rachel Leacock has done a brilliant job of preparing the children for their readings and I wish her every success as she moves on. Good luck also to Rachel Albery who is expecting her third child in the autumn. P.S. The children attending Sunday school have raised £280 for the church building fund through their collection of 20p coins. What a great amount! Thank you to all the parents for your support. Wishing everyone a safe and happy summer Joyce 11
Thought for the Month
The date ‘3rd June 1968’, is a very significant milestone in my life. It is the date when I entered into a very different environment - The Merchant Navy.
I joined the BP oil tanker British Honour as a Junior Engineer Officer. On reporting to the Chief Engineer I was shown my cabin and told to change into my working gear and report to the Second Engineer who was in the engine room.
Stewart Beckwith
As I stepped onto the catwalk at the top of the engine room my first reaction was of slight panic and apprehension as I was overwhelmed by the heat, noise, pipework, the many valves and machinery. The height of the main engine was equivalent to a four story apartment block. The other engineers were in the engine room on the bottom plates. It was a long way down! I introduced myself and after a few minutes I was shown around the engine room and then given a few tasks to complete. After this I did not stand out anymore in my pure white overalls. This was an introduction of what was expected in my new career.
As time went on I joined other ships in the BP Tanker fleet. It became very evident when sailing the oceans of the world that everybody on board would develop a mutual respect for each other. No matter what department you worked in, Navigating, Engineering, Catering or Communications everyone depended on each other for the safety of ourselves and above all the safety of our home... THE SHIP. A few of my trips started in the UK with orders to proceed around Cape Town and then the Persian Gulf to load a cargo and this trip usually took four weeks as the Suez Canal was closed. My travels took me to Australia, New Zealand, South, East and West Africa. While the ship was in Cape Town I took the cable car to the top of Table Mountain, I will always remember the view looking down into the city and beyond to the harbour on a crisp early morning two days before Christmas. Having experienced life at sea and living in close quarters with people for six months it has taught me to be more tolerant, forgiving and less judgemental. Looking back at my time in the Merchant Navy I would do it all again. My sincere thanks to Stewart for sharing these ‘Thoughts’ with us. The September ‘Thought for the Month’ will be written by Charles Auchmuty.
12
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. This will allow for better use of clergy time and resources, allowing them to visit as many people as possible. Please do not assume that they already know this information. Please telephone the Rector (9047 1514) or Canon Ken Smyth (9145 8706) to enable them to take careful note of the details. Thank you.
MEN’S CLUB The second half of our 2019 season sees the 60th Anniversary of the foundation of the Men’s Club. Plans to celebrate this will be started in earnest on our return after the summer break. The new committee and officers will have a busy time ahead. Once we have our calendar of events sorted we will advise everyone through the Columban. We resume on 3rd September at the usual time of 7.30pm in the main hall. New members and visitors will be well received. Until then we wish everyone a good summer and look forward to catching up at the start of the new season. John
PAUSE Summer has arrived! The children have finished school until September, most parish organisations have 'paused' until September or even October but PAUSE, as usual, will continue throughout the summer months. It gives those who are at home for all or part of the summer an opportunity to meet with other parishioners and friends in a relaxed environment for a chat over coffee. It is always great when we meet someone new! Two dates have been planned:Tuesday 24th July at Neill's Hill for tea/coffee at 10.30am. Monday 13th August at the Park Avenue Hotel for tea/coffee at 10.30am. If you are free on one or both of these dates please join us. Bring a friend or two - all are welcome. If you require further details or help with transport please contact me. Eileen (02890203684) 13
Art Club The Annual General meeting of the club took place on 7th June. After introductory remarks by the Rector our Chairman, Billy Nelson, reported on the past year’s activities. This was followed by a financial report by Rena Robbins which showed the Club to be on a sound footing. The Rector declared all offices vacant and the following elections resulted in:Chairman:
Billy Nelson
Treasurer:
Rena Robbins
Secretary:
Vida Shaw
Assistant Secretary: Betty Gregory Committee:
Roy Williamson, George Burch, Margaret Hirst, Billy McAlpine
A cheque for ÂŁ500 was given to the Rector for church funds. Members were reminded that there were still two activities before the end of June i.e. painting, drawing and photography visits to (i) the Ulster Folk and Transport museum on 14th June and (ii) a visit to Rathlin island on either 21st or 28th June (depending on the weather) which would allow us the opportunity to visit Yvonne, a former member who now lives on the island. A reminder was given to the Club members to submit designs for the Parish Christmas card by the end of September. As it is planned to hold an art exhibition in the church hall in November all were encouraged to give a lot of thought over the Summer months to producing sufficient paintings for this. The Rector concluded the meeting with prayer. 14
We have been out and about this month. A few members attended the IMPC Communion Service and afternoon tea party in Seapatrick Parish Church, Banbridge. We had beautiful weather for the journey and enjoyed wonderful fellowship with other Mothers’ Union members before adjourning to the hall for tea and entertainment, courtesy of the Banbridge Mothers’ Union. We were blessed with beautiful weather for our trip to Moville, Co. Donegal, where we enjoyed the floral displays by the ladies in the Presbyterian Church. It was lovely to see their interpretations of themes and to listen to the strains of the harp played by local students. We enjoyed traditional Irish music while having lunch. A special thanks to Joyce for all her work to organise this successful event. Mrs June Butler, our Diocesan President, has been elected All Ireland President. We have sent her good wishes. I hope everyone has a refreshing summer and trust I will see you all at our opening service on Tuesday 4th September. Barbara
15
LYNN RYAN For 6 years Lynn has been involved with the Crèche, first as a member of the rota, and during the past four years as Coordinator. This is a most important aspect of our parish work, providing effective support to those who have been baptised as they prepare to commence Sunday School at the age of 3. Lynn has encouraged parents to assist on the Crèche rota on the 2nd, 4th and 5th Sundays of each month in the Church Hall, where the toddlers learn through play and interaction. They are all in church for the All Age Worship service on the first Sunday and for the 9.30am Family Communion on the 3rd Sunday. As a teacher, Lynn has given so much to the Crèche and during this past year Claire Hirst joined her in the coordinating role. Lynn now wishes to retire and has received a small gift in appreciation of all her hard work. I thank her for the great support she has given to our Crèche. I am pleased that Claire will be continuing her work with the Crèche, which will recommence on Sunday 9th September. All new members will be very welcome. The Rector
CHURCH LAWN Due to the extensive damage being caused to the church lawn by cars driving onto it, especially during inclement weather, a parishioner has kindly, with the agreement of the Select Vestry, gifted bollards along with the installation costs. This is a most generous gift which will prevent permanent damage being caused to the church lawn just beside the main door. It will also ensure that our church grounds will be kept in a tidy and respectable state for both parishioners and visitors, while enabling us to enjoy the benefits of the lawn for social events. 16
Wine and Cheese Night The first Saturday in June saw the Young Families of the parish gather for a Wine and Cheese Night which was held in the church and proved to be a resounding success. Emma Macpherson organised and hosted the event with her usual excellence, providing wine aplenty and a great array of cheeses which proved to be a perfect backdrop to a great evening of fellowship and craic. The event was also a huge hit thanks to Dr Joe McKee for organising some marvellous musical entertainment. Emma Ryan kicked off the evening with a fantastic flute solo while being accompanied on the piano by her mother Lynn. Accompanied by Dr McKee on the piano, Ramesh Wilson gave a superb recital on the violin while Caroline McCartney added an equally excellent vocal solo. Dr McKee also added some humorous touches on the church organ before it was time to savour the lovely wine and cheese at the back of the church. All told, a great evening of fun, laugher and friendship and many thanks to Emma Macpherson for all her hard work in making it happen. Michael Sadlier
17
We are looking for a leader for our Doves Group … Are YOU interested? The Doves are a group of boys and girls aged 3 – 6 years who meet on Wednesday evenings from 6.30 - 7.30pm in the Lower Hall for fun, games, art and crafts. Please contact the Rector on 02890 471514 if you would like to find out more information, or if this is something you would like to help with. (Our Assistant Leader, Rachel Greeves, is continuing in her role.) Thank you.
BROWNIES ARE RETURNING TO ST. COLUMBA’S We are very pleased to announce that Brownies will be back on 19th September in the Church Hall from 6.30 to 8pm. Both myself and Rose are excited to get back to our own hall. Our training and establishing the Brownie unit took longer than expected but this is now complete. We are looking forward to starting back in September. Lisa Boyle Brownie Leader 18
RAILWAY AND MODEL CLUB In the absence of our Chairman David ‘Rocky‘ Beattie I have the task of keeping you all updated with the ongoing projects within the club. David had advised you all of the open day on the 16th June when we are looking forward to showing the transformation of the new room. Hopefully when you read this some of you will have had the chance to go down and see the changes and talk to the members present. Prior to the event the members had a busy time not only in preparing the room but also attended events outside the club. We visited the outdoor railway at Drumawhey outside Donaghadee on the 20th May. Not only did we ride the trains but we were privileged to be shown behind the scenes i.e. the workshops and additional rolling stock in storage and a rundown of the formation of the railway and its future plans. The following Saturday some of us attended the exhibition held in Bangor displaying numerous layouts and models. We held our first club dinner on 13th June in the RUYC Bangor. Until the next time, in the words of our Chairman. Keep 'er rollin'. John Robb P.S. I am sure David will be happy to explain the origins of the nickname “Rocky”.
19
LADIES GUILD Gosh another year over, time seems to fly from one Annual General Meeting to the next. We have had a varied year beginning with a very interesting insight into the Ulster Scots language. We then heard about and supported a variety of Charities, the S O S Bus, Helping Hands Healing Hearts and Mission to Seafarers, Not forgetting the old saying "Charity begins at home" we were delighted to give the Rector an extra donation to the Church Roof Fund. On the " Strictly Social" side we had our Christmas Dinner at Knock Golf Club and our annual film night - but this year's choice of film had mixed reviews !!!!! ." Design was the focus of two other talks - the work at Mountstewart gardens of Edith Lady Londonderry and the wonderful patterns of Yvonne Mc Kee as she shared the Art of Quilting Before we began elections the Rector thanked Caroline Cleland Higginson and Imelda Shephard who were retiring.
2018/2019 Officers and Committee Chair. Honorary Secretary. Honorary Treasurer. Honorary Bowling Secretary. Honorary Chaplain. Committee.
Eleanor Launchbury Jennifer Beattie Joan Madill Helen Coates Eileen Anderson Vickie Mc Monagle, Joy Murphy, Helen Proctor and Lilias Smith. The Rector thanked everyone for another successful year and wished the new committee every success. Our well known parishioner and member of the Select Vestry, Mark Wilson, closed our evening with a very entertaining look back on his life growing up in Belfast. I know that planning has started for next year's programme but in the meantime on behalf of all your Committee may I wish you a very happy and sunny summer. Just before I go may I thank everyone for all the wonderful support and kindness shown me during my time as Honorary Secretary and I am looking forward to joining you in the members’ seats next year. Happy holidays Imelda 20
BISHOP’S BIBLE WEEK Please join us for our 12th Annual Bible Week from Tuesday, 28th – Friday, 31st August 2018 with Bishop Grant LeMarquand. Formerly Area Bishop for The Horn of Africa, Bishop Grant is a Canadian missionary, academic and gifted teacher who is very much looking forward to joining us. Taking the title ‘Enter the Throne Room’ Bishop Grant will teach in the Book of Revelation. The venue is Willowfield Church, Belfast and begins each evening at 7.45 pm. The Bible Week is four nights of excellent Bible teaching, worship and ministry for the Diocese of Down and Dromore but anyone is welcome to come along and many do! Programme: • Tuesday: A Vision of God (Rev 4-5) • Wednesday: A Vision of the Church (Rev 7) • Thursday: A Vision of Judgement (Rev 20) • Friday: A Vision of the New Heaven and the New Earth Rev 21-22)
Some parishioners have asked if they could set up a separate Standing Order to contribute regularly to our Church Roof Fund. This is a wonderful idea as many people would like to help but do not want to pay a large sum of money at one time. Standing Order is a fast, convenient way to contribute regularly to this very important fund! If this is something you think might suit you, please contact Karen Patterson in the Parish Office, who would be delighted to advise you what is required so that your valuable contribution is entered into the correct fund. We also need to be clear if your contribution is being Gift Aided or not, as this will affect how we record the donations. Thank you for your continued generous support of St Columba’s! Karen Patterson Tel: 02890 656891 Mon – Fri 9am -1pm Email: office@coiknock.org
21
On Thursday mornings at 10.30am, there is a 30-minute Holy Communion service in church. This is a short, reflective service which allows us to meet mid-week, and it is followed by refreshments in the Choir Vestry. If you are free, please come along and join us. There is a wonderful feeling of friendship and fellowship, and we promise that you will be warmly received. If you have not been before, the summer months are the ideal opportunity to come along and see for yourself – (often, the refreshments last longer than the service!). We look forward to you joining us!
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, 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 22
HOSPITAL CHAPLAINCY A Report by Canon Ken Smyth When I retired as rector of Newtownards in 2011, I was appointed, with the approval of the Bishop of the Diocese, as Church of Ireland Chaplain in the Ulster Hospital. While the location was new, I had served for almost thirty years prior to that, as chaplain in Ards Hospital. Many of you will know the hospital which is opposite St. Marks Parish Church, where I was rector. As a general hospital, it cared for the community needs in Ards and North Down at virtually every stage in life since its inception in 1932 until most of the departments were transferred to the newer and larger hospital in Dundonald around the turn of this century. Prior to 1932, it served as one of many workhouses that were built in Ireland in the mid-19th. Century. The links between hospital and church were close. With the active encouragement of hospital chaplains, many significant occasions were celebrated in the parish church, which remained open during daylight hours to enable staff and visitors to enter a sanctuary of peace at challenging moments in life. Nearly every day, I attempted to set aside at least one hour to visit patients. In addition, I came to know almost all members of staff, which was to prove very useful in building up relationships of confidence and trust. The Ulster Hospital was purpose built in the 1960s and is on a very much larger scale. While that has made the establishing of personal contacts much more difficult, it is recognized now, that relocating services in Northern Ireland to major centres such as the Ulster, has enabled the Health Service and Trusts to provide a much more comprehensive level of care. The role of a chaplain is to care for the spiritual and emotional needs of patients, and, also, when required, of staff. In the Ulster Hospital, there is a chapel, adjacent to the chaplains’ office. Apart from Sunday services, attended by a small number of patients, this area can be used for personal interviews and counselling. The future of this chapel is uncertain particularly when the current hospital blocks are completed in two years’ time. As chaplain I spend at least ten hours per week in the wards. That is in addition to any Sunday duties and emergency ‘out of hours’ phone calls. On admission to hospital, patients should be asked if they wish to receive a visit from a chaplain (more specifically, the denomination of the patient). Should the patient say ‘no’ for any reason, then the chaplain will not be informed. Patients who come to our attention, will be visited regularly during their time in hospital. With the permission of patients, parish clergy are informed. However, it is worth stressing that, should you wish the rector to know that you will/have been admitted to ANY hospital, you need to inform him personally. Admission to hospital can be a daunting and unsettling experience for some people. While staff approach their duties with much sensitivity and compassion, patients can feel vulnerable and isolated, removed from the security of home
23
and family. For such reasons, a chaplain must be a good listener, willing to devote time to those who require it. Prayer, while never imposed, is welcomed by many patients. Confidentiality is essential and must be respected. The Ulster is in the midst of an extensive building programme. On completion, almost every patient will have a designated room with en suite facilities. This should be ‘fit for purpose’ for much of the 21st Century. Those who are not mobile and receive few visitors, however, can find the single room experience a lonely one. Occasionally, attention can be drawn to hospital crowding and lengthy admission periods for some forms of elective surgery. We are, however, very fortunate to have a first rate National Health Service which generally delivers in times of need. Should you be admitted to the Ulster Hospital, while seemingly very large and impersonal to some, catering for over 500 in patients and many more day patients, you should receive the best of care and attention. It has been fulfilling and a privilege to have had the opportunity of serving as chaplain, free of the administrative responsibilities one associates with serving as rector in a parish. It has been spiritually enriching to experience the positive and courageous ways in which many people face severe illness. The confidence many have in the providence of God has been inspiring. This article coincides with my retiring from the position of Church of Ireland Chaplain at the Ulster at the end of July. While it marks the end of a particular form of ministry I look forward to remaining as a member of the faith community at St. Columba’s as an assistant priest to the rector. The Rector writes… Canon Ken Smyth has served as a most conscientious and diligent Church of Ireland Chaplain in the Ulster Hospital since 2011. Throughout his tenure, he has endeared himself to staff and patients alike, with his friendly personality. He has been a familiar member of the Hospital Chaplaincy Team through his regular ward rounds as he visited patients who were members of the Church of Ireland both within the Diocese of Down and Dromore and beyond. This has been no easy task for Canon Smyth as so often he came across Church of Ireland patients whose names were not recorded on the Admission’s lists. It was through his exemplary pastoral care and dedicated approach to his Chaplaincy ministry that he identified many additional Church of Ireland patients while walking through the wards. Parishioners of St Columba’s have had the additional blessings of Canon Smyth’s ministry while they were patients in the hospital. They welcomed his many visits at their bedside before and after surgery and they valued and appreciated his pastoral and liturgical ministry. In addition, he also conducted the morning services on the first Sunday of each month in the hospital chapel. The staff and patients will greatly miss his ministry when he retires at the end of July. I rejoice that Canon Smyth is remaining as an Assistant Priest of St Columba’s, greatly supported by his wife Jenny and family, where we will continue to receive the blessings of his ministry amongst us. 24
Our story so far… 1. New legal requirements commenced on 25th May 2018, which include the right of people to see the data we hold about them and the chance to “opt out”. 2. Data review was started in February when we cleared the Filing Room of data over 6 years old, using industrial shredding. 3. Data on IT systems was reviewed by the Rector and Karen Patterson, and protocols put in place, as per guidance from RCB in Dublin. 4. The Rector requested a quick and easy way for parishioners to check and update their data, rather than complete the lengthy blank forms suggested by RCB which required people to add in all of their data by hand. 5. Karen Patterson merged the data from the Parish Computer records onto an al proforma for EACH parishioner. This was placed into family envelopes to hand out at the church services during May. a. The forms contained all of the records we currently hold – names, dates of birth, addresses and contact details. b. Request for the use of photographs was also included. c. Parishioners had to simply check that their data was correct and amend if necessary, checking the boxes of how we can communicate with them. d. NO PASTORAL DATA OF ANY TYPE IS STORED BY CLERGY OR BY THE OFFICE.
25
6. Forms were handed out by churchwardens at the start of each service during May when parishioners were asked to complete their forms and put them into the addressed envelopes to the Parish Office, and place in the collection box at the back of church. 7. Forms were taken to the Parish Office for Karen Patterson to update on the parish database and store securely in the event of an audit. 8. The Rector visited ALMOST 200 families of those parishioners who were unable to attend any of the services during May and brought their forms to them. He returned forms to the office which had been completed during his visit, and asked families to post back their forms if they were not in. 9. The remainder of forms were posted to families. 10. Data has been collated and parishioners have been contacted if forms were incomplete. 11. New policies including use of parish computer, access to office, security review, handing of data for organisations and many other legal guidelines. At the time of going to print, 75% of families in our parish have responded by returning their completed forms. Thank you to those families who returned their completed consent forms quickly – your assistance has been very much appreciated. If you have not yet returned your form we would appreciate you doing so as soon as possible. Thank you. Karen Patterson 26
Free Will Offering Envelopes / Standing Orders IMPORTANT CHANGES – PLEASE READ CAREFULLY. Thank you very much to those parishioners who contribute to St Columba’s by Free Will Offering envelopes or by Standing Order. We currently have around 130 families who prefer to use Free Will Offering envelopes. While Standing Order is still our preferred method of contributing, every family currently receives envelopes for Charity and Mission. Did you know that you can set up a separate Standing Order for these contributions? We have now ordered our church envelopes for 2019, so that they can be printed and delivered, then labelled and prepared to leave at the back of church for collection. Every family will receive their Charity and Mission Envelopes pack in December. In a change to tradition, we have decided to change the envelope packs and now every pack will now contain separate envelopes to use for: 1. Lent Lunch – in April 2. Church Roof Appeal – in June 3. Harvest Lunch –in October 4. Church Fundraising – in December The reason for this is that some families may be unable to attend the various events in church but may still wish to contribute to them. Every family will now have the option of contributing. AS WE CHANGE YOUR FREE WILL OFFERING/ STANDING ORDER NUMBER EACH YEAR SO IT IS VITAL THAT YOU STOP USING ENVELOPES OTHER THAN FOR THE CURRENT YEAR. Failure to do so means that your giving may be recorded against another parishioner, so please destroy any old boxes you may have. Thank you! We would like everyone to contribute in a recognised manner – no amount is too small! If you do not currently contribute to church in a recognised manner and would like to do so, please contact the office and we can help guide you to the most suitable means for you. The Parish Administrator is the only person with access to your personal contribution information. This information is stored in full compliance with General Data Protection Regulation 2018.
27
What is Gift Aid? Gift Aid can provide St Columba’s with an extra 25p for every £1 donation we receive, and is a vital source of funds for our Church. This can transform a £100 donation to £125! The Church receives an additional 25% in cash from HM Revenue & Customs for each gift aid qualifying donation. In addition to helping us, donating this way will also save you tax if you pay income tax at either the high or additional rate of tax (40% / 45%). How can you help St. Columba’s? To allow us to claim Gift Aid on your donation, we need all eligible donors (who have not already done so) to complete a Gift Aid Declaration form and return it to the Parish Office. If you can answer YES to the following questions, you should qualify for Gift Aid: • UK Taxpayer? (e.g. tax includes income tax and capital gains tax, but not VAT or Rates) • Will your annual donation be less than 4 times your overall income tax due / payable? Your next step Contact the Parish Office (02890 656891 Monday – Friday 9am – 1pm or email office@coiknock.org) if you would like a Gift Aid form or if you want to check we hold a declaration for you. Gift Aid forms are also available from the back of church. Thank you!
28
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
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 Claire Hirst 07949 298473 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 Anne Clarke 9065 1412 Maureen Irwin Except 1st Tuesday 7.30pm 9079 5155 Barbara Laverty 1st Tuesday each month 8.00pm 9573 8743 6.30pm Lisa Boyle, 07872 511527 6.30pm Rachael Leacock 07891 714119 7.00pm David Beattie 9028 5868 7.30pm Eileen Anderson 9020 3684 Jennifer Beattie, 3rd Wednesday each month 7.45pm 9028 5868 9.30am Billy Nelson 9048 3889 7.30pm Dr Joe McKee 07976 294574 10.00am Joyce Stevenson, 9058 3381 As arranged Eileen Anderson 9020 3684 As arranged Jonathan Martin, 07980 885990 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.
29
WHO’S WHO IN ST. COLUMBAS Parish website: www.coiknock.org
Rector
Assistant Priests
Diocesan Lay Reader
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 9573 8743
Karen McAlpine
readercolumba@gmail.com
Rector’s Churchwarden
David Kelly
028 9079 6658
People’s Churchwarden
Richard Caldwell
028 9079 3163
Junior Churchwardens
Sophie King and Daniel Sadlier
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, Andrew Ellis, Andrew Hirst, John Kerr, Elizabeth Leonard, Moira Saunders, Jonathan Stewart, 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
30
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
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
Joan Madill
028 9065 6591
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
31
028 9065 6891 office@coiknock.org
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