May 2011
THE ANNUAL EASTER GENERAL VESTRY MEETING 2011
RECTOR’S ADDRESS
THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT 2010 has been an exceptionally busy year for our parish and has seen both an increase in church attendances as well as new members joining some of our Parish Organisations. This is good news and I want to thank all those who give so generously of their time, talents and money to support the work and ministry of St. Columba’s. I greatly value and appreciate the contribution that each person makes to the life of the parish and am very privileged to work with a strong staff team and a hard working Select Vestry. It is wonderful to see parishioners of all ages becoming involved in so many different ways to serve God in this place. It is this involvement and support for St. Columba’s which has been so evident during the past year and has enabled us to undertake some very large projects with great confidence. Flower Festival The Flower Festival which took place during our Patronal Festival last June was one of the great highlights of the year. We were indebted to the skills of the Artistic Director and Flower Arrangers for designing such a beautiful festival. This was a huge parish project and involved many of our parishioners. During those three days we welcomed over 3,400 visitors to our church and a number of our local school choirs in such beautiful weather. They all really appreciated the warm welcome they received and commented so positively on the beautiful flower arrangements, the informative brochure, the lovely refreshments in the hall and the efficient way that everything was organised. The Festival was much more than just a chronological journey through Columba’s life; it also emphasized that the Spirit of Columba continues today through the ministry of our parish church. It is essential that we continue to proclaim a living faith, through Word and sacrament, which connects with the needs of everyone in our parish and community. CURATE’S ORDINATION It was wonderful that the Curate’s ordination as a Priest in the Church of God took place here in St. Columba’s. That was an important day for Robert and the parish. The Select Vestry was pleased to mark this occasion by presenting him with a robe case on behalf of the parish. It is a joy for me now to be able to share the sacramental ministry of the parish with such a loyal and conscientious colleague. He is very involved in so many aspects of our parish life and I am sure you will agree that it is good to see him developing so well and gaining so much in self-confidence. CHALICE ADMINISTRATORS I am very grateful to the Bishop for assenting to the request made to him from the Churchwardens and myself to appoint five Chalice Administrators to assist with the administration of the chalice at our Holy Communion services. I thank Patrick Good, Brian Acheson, Jennifer Johnston, Gillian Sadlier and Louise Mercer for kindly agreeing to serve their church in this new way. I am very pleased that the congregation has welcomed this initiative so enthusiastically.
HEALING MINISTRY The Parish Prayer Chain Ministry is continuing to offer support to those who have asked for prayer. It was encouraging that many members of the Prayer Chain attended the Healing Ministry course last autumn, conducted by the Revd Dr. Pat Mollan. I will shortly be introducing a prayer card with suitable prayers to be used by those who are ill or experiencing personal difficulties. This will be in addition to the support currently being given by the Prayer Chain Ministry. YOUTH MINISTRY Crèche The introduction of a Crèche which meets every Sunday during the 10.30am service in the Choir Vestry has been a most welcome development. I am delighted that we have been able to support our younger parishioners by providing this much needed facility. We have been fortunate that 28 parents have agreed to serve on the Crèche Rota. Sunday School This past year has seen a good number of children attending our Sunday School. I was also delighted to appoint Patricia Wilson as a new teacher to share the teaching of the youngest class with Louise Craig. It is so important that we provide our young people with a good understanding of the Christian faith. How often has it been said that our young people are the church of tomorrow – but we must never forget that they are also the church of today. If we lose them today, it is most unlikely that we will have them tomorrow. New All Age Worship Service I am very grateful for the positive comments I have received from the congregation about the new format of this service. It is now much more child friendly and provides opportunities for the children to participate more fully in the service. It is very encouraging that so many people stay to enjoy the refreshments. Confirmation Candidates The parish is now for the first time able to provide continuous support for our young people, from the point of their baptism through to their confirmation. As I advised in the September Columban, those wishing to be confirmed must now come from the senior Sunday School class or, if they are over 15 years of age, must assist with Sunday School. The parents of this year’s confirmation candidates have supported this new approach and it is one that I will adopt for future years. The benefits ensure that the candidates have a good understanding of the Christian faith before commencing their confirmation classes. H2O Youth Group The H20 Youth Group Leader, Mark Wilson, and his team work hard to organise and plan many different types of activities for those aged from 10 years and upwards in our parish. I spent a most informative evening with them last Friday when they visited The Mission to Seafarers at the Belfast docks. The Senior Chaplain, The Revd Colin Hall-Thompson, gave us a super tour of the Flying Angel Seafarers’ Centre and also took us round the docks. This was just one of many activities that have been planned for the Youth Club. However, I am concerned that so few people are currently attending despite the huge
effort which is being put into organising activities. As Rector, I am fully committed to supporting the young people of our parish and appeal to parents to encourage their children to attend whenever possible. Youth Overseas Project In recent weeks I have been exploring the possibility of encouraging some of our older Youth Club members to participate in a summer project overseas. There are many such options available through the Ulster Project, Habit for Humanity, CMS or through our link diocese of Albany. This would provide them with a wonderful experience of assisting other people in a different cultural setting. I plan to further my discussions with them after Easter to explore the feasibility of such a trip in 2012. New Parish Youth Website During the past few months, the Curate has designed a most informative new website for our young people. This new initiative provides most helpful information for our young people and their parents about parish activities and our Christian faith. I encourage you to have a look the website at www.stcolumbasyouth.org and to use it regularly. Music Group I am very pleased that some new members joined our Music Group during the past year. It is good to see our talented young musicians serving their church in this particular way. The Music Group provides very suitable music at both our All Age Worship Service and the Family Communion Service on the third Sunday of each month. Mums and Tots The Mums and Tots group which meets every Friday morning offers good support to those who attend. This very popular organisation also includes some Dads and Grandparents. The adults have an opportunity to share conversation with each other while the toddlers play with a large selection of toys in the safe environment of this hall. Doves and Brownies The Doves provide a good range of activities and games for boys and girls from the ages of three to six years. While numbers attending are very small at present, it is hoped that some of the older crèche children would be interested in joining to share in the activities. We are fortunate to have a strong Brownie pack for girls aged between 6½ and 10½ years and it is good to see them having such good fun as they participate in their weekly programme. Scouting and Guiding It was a particular joy and delight to welcome the East Belfast District Beavers and Cubs, together with their leaders and parents, to St. Columba’s for their Christingle service on Sunday, 12th December. Having been a cub and scout myself I am very aware of the many excellent opportunities they provide to young people. As these opportunities currently do not exist in our parish, my own two sons, along with other parishioners, have to travel to nearby churches to participate in scouting activities. If there was sufficient interest in our parish, I would be willing to discuss the possibility of recommencing Scouting and Guiding activities in the parish.
PARISH FINANCES You will notice in the audited financial accounts that there has been a small increase in financial giving as well as a reduction in some key areas of expenditure. This has been achieved through your support and the Select Vestry exercising good control of our expenditure, without cutting the services or resources to parishioners. This is particularly welcoming news and I want to thank those who are financially supporting the work of our parish. Through the hard work of our Hon. Treasurer, Gillian Sadlier, you will notice that the financial accounts are presented in a very clear way and also that they are fully compliant with the disclosure requirements of the new Charity Legislation. Building Fund Appeal The total amount of money raised for our Building Funding Fund Appeal since it started in June 2009 is now £47,500. This is an excellent result and represents both parish and community support for our fundraising initiatives. We have all been able to enjoy the benefits of that money during the cold winter months by having modern, cost efficient and effective heating and lighting systems in our church and hall. Since we last met as members of the Easter Vestry, 92 different jobs have been carried out on our buildings! The Glebewardens, at no financial cost to the parish, have carried out a significant number of these personally. It has been very encouraging to see parishioners take responsibility for looking after the church grounds so conscientiously. Mission and Charity Giving In addition to the money raised for our Building Fund there has also been excellent support for our Mission and Charity work through the monthly envelopes, the Lent Project, the Parish Lunches and the money collected during the refreshments after each All Age Worship Service. As a result, the parish was able to allocate £19,667 to various projects. The Deficit Despite these financial achievements which were recorded in the midst of the current economic recession, the parish financial accounts have recorded a slightly increased deficit on the 2009 figure. The Select Vestry and I are very conscious that this is a situation which cannot be sustained and must be addressed. In order to tackle this worrying situation we have together embarked on a very challenging and important Lent programme with the title “Rediscover the joy of coming to church”. This is an opportunity for us all to address the deficit in a positive manner by seeking to increase our church attendances and inviting everyone in the parish to support St.Columba’s through the giving of their time, talents and money. The importance of making a strong church commitment is emphasized in these words written on the Stormont Presbyterian church notice board, “Many want to serve God, but only as an advisor”. It is my hope and prayer that as we now reach the half way point in our programme, the entire parish will respond positively by being a “doer” for God in our parish rather than just being an “advisor” from home. Fundraising Plans are well underway for our parish Hog Roast BBQ that will take place during our Patronal Festival this year on Friday, 10th June. I am very grateful to Tony and Clodagh
Reid for kindly hosting this important event in their barn and grounds at Comber. This will be our major fundraising event this year and parishioners and friends of all ages are welcome to attend. Other planned events include an all ages sponsored walk along the Comber Green Way starting in Comber and finishing with a BBQ on Saturday, 10th September, a Wine Tasting evening on Friday, 4th November, and a cinema night in the hall. In addition to the Christmas cards which are distributed to every home in the parish, the Art Club are designing a separate Christmas card for parishioners to purchase for their own use. All the proceeds from these events will be allocated to our Building Fund Appeal. COMMUNICATION It is vital that we communicate effectively to every home in the parish on a regular basis. This is currently done through our easy to navigate parish website and The Columban. I was delighted that the skills of The Columban editor and his team, including our excellent printers, Dataplus Print and Design, were further recognised by the wider church when our very attractive and popular parish magazine was chosen for the second year in succession as Runner Up in the Church of Ireland Communication Competition for parish magazines. CONCLUSION In the course of a recent Select Vestry discussion, I invited the members to identify the positive aspects of our parish life. Their list included: • The relaxed friendly atmosphere • The warm welcome • The good participation of parishioners in services and organisations • Strong fellowship • Excellent music • Good range of church services • Refreshments • A real sense of belonging • Clarity of information and effective communication As we now move forward, I hope and pray that we will never lose sight of these positive aspects of our parish as we face future challenges. They provide a firm foundation for us to encourage new members to share in our worship and parish organisations. In conclusion, I thank you for your personal support to me and to Caroline, Charles and Henry. That support, expressed in so many different ways, means so much to us as we endeavour to serve this parish to the best of our ability each day.
SERVICES IN MAY Sunday 1st 8.15am 10.30am 7.00pm
The Second Sunday of Easter (White) Holy Communion Reader Lindsay Hodges Acts 2: 14a, 22-32 Gospel Clergy John 20: 19-31 All Age Worship & Holy Baptism followed by refreshments Reader Helen Cairnduff John 20: 19-31 Choral Evensong Reader Graeme Stevenson Daniel 6: 6-23 Reader Graeme Stevenson Mark 15: 46-16:8
Wednesday 4th 7.30pm Lagan Area Deanery Service Preacher Bishop Harold Miller
(White)
Thursday 5th 10.30am
Saint Philip & St. James (Transferred) (Red) Holy Communion followed by refreshments in the Choir Vestry
Sunday 8th 8.15am 10.30am 7.00pm
The Third Sunday of Easter Holy Communion Reader Trevor Buchanan Gospel Clergy Holy Communion Reader Robin Haldane Gospel Karen McAlpine Intercessions Gina Greeves Late Evening Office Reader Fiona Haldane Prayers Karen McAlpine
(White) Acts 2: 14a, 36-41 Luke 24: 13-35 Acts 2: 14a, 36-41 Luke 24: 13-35 John 2: 13-22
Thursday 12th (White) 10.30am Holy Communion followed by refreshments in the Choir Vestry Sunday 15th 8.15am 9.30am 10.30am 7.00pm
The Fourth Sunday of Easter Holy Communion Reader Elizabeth Miller Gospel Clergy Family Communion Gospel Karen McAlpine Morning Prayer Reader Jennifer Johnston Reader Eileen Gibson Occasional Muriel Arndell Prayers Holy Communion Reader Patricia Wilson Gospel Karen McAlpine
(White) Acts 2: 42-47 John 10: 1-10 John 10: 1-10 Nehemiah 9: 6-15 John 10: 1-10
Ephesians 2: 11-22 Luke 19: 37-48
Thursday 19th (White) 10.30am Holy Communion followed by refreshments in the Choir Vestry
Sunday 22nd 8.15am 10.30am 7.00pm
The Fifth Sunday of Easter Holy Communion Reader Michael Davey Gospel Gospel Holy Communion Reader Fiona Haldane Gospel Clergy Intercessions Karen McAlpine Evening Prayer Reader Jennifer Johnston Reader Jennifer Johnston Occasional Karen McAlpine Prayers
(White) Acts 7: 55-60 John 14: 1-14 Acts 7: 55-60 John 14: 1-14 Revelation 21: 1-14 Luke 2: 25-32
Thursday 26th (White) 10.30am Holy Communion followed by refreshments in the Choir Vestry Sunday 29th 8.15am 10.30am 7.00pm
Rogation Sunday Holy Communion Reader Carol Willis Gospel Clergy Songs of Praise Confirmation Service in St. Donard’s No service in St. Columba’s
(White) Acts 17: 22-31 John 14: 15-21
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 A of the Revised Common Lectionary and are printed on our parish website:
www.stcolumbas.down.anglican.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
WANTED for a ‘FEAST of the FIVE SENSES’ at our Mid Su mme r
HOG ROAST AND HOE DOWN
on Friday 10th June, 7pm at ‘UNICARVEL’
(home of Tony & Clodagh Reid, 88 Ballyrainey Road, Comber)
* enjoy splendid garden views and surrounding countryside * experience the sounds of dance reels and jigs, laughter and chit-chat and the gentle clink of glasses * smell succulent pork as the hog slowly roasts on the spit * taste delicious savoury foods and sumptuous desserts - and our WOW factor - a Chocolate Fountain! * feel the clasp of hands as friends and families jig the night away
Tickets on sale now! ticket price includes BBQ foods, dessert, Barn Dance and complimentary drink on arrival
Also on offer: games for children and young people, Tuck Shop and Wine Bar
Proceeds for the Parish Building Fund Appeal
IT’S ONE SUMMER FIESTA NOT TO BE MISSED!
MAY SIDESPERSONS’ ROTA Sunday 1st ...................................................The Acheson Family Sunday 8th...................................................Helen Donaghy and Brian Gillespie Sunday 15th.................................................Roberta and Alan Rogers Sunday 22nd................................................Jennifer Johnston and Patrick Good Sunday 29th.................................................Rosemary and Ivan Coffey
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 Curate (028 90653370). In addition to requested Parish Visiting, the Clergy will be visiting parishioners in the following districts during May: Rector: Ballymoran Road, Killinchey Quarterland Road, Killinchey Thornyhill Road, Killinchey Cherrytree Walk Ebrington Gardens
Curate: Enid Parade Dunlady Manor Enler Park Central Grangewood Grove Green Crescent
ALL AGE WORSHIP TEA AND COFFEE Our next All Age Worship Service will be held on Sunday, 1st May, when the proceeds from our tea and coffee will go to the Japanese earthquake and tsunami disaster. The terrible extent of this dreadful human tragedy is still unfolding, so please plan to be with us and give generously. Roberta
TUESDAY AFTERNOON BADMINTON Our year of play ended on Tuesday, 12th April, and will recommence on Tuesday, 6th September, at 2.00pm. Over the summer do think “Badminton” and join us especially if at one time you enjoyed the game! Kyleen Clarke (028 90797155) 10
KNOCK KNOCK, IT’S THE CURATE! This month’s epistle from the Curatage contains a mixed medley of items for this month and beyond! St Columba’s Runs the Marathon By the time you get your hands on this edition of The Columban a handful of parishioners, including myself, will be either preparing for, or recovering from, the Belfast City Marathon Relay 2011. On the notice board at the back of church there are is a list of sponsorship in support of our Building Fund. Please do support us if you can. Off to Israel As part of my annual leave, I am co-leading a pilgrimage to the Holy Land from Tuesday 10th to Friday, 20th May. I look forward to sharing photos and experiences in the coming months. Surfer Help Required Elsewhere in the magazine you will see details of the “Surfer” programme. If you are in anyway techie and know how to use a computer on the internet, and would be available to help either afternoons or evenings, please email me. Your help would be gratefully received. Service Recordings Ministry I am now trying to produce a list of those housebound parishioners who would like to receive recordings, so please do let me know. I hope that this important ministry will be available before the summer. Also, I am still looking for distributers, delivery people and recording team members. Pause! This is a new initiative which has been on my mind for a long time which takes no organising or commitment, it is simply just a case of turning up! It is an excuse to go somewhere for a walk, perhaps for food, or maybe just for coffee. It is about getting together with no agenda, simply to be with each other. We are kicking off in June and will continue during the summer months. It is open to all ... all ages, all friends, all individuals ... simply everyone! If people want to walk after lunch that’s fine, if they want to simply sit and watch the world go by, that’s grand as well! First Outing - Sunday, 26th June A picnic lunch in Tollymore, meeting at the Tollymore car park at 1:30pm for lunch (regardless of weather conditions!). Every Blessing Robert 11
ST COLUMBA’S PARISH CHURCH KNOCK PARISH OFFICE BEARERS 2011-12 RECTOR – The Revd John R Auchmuty CURATE – The Revd Robert Ferris RECTOR’S CHURCHWARDEN – Jill Gillespie PEOPLE’S CHURCHWARDEN – Ronny Martin RECTOR’S GLEBEWARDEN – Jim Stevenson PEOPLE’S GLEBEWARDEN – John Proctor HONORARY SECRETARY – Alan Rogers HONORARY TREASURER – Gillian Sadlier ASSISTANT HONORARY TREASURER – Murray Hunter
SELECT VESTRY Rector, Curate, Churchwardens, Glebewardens, Hon. Secretary, Hon. Treasurer, Assistant Hon. Treasurer, Brian Acheson, Helen Donaghy, Victor Dukelow, Patrick Good, Jennifer Johnston, Elizabeth Leonard, Moranne Noad, Roberta Rogers, Linda Wilson
HONORARY AUDITORS Garth Macartney, Niall Armstrong
PAROCHIAL NOMINATORS Trevor Buchanan, Patrick Good, Elizabeth Leonard, Moranne Noad,
SUPPLEMENTAL PAROCHIAL NOMINATORS Murray Hunter, Michael Davey, Elizabeth McCaughey, Roberta Rogers
DIOCESAN SYNOD MEMBERS Victor Dukelow, Patrick Good, Elizabeth Leonard, Moranne Noad, Ross Thompson
SUPPLEMENTAL DIOCESAN SYNOD MEMBERS Elizabeth McCaughey, Michael Davey, Roberta Rogers, Elizabeth Miller, Emma Hill 12
Rector’s Churchwarden – Jill Gillespie People’s Churchwarden – Ronny Martin
ST COLUMBA’S PARISH CHURCH KNOCK MEMBERSHIP OF SELECT VESTRY COMMITTEES 2011-12 FINANCE COMMITTEE Rector (Chairperson) Hon. Treasurer Assistant Hon. Treasurer Victor Dukelow Louise Mercer
PROPERTY COMMITTEE Rector (Chairperson) Rector’s Glebewarden People’s Glebewarden Brian Acheson John McKeown
FUND-RAISING COMMITTEE Rector (Chairperson) Curate David Craig Katrina Dukelow Jennifer Johnston Elizabeth Leonard Dawn Macartney Elizabeth McCaughey Moranne Noad Roberta Rogers 13
SUNDAY SCHOOL NOTES Sunday 1st May
10.30am All age Worship
Sunday 8th May
10.30am Sunday School
Sunday 15th May
9.30am Family Communion
Sunday 22nd May
10.30am Sunday School
Sunday 29th May
10.30am Sunday School
The last two months have seen an increase in the under five numbers and in the attendance in the top two age groups, which is very encouraging. At the last Family Service we tried to involve the children more by asking Sophie to sing a solo in “If I were a butterfly”. She was brilliant and everyone said how successful this had been, so if our numbers continue to remain high we hope to do this every month. It is incredible how fast this year has gone so here is a note for the diary. Please remember the young people’s prize day on Sunday, 12th June, and try to keep it free so that we have full attendance of all our young people. Our best wishes go to the girls from the top age group who are to be confirmed on Sunday, 29th May. Beth Cairnduff
MU ACTIVITY GROUP
ST. COLUMBA’S BBQ AND BARN DANCE Attention everyone, we in the Activity Group need your help! We would like any unwanted gifts or items for the Tombola which will be held at the forthcoming BBQ/Barn dance on Friday, 10th June, at 7.00pm in aid of the Church Building Fund. We would appreciate any items in good condition such as toiletries (ladies and gents), jewellery, wine, photo frames, napkins, beakers, gloves, jigsaws, knick-knacks and anything else that you would be willing to donate for the Tombola. A shopping trolley will be placed at the back of the church for these items. Your help will be much appreciated and we look forward to a fun night for everyone! Thank you. Jenny and Joyce 14
PERSPECTIVE
AFTERNOON GROUP On the 9th of May we are going out, We are off to Bangor, or thereabout. The coach leaves the car park exactly at noon, If all will be early that would be a boon!
One day, the father of a very wealthy family took his son on a visit to the country with the express purpose of showing him how poor people lived. They spent a couple of days and nights on the farm of a ‘poor’ family. On returning from the trip the father asked his son: “How was the trip?”
So hurry up now and book your seat, If the weather is fine you are in for a treat. And if you have friends who would like to come, Do bring them along to join in the fun!
“It was great, Dad.”
I shall rhyme no more until September, But the 12th of that month is one to remember. Ian Noad will be with us to tell what he’s seen Of the Holy Land where I also have been.
“Did you see how poor people live?” “Oh yeah,” said the son. “So tell me, what did you learn?” asked the Dad. “We have one dog, they have four. We have a pool in the middle of the garden, they have a river that has no end. We have imported lanterns in our garden and they have the stars at night. Our patio reaches to the garden at the back but they have the whole horizon. We have a small piece of land to live on and they have fields that go beyond our sight. We have servants to serve us but they serve others. We buy our food but they grow theirs. We have walls around us to protect us, they have friends to protect them.”
Have a lovely summer, everyone! Nan
The boy’s father was speechless, as his son added: “Thanks, Dad, for showing me how poor we are.” Isn’t perspective a wonderful thing? 15
Hello Ladies, As we rapidly approach our break for the summer season, there are only two items of which I need to remind you. The Triennial Elections, which are kindly being chaired by our Rector, will be held on Tuesday, 3rd May, and as already emphasised, this is a very important date for us. Please do come along and contribute to electing the Committee you want to serve St Columba’s Mothers’ Union. I have already received quite a few names for our outing to Belfast Castle on Tuesday, 21st June, and if you wish to go and haven’t already given me your name, please let me know as soon as you can. Thanks a lot, girls. On behalf of our Branch Leader, Kathleen, and the Committee, I would just like to finish by congratulating our four new members who were enrolled into Mothers’ Union on Sunday, 3rd April. It was a lovely service and thanks go to the Rector, Kathleen and Roberta, our Diocesan President, for officiating at it. We wish Barbara, Jill, May and Pearl every blessing and many happy years of membership and friendship in Mothers’ Union. I would leave them, and indeed all Mothers’ Union members, with this thought. It is one of many quoted by Roberta and with her permission I think it is indeed appropriate on this occasion. “Exercise daily - walk with God and run from the devil”. Irene
LADIES BOWLING Our season finished with the playing of the final for the Eileen Madill Shield. Molly Clarke and Jean Lockhart emerged as winners, with Essie Chambers and Fiona Elliott runners up. The Rector came down and presented the Shield. Our thanks to him and to Robert for their interest. Also a big thank you to members of the Men’s Club, especially John Robb, who put the mats down for us each Monday. On Monday, 28th March, 12 members went to the Point restaurant for lunch and fellowship – most enjoyable! We hope to resume in September and would welcome new members. Thanks to everyone who attended regularly throughout the season. Phyllis
MARITAL ADVICE TO MEN To keep your marriage brimming with love in the wedding cup. When you’re wrong, admit it, and when you’re right, shut up! Ogden Nash 16
MOTHERS’ DAY The Mothers’ Day service this year was very special for members of the Mothers’ Union. Kathleen Acheson, MU Branch Leader, presented four ladies from St Columba’s to be enrolled into the organisation by Down and Dromore Mothers’ Union President, Roberta Rogers. In addition, Roberta was delighted to present certificates honouring 51 years of membership with Mothers’ Union to May Preston and Maureen Duke, an outstanding achievement. Continuing our series of Lenten services, the preacher was Mrs Liz Miller, wife of Harold Miller, Bishop of Down and Dromore, who talked about the Joy of Family, as well as its attendant difficulties, with reference in particular to the morning readings from 1 Samuel 1: 20-28 and Luke 2: 33-35. It was especially appropriate that this year’s Mothering Sunday should also have included a service of Holy Baptism for Alexander, son of John and Lauren Kerr. After the service, members of the Mothers’ Union served tea, coffee and shortbread at the back of the church to parishioners who in turn contributed generously to the Building Fund. < Enrolment photograph (left to right): Pearl Malone, Barbara Gibson, Kathleen Acheson, MU Branch Leader, May Morrow, the Revd John Auchmuty, Jill Gillespie, Roberta Rogers, MU Diocesan President, Down and Dromore
> Presentation Photograph (left to right): the Revd John Auchmuty, Kathleen Acheson, MU Branch Leader, May Preston, Maureen Duke, Roberta Rogers, MU Diocesan President, Down and Dromore. 17
GEORGE BROCKERTON - MOTOR CYCLE RACER, WAR HERO AND ENTERTAINER EXTRAORDINAIRE We are immensely grateful to parishioner, Paddy Brockerton, for allowing us a brief insight into some of the adventurous and highly colourful events in the life of his late father, George. Many parishioners will also remember George’s late wife, Phyllis (Paddy’s mother), a regular worshipper at St. Columba’s and active member of the Mothers’ Union and the Afternoon Group. George Brockerton, one of a large family of three boys and four girls, was born in 1898, his grandfather having moved to Northern Ireland from Devonshire in 1876. He grew up in Coleraine where he learnt to ride motorcycles at the age of twelve and followed his father into the army during the First World War, signing up as a despatch rider. “No one could run the gauntlet of road barrages better than he and it was no surprise when he roared first over the finishing line in the Army TT at St. Polin in 1915, winning the trophy with ease.” Back home in peace time and out on the road as the first scout for the RAC, a role in which he excelled, George’s motor cycling career really took off. In the company of contemporary aces such as Stanley Woods, Jimmy Guthrie and Joe Craig he won endless events both here and in the Isle of Man TT’s during the 1920’s, including the Ulster 500cc and Irish 500cc Championships and the Ulster Grand Prix in 1928 on a 1000cc Zenith. Along with such famous names as Hazlett Reid, Charlie Reid, and Malcolm McQuigg, he raced in the first North West 200 in 1929 and thereafter was associated with the event through his membership of the Coleraine and District Motor Cycle club. The North West 200 remains by far the largest and most colourful sporting occasion in Ireland today, held each year on the north coast between Portstewart and Portrush in the month of May. George was also the only Irishman to have the honour of being awarded a Brooklands Gold Star for lapping the famous circuit at over 100mph in the late 20’s. Not just content with winning races, George took on some extraordinary ‘wagers’ in his day, once riding from Portrush to Glengormley without touching the handlebars with his hands (traffic jams and cattle herds were the permitted exceptions!), thereby earning the princely sum of £50. On another occasion, in response to a request for a ‘spectacular’ by an American cameraman during the making of a film about the Antrim Coast, George volunteered to ride his motorcycle across the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge. The handlebars were too 18
wide for the narrow rope bridge so George simply borrowed a hacksaw from a local farmer and cut them off, before roaring over the swaying bridge and back again, triumphantly pocketing £100! During the 1930’s, Jack Delino’s Wall of Death in Portrush (Barry’s) was a huge attraction and after George had entered a challenge competition and successfully pulled off the dare devil feat to the delight of the local crowd, he took the show all over Ireland and then on to Holland, where he performed the stunt with the film star, Anna May Wong, perched on the handlebars. From there, George moved to Italy where he became a partner in the Wall of Death show that had by now become part of a travelling circus. George befriended the lion tamer and his lion, ‘Leo’, and built a side car large enough to accommodate the noble beast. It must have been an extraordinary sight to behold George whizzing round and round the Wall of Death with the erstwhile king of the jungle sitting majestically beside him! George laconically described his feline passenger as “not a bad old scout, but a bit too robust in his playful moods.” When giving a motorcycling exhibition at Mussolini’s World Fair at Barri, in the heel of Italy, George was introduced to the great dictator who linked arms with him and strolled around the stadium in front of the cheering crowds. As an extension of the Wall of Death he also designed his own touring ‘Globe of Death’, a spherical cage globe custom built by Harland and Wolff to accommodate his dare devil antics. With the onset of World War Two, George signed up once again and became a sergeant instructor to despatch riders attached to the Antrim Searchlight Regiment (nick-named ‘Brockerton’s Circus’). The War Illustrated newspaper records in the issue for July 5th 1940 that George saved the lives of 81 servicemen at Dunkirk. The first details of the rescue appeared in a letter addressed to the Daily Express by ‘a Lucky Batch from Flanders’, describing how 81 men had been trapped by bombing in an underground cellar without any means of escape. Shouting at the tops of their voices to attract attention they first heard the sound of somebody digging followed eventually by a terrific explosion, which blew a hole open wide enough for them to scramble through to safety. Their rescuer led them to the cover of some nearby trenches, miraculously producing wine, tinned food and cakes and then proceeding to entertain them with a display of conjuring tricks! They started to thank him but he wouldn’t listen or give them his name, saying, “That’s my hobby, risking my life and stopping on the edge of things. I get a good kick out of life that way.” George was to say afterwards on leave back in England: “I stuck French hand-grenades into the wall, pulled the pins and dived underneath my lorry. That was the one thing that really gave me the jitters because I didn’t know how long a French grenade takes to go off after the 19
pin is pulled out.” In fact, George was to go on that day to rescue a further 20 wounded men from the beach and transport them to a first-aid station, before driving four or five miles out of Dunkirk, camouflaging the lorry and falling asleep in a haystack. The next morning some French soldiers gave him coffee but on the way back to the beach the lorry was destroyed by German bombs, George escaping in the nick of time by diving into a ditch. Nevertheless, he continued to help the wounded on the Dunkirk beaches for another week. “You see, I was a despatch rider in the last war, so I was used to being shot at by the Jerries...” George was never decorated for his bravery but his wife, Phyllis, later campaigned for him to receive the Dunkirk Medal and it was awarded to him posthumously years after the war. During the early 1950’s, George travelled around in a mobile cinema taking the thrills of the Wild West and the delights of Broadway to the people in the villages and townlands of Ulster. He resurrected his magic act and entertained audiences in a room off Portrush’s main street and in hotels. At the age of 50, George once again took up competitive racing on his home made motorcycle which he nicknamed ‘the Bitza’ - made up of bits of this and bits of that! He went on to win many more races, including the 75 Mile Championship of Ulster and other trophies galore, completing his career with a win at the Ards Motor Cycle Club airfield races. After his death in 1965, his family presented ‘the Bitza’ to the Ulster Transport Museum where it can still be seen today. George is buried in Agherton within sight and sound of the original North West 200. Always a ‘larger than life’ character, the stories about his extraordinary adventures were legion. Even today they live on. It was recently announced that images of George will feature alongside Scarlett Johansson and Matt Damon in the new 20th Century Fox production of ‘We Bought a Zoo’, due to be released in the UK at the end of this year. In the film, double-Oscar winner Matt Damon plays eccentric journalist, Benjamin Mee, whose memoirs about his trials and tribulations after buying a rundown zoo on the south of England were turned into a screenplay. The journalist wrote in his memoirs that the zoo had a healing effect on him following the death of his wife, besides which Mee also admitted to being a great admirer of his sporting motorcycle hero. What a unique tribute to George, and clearly a ‘must view’ film for all St. Columba’s parishioners when it comes to Belfast! Based on extracts from ‘George Brockerton – A Man of Many Parts’, by Jennifer Cunningham 20
PRESENTATION TO BRYN HARRIS Bryn Harris has served St. Columba’s and the Church of Ireland with distinction as a Diocesan Lay Reader. His carefully prepared services, sermons and prayers have offered support and encouragement to many people both in our parish and in parishes throughout the Church of Ireland. As a token of his most faithful ministry in St. Columba’s the Rector presented Bryn with a pen and pencil set on behalf of the Select Vestry and parishioners. He also presented flowers to Thelma. The Rector thanked Bryn for all his support and assured him that he would always be welcome to assist with church services in the future.
HAPPY 400th BIRTHDAY! On Monday, 2nd May, it will be exactly 400 years since the King James Version of the Bible was first published. The Authorised Version, as it is also known, has sold more than one billion copies since it was first published in 1611. It is arguable that there has been no more important single publication, as its impact on culture and language over the last 400 years has been huge around the world. Not only has it inspired great art, music and literature, it has changed lives and shaped whole societies.
BROWNIE NOTES We are still busy with recent activities which included making pancakes and tossing them for Shrove Tuesday (thankfully none hit the floor!), making presents for Mothers’ Day which seemed to have been very well received by the Mums, and our Easter egg hunt at our Easter party. We are currently planning the Brownie Pack Holiday which we hope will take place over the Whitsunday weekend, as well as preparing our outdoor badges for the remainder of the year (provided the good weather stays with us). As stated in the Rector’s report at the Annual Vestry, the increase in numbers this year has been very encouraging but don’t forget we can certainly take more. If anyone is thinking of joining us next year why not come along for the last couple of meetings this year to see the activities we do and get to know everyone? Beth Cairnduff 21
SURFERS AHOY! Over the course of June we plan to run several “Surfer” classes on the back of the very successful “Silver Surfers” held in January. You will notice that we have dropped the word “Silver”! These events are open to everyone of any age who wants to find out more about using computers and the internet. “Facebook and Twitter - what on earth are they?” Choose either Tuesday, 7th June 7:30 - 9:30pm or Wednesday, 8th June 2:00-4:00pm “Digital Photography - what can you do after you have taken the photo?” Choose either Tuesday, 14th June 7:30 - 9:30pm or Wednesday, 15th June 2:00-4:00pm “Internet for Beginners” (to include basics of e-mail and a tour of the internet) Choose either Tuesday, 21st June 7:30 - 9:30pm or Wednesday, 22nd June 2:00-4:00pm Each session will last for two hours and will include a break for coffee and biscuits halfway through. It will be conducted at a very relaxed pace and you can choose to come to one, two or all three sessions. Sign up sheets will be at the back of church for the whole month of May and everyone is welcome! Please indicate if you are prepared to bring a laptop with you. However, don’t worry if you cannot as some will be provided on a first come first served basis. Robert
PARISH ANNUAL ACCOUNTS Copies of the Parish Annual Accounts for the Year to 31st December 2010, as presented at the Annual Easter General Vestry Meeting on Monday, 4th April 2011, are available at the rear of the church.
FLEETING SHOW This world is all a fleeting show, For man’s illusion given. The smiles of joy, the tears of woe, Deceitful shine, deceitful flow, There’s nothing true but heaven. Thomas More 22
HERITAGE CHURCHES OF IRELAND ST. PATRICK’S CATHEDRAL, KILLALA Among the great legacies of the Church of Ireland – not least its spiritual one – is the heritage in its places of worship that are located throughout the country, both north and south. Many of these churches are of great local interest and antiquity, and each have their own stories to tell. In this occasional series, we will visit and explore some of them. If our readers wish to relate details of more of these places, please write about them and submit your work to the editor! Our journey begins out west in the village of Killala, Co. Mayo, which provides its name to the broad sweep of the bay that also fringes Co. Sligo on its eastern shore. The influence locally of St. Patrick gives his name to the cathedral here which dates to the late 14th century. However, wars and turmoil during the mid 17th century saw much damage to the building and, owing to its later reconstruction, the present cathedral dates largely from the late 17th and early 18th centuries. Interestingly, it is among the smallest cathedrals in Ireland. The cathedral was witness to the dramatic events in Killala of August 1798 when a French fleet put ashore troops there in a belated attempt to help the United Irishmen’s uprising of earlier that year, and who then garrisoned the village for a month. It is also within a short walk of an imposing round tower that tells of a former monastic community here. A souterrain, or man-made underground passage and possible place of refuge, is also located within the grounds of the cathedral and this feature may have associations with pre-Christian times. But the cathedral’s most remarkable asset is its organ – one of only a few surviving that were made by the master builder of his day, William Telford of Dublin, in the 1830s. I was accidentally privileged to hear it being played by a music student when I paid a visit to the cathedral while wandering around Killala one August afternoon in 2007. I listened to the lovely music while seated in another special feature of the cathedral – its distinctive box pews. Killala and its cathedral is therefore a place of great antiquity and is recommended to anyone on holiday in the area this coming summer. It lies about ten miles north of Ballina on the road to Ballycastle, which soon turns westward along the spectacular north Mayo coast all the way to Belmullet and Broadhaven Bay. Ballina is a major centre for game fishing thanks to the salmon that swim upstream on the River Moy from the nearby ocean. But if an ice cream or, for the truly brave-hearted, a dip in the sea takes your fancy, nearby Enniscrone with its vast surf beach will not disappoint on either account. Ivan Maginis 23
PERKS OF THE OVER 60’S In a hostage situation you are likely to be released first. No one expects you to run... anywhere. Your eyes won’t get much worse. People no longer view you as a hypochondriac. Things you buy now won’t wear out. You get into a heated argument about pension plans. You no longer think of speed limits as a challenge. You stop trying to hold your stomach in no matter who walks into the room. You sing along with the elevator music. Your joints are more accurate meteorologists than the weather service. There is nothing left to learn the hard way. Your secrets are safe with your friends because they can’t remember them either.
GROUNDS MAINTENANCE – THE PLAN IS WORKING... The grounds maintenance plan is proving a great success! This time last year, the Select Vestry gave every parishioner the opportunity to “adopt” their little piece of St. Columba’s. The church grounds were divided up into sixteen areas (as per adjacent plan) and volunteers came forward to take on responsibility for the regular maintenance of each. The results are plain to see – we are managing to keep our grounds up to the very neat-and-tidy state achieved for our Flower Festival. The Grounds Maintenance Plan is overseen by the Vestry Property Committee consisting of the Rector, the Glebe Wardens and Brian Acheson (Tel: 02890 424892 or 07766 057473). Brian is contacting the 2010 volunteers to re-confirm their commitment and would also be delighted to hear from any additional parishioners willing to volunteer for the first time, or who would like to receive further information.
GROUNDS MAINTENANCE PLAN GUIDELINES The Grounds Maintenance Plan operates with a few simple guidelines: • The list of volunteers will be refreshed each spring (so you don’t need to commit for more than a year); • Volunteers will be expected to look over their area regularly and undertake maintenance work, as required; • If heavier work is necessary, volunteers may seek the assistance of others through the Property Committee; and • Volunteers should maintain their area in its current state and not seek to change its character, without the involvement of the Property Committee. Vestry Property Committee 24
Church Grounds Maintenance Plan
Ref
Description
Tasks
1
Front hedge/lawn
Cutting hedge, maintaining lawn edges
2
Front small bed
Pruning shrubs, weeding
3
Left hedge/bed - 1
Cutting hedge, pruning shrubs, weeding
4
Left hedge/bed - 2
Cutting hedge, pruning shrubs, weeding
5
Left hedge/bed - 3
Cutting hedge, pruning shrubs, weeding
6
Paviers at front
Weed killing, sweeping, cleaning
7
Car park
Weed killing, sweeping, cleaning
8
Paths/stones at rear of church
Weed killing, sweeping, cleaning
9
Hedges at car park
Cutting hedge
10
Paths and planters around church lawn
Weed killing, sweeping, cleaning paths. Bedding plants in planters
11
Bed at rear of church
Pruning shrubs, weeding, bedding plants
12
Signs and gates
Washing and painting gates and frame of church signage
13
Large bed at rear of choir vestry
Pruning shrubs, weeding
14
Path, steps and ramp to hall
Weed killing, sweeping, cleaning
15
Steps at left side of hall
Weed killing, sweeping, cleaning
16
Path and steps at left side of hall
Weed killing, sweeping, cleaning 25
SUMMER MAGAZINES: REVISED TIMINGS Please note, the June parish magazine this year will also include details for the first two Sundays in July (ie. up to and including Sunday, 10th July), thus making it effectively a six week magazine as opposed to the usual four weeks. Consequently, the July/August parish magazine will be slightly shorter than normal, commencing with details of events from Sunday, 17th July, and running through until the end of August, making it approximately a six week edition instead of the usual eight weeks. The June/July magazine will be available for collection by parishioners at the back of the church on Sunday, 29th May, as normal; and the July/August magazine will be available for collection by parishioners on Sunday, 10th July (instead of Sunday, June 26th). I sincerely hope that the above arrangements will cause the minimum of inconvenience to our readers, contributors and magazine distributors alike. Ed.
SCRIBBLING...
DATES FOR YOUR DIARY
Why are thoughts so vagrant? Even when I pray They fly off at a tangent - forgive me.
Parish BBQ and Barn Dance (see also page 9)
Lord God, gather my wandering wool, Where it is knotted, teach me to untangle it, Where it is smooth, weave it, Knit it and use the happiness in it To lighten anotherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s load.
I am not a wool-gatherer, Rather a wool-scatterer.
Friday, 10th June
Saturday, 10th September All Ages Sponsored Walk (Comber Greenway) followed by BBQ at St. Columbaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s
I am a wool-scatterer, Help me to scatter it kindly. Joyce Stock
Friday, 4th November Parish Wine Tasting
All proceeds towards the Church Building Fund Watch this space for further details! 26
Kids Word Search!
27
FUTURE WORLD POPULATION The world’s population is both growing and ageing. The total population in 2010 was estimated at 6.9 billion people by the United Nations Population Unit, and is expected to increase to 7.6 billion by 2020 and to 9.2 billion by 2050, a net growth rate of 190,000 people per day over the next decade and 150,000 per day thereafter. Half of the increase in population between 2010 and 2050 will be across nine countries which are, in order of contribution to the increase, India, Pakistan, Nigeria, Ethiopia, United States, Democratic Republic of Congo, United Republic of Tanzania, China and Bangladesh. Four of these countries are in Asia, and four in Africa. Only one, the United States, is in the developed world. A quarter of the world’s nations, 45 in all, are expected to see their population decrease over the period, 17 by at least 10%. Between 1990 and 2010 the number of Christians in the developing world increased from 940 million to 1,400 million, an increase of 50% or the equivalent of 64,000 extra Christians per day. In the same period, the number of Christians in the developed world increased from 810 million to 860 million, just 6% or the equivalent of 7,000 extra Christians per day, some of them immigrants. A former mission worker in Asia, Rosemary Dowsett, said, “Asia is awash with both economic immigrants/emigrants and those moving away from persecution – the movements are multi-directional, break families apart, and leave churches wondering how to deal with members who are involved in multiple families. There are communities where all the men have left or conversely, as in the Philippines, churches where a high proportion of mothers have left to earn money in, say, the Middle East as maids. Many churches have lost all their potential leaders, a serious problem worldwide.”
“Haven’t you one with a white neck?”
28
JUNE MAGAZINE Please note, any articles or photographs for publication in the extended June parish magazine should be handed or e-mailed to the editor by 6.00pm at latest on Sunday, 15th May. Please also see the separate notice on page 26 for further details of the revised timings for the June and July/August summer magazines. Many thanks
FLOWER ROTA FOR APRIL Sunday 1st ................................................ Ella Wilkinson Sunday 8th ............................................... Sandra Gordon Sunday 15th ............................................. Moranne Noad Sunday 22nd ............................................ Roberta Rogers Sunday 29th ............................................. Diana Noble
FROM THE REGISTERS Our Joys Holy Baptism Sunday 3rd April
Alexander James Kerr 7 Lead Hill Park, Belfast Our Sorrows
Christian Burial Wednesday 30th March
Annie Margaret Uprichard 14 Ascot Park
Wednesday 6th April
Florence McCullough Mount Lens Nursing Home, Kingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Road formerly of 10 Cabin Hill 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 they already know the information as situations have occurred recently when they have not been informed. Please telephone the Rector (028 90471514) or the Curate (028 90653370) to enable them to take careful note of the details. 29
PARISH ORGANISATIONS SOMETHING FOR YOU? SUNDAY 10.30am Sunday School (2nd, 4th, 5th Sundays) Bubbles (3-5 years) Louise Craig 90472512 Patricia Wilson 90401066 Splash (5-8 years) Joyce Stephenson 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 2.00pm Ladies Bowling Phyllis Newton 90482113 2.30p.m. Afternoon Group (2nd Monday) May Preston 90489884 7.30pm Men’s Club John Robb 90581438 TUESDAY 10.30am Ladies Badminton Eithne Hobson 90797793
WEDNESDAY 7.30pm Bible Study Group Trevor Buchanan 90657697 7.45pm Ladies Guild (3rd Wednesday) Lilias Smith 90592039 8.00pm Senior Badminton Club Jill Spratt 07754 405511 THURSDAY 9.30am Art Club Bob Killen
90790210
7.30pm Senior Badminton Club Jill Spratt 07754 405511 7.45pm Choir Practice Gerald Hill 90422101 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
2.00pm Ladies Badminton Kyleen Clarke 90797155
6.30pm Brownies Beth Cairnduff
90874047
8.00pm Mothers’ Union (1st Tuesday) Irene Gray 90653438
8.30pm H2O Mark Wilson
90761040
8.00pm Activity Group (except 1st Tuesday) Maureen Irwin 90795155
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, Alan Rogers, on 90656183 30
WHO’S WHO IN ST. COLUMBA’S PARISH WEBSITE: www.stcolumbas.down.anglican.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
CURATE The Revd Robert Ferris The Curatage 3 Sandown Park South BT5 6HE Tel 028 90653370 Email rferris281@gmail.com robert@stcolumbasyouth.org
SELECT VESTRY Rector, Curate, Churchwardens, Glebewardens, Hon. Secretary, Hon. Treasurer, Asst. Hon. Treasurer, Brian Acheson, Helen Donaghy, Victor Dukelow, Patrick Good, Jennifer Johnston, Elizabeth Leonard, Moranne Noad, Roberta Rogers, Linda Wilson
PARISH READER Karen McAlpine 10 Old Quay Court Holywood BT18 OHT Tel 028 90424390
HON. SECRETARY & PREMISES CONVENOR 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 Jill Gillespie 8 Stormont Park BT4 3GX Tel 028 90876916
ASST. HON. TREASURER/GIFT AID SECRETARY/FREE WILL OFFERING Murray Hunter 13 Knockdarragh Park BT4 2LE Tel 028 90761295
PEOPLE’S CHURCHWARDEN Ronny Martin 12 Cyprus Gardens BT5 6FB Tel 028 90654301
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 31
ORGANIST AND CHOIRMASTER Gerald Hill 6 The Coaches Brown’s Brae, Croft Road Holywood BT18 OLE Tel 028 90422101
MAGAZINE DISTRIBUTOR CO-ORDINATOR John Holland Greengraves Cottage 8 Ballyrogan Park, Newtownards BT23 4SD Tel 028 91814036 PARISH WEBMASTER Ivan Roche 49 Richhill Park BT5 6HG Tel 028 95140141 Email ivan@treadmillcommunications.com
ASSISTANT ORGANIST Brian Clements 150 Sandown Road BT5 6GX Tel 028 90793641
C of I GAZETTE DISTRIBUTOR Ruth Pugh 147A King’s Road BT5 7EG Tel 028 90483459
READERS & INTERCESSORS CO-ORDINATOR Muriel Arndell 18 Kinedar Crescent BT4 3LY Tel 028 90655500
BIBLE READING FELLOWSHIP NOTES Evan Preston 12 Carrowreagh Gardens Dundonald BT16 ITW Tel 028 90489884
SIDESPERSONS’ ROTA CO-ORDINATOR Rosemary Coffey 44 Thornyhill Road Killinchy BT23 6SJ Tel 028 97542198
CHURCH FLOWERS Paddy Nesbitt 30 Knockhill Park BT5 6HY Tel 028 90650716
CRÈCHE ROTA CO-ORDINATOR Daphne Nelson 14 Rosepark BT5 7RG Tel 028 90483889
ST. COLUMBA’S PARISH OFFICE Office Hours Wednesday & Friday 8.30am – 1.30pm Parish Secretary: Janet Johnston 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 Patrick Good Elizabeth Leonard 32
028 9047 1514 028 9065 6908 028 9065 3162