September 2010
RECTOR’S LETTER Dear Parishioner, SAY ‘YES’ TO SUPPORTING ST. COLUMBA’S! The story is told of a young boy who fell out of bed. When his mother went to lift him up, she asked, “What happened?” Having thought for a moment, he said, “I think I stayed too near to the point where I got in!” That young boy was indeed wise beyond his years in that reply. By staying too near the edge, he had the unpleasant experience of falling onto the floor. As pilgrim people we must continue to move forward together in faith, otherwise we run the great risk of staying too near to the point where we got in - at our baptism. We can do this by making a strong commitment to attend church regularly and to participate in our Parish activities as we return refreshed from our holidays. This will provide us with the resources we need to grow stronger as a Parish and in the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ. In order to ensure that St. Columba’s continues to meet your individual needs, I would be grateful if you could: • COMPLETE THE ENCLOSED PRO FORMA and place it in the box on the table at the back of church during September. This will identify new ways in which you can contribute to the life and ministry of St. Columba’s. You will also be able to request specific information about how you can serve the Parish more effectively. • SHARE YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS with the Parish Office. Please send an email with address on the subject line to the Parish Office at office.knock@down.anglican.org when you receive this edition of the Columban. This will ensure that you receive relevant Parish news in a cost effective manner. Your email address will not be passed on to any other individual or outside organisation. As we begin our autumn programme of activities, I encourage you to say ‘yes’ to supporting St. Columba’s, particularly if you haven’t been attending for some time. Let us all thank God for His many gifts and respond positively to those gifts by each one of us making a renewed commitment to participate to the very best of our ability in the life of St. Columba’s. I assure you of a warm welcome and look forward to your support. Yours in His service,
FINANCIAL MATTERS OF THE PARISH Dear Parishioners, On behalf of the Select Vestry and Clergy, I am writing this letter to every family who are members of St. Columba’s to advise them of the current state of the financial affairs of the parish. If the monthly income given through the Free Will Offering Scheme and the Loose Plate Collections remains at its present level, our incurring costs are likely to exceed income by over £30,000 by the end of the year. Contributions to the Building Fund, the Missions and Charities Fund and other Special Collections cannot, and will not, be used to pay for any of the general running costs of the parish. What are the general running costs? They include Clergy salaries and pension contributions, Diocesan levies, lay salaries, general building maintenance, heat and light, rates and insurance, as well as offices expenses including magazine printing costs, together with a host of other smaller amounts. We have a parish consisting of 550 families. Of these, 325 families contribute very generously to the general running costs either by FWO Envelopes or Banking Standing Orders. Giving in this manner enables the Gift Aid Secretary to claim back Income Tax from the Inland Revenue which last year amounted to £21,608, and which also assists your Select Vestry to budget for the paying of the general expenses. Some of the other 225 families may contribute to the Loose Plate Collections that amounted to £3091 last year. However, many do not contribute financially to the parish in any manner whatsoever. We would appeal to these families to rediscover the joy of giving and contribute towards the ministry of their church. To maintain the high level of Clergy support and excellent church facilities at St. Columba’s, it is absolutely necessary that all families support the church in every possible way, i.e. attending church, supporting the parish organisations and contributing financially to the parish. We trust the information in this letter will encourage every parish family to share the responsibility of facing up to our current financial problems. May the grace of God be with you. Yours sincerely, Murray Hunter (Assistant Treasurer, Free Will Offering and Gift Aid Secretary)
SERVICES IN SEPTEMBER Thurs 2nd (Green) 10.30am Holy Communion followed by refreshments in the Choir Vestry Sun 5th 8.15am 10.30am 7.00pm
The Fourteenth Sunday after Trinity Holy Communion Reader Paul Stewart Gospel Clergy All Age Worship & Holy Baptism Commissioning of Youth Leaders Reader Beth Cairnduff Evening Prayer Reader Fiona Haldane Reader Fiona Haldane Occasional Karen McAlpine Prayers
(Green)
Thurs 9th 10.30am
The Birth of the Blessed Virgin Mary (Transferred) (White) Holy Communion followed by refreshments in the Choir Vestry
Sun 12th 8.15am 10.30am 7.00pm
The Fifteenth Sunday after Trinity Holy Communion Reader Leonard Pugh Gospel Clergy Holy Communion Reader Linda Wilson Gospel Karen McAlpine Intercessions Gina Greeves Compline Reader Clare Best
Philemon 1-21 Luke 14: 25-33 Luke 14: 25-33 Isaiah 43:14 – 44:5 John 5: 30-47
(Green) 1 Timothy 1: 12-17 Luke 15: 1-10 1 Timothy 1: 12-17 Luke 15: 1-10 John 6: 51-69
Thurs 16th (Green) 10.30am Holy Communion followed by refreshments in the Choir Vestry Sun 19th 8.15am 9.30am 10.30am 7.00pm
The Sixteenth Sunday after Trinity Holy Communion Reader Trevor Buchanan Gospel Clergy Family Communion Gospel Karen McAlpine Morning Prayer Reader Clare Best Reader Jennifer Pyper Occasional Roberta Rogers Prayers Holy Communion Reader Graeme Stevenson Gospel Karen McAlpine
(Green) 1 Timothy 2:1-7 Luke 16: 1-13 Luke 16: 1-13 Jeremiah 8:18 -9:1 Luke 16: 1-13
Ezra 1 John 7: 14-36
Thurs 23rd 10.30am
St. Matthew (Transferred) (Red) Holy Communion followed by refreshments in the Choir Vestry
Sun 26th
The Seventeenth Sunday after Trinity
(Green)
Back to Church Sunday 8.15am 10.30am 7.00pm
Holy Communion Reader Muriel Arndell Gospel Clergy Service of the Word followed by refreshments Reader John Holland Prayers Muriel Arndell Evening Prayer Reader Jennifer Johnston Reader Jennifer Johnston
Thurs 30th 10.30am
St. Michael and All Angels (Transferred) (White) Holy Communion followed by refreshments in the Choir Vestry
1 Timothy 6: 6-19 John 1: 35-43 John 1: 35-43 Nehemiah 2 John 8:31-33, 48-59
Readers and Intercessors: If you cannot read or lead the prayers on the appointed day, please arrange a swap with someone else on the rota and let the Churchwardens know. We are always delighted to add new names to the Rota of Readers and Intercessors. If you would wish to serve your church in this way, please contact Muriel Arndell (028 90655500). The readings are from Year C of the Revised Common Lectionary and are printed on our parish website:
www.stcolumbas.down.anglican.org
PARISH PRAYER God, our Heavenly Father, make, we pray, the door of our Church wide enough to welcome all who need human love and fellowship and a Father’s care; but narrow enough to shut out all envy, pride and lack of love. 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
SUNDAY 26th SEPTEMBER St. Columba’s is one of over 4,000 churches participating in ‘Back to Church Sunday’ this year. Back to Church Sunday is now the largest single local-church invitational initiative in the world. It is based on the simplest and shortest step in evangelism - that we should invite someone we already know to our church. This will be a most important day in the life of our church as we welcome new people to St. Columba’s on Sunday, 26th September. In a recent survey it was stated that of all those who are currently not attending church, 50% would accept an invitation to go to church if someone asked them. Backing the initiative, the Archbishop of Canterbury, Dr Rowan Williams, says: “The Church’s responsibility to welcome all comers isn’t, of course, restricted to one Sunday in the year! But this Sunday, in particular, prompts us to do a better job of saying to people that we are truly glad to see newcomers and they always have a right to be part of the family…” Please take the ‘Back to Church Sunday’ Invitation Cards which are available at the rear of the church to invite your friend(s) to join us in St. Columba’s on Sunday, 26th September. Refreshments will be served after the 10.30am service. The Rector
SEPTEMBER SIDESPERSONS’ ROTA Sunday 5th........................................... Helen Proctor and Walter Peake Sunday 12th......................................... Patrick Good and Brian Gillespie Sunday 19th......................................... Irene Gray and Margaret McConkey Sunday 26th......................................... Meryl Townsend and Doreen Thompson
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.
CRÈCHE COMMENCING IN OCTOBER I have been very encouraged by the positive response to my suggestion to commence a Crèche in St. Columba’s for our younger parishioners. I am very grateful to those parishioners who have already offered to assist on a Crèche rota in the parish. I invite all those who would like to assist with the Crèche to meet with me in the Choir Vestry on Tuesday, 7th September, at 8pm. The Rector
DECORATING THE CHURCH FOR HARVEST Saturday, 2nd October, from 10.30am – 12.30pm No flower arranging skills necessary! Willingness to help is all that is required. Children and young families will be particularly welcome to help with the decorating. Refreshments in the Rectory!
HARVEST THANKSGIVING SERVICES SUNDAY 3rd OCTOBER 8.15am
Holy Communion
10.30am
All Age Worship followed by Harvest Lunch in the Hall
Preacher:
The Revd Canon John McKegney, Rector of St. Mark’s, Armagh
The children are invited to bring a Harvest gift to present during this service. 7pm
Choral Evensong
Preacher:
The Revd Nigel Kirkpatrick, Rector of St. Dorothea’s, Gilnahirk
LADIES BOWLING We look forward to the start of the Monday afternoon bowling on Monday, 20th September, at 2pm. Hope all our regulars will be back after a good outdoor season and it would be great to see some new members – no experience necessary! Phyllis Newton
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 September:
Rector Martinez Avenue Cloverhill Park Cyprus Avenue Cyprus Gardens Cyprus Park
Curate Dalton Glade Johnston Court Kensington Drive Kensington Gardens Kensington Gardens South
SUNDAY SCHOOL NOTES Another year is about to begin and to encourage new children to join us we are having a ‘Come and say hello to your Sunday School teacher’ on Sunday, 5th September, after the Service of All Age Worship. We will have examples of the Scripture Union resource material (called Light) on which we will be working throughout the year, and also examples of some of the exciting activities that last year’s children took part in... worksheets, dramas, quizzes, songs, music, crafts and much more! The Sunday School teachers and their groups are as follows: 3-5 years Bubbles Louise Craig 5-8 years Splash Joyce Stevenson 8-10 years X-treme Alan Boyd Over 10 years Grids Beth Cairnduff This year, we will be giving out rewards every term to those with the best attendance at Sunday School as well as the prizes awarded at the end of the year, with the names of these children being published in the magazine. So please bring along your children to the Hall on our first Sunday, 12th September, at 10.30am and join in the fun! Sunday School is open to all children , aged from 3 to 13 years 5th September
10.30am All age Worship
12th September
10.30am Sunday School
19th September
9.30am Family Communion
26th September
10.30am Sunday School Beth Cairnduff
ALL AGE WORSHIP TEA AND COFFEE Tea and coffee is back again at our All Age Worship Service on Sunday, 5th September. We shall be raising money for the people in Pakistan following the severe flooding which has left over three million people in need of urgent help, including one and a half million children. Medical camps are providing support to families affected, including antenatal care and immunisation against measles and tetanus. The situation is extremely challenging, access to many areas has been cut off by the rising waters and houses, schools, roads and vital supplies have been washed away. Did you know that £30 could provide vaccinations to protect more than 45 children against killer diseases and that £50 could provide water kits to supply five families with safe drinking water? So I hope to see you all back again for a cuppa and a chat, as well as support the millions of people who have been left homeless in Pakistan. Don’t forget I am always looking for organisations and charities in need of support, so if there is one that you would like to be represented at All Age Worship, just let know. Roberta
YOUTH PRAYER FOCUS - SEPTEMBER Where did the summer go? As we progress into a new term, we realise that all our young people are growing up so fast. Those who were in P7 last June now have new uniforms and have progressed into a new school; those who were in nursery are now in primary, and those who were in year 13 have moved on to other things. At the start of this new academic year let us re-commit ourselves to praying for these young people, who we know have struggles ahead and exams to prepare for. ‘Into thy hands, O Lord, we commend all those young people who are attending school this day, let thy presence be with them to its close. Help them to see that by doing their work they are doing thy will, and that by serving others they are serving you. In Jesus name we pray, Amen’ Robert
LADIES AFTERNOON BADMINTON The new season begins on Tuesday, 7th September, at 2.00pm in the Church Hall and new members will be most welcome, play being optional on a first visit! Kyleen Clarke
THE TWITTER INTERVIEW – THE CRÈCHE In the first of what will be a series of “twitter style” interviews with the Parish’s youth organizations, we will look at the essential details of each one, asking searching and relevant questions. The sole catch is that those who answer them have only 140 characters for each reply! When and where does the Crèche meet? The Crèche will be available each Sunday morning from October. What ages come along to the Crèche? All boys and girls under Sunday School age are more than welcome to come. Who are the leaders? At the moment we are drawing up a rota, if you are interested, just contact the Rector. All leaders are policed checked and trained. What do you do on a typical morning? Stories, toys, games and activities geared to the ages of those present. How many members do you have? That really depends on the Sunday – the Crèche is provided to allow parents to participate fully in morning worship. Are you looking for new members? Yes - everyone is welcome! Can members bring along friends? Yes - the more the merrier! If you were to describe Crèche in six words what would they be? Fun, colourful, exciting, lots of activities. Who should we contact for more information? The Rector.
DOVES We meet on Friday evenings at 6.30pm beginning again on September 10th. We look forward to having fun with any boys and girls, aged 3-6 years, who come to join us. We enjoy playing games, creating crafts, cooking, listening to stories and making music together! Karen 10
Hello ladies, Hope you’ve all had a lovely summer break, whether at home or abroad, and that it was great. Can’t believe we are almost into autumn and the start of our new season! Our first meeting is on Tuesday, 5th October, which will be our Annual Service in church, followed by refreshments. This is a lovely service and our Rector, John, and Curate, Robert, always ensure a beautiful start to our new season and for that we must give them our heartfelt thanks. The Mothers’ Union is very special and we who are members hold it very dear to our hearts. We extend a very warm welcome to any new members and would ask that anyone who is thinking about coming along, please do so, no matter what age you are, young or old, we would love to have you! The heart of our church is people and we ladies must play our part in showing that St Columba’s is a place where anyone can come to find friendship and love, and an ever open door. See you on October 5th! Your friend, Irene
THE AFTERNOON GROUP Our new session starts on Monday, 13th September, when “Lets talk” will be our opening subject. I look forward to seeing you all again. If you haven’t been to any of our meetings before, do come along. You will receive a warm welcome from all our members! May
CHILDREN’S LOGIC A father was at the beach with his children when his four year old son ran up to him, grabbed his hand, and led him to the shore where a seagull lay dead on the sand. “Daddy, what happened to him?” the son asked. “He died and went to Heaven,” the Dad replied. The boy thought for a moment and then said, “Did God throw him back down again?” 11
CHOIR PROFICIENCY TEST
Do you enjoy singing? Do you like to have a fun night out? Then why not share your talents with our Choir! To see if you are suitably qualified, just try the test below and check your rating… 1. You are entering the choir stalls on Sunday morning, suddenly trip and fall over. You should: a) Assume a kneeling position and break into fervent prayer b) Pretend that you have had a heart attack c) Crawl to the nearest chair d) Begin speaking in tongues 2.
You are a soprano and count incorrectly. As a result, you boom out a high ‘C’ one beat too soon. You should: a) Slide into an inspired ‘O For a Thousand Tongues to Sing’ b) Look triumphant and hold on to the note c) Stop abruptly in mid squawk but keep your lips moving d) Sink to the floor in shame
3. After endless hard choir practices, you show up twenty minutes late for the Carol Service. You should: a) Slink into the back row of the choir from the Vestry b) Enter pretending to be a soundman checking cables, and then slide between the stalls c) Turn out the lights and slip into your place during the blackout d) Consult the pamphlet ‘Techniques for Tardy Appearances’ 4. While singing, you discover you have only one page of a two page hymn. You should: a) Hum for your life b) Sing ‘watermelon, watermelon, watermelon’ c) Try to get another hymnal out of the choir rack with your feet d) Sing the first page over again
5.
Inevitably, that dreaded big sneeze occurs in the middle of a Choral Special. You should: a) As you sneeze, come down hard on your neighbour’s foot to create a diversion b) Try to make it harmonise c) Sneeze into the hair of the choir member in front of you to muffle the noise d) Swoon gracefully
Count the number of A’s, B’s, C’s and D’s you answered to find your proficiency rating below:Mostly A’ s: there is nothing more you need to know to be a first rate Choir member Mostly B’ s: your church chorister reflexes are fully developed and you should do well in the Choir Mostly C’s: your choral experience is limited but your team spirit is on target! You will be an asset to any Choir Mostly D’s: it is recommended you take up snooker, or possibly group therapy counselling Well, did you pass? 12
LADIES GUILD NOTES Dear Ladies, Hope you all had a good summer and are looking forward to the autumn as we have an interesting programme for you all! Our first meeting is on Wednesday, 15th September, at 7.45pm when Robert, our Curate, will entertain us with a programme entitled “Mission---Home and Away”, which is an intriguing title! On Friday, 24th September, along with the MU Activity Group, we are running a Parish Beetle Drive to raise money for the Building Fund. We are hoping to have lots of support from the Parish and a huge attendance, and would especially love to see our church families joining in for a fun night! Finally, on Wednesday, 20th October, Lynn McNutt is coming to talk to us on the work of Barnardo’s. So we have a full and varied start to the 2010-11 programme, and look forward so much to seeing our members and friends again. Lilias Smith
SUMMER MADNESS This year the Mothers’ Union were back again at Summer Madness in the Kings Hall, helping out this time with ‘Security’. Jennifer Johnston and I went along to do the early shift at 8.00am on Saturday, 2nd July. We had to make sure that everyone entering the Kings Hall grounds had a wrist band which allowed them access. As you can see from the photograph we had to be very careful who we allowed in! It was great fun and hopefully next year we can do the same, and perhaps more members will get involved. Roberta
BIBLE STUDY GROUP CINEMA VISIT Join the Bible Study Group at the Tudor Cinema, Comber, on Wednesday, 29th September, to see the classic film “Casablanca”. Tickets cost £10 each with money raised going to the Building Fund. For more information contact Patricia Wilson at 90401066. Hope to see you there. Patricia 13
M U ACTIVITY GROUP What a beautiful sunny day we had recently for our outing. First stop was Temple Golf Club where we had coffee on the veranda looking over the countryside, watching the golfers go by. We then headed to Dundrum Castle which had spectacular views of the Mournes. A few snaps were taken! The next step was to climb to the top of the castle and explore the surrounding grounds. Exhausted, we made our way down to the Buck’s Head for a leisurely lunch. To complete our day, we visited a few fashion shops in Ballynahinch and also sampled its excellent Maud’s ice cream. Unfortunately, the summer break always seems to go very quickly so I hope you have had a great holiday. All of a sudden, it’s time to look out those racquets, trainers and dictionaries etc., ready for a new season of scrabble and badminton. I look forward to meeting up with you on Tuesday, 14th September, at 8.00pm in the hall. Maureen
BROWNIE NOTES Last year was especially fun filled in the Brownies as we celebrated our 100th anniversary! We hope to continue this year with a similar programme of visits to exciting places such as the dome in Victoria Square, craft evenings, keep fit evenings, cookery nights as well as work for a number of different badges. To make this even more enjoyable we need to increase our numbers, particularly as we said goodbye to three of our older girls in June. We meet on a Friday evening from 6.30pm to 8pm and welcome girls aged 6 ½ to 10 years of age. So if your daughter is in this age group why not come along on our first evening on Friday, 10th September, and allow her to sample the activities we take part in! Beth Cairnduff
DATE FOR YOUR DIARY Sharon Elkin Presents an Absolutely Fabulous Evening of Autumn Fashion and Fun Friday, 8th October, starting at 8.00pm. Show produced by Sharon Elkin and Ranea Eves Donations on night towards the Parish Building Fund. 14
FINAL ANNOUNCEMENT! BEETLE DRIVE – FRIDAY, 24th SEPTEMBER IN THE CHURCH HALL The Ladies’ Guild and Activity Group are ever so excited, They hope and pray that on that day they all will be delighted To see parishioners, young and old, descending by the score On our Church Hall, where they’ll have a ball, on September 24. There’ll be craic and fun for everyone with supper, have no fear, We don’t want a few but all of you to the Beetle Drive of the Year! So please come along everyone. We’d love a “full” turn out (as in “big crowd”!!) Irene
PRAYER MINISTRY COURSE CONDUCTOR: The Revd Dr. Pat Mollan Church’s Ministry of Healing WHERE: The Choir Vestry WHEN: Wednesday 27th October Wednesday 3rd November Wednesday 10th November Wednesday 17th November TIME: 7.30pm – 9.30pm Please contact the Rector for further details. 15
St. Columba’s Youth Over the course of the past six months, I have been working alongside a small and brilliant team of parishioners, looking at all the younger age groups of our parish. We have been coming up with ideas and strategies as to how best to engage our younger parishioners and to include them; to encourage them and ensure that they know they have a place to which they can belong in St. Columba’s. We are very excited about the potential of this work and are putting our heart and soul into creating new and reinvigorating groups, so that the youth community of St. Columba’s can develop and flourish.
What does it all look like? Imagine... • A parish where parents feel happy to bring children into church • Where everyone is welcome • Where young people are involved in decision making • Where people of all ages can gather together for fellowship, worship and discipleship We are currently working on all of the above issues. However we realise that there is room to grow, room to communicate more effectively, room to encourage more people to become actively involved and to bring greater excitement to our ministry. Therefore, we have developed a plan of action involving all youth groups aged from 0 – 25 years.
Some immediate things you will see from September: Programme • Creation of a Crèche for babies • Creation of activities for our 20’s + age group • Issuing of an autumn winter programme for our youth group H20
Strategy. ......by Robert Ferris We wou ld be inter ested in hearing from an parishio y ners wh o would like to g et involv ed in any a spect o f our youth m inistry
Resources We will be looking at the resources which we use and need for the ministry in the various groups, and deciding on priorities.
Communication • Development of our youth website and social networking tools • Development of publicity materials for our current groups
Networking We know we cannot do this alone and time must be spent talking to others, building relationships and seeking expertise from those ‘in the know’.
Leadership One of the other key areas we would like to develop is the support of those involved in youth leadership in the parish. More information about training events and conferences for leaders will be available. Our long term vision is that our young people will grow in faith, in relationship with others and live life to the full. It is a big vision but God is a great big God and working together we will see this happen through the fruits of our labour.
We are most grateful that parishioner and Diocesan President of the Mothers’ Union of Down and Dromore, Roberta Rogers, has kindly agreed to share with us aspects of her recent fascinating visit to Albany in America.
ALBANY 2010 I was delighted to be part of the Down and Dromore team invited to visit our link Diocese in Albany this year to attend their annual Convention. There were 11 folk altogether from every corner of the Diocese and we first gathered at an evening hosted by Bishop Harold and Liz at See House, which enabled us all to get to know each other before we jetted off. We met at Aldergrove early on Wednesday, 9th June, and had a very good flight to Newark airport. We landed at 1.30pm local time and then had to make our way to Penn Station to catch our train to Albany. We arrived a little tired at 7.30pm which was really past midnight to us! Our hosts were there to meet us at the station along with Bishop Love, and we then headed off in many directions to where we were staying for a few days before the Convention began. I was lucky as my family lived only about 20 minutes from the station but others had another two hours to travel. My host family was the Revd Paul and Marilyn Carney. Paul is a Deacon in his parish church and also a police officer. Their adult son, who has learning difficulties and is also called Paul, stays with his parents two nights a week so I was able to meet him, and, in fact, we have become pen pals. On our first day we were taken to the Christ the King Spiritual Life Centre. This is a wonderfully peaceful place owned by the Diocese, set in over 600 acres with several lakes, miles of nature trails and outdoor activities for all seasons. They have summer camps, retreats, a Ministry of Healing and St Mary’s Convent overlooks the Centre. Under the inspiring leadership of Mother Miriam, the Sisters at the Convent live a common life of prayer, worship and agricultural work. The nuns have developed a very close relationship with the Diocese since they arrived in 2004, and we were able to visit them and enjoy afternoon tea together. They raise sheep, grow a wide selection of vegetables, keep bees and make beautiful greeting cards, all hand painted. They each have their own spinning wheel and spin the wool from cashmere goats which they also raise. 80% of what they eat, they grow! Convention began on Friday and ran right through until Sunday afternoon at the Camp of the Woods, a Christian resort and conference centre located in the Adirondack Mountains, upstate New York. A beautiful place with log style cabins, a lake for water sports and many woodland walks. The theme from Matthew 16:14 was: ‘Take Up Your Cross and Follow Me’. Guest speakers included The Most Revd Drexel Gomez, retired Archbishop of the Church in the Province of the West Indies; the Bishop of Nassau and Bahamas and the Turks and Caicos Islands; and the Revd Mike Chapman, Bishop Suffragen-Elect of Peru. 18
An enormous variety of workshops was scheduled for the whole weekend. One I attended was How We Hear the Voice of God, presented by Sister Mary Elizabeth from St Mary’s Convent, a lovely nun who put across her views and gave advice in a humorous yet very gentle way. Other topics included Family Caregiving, Praying in the Spirit, Mission to Haiti – Answered Prayers, Praying in Colour and Why Does the Cross Matter? I attended many worship services which were all different in style but two really struck a chord with me. The first was the Service of Healing on Saturday evening where the preacher was The Revd Nigel Mumford. Nigel had been seriously ill in October 2009 with swine flu, pneumonia and secondary pneumonia, and had been near death. His wife gave a very moving testimony of the many weeks and months as she watched her husband fight for his life, which he firmly believes was a miracle of prayer. The second service was the Youth Eucharist on Sunday morning. In conjunction with the Convention, there was a Youth Rally and Vacation Bible School and we all came together on Sunday morning. The youngest performed on the platform, the singing and music group was wonderful and the teenagers helped the Bishops administer the Communion. It was a superb way to end the convention. I thoroughly enjoyed the trip. It was a unique opportunity to meet people from our Link Diocese and to participate in worship which is slightly different from our own. It was also an excellent opportunity to meet and get to know folk from Down and Dromore. I hope the link with Albany continues and if you ever thought about going, you should! Roberta
WELCOME CHURCH OF OUR LADY In the centre of the medieval Belgian city of Bruges stands the Welcome Church of Our Lady, with its massive tower and spire, dating back to the 13th century. Apart from the fascination of its Romanesque and Gothic architectural style, the church attracts large numbers of visitors each year. Among these visitors were parishioners Brian and Jill Gillespie in May, who kindly provided this photograph of the famous ‘Madonna and Child’, the only marble sculpture by Michelangelo that can be seen in the Low Countries. It was originally designed for the cathedral of Sienna but two merchants brought it to Bruges after a business trip to Italy in 1506. The church also contains the splendid tombs of Charles the Bold and his daughter, Mary of Burgundy, the powerful 15th century family who owned vast Burgundian tracts in France and the Low Countries. 19
PARISH PRAYER CHAIN St. Columba’s parish prayer chain currently has twenty three members but this is fluid as participants join and leave for various reasons. No-one is held to account, so if you want to try it out you are not making a lifelong commitment. I have been involved off and on since 2007 but regularly since the Rector re-vitalised the prayer chain in May 2009. Our Lord repeatedly told His followers to pray (look in any bible concordance under pray, prayed, prayer, prayers, praying and prays!) and He made it plain it was for all occasions, and for all people (the saints) Eph.6:18, Jas.5:16. I felt this was something I could do as it does not require my physical presence all the time, and I can continue even when away. In the chain we pray for those who have requested a prayer, either for themselves or for someone else, usually by filling in a form and putting it into a box at the back of the church, or by speaking directly to the Rector or Curate, perhaps when they are visiting. The Rector then activates the chain by calling the first person on the list, who phones the next one and so on until the last to get it is the Curate (thus he knows the chain is working!) Once on the list, the name stays there until a request is received to take it off. We only know the Christian name, but not the problem or whether they are parishioners or not. We have the impression that it is often medical but it could be something else such as a sudden financial crisis or a relationship problem. It doesn’t really matter as the Lord knows and our prayers are broadly worded to cover any eventuality. The Curate has researched a number of relevant prayers for us which has been a great help. Looking over my lists I see that the three names now at the top were on the first list of May 2009 and the next four were added in June/July. We started with nine names and now have forty two. How does it work in practice? The Rector checks his own lists and any new names in the box at least once a week, and each Wednesday he replaces the list in the side chapel with the up to date version ready for the Thursday Communion, where everyone is prayed for. The updated list is left in the side chapel and can be consulted when required. If there are any changes he activates the prayer chain as already mentioned. When I get a message I phone the next person on the list and so forth. This works fairly well but every now and then there is a hiccough so we meet about quarterly to discuss things and pray together. We also get new printed lists as after three months with additions and deletions, along with constant use, they become a bit tattered! Do we get discouraged? No... and yes! No, because there are many bible references which assure us that our prayers are heard and answered such as “ask and you will receive / it will be given unto you” (Mt.7:7-8, 21:22, Lk.11:10). I like the one in Jn.16:22-23 where we are told “until now you have NOT asked... ask and you will receive” which reminds me to always ASK. It also reminds me that God gave me free will and He will not automatically let me have all I need if I forget to ask Him. I forget because worldly things tend to take over and I begin to expect things to happen as 20
a matter of course, but the Lord’s Prayer “… give us this day our daily bread” makes it quite clear that I am meant to ask daily for God’s help and this includes praying for others. Thanksgiving is also an important part of prayer and this brings me to the cause of occasional discouragement. It is hard, or I should say I find it hard, to include thanksgiving in the prayer chain prayers when I have no idea of progress. Why have seven names remained on the list for over a year? Has someone put them on and forgotten about them, or assumed we stop prayers after a certain time? If you have put a name forward for the prayer chain, please remember to fill in a form when you feel prayers are no longer needed and put it in the box. Do ‘they’ feel supported by prayer? Sometimes the Rector is able to tell us that someone did feel supported and this is very uplifting. Sometimes we know a name has died and I hope our prayers helped to give a peaceful passing, and I can be thankful for that. Whatever the reasons for becoming involved, and I am sure I speak for all of us, we are glad to be able to help in some way and will continue as long as necessary. Anyone with a telephone who believes in the power of prayer may join us – just give your name to the Rector or the Curate and we shall make you very welcome. Elizabeth Miller
IRISH LOVE STORY An elderly man lay dying in his bed. While suffering the doubts of impending death, he suddenly smelled the aroma of his favourite scones wafting up the stairs. He gathered his remaining strength and lifted himself from the bed. Leaning on the wall, he slowly made his wayout of the bedroom, and with even greater effort, gripping the railing with both hands, he crawled downstairs. With laboured breath, he leaned against thedoor-frame, gazing into the kitchen. Were it not for death’sapproach, he would have thought himself already in heaven, for there, spread out upon the kitchen table, wereliterally hundreds of his favourite scones. Was it heaven? Or was it one final act of love from his devoted Irish wife of sixty years, seeing to it that he left this world a happy man? Mustering one great final effort, he threw himselftowards the table, landing on his knees in crumpled posture. His aged and withered hand trembled towards a scone at the edge of the table, when suddenly it was whacked by his wife with a wooden spoon… “Get your hands off”, she shouted, “They’re for the funeral.” 21
We are deeply indebted once again to Ross, elder son of parishioners, Doreen and Cyril Thompson, for sharing with us his most recent experiences of mission and evangelism this summer in the student camps of Serbia.
RETURN TO SERBIA
Hello! As many of you are aware, during the months of summer, I have made a habit of visiting the kingdom of Serbia (part of the former Yugoslavia) to help with English teaching camps that are run by Josiah Venture, an American missionary organisation that operates all over Eastern Europe. Briefly, the purpose of the camps is twofold. In the first place, they are, fairly unsurprisingly, for teaching English. Secondly, and more importantly, they are evangelistic camps, designed to spread the word of God to the students through discussions and acts of service. The individual camps are led, at least in part, by representatives of the local Protestant churches from the cities or towns from which the majority of the students come. These are assisted by Christian teams from abroad (usually the U.S.A. and Romania) plus Serbian church youth, and a small number of interns/advisors sent by Josiah Venture. 22
In July, I was fortunate enough to serve at three of the four camps this summer as an intern alongside my two colleagues, Kevin Sayson (from Oregon, U.S.A.) and Vladimir Božić (from Sremska Mitrovića, Serbia). The four camps were based in locations all around the country. The first camp covered the small cities of Sremska Mitrovića and Subotića as well as the towns of Ljutovo and Bačka Topola, all of which are located in the north of the country, Sremska Mitrovića being close to the Bosnian border and the other three a stone’s throw away from the Hungarian border. As you might guess from the number of areas involved, this was a busy camp! Even busier was the next camp, which focused around the small city of Sombor (also close to the Hungarian border), a town that managed to produce 35 students for the camp, a large number for a Serbian camp. The third camp, which was smaller, concentrated on the city of Leskovac in the deep south of the country, not far from the borders of Kosovo and Macedonia. The final camp, at which I was not present, was for students from Novi Sad, the second largest city in the country, roughly an hour’s drive north of Belgrade. Those who read my article last year may recall that, owing to the stigma against the Protestant church in most Orthodox countries, evangelism to Serbia youth is something that must be done in a manner bordering on the covert. This year, however, it was decided to take the plunge and to begin a process akin to open evangelism at the camps. This involved teaching from Bible stories at the daily evening programs as well as requesting each student to undergo a process called ‘the Labyrinth’. Simply put, the Labyrinth is an exercise in self-discovery, culled from medieval traditions, with each student going through a series of stages that progress from identifying the influences in one’s life to examining one’s beliefs and values, and then climaxing with the opportunity to give one’s life to Christ. The results were incredible. Most students found the process extremely emotional to the point of tears for both guys and girls and, as a rule, men from the Balkans do not cry. From all four camps, 27 young people offered their lives to God. For some this was the culmination of a spiritual journey lasting years, for others it was a sudden awakening. Either way, it is a subject for thanksgiving. God willing, it may be part of the genesis of a spiritual reawakening in what is, in many ways, the religious desert of Eastern Europe. Your prayers and support for Serbia would be greatly appreciated. Please pray for all the students who have taken their first steps to God and for those who are supporting them. Also, I ask you to pray for Steve Brown, Josiah Venture’s representative in Serbia, and his wife, Tanja, who, by the time you read this, will have just given birth to their first child. Thank you very much for reading this. Ross Thompson 23
50 YEARS AND STILL GOING! Once again, we start another year in the life of the Men’s Club. We enter what is now our 51st season. Plans are already set in place for the final event to celebrate the Club’s 50th Anniversary year which started back in September 2009. The club will be holding a concert in St. Columba’s in November. The concert will feature the Ballykeel Conservative Flute Band who played at the church service last February, commemorating the club’s history. Further details of the concert will be posted nearer the time. Prior to the Anniversary Dinner on Friday, May 28th, the club held its Annual General Meeting in the church hall. Members met and duly elected the following officers for the incoming season:Club President Vice President Chairman Hon Secretary Hon Treasurer Captain Vice Captain Committee Members Club Chaplain Hon Auditor
Revd John Auchmuty Revd Robert Ferris Alan Rogers John Robb Paddy Malone Andrew Launchbury Jonathon Launchbury Ken MacNamara, Geoff Launchbury Dr Billy Nelson. Revd Robert Ferris Paul Stewart
Mention was made at the AGM as well as at the Anniversary Dinner of the members who have come and gone during the club’s existence. Their loyalty and dedication has formed the club into what it is today. Sadly, we lost another one of our members shortly after the Dinner took place. Michael Brown had been cared for in the Marie Curie hospice. I visited Michael on many occasions and, when he was able to converse, he always asked about the club and its members. He took much pride in the club and benefited from the continued fellowship within it. He had great faith in his God and knew that it was this faith that kept him strong during his illness. His wife, Lolita, very much appreciated the visits from members. They were a great support to Michael and also to her. On behalf of the club, I wish to express our best wishes to the family circle as they endure their bereavement. The club will making a donation to Marie Curie in memory of Michael. Well, that’s the first article for the new season. We commence on Monday, 6th September, in the church hall at 7.30pm. All are most welcome to come and share fellowship, friendship, fun and even a bit of bowling thrown in as well! John Robb (Hon. Secretary) Ed. Sincerest thanks are also due to John Robb for his excellent photographs of the Men’s Club 50th Anniversary Dinner Dance, published in the July/August Parish Magazine. 24
BARNARDO’S THANKS ST. COLUMBA’S FOR THEIR GENEROUS DONATION Barnardo’s has been helping children in Northern Ireland for over 110 years. The charity’s first project was a soup kitchen on Great Victoria Street, Belfast, opened in 1899. Since then, Barnardo’s has gone through many changes and today we are a modern, dynamic charity responding to the needs of children and young people in the 21st century. However, our philosophy is still firmly based on that of our founder, Dr Thomas Barnardo from Dublin, who believed that every child deserved the best possible start in life, whatever their background. Today our range of work includes supporting young carers, working with children with disabilities, children of prisoners, families where there is domestic violence, young people leaving care and children who have been bereaved. We support children wherever and however they need us most, with over forty different projects across Northern Ireland - including a centre for autistic children on the Belmont Road in East Belfast and a family project in Tullycarnet which provides after school clubs, parenting classes and health promotion. In Northern Ireland alone we spend over £10 million a year working with vulnerable and disadvantaged children and could not continue our vital work without donations like that from St Columba’s. Our promise to you is that every penny raised locally is spent locally. Barnardo’s believes in children no matter who they are, what they have done or what they have been through. We support them and stand up for them. Barnardo’s is there for children first and last. For more information please go to our website: www.barnardos.org.uk/northernireland.htm Anne Dawson 25
Children’s Page! FOLLOW ME We quite often look at saints on this page, people who have lived their lives for others, who followed Jesus Christ and did His work. But time and time again the people that Jesus chooses aren’t the ones we would have thought of as natural leaders or preachers. Someone who knew him
wrote that St Paul was ‘a little man, a big red nose, bandy legs and not able to speak very well’! Moses tried to convince God that he wasn’t the right person to persuade Pharaoh. In the end Moses had to take his brother Aaron to speak for him (Exodus, chapter 4).
Jesus. We might think that it is too difficult and someone else would do the job better than we could. But by our baptism we are all called to serve and we all have different gifts and talents to bring to the job. How boring it would be if we were all the same and how great the excitement We have to remember that in finding out just what we are all called to follow God want’s us to do.
JUMBLED JOBS All the answers to this are jobs but the letters have been jumbled up. For example TVE un-jumbled is VET. Can you work out what these people do?
1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10.
Sarah is a TODROC. Peter iis a RORLY VERDIR. Amelia is a THEERAC. Jack is a EFCH. Rose is a GEDUJ. Sam is a NICEOMPLA. Liz is a HOSP STAISTSAN Calum is a TOPLI. Emma is a READRENG. Andy is a MAFRER.
jokes Back to school
ve to don’t you ha What tables learn? Dinner tables!
Why did the teacher put lights on ? the Because the cl ass was so dim !
Answers: 1. Doctor 2. Lorry Driver 3. Teacher 4. Chef 5. Judge 6. Policeman 7. Shop Assistant 8. Pilot 9. Gardener 10. Farmer 26
27
Colour in this back to school scene!
EDWARD GORRINGE Many of us will remember Edward when he completed his student readership here in St. Columba’s in preparation for ordination as a non-stipendary minister. Edward is now custodian of St. Columba’s, Nicosia, in Cyprus, where he is serving as an army chaplain. His duties include going on patrol with the soldiers, visiting any Britons in prison and building up the Sunday morning congregation. He would appreciate our thoughts and prayers as he completes God’s work so far away from his family. Karen McAlpine
TO A FISH OF THE BROOK Enjoy thy stream, O harmless fish; And when an angler for his dish, Through gluttony’s vile sin, Attempts, the wretch, to pull thee OUT... God give thee strength, O gentle trout, To pull the rascal IN! John Wolcot (Peter Pindar) 1738–1839
SAFEGUARDING TRUST TRAINING All those who assist with children’s and youth groups in the Parish are invited to attend a short meeting with our Safeguarding Trust Panel members in the Church “It was the best we could do whilst the churchbells are being replaced – and O Sole Mio is quite a nice tune.”
Hall on Wednesday, 15th September, at 8pm. 28
OCTOBER MAGAZINE Please note, any articles or photographs for publication in the October parish magazine should be handed or e-mailed to the editor by Sunday, 12th September, at latest. Many thanks
FLOWER ROTA FOR SEPTEMBER Sunday 5th.................................................................. Dianne Gibson Sunday 12th................................................................ Gina Greeves Sunday 19th................................................................ Paddy Nesbitt Sunday 26th................................................................ Jennifer Johnston
FROM THE REGISTERS Our Joys Holy Baptism Sunday 20th June
Susan Rose Kirton, 3 Isoline Street, Belfast
Sunday 20th June
Caroline Mary Helen Fairley 1 The Close, Millar’s Forge, Dundonald
Sunday 27th June
Benjamin Hugh Gibson Montgomery 188 Barnett’s Road, Belfast
Sunday 25th July
Katie Charlotte Allen, 9 Cabinhill Gardens, Belfast
Sunday 1st August
Noah Mitford, 52 Garnerville Gardens, Belfast
Marriage Saturday 24th July Richard Michael John Moorehead, 2 Teal Park, Newtownards
Amy Patricia Holmes, 23 Ormiston Drive, Belfast Our Sorrows
Christian Burial Monday 5th July
Michael Walton Brown, 137 Sandown Road, Belfast
Friday 23rd July
George Alfred Lindsay, 47 Kensington, Road, Belfast
Tuesday 10th August
Elizabeth Mary Smith, Holywood Care Home, Redburn Formerly of 9 Russell Park 29
PARISH ORGANISATIONS SOMETHING FOR YOU? SUNDAY 10.30am Sunday School (2nd, 4th, 5th Sundays) Beth Cairnduff (3-5 yrs) 90874047 Joyce Stevenson (5-8 yrs) 90583381 Alan Boyd (8-13 yrs) 07833 391945 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 Muriel Jowett 90659984 2.00pm Ladies Badminton Kyleen Clarke 90797155 8.00pm Mothers’ Union (1st Tuesday) Irene Gray 90653438 8.00pm Activity Group (except 1st Tuesday) Maureen Irwin 90795155
WEDNESDAY 7.30pm Bible Study Group Trevor Buchanan 90657697 7.45pm Ladies Guild (3rd Wednesday) Lilias Smith 90592039 8.00pm Senior Badminton Club Jill McDowell 07754 405511 THURSDAY 9.30am Art Club Bob Killen
90790210
7.30pm Senior Badminton Club Jill McDowell 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
6.30pm Brownies Beth Cairnduff
90874047
8.30pm H2O Mark Wilson
90761040
Young Families Group (Social events as arranged) The Rector 90471514
Please note, requests for the occasional use of Church premises must first be submitted to the Premises Convenor, 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 SELECT VESTRY Rector, Curate, Churchwardens, Glebewardens, Hon. Secretary, Hon. Treasurer, Asst. Hon. Treasurer, Brian Acheson, Clare Best, Helen Donaghy, Patrick Good, Jennifer Johnston, Elizabeth McCaughey, Moranne Noad, Roberta Rogers, Linda Wilson
CURATE The Revd. Robert Ferris The Curatage 3 Sandown Park South BT5 6HE Tel 028 90653370 Email rferris281@gmail.com robert@stcolumbasyouth.org
HON. SECRETARY & PREMISES CONVENOR Alan Rogers 50 Cabin Hill Gardens BT5 7AQ Tel 028 90656183
PARISH READER Karen McAlpine 10 Old Quay Court Holywood BT18 OHT Tel 028 90424390
HON. TREASURER Gillian Sadlier 70 Kensington Road BT5 6NG Tel 028 90403278
DIOCESAN LAY READER (EMERITUS) Bryn Harris 22 Dalton Glade Glen Road Comber BT23 5SZ Tel 028 91878816
ASST. HON. TREASURER/GIFT AID SECRETARY/FREE WILL OFFERING Murray Hunter 13 Knockdarragh Park BT4 2LE Tel 028 90761295
RECTOR’S CHURCHWARDEN Victor Dukelow 19 Thornhill Park BT5 7AR Tel 028 90290625
PAROCHIAL NOMINATORS Trevor Buchanan Patrick Good Moranne Noad Meryl Townsend
PEOPLE’S CHURCHWARDEN Elizabeth Leonard 28 Knockdene Park South BT5 7AB Tel 028 90653162
DIOCESAN SYNODS PEOPLE Emma Hill Elizabeth Leonard Moranne Noad Roberta Rogers Paul Stewart
RECTOR’S GLEBEWARDEN Jim Stevenson 44 Casaeldona Rise BT6 9RA Tel 028 90583381 31
ORGANIST AND CHOIRMASTER Gerald Hill 6 The Coaches Brown’s Brae, Croft Road Holywood BT18 OLE Tel 028 90422101
PARISH WEBMASTER Ivan Roche 49 Richhill Park BT5 6HG Tel 028 90229310 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
MAGAZINE EDITOR Ian Noad 36 Shandon Park BT5 6NX Tel 028 90793704 Email noadfamily@hotmail.com
ST. COLUMBA’S PARISH OFFICE Office Hours Wednesday & Friday 8.30am – 1.30pm Parish Secretary: Janet Johnston Tel 028 90656891
MAGAZINE DISTRIBUTOR CO-ORDINATOR John Holland Greengraves Cottage 8 Ballyrogan Park, Newtownards BT23 4SD Tel 028 91814036
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