BETTY ANDREWS
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ALEXANDRA CHURCH CONTACTS
ALEXANDRA WELCOMES YOU
ALEXANDRA PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
CONVENOR:
Rev. Ian McDonald, 12 Dorchester Drive Newtownabbey BT36 5WP Tel. No (028) 9084 3771
DEACONESS:
Mrs Heather McCracken, 8 The Close, Millar’s Forge, Dundonald BT16 1QS Tel.No (028) 9048 1713 deaconess@alexandrapresbyterian.org.uk
CLERK OF SESSION:
Mr Mervyn McCormick, 4 Grange Valley Avenue, Ballyclare BT39 9HF Tel.No (028) 9334 2451 clerk@alexandrapresbyterian.org.uk
TREASURER:
Mr David McConkey, 8 Dalewood Newtownabbey BT36 5WR Tel.No (028) 9083 6396
CHURCH TELEPHONE NUMBER: (028) 9074 7570
FROM OUR CONVENOR
Hi folks! It seems like no time at all since Clifford retired from Alexandra, yet, already four months have passed. And you may be asking what has happened in that time. Let me say that there has been a lot going on. Members of Kirk Session and Committee have been working in conjunction with the Presbytery Commission in order to complete the necessary arrangements for the congregation to seek permission to proceed to calling a new Minister. The inital report to Presbytery was made at the September meeting of Presbytery and we hope to have the necessary approval of Presbytery finalised at the meeting in October. This will then enable us to apply for an appointment with the Union Commission at their meeting towards the end of October. It is the Union Commission who have the responsibility of giving approval for the congregation to proceed to calling Clifford's successor. We want to encourage you all to continue praying that everything will proceed without complication so that we will be able to move very quickly to seeking, hearing and considering suitable candidates for the congregation. Our great encouragement, of course, is that we worship a Sovereign God. He is the One who knows the end from the beginning. He reminded the people of Jeremiah's day that he knew the plans he had for them, plans to prosper and bless them. Praise God he still does. He has not changed and so we can trust Him to guide us through all that is involved and bring us together to the person HE wants to continue the ministry in Alexandra. For our part, let us do what the writer to the Proverbs says "In all our ways acknowledge Him and He shall make our paths straight". (Prov.3:6) Ian McDonald (Convenor) 1
MERVYN’S MUSINGS
It has been a busy summer for the family of Alexandra, with lots of activities and blessings, as well as our share of joy and sorrow. It has been a delight to have Mark Dodds as our Summer Assistant. Mark really immersed himself in the life of the congregation, and Claire shares his desire for ministry, also coming to many events and activities. To round off their time with us, we were delighted to hear that they were safely delivered of Connie, and wish them God’s blessing as a family. In contrast, we were shocked and saddened by the sudden passing of Betty Andrews, who was Editor of our Alexandra Newsletter for so many years, introducing innovations such as colour photos of congregational life, a Children’s section, etc. Betty was also a faithful member of the Congregational Committee and Treasurer of our PW, as well as her willingness to be involved in other events and activities. Whatever Betty did, she did well. However for scores of girls, across generations, Betty will simply be remembered as ‘Brown Owl’. A more fitting tribute will, I am sure, be paid to Betty’s life and work, but for now we give thanks for all she did for our Newsletter, and assure Mary and Billy, Brian and David of our love and prayerful support at this time. So many people have continued to work together, arranging a World Cup event for 120+ children in our Halls; TOTTS outings and weekend; our Summer Scheme for children over 2 weeks, followed by a week of Summer Scheme for teenagers (not forgetting additional outings); table tennis coaching; Girls Allowed have had another outing, and so the list goes on. We were especially pleased by the support for our Summer Prayer meetings and trust that these were helpful for all who attended. To everyone who helped in any way with these and our other activities, we want to say “Thank you” as without so many pulling together we could not have achieved this. A line from a hymn comes to mind – “Christ has no hands but our hands, to do his work today”, and it is wonderful to think that we have been able to be co-workers with Christ. It has also been lovely that our Girl Guide units have shared their Centenary Celebrations with the whole congregation, and in spite of threatening weather, a great day was had by all in August when we visited their pack holiday in Lorne. As well as these ‘visible’ activities, flower beds have been tended to, steps scrubbed, flowers arranged, Orders of Service printed, worship arranged, and all of those other tasks that are quietly and willingly undertaken. The Congregational Committee have also been busy, meeting in the summer to do preparatory work in relation to our vacancy, and a couple of work teams have shown their expertise in topiary at the Manse, using power saws! Not forgetting the building work on the turret. In addition, Kirk Session have completed a questionnaire for Presbytery and reviewed this with our Presbytery Commission, who have also completed their survey of our Manse. An encouraging update was given to the September meeting of Presbytery, and so we are still on target for representatives to meet with the Union Commission in October. God willing, the incoming winter will be no less busy and no less blessed. As organisations and activities start up again, we are reminded of the faithfulness of so many and assure you of our prayerful support. We also hope to be given ‘leave to call’ (permission to seek a new minister) in October and then to dedicate ourselves to finding the man that God is preparing for us. It would be a real encouragement to know that you are supporting us in our Prayer Covenant for the vacancy. While undoubtedly we will experience setbacks, we can look forward with confidence and hope, founded in our faith in a loving God and the faithfulness of our people, and will endeavour to keep everyone updated as together we seek to serve our Lord in our little parish on the York Road in North Belfast.
God bless, Mervyn
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BETTY ANDREWS
This winter newsletter has been very difficult to put together. In July, our editor Betty Andrews took critically ill and died peacefully in hospital. It is so difficult to put into words the loss we feel, Betty was a very loved and active member in Alexandra. She gave much of her life to leading and helping the Guide Unit, and to the church by serving on the Committee, helping in the PW, and the Ladies’ Light Lunch. She gave so much time and talent in preparing the Newsletter, behind the scenes helping with transport, making apple creams and much much more. As the church family was important to Betty so much more her own family and so to Mary and Brian, Billy and David we assure you of our continuing love and prayers. I would like to finish with the picture below. When the guides were out trekking and one needed to leave a message for the other members “not to worry, but they had gone home,� they made this message out of stones. Betty was taken suddenly from us but her life has left us the message that she has gone home. As a good guide she lived prepared, Betty walked with God and died prepared for her heavenly home. I would like to thank Ellen for all the help she has given, in preparing and checking the newsletter.
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REFLECTION ON TIME IN ALEXANDRA
Claire and I arrived amongst you, in Alexandra, at the start of June, with a mixture of excitement, enthusiasm and yet nervousness about what we would face in the summer ahead. Three months on from that first Sunday I’m pleased to say that our summer with you was all we could have hoped for and more. It was a privilege to be included in your church family as you shared in so many aspects of our lives. Not only did you support and encourage me in my ministry but you welcomed Claire and recognised her role alongside me. As you know it was a special time for us anyway and we’re so pleased that you shared our excitement in joining us in the countdown to baby’s arrival. Arriving into a vacancy situation presented us with both challenges and yet opportunities. Coming as we did with a fresh slate, having never been to Alexandra before, helped us, I think, to look ahead as we were unable to look back to how things used to be. From my first Sunday I found a congregation who gathered with a desire to hear from God, through His word, and this made it a lot easier for me as I sought through God’s grace to preach His word. We noticed a real warmth when you gathered as a people of God and when I was welcomed into your homes when visiting. On Sundays I was always encouraged when I stood at the door after the service only to find a large proportion of the congregation inside chatting! As well as being given a lot of opportunities to preach and lead Sunday services I was allowed to be involved with many other areas of Church life during the week. Whether it was through the Summer Scheme (both kids and teens) or TOTTS or the Schools’ World Cup Outreach in June or the prayer meetings, I enjoyed getting to know you individually and as a church and also getting to know the young people of the
area. I’d great fun at the two Summer Schemes (custard pies, eggs and shaving foam included!!) and pray that God would indeed bring to full growth the seeds that have been planted and that the young people would be able to find a home amongst you. I have been giving thought, as I know a lot of you do, as to how the links with the young people and the people of the area in general can be further developed. The questions of how we do this and how we fulfil our mandate to go into all the world in the 21st century maybe aren’t easily answered but I trust that as you wait upon God in prayer you will find that He knows the way to do it! As I often spoke about in my preaching, this isn’t a time for us to be resting on our laurels and looking inwardly. Instead this is a time for following the Spirit in our witness, a time for trusting in God and His leading and a time for clear living out of our faith in Jesus, our wonderful Saviour. “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” Romans 15:13 Thank you for all your encouragement, support and friendship through the summer. May the Lord bless and keep you all. With all our love, Mark, Claire & Connie 4
KFC CHILDRENS MINISTRY
“Point your kids in the right direction – when they’re old they won’t be lost.” Proverbs 22:6 (TM) Welcome back! Summer is over and a new session has begun – hopefully with excitement and enthusiasm after a well-earned break. I have to admit, I had to look up the last Newsletter to see what I had written about because so much has happened since mid-June! To begin with, we had a very successful Children’s Day service on Sunday, 13th June. Our theme was Light of the World and our songs, Scripture Reading and talk were based around this. The children sang and did their actions brilliantly – accompanied by our wonderful congregation. Ellen presented Cradle Roll certificates and Isobel updated us on the latest work of the ‘Children of the Andes’ charity. I thank those who took part in any aspect of the service, from doing something at the front or serving tea and coffee afterwards. It all added to a great sense of fellowship and created a lovely family atmosphere. We have just finished our summer KFC series looking at the story of David how he went from being a shepherd boy, to fighting Goliath and becoming king. Stories were told each week with songs, short talks, DVD clips and crafts which I hope all the children enjoyed completing. Plans are about to begin for the Christmas Family Service on Sunday, 19th December so I hope you can join us then and bring along a few relatives, friends, neighbours or other children you are in contact with. Again, thank you so much for your words of encouragement and prayers of support. Thank you to the KFC leaders who put in a lot of time and dedication. I ask that you continue to remember KFC in your prayers as we begin a new session. In Christ Alone, Phil Massey 5
BODY BUILDERS SUMMER SCHEME
Once again we had a very successful Summer Scheme. We had an average of 53 children from 5-10 years old each day. Funding came from Belfast City Council/Registration Fees/Donations. Our morning started with praise and our stories which focused on the early church and the main character was Peter. The children were very good and they listened really well and we pray they will not forget what they heard. Before going out on trips we had a messy game and that usually involved leaders. I would like to thank Lilian/Sadie/Mark/Philip and Heather for being such good sports. We went on our usual trips but this year we went on the train to Carrickfergus Castle and the children really enjoyed it. The council had a fun day at Lady Dixon Park and there were lots of activities for everyone. Our barbeque was in Carnfunnock in Larne and I would like to thank Hugh for helping with this. We had an average of 32 young people each evening from 11-15 years old. The teens started early this year because we got the opportunity of going to Party in the Park, again organised by the council, and the young people really had a great time. We also had craft classes in the afternoon. This was organised by LNBCC. Some of the art will be shown in the top hall. Once again we went on trips and this year we went to Scalextric in Comber. We also went to Portrush on the train. At the end of the evenings we had a talk and Philip took this. The young people had the opportunity to discuss readings from the bible. Philip had a question box and the young people were encouraged to put requests in it.. There were some relevant questions and I pray they were answered wisely. I would like to thank all the leaders and helpers for their commitment each day. Thanks to everyone in the congregation who gave donations. Thanks to everyone who prayed for us. Again our prayers were answered, everyone was kept safe and the seed was sown. We pray the Lord will bring these young people to himself. May
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GIRL GUIDES
The final event of our Centenary celebrations was a barbeque at Lorne on the last Saturday in August. We had a great turn-out from all the units plus their families and many friends from Alexandra. Unfortunately, the weather was “mixed” - in other words some sunshine, quite a few showers plus a bit of a breeze. What can I say - another glorious summer day - you can’t beat it! Needless to say we did not subject our visitors to a huddle around the campfire while the sausages and burgers cooked. Thankfully we had the use of the excellent facilities in Lorne House and were able to prepare the food and shelter everyone from the inclement weather. An outdoor event that did go ahead was the slippery slope. This involved hurling yourself down a plastic sheet covered in washing up liquid and water. Utter madness but great fun. Finally, I would like to extend our sincere thanks for your encouragement and support throughout this special year for the Guides, Brownies and Rainbows. I Kane
RAINBOWS
Rainbows (all girls aged 4 to 7), Brownies & Guides start Tuesday 21st September 2010 at 6.30pm. All girls welcome. LC
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58th OLD BOYS BOWLING CLUB
The team has now completed its fifteen N.I.B.A Division 1V League matches, winning eight games, thus ending in a mid table position. They played well in the I.B.A Junior Cup, but fell in the Fourth round to Ballymoney, and in the N.I.B.A Intermediate Cup they lost in the Third round to Cloughy. Twenty six members of the club enjoyed a two hour session of bowling at the Belfast Indoor Stadium, Shaws Bridge, followed by an excellent meal. Our thanks to Josh Mulholland for organizing a very enjoyable day. Some members took part in the Glengormley Rinks Competition supporting the Children’s Hospice and reached the Finals Evening where they were defeated by the eventual winners from Cavehill Bowling Club. Wesley Lewis
TABLE TENNIS
Delivery of the new table tennis tables has taken place and they have already been in action during a coaching week in July and August. During one of these sessions it was a great pleasure to have a visit from the Lord Mayor of Belfast Councillor Pat Convery and also some valuable training was given by two young Polish players. Thanks Heather, Christine and Sylvia for supplying the ‘treats’ each day and Bob for opening up etc. The season has commenced with coaching each Monday evening 7.30 p.m. to 9.00 p.m. and young people P4 and over will be made welcome. (£1.00 per evening session) Wesley Lewis
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BOYS’ BRIGADE COMPANY SECTION
6-A-Side Cricket A team from the Company took part in the Battalion 6-A-Side Cricket competition held at the Blanchflower Stadium. It is safe to say we have no budding test match players, but all agreed it was great fun giving it a go. Discharge Certificate - Correction Cpl Andrew Harbinson’s name should have been included as one of the four boys who were presented with their Discharge Certificate and Bible at our display.
MINI BUS
The minibus has again been widely used over the summer months, going to S.U. Camp in Scotland, used by the Old Boys’ Bowling team, the Elim Church, our own Body Building Summer Scheme and also a choir outing to Portstewart. Thanks again to all who give us financial support and you can see The Future Needs Fund total on the bus on the inside back page Wesley Lewis
ART GROUP
A local art group of which I am a member is now meeting in the McCloy Hall on the first three Thursdays of each month 2.30 p.m. to 4.30.p.m. A welcome will be given to anyone wanting to enjoy a time of relaxation and opportunity given to develop your artistic talent. Please speak to me if you would like to join with us. Wesley Lewis
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CHILDREN OF THE ANDES (COTA)
This is a brief update on the work of the COTA. In a recent letter from our contact at COTA, Heidy Araque, she gave details of another project they are helping to support. It is called Forming Futures Foundation. Their aim is to support young people who have spent their lives in care, make the transition from institutional care to independent living. Please remember Columbia in your prayers. The level of violence in that country is staggering and quite hard to take in especially as we rarely if ever hear anything in our newscasts. More than 17,000 people have been killed in violent circumstances this year. A “death list” with the names of 69 people first surfaced on a computer site last month. It was dismissed as a joke by the authorities. Sadly, three teenagers named on it have been killed. By supporting and educating young people it is hoped that they can play a part in ending this brutality. Many thanks for your continuing support. Since Children’s Day in June, we have forwarded £220. I spoke with Heidy when I received their latest newsletter and she asked me to send you all her best wishes and thanks. COTA have launched a new website. If you would like to read the latest news please visit it at: www.childrenoftheandes.org I Kane 10
CHOIR NOTES
The choir continues to lead the praise at both services each Sunday. We endeavour to contribute a meaningful anthem as part of the praise in morning worship. We are glad to have Rachel back with us, after her fall and plaster of paris, and it is really good to have Dorothy with us, too, in her usual place in the alto section. Friday 10th September saw five choir members off on our outing - plus one wife of choir member, and of course, our intrepid driver of the BB minibus, Wesley, accompanied by Valerie. We made a stop in Broughshane for coffee and yummy scones and admired the beautiful floral arrangements, window boxes, and hanging baskes. What an array of colour - it was truly a feast for the eyes! We then continued on to Coleraine for shopping and lunch. Those who did not shop sat in the sun and watched "the world go by". I have it on good authority that Bishop's shoe shop has changed its departments around and it's quite hard to navigate now, among the classy Italian brands and the casual trainers and sandals. No sale there, I'm afraid! On we went to the White House in Portrush, where we had a good rummage. Ray must have been missing Eileen, for we did not need to count the shopping bags on the way home! However, there must have beeen at least one, for a half-price bargain was spied, and triumphantly purchased! Des and Wes took a walk - at least they had an excuse not to shop! Portstewart was the last "port of call", where we had a meal at our usual eating-place - followed by ice creams from the shop next door. How could we resist, with choices of gooey toffee fudge and carrot cake, to name just two. The sun was shining through some dark clouds on the sea, and it was so beautiful - only the Creator could "paint" that picture so perfectly! We reluctantly made our way home and agreed that it had been a great day. E Smyth
Friends Together. In June the Elders and their wives, Heather, Clifford and Dale, enjoyed a lovely evening out at the Knockagh Lodge. 11
CHRISTIANS IN SPORT SUMMER CAMP
During the summer I had the privilege of going to Sports Plus Camp Armagh run by Christians in Sport. Jonny Craig organised for about 15 of us to go to the Royal School Armagh. This was an amazing experience where I got to make new friends and learn about God all while playing sport. Every morning we went for a run and then had breakfast and a morning meeting. We then had our first sport then lunch, then our second sport and dinner, then after that we had a longer evening meeting and then free time. We were taught good sportsmanship and encouraged to represent Christ in our sports clubs and secondly to share the Good News of Jesus with our team mates. I came home singing our camp theme tune having enjoyed every second of the week. Jordan Barr
Reaching Everyone And Creating Hope I also took part in Reach Newtownabbey. R.E.A.C.H. Newtownabbey began in 2005, when churches in Glengormley got together with the vision of showing God’s love in practical ways to their community, something inspired by StreetReach, Summer Madness. We did a car wash, worked in a free cafÊ, cleaned streets, cut gardens, got prayer requests, helped out at a community fun day, and it was all good fun. Their aim is to challenge young people to step out in their own communities and work for God, believing that great things are possible with Him! Jordan Barr 12
DUNLUCE 3rd-5th SEPTEMBER 2010
As I packed my case and unearthed my sleeping bag, it was hard to believe that a year had passed since our last trip to the North Coast. I also asked myself why I was taking the aforementioned sleeping bag at all, as ‘sleeping’ is not high on the agenda at a TOTTS weekend, at least not if Christine Barr has anything to do with it! A few of us headed off on the Friday evening – the advance party, you might say. I would call us the more insane! The Guide House looked very welcoming and we noticed some improvements from our last visit. We claimed our beds in the dormitory and bedrooms and then set about making our evening meal. Afterwards it was just a case of sitting around the table, chatting and setting the world to rights – oh, and I think we may have eaten a packet of crisps, or two. On Saturday we woke to more dismal weather that we had enjoyed the previous evening, and it wasn’t long before the rain started. However, after breakfast, we headed out to Portstewart. As the Air Show was taking place in Portrush on the same weekend, the traffic was busier than usual, but we made it to our destination relatively easily. By now we had been joined by Mervyn, Elizabeth, Stephen and Phillip – they had some feeble excuse as to why they couldn’t make it to Dunluce on the Friday evening, but I feel they just haven’t got the stamina! It wasn’t long before Morelli’s beckoned and we sought refuge in coffee and cakes. After lunch back at the house, we decided to find a dry venue for the afternoon, and soon we were at the Jet Centre in Coleraine, organising three different films for the young and not so
young to watch. More coffee and cake was then on the agenda for the rest of the adults. (By now you will have noticed that eating plays a major role in our programme.) After the cinema we headed to the White Rocks to take advantage of a break in the weather. The main activity here was climbing up the sand dunes and sliding down again. (I know, it sounds mad, doesn’t it?) Some of us decided it made a good spectator sport and watched from a safe distance. Unfortunately a very heavy shower of rain sent us running for our cars, and it was a sorry group of individuals who arrived back at the Guide House, desperate for a shower. It soon became apparent that we had brought a substantial amount of sand with us from the beach! By this stage the Wallace family had joined our ranks and we now had about 25 people in our motley crew, ranging in age from three to ………. (never mind!). The highlight of the weekend was now upon us – choosing and ordering our Chinese / Indian feast! As always the men in our party set off to collect the food – and as always we ordered too much!! Everyone had a fantastic meal, and plenty of it. The rest of the evening was spent again chatting, drinking seemingly endless cups of coffee and forcing ourselves to eat chocolate, traybakes …… it really was fun! On Sunday morning it is our routine to attend morning worship in Portrush Presbyterian Church - the only drawback is that it starts at 10.30am. Lack of sleep takes its toll, and as usual a few of us struggled to stay awake. But soon after the service we were tucking into a hearty lunch at our usual haunt – the Silver Sands restaurant. All that was left to do
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GIRLS ALLOWED
was tidy the Guide House and pack our cars for home. However, Christine’s clever way with money meant that we had enough left over to treat everyone to an ice-cream at Morelli’s! (You can now see what I mean about this eating habit we have acquired!) All too soon, however, we really were on our way home – tired, but with great memories of another wonderful weekend. I would particularly like to thank Christine for all her hard work in organising our annual trek to Dunluce. It gives us the opportunity to spend time with friends and enjoy good fun, before the winter sets in. I’m sure we are all looking forward to next year – I know I am! Judith
On behalf of “Girls Allowed” I would like to say a huge thank you to Christine and the members of TOTTS for all these great wee outings that we “Senior Ladies” can join in and enjoy. I for one never feel in any way, to be left out in the cold – the girls just accept us in a very casual way and are very welcoming with no fuss. So if you are a lady of a certain age (which of course is your own business) just put your name on the the list and come along and enjoy yourself. You will be made very welcome by all the girls. Take my word for it. Another very successful evening with Girls Allowed at the Tullyglass Hotel was enjoyed on the 17th September. Great food and great fellowship. Thanks again TOTTS. Bertha 14
NEWRY 2010 – SUMMER OUTREACH TEAM... SATURDAY 3RD JULY - SUNDAY 11TH JULY
What a week that was! I know I say this every year, but Newry 2010 definitely was the best yet. I love going to Newry and it was an honour to be an “Ambassador of Hope” as I served alongside 14 other young people from all arts and parts of Northern Ireland – all eager and enthusiastic in sharing the Good News with the children and young people that we met. During our week there, we partner with Sandys Street and Downshire Road Presbyterian Church. Having served on the team for 3 years now, each year presents us with new challenges and encouragements. One of the biggest obstacles to overcome was the bomb outside Newry courthouse in February which completely damaged the Youth Annex and smashed every single window at Downshire Road, from where we would usually run our Kids Club and Teens Event. However, God in His sovereignty provided us with two different facilities in order to continue His work – God was blessing us from the very beginning! 15
KIDS CLUB
Our Kids Club ran from Windsor Hill Primary School for children aged between 4 and 12 years old. Our theme was “Seaside Rock” which introduced the children to the life of Peter. Through events in his life, children learnt more about Jesus – how they should follow Him, obey His commands and put them into practice. Our team was a bit smaller than normal to allow volunteers from the two congregations to come and work alongside us. We were very blessed by those who came along and helped with registration, served juice and biscuits, helped with the children and made us lunch and dinner. Many of the volunteers and parents were encouraged by the work they saw and we pray that this would enthuse them as they share the Word of God with the next generation. Daily we had anything from 70-78 kids and I am delighted to say that 3 young people came to know God and many were asking questions and showing a lot of interest. Praise the Lord! The Teens Event ran in the evenings from the Scout Hall in Newry for those aged 11-18 and we had 15 to 20 teens attending each night. Our theme for the week was “The Real Thing” with the aim of presenting the real Jesus to the teens and the real and fulfilled life they can have with Him. We took the slogan of a different soft drink each night and through games, video clips, drama, short epilogues and discussion, presented the truth of the Word of God to these young people. Many of the teens have a very good Bible knowledge which was encouraging. We continue to pray that this head knowledge will become heart knowledge and allow the teens to “…have life, and have it to the full.” (John 10:10). We are very grateful for our relationship with the two congregations and the people we have come to know. We always get a warm welcome and we are catered for and looked after very well. Also, I would like to thank each and every one of you who donated money, offered words of encouragement and prayed for the team during the week. We really felt the power of your prayers. So all in all, Newry was amazing. This is only a snapshot of what went on but this article is long enough, so I’d better stop before Heather shouts at me! To close, I was left astounded at the power of God at work and at answered prayer. I was encouraged by each and every member of the team who played their role and who worked hard. I certainly feel that my faith is even stronger and I feel closer to God. Now, all I have to do is sit and wait for next year! In Christ Alone, Phil Massey
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NITE LITE
The work of Nite Lite has already begun and what a marvellous start we have had. No sooner had we parked the van, we had about 20 children waiting for their soup or hot chololate, sandwiches or brownies. This was the start of a constant flow of young people throughout the night. Later in the evening when we arrived at Crusaders social club, we were given a warm greeting and were told how much we’d been missed by the locals ...a great encouragement. Over the summer months we were awarded a grant from the Progressive, and with this we were able to purchase new uniforms. A big thank you to those instrumental in ensuring us this grant. We have also received an anonymous gift which will greatly help us in the coming year.....to say I was gobsmacked would be an understatement! Finally may I say a big thank you to all members of the congregation who help us financially - it is so appreciated. Lawrence Wallace
WORLD CUP BONANZA
The world cup may have been a disappointment for millions of football fans worldwide, but try telling that to the schoolchildren of Grove, Currie and Cavehill! We showed the match between Holland and Denmark and although the match itself wasn’t a classic, the atmosphere the children created certainly was. Hotdogs and juice were served for lunch, followed by the showing of the game. Half-time was enjoyed with party bags for the children and tea and coffee for the stressed-out teachers. At the conclusion of the game, Jonathan Craig gave an epilogue in which the children interacted and also listened to intently. Wow, what a day .... the children were magnificent and credit to all schools on their behaviour. A big thank you to all who gave of their time to produce such a wonderful event .... roll on 2014!!! Lawrence Wallace
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PRESBYTERIAN WOMEN
PRESBYTERIAN WOMEN - who are we? A group of ladies who meet on alternate Tuesday evenings at 7.45 p.m. in the McCloy Hall, beginning 21st September. “Living for Jesus” is our motto and this year’s theme is “Stir us to Action”. Each evening begins with a short act of worship followed by an interesting and engaging topic by various speakers. See programme below:21/9/10 5/10/10 19/10/10 2/11/10 16/11/10 30/11/10 14/12/10
Beauty for Ashes - Joy Irwin Denis Hughes - Blitz Blyswood - Michelle Gault Shazzam - Suzanna Christians against Poverty Treading the boards Elizabeth Hendron - Christmas crafts
Members and new members will be warmly welcomed, so do come along and join us. It is with deep sadness we record the passing of Betty (Andrews), a dear and faithful member, and our former treasurer. Our prayers and sympathy continue to be with Betty’s sister Mary (our Secretary) and the family. Valerie Lewis
CHURCH FLOWERS
The Church Flower Committee would like to extend their thanks to members of the congregation who supplied flowers or gave donations during the period from May to September 2010. Your support and thoughtfulness is always very much appreciated. Sincere thanks are given also to those who so kindly left flowers and floral tributes following weddings and funerals. Mr W Colgan, Mrs R Beattie, The Costello Wedding, Mrs McDonald, Miss S Hale, Mrs F McMurray and Mrs A Nesbitt. E Kane 18
THANKS
THANKS FOR THE MEMORIES Summer has come and gone and a new winter session has begun in the life of the congregation. A lot of water has flowed under the bridge since the Annual Congregational Meeting on Wednesday 10th March 2010. Clifford has retired as Minister of Alexandra and the congregation has now entered what is technically known as a ‘Vacancy’. However, now that the dust has settled, after what can only be described as a very busy summer period, I would like to take this opportunity to say a sincere ‘thank you’ to the congregation for the kind words expressed, and the gifts presented to Anna and myself at the Annual Meeting, to mark my retirement as Clerk of Session. A new era has now begun, and as I give thanks for the prayerful support afforded me during my 26 year tenure, I pray that Mervyn will know the benefit of a similar reservoir of support in the days ahead. Thank you one and all. Drew
A big thank you to all who work behind the scenes, on the many jobs that need done. There are always things needing attention in order to keep the church building and the Manse up to the best standard we can. I acquired this photograph and thought I would share it with you, I think Mervyn is as resourceful as Zacchaeus! There are too many individuals to mention by name, but a big thank you for all that is done so willingly to serve God in this practical way.
Volunteers aren’t paid, not because they are worthless, but because they are priceless. 19
THANKS
I would like to say a sincere thank you to everyone in Alexandra for their prayers, cards, gifts, and phone calls, over the last two or three years of Robert’s illness, and for caring for me as well. Thanks to those who attended the service and special thanks to Mr Wright and Heather McCracken, who kept in close touch with us, and to Sadie who has been so faithful. To me, Alexandra has proved to be a church family who really care for each other, and I appreciate this very much. Lily McDonald
I would like to say a massive thank-you to everyone who remembered me in prayer, sent cards and flowers and telephoned or enquired about me during my recent stay in hospital. It was a great help and comfort to me through the good and the not-sogood times. Once again my heartfelt thanks to one and all. Robert Massey
Thanks to all the folks in the church who sent me cards, phoned, and visited me, after my fall. Special thanks to Heather and Mark. Rachel Ewart
The family of Victor Kinghan would like to thank all at Alexandra Presbytrian Church for their support and prayers both during his illness and upon his death. Knowing that we as a family were supported by so many prayers comforted us in our despair. A special thank you also to Heather and the Rev. Ian McDonald for making what was an unbearable time, a little more bearable. Thank you all from the bottom our our hearts, and God bless everyone of you. The Kinghan Family.
CONGRATULATIONS
We rejoice with Barbara Spratt on completing and doing so well in her studies, Bachelor of Science in Professional Studies in Midwifery, First Class Honours. You are always ‘first class’ in our eyes, Barbara.
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ARE YOU MY JUDGE?
“ARE YOU MY JUDGE?” Some judge a man by the shape of his face; Some judge a man by his colour or race; Some judge a man by his display of wealth; Some judge a man by the state of his health; Some judge a man by his station in life; Some judge a man by his choice of a wife; Some judge a man by the cut of his clothes; Some judge a man by the church where he goes; Some judge a man by the way he can fight; Some judge a man by his muscles and might; Some judge a man by the size of his home; Some judge a man by where he may roam; Some judge a man by the way that he talks; Some judge a man by the way that he walks; Some judge a man by the look in his eyes; Some judge a man on nothing but size. But before judging others by your set of rules, Remember judging others is the pastime of fools, If you must judge others, And some fools do, Remember other fools are also judging you.
By Cindy O’Connor
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CHILDRENS PAGE
Children’s page, hold the page different ways to read the message.
Answer: I have sinned, but Jesus died for me 22
CHILDRENS PAGE
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GIFT AID
The following application has been submitted to the Inland Revenue for the financial year ending 31 December 2009. The total claim is for £18,687.00 and will be distributed as follows: FREEWILL OFFERING BUILDING TOGETHER UNITED APPEAL PROPERTY & MAINTENANCE TEAR FUND PUDDDING & PIE PRESBYTERIAN WOMEN BOYS’ BRIGADE (including minibus)
11.336 4,201 1,451 625 224 274 23 553
May I again encourage any member who pays Income Tax, directly or indirectly, and has not completed a GIFT AID FORM to contact me. This means we can maximize the contribution you make to the church or any charity you support Wesley Lewis
BB Jumble sale Saturday 23rd October at 10.30am in the Church Hall.
Join with us to Pray for Alexandra Prayer Points Pray that the Lord will: Guide us as we seek to call a new minister Unite us, protect us and keep us faithful Help us to continue to reach out with the Gospel Bless our Convenor, Rev. Ian McDonald ‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ Declares the LORD, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.’ Jeremiah 29:11 24
CHURCH RECORD
Bereavements “I am the resurrection and the life.” Betty Andrews died on 16th July 2010 Greta Coulter died on 9th September 2010
3,927 OR BUS £ F L A T O T
Please note your Elder is ............................................................................... and his telephone number is ........................................................................ should you wish to contact him. If you have recently joined our Fellowship in Alexandra, or have changed your address, please complete the information below and give it to Molly Benison or Bertha McIlroy, or even place it on the collection plate, as this will help us to keep our records up to date.
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Many thanks. Bertha.
Name: ....................................................................................................................................... Address ....................................................................................................................................
BETTY ANDREWS
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SERVICES EACH SUNDAY AT 11am AND 7pm SPECIAL SERVICES 3rd October ........................Communion............................Rev Ken Patterson 10th October ......................Harvest .......................................Rev Jonathan Reid 31st October .......................BB Enrolment.......................Rev Ian McClean 14th November .................Remembrance Day ...........Rev Ian McClean
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