Christ Church Lisburn

April 2015

CONTACT “CONNECTING WITH THE LORD, ONE ANOTHER AND THE COMMUNITY” Christ Church Website Address: www.christchurchlisburn.co.uk

SUNDAY SERVICES HOLY COMMUNION 1st Sunday

8.30 am

2nd Sunday

11.30 am

4th Sunday

6.30 pm

MORNING PRAYER 11.30 am

EVENING PRAYER 6.30 pm

ALL AGE WORSHIP 2nd Sunday 10.15 am

HOLY BAPTISM By arrangement with the Rector

SUNDAY SCHOOL (KLIC) 2nd Sunday Attend All Age Service 1st, 3rd, 4th & 5th Sunday 10.15 am Crèche facilities available during Sunday Morning Worship (Except 2nd Sunday in month) Junior Church operates during Morning Worship for all primary aged children

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Rector’s Corner

St. Apollo School, Uganda “God is good: all the time: All the time: God is good: and that is His Nature. Wow” This was one of the greetings that was used in Church and school during our 12 days in Uganda. It conveyed an amazing warmth and a deep sense of faith and joy in the life of God’s people.

Joy, hope, faith, peace and perseverance are words which describe the experience of being in the community around St. Apollo School for 8 full and packed days as well as the Church. The overriding experience is that the Lord is building this community, words which are echoes of Psalm 127 which I used when we were welcomed on that amazing first Friday with songs, dancing and speeches.

We saw a community growing in numbers, with new buildings, growing crops, so many children with school uniforms, the children receiving a meal each day, children using English in classes and singing, children enjoying sport, good leadership in the school, an extended church building and the support of the Bishop.

We witnessed a project that has deeply valued the support of the Parish of Christ Church and is a beacon to the wider church and education authorities in the Luwero area. But they are helping themselves as they seek to build a nursery block, have cleared land, a small shop which sells bread, samosas, eggs, bananas and popcorn as well as growing crops. The opening of the staff accommodation brings greater stability as it will allow 8 teachers to live at the school. However, the school has no electricity or power.

I thank the Lord for this opportunity to lead a Parish team, for each team member and all they contributed, for good health whilst there, good food, the time spent at the school community and all that was achieved there with the practical work of building bookcases, RE lessons, I AM Girl project, Hand Hygiene, Women’s work, sport, attending worship and the opening of the staff accommodation. I was privileged with the honour of cutting the green ribbon to open the staff accommodation, plant a mango tree along with Raymond and Beth and then speak on behalf of the Parish and team at the celebration. We received many thanks and gifts which included a chicken! I also counted it an honour to have preached at the church at St. Apollo on our first Sunday although the Bishop elect was 45 minutes late as he had two earlier services!

We saw evidence of the Lord at work, a rural community building on the Lord Jesus Christ, a community that blessed us and we trust were blessed by our time there. Building a school or a community depends on the right foundation and we 3

chose the words of 1 Corinthians 3:11 as a text for the plaques on the school building and staff accommodation: “For no one can lay any foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ.”

I again thank the parishioners of Christ Church for this Gospel partnership supported by prayer, giving, going and love.

I thank the Lord for the team members and all that they brought to the trip, all that they received and were blessed by through the time at the school and being together. We surrounded each trip with prayer as well as at meal times. Each team member contributed to these prayers. We met each evening to reflect on the day’s events as well as study God’s Word looking through Psalms 120-134 during our time and praying together. A good foundation for a blessed trip.

We had a wonderful and godly Fields of Life worker, Bridget who mothered and cared for us. We valued her wisdom and love.

I was privileged to have led two Saturday seminars, the first with lay leaders who look after Churches around Kikychusa, 45 minutes from where we stayed. They had never had a “white” person speak to them before. It was wonderful to have fellowship with them along with Rev Paul and his father Edward who is the Archdeacon. I used the book of Philippians as a basis for the day long seminar. I had an interpreter for the day in the Rev Paul. Beth Harris came along that day and we saw a project for orphaned children. I received a pineapple as a thank you.

I was deeply touched by this gesture. The second seminar was held for clergy in Ndejje Archdeaconry with the Bishop elect, Canon Eridard attending. Beverley Ringland came with me that Saturday. We had wonderful fellowship with Eridard and his wife Jane as well as the clergy and the food that day was the best, but the food was good at the Guest House in Luwero. The second seminar was held entirely in “Northern Ireland English”. The highlight came when we presented the group with “Lugandan” Bibles – such joy!

We look forward to sharing our mission experience at worship on Sunday 22 nd March, at Parish groups and in the community in the coming weeks. We may put on an evening in April as well.

I plan to hold a Parish meeting in May to look at Mission Partnerships including the partnership with St. Apollo and how we continue the support of the school.

Mothering Sunday A very special service with the visit of Bishop Pat Storey, Bishop of Meath and Kildare as she spoke to the children and then the congregation. Bishop Pat shared 4

about “names” and “What I have I give” in terms of our relationships and sharing the good news of Jesus.

We saw a large congregation with many children join in worship and in Holy Communion. We valued the input of the choir, worship band, and leaders and parents from Tots Together as they did the readings and prayers. Each lady in the congregation received a bright and colourful potted plant. A wonderful way to celebrate Mothering Sunday as well as show love to all who find this day difficult.

Rev Matthew Milliken

We are delighted with Matthew’s news as he announced on Sunday 1 st March of his appointment as Rector of the Parish of Milltown in the Diocese of Armagh.

We wish him the Lord’s equipping in this new sphere in his discipleship.

See the notice sheet for details of his final Sunday in Christ Church and the Institution date.

We wish Matthew, Lisa and Seth every blessing as they leave this Parish, in the moving process and in setting up a new home in County Armagh.

A major consequence of Matthew’s leaving is the gap of leadership at Youth Fellowship on a Sunday night. I hope to have a meeting of the Youth Council in late April or early May to look at this aspect and to plan the Kids Club for the summer.

New Curate The timing for the process of appointing a potential Curate started a week after Matthew’s appointment and Bishop Alan has added Christ Church Parish to the list of potential parishes that a Curate could be appointed to. A profile of the Parish will be drawn up with interviews in May of this year. Potential Curates may also visit the Parish in late April or early May. If I am able to appoint a new Curate, they would come in September.

Please pray for this process and for wisdom and discernment in seeking to have a staff member for the building up of God’s people in this Parish.

Easter Vestry – Tuesday 14th April The annual church meeting is a time to review the life of the Parish, look at our Finances, call a Select Vestry and share in fellowship. We meet at 7.30 pm in the Hall and will share in fellowship. We will also have inputs on the work with the Youth Council, 20’s/30’s ministry, prayer and mission partnerships.

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All parishioners can attend but only those on the Register of Vestrymen and Women can be nominated or vote for the Vestry if we need an election.

Worship on 19th & 26th April With the installation of the Visual System in the Church, we will have to use the Hall for our Worship on the 19th April and possibly the 26th April.

On Sunday 26th April, we will have the Rev Pat Mollan speak on her ministry as Director of the Churches Ministry of Healing at the 11.30 am service. Pat will return on Sunday 10th May at 6.30 pm for a service of healing with prayer and the laying on of hands. I trust that parishioners will support these services and encourage others to attend and value Pat’s ministry and draw near to the Lord for support, prayer and healing.

Praying the Psalms – May I have outlined a rhythm of “Praying the Psalms” in this Contact magazine to use during the month of May and I look forward to people using this rhythm as a means to listening to God’s Word during a period in the life of our Church as well as praying through them together as a congregation. It will take discipline but I trust that with a willingness to listen to God’s Word and a journal, you will see promises, encouragements, questions, faith, hope, life’s problems all revealed in Scripture.

I hope to organise the four Thursdays in May as a time to reflect together on these Psalms, meeting at 8.00 pm in the Coffee Bar. We will also seek to preach on some of the Psalms at worship on a Sunday.

I would value any insights and blessings from this journey by noting them and sending them to me or the Parish office in the month of June.

Holy Week & Easter - “For Us” This year we will build on the pattern of worship, fellowship, teaching and outreach that we shared last year. There is a separate leaflet detailing the worship and activities but based around the theme of “For Us” as we reflect that Christ went the way of the Cross “for us” to pay the price of our sin and reconcile us to himself once more. This is the heart of Salvation for individuals and our community.

We are planning a Prayer Walk on the Tuesday night and will join with other Christians from the city. We plan to meet at 7.00 pm at the Church.

We will have Mark Hawthorne from Scripture Union at the All Age Service on the Wednesday night.

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We plan to have the Fun Day and outreach at the church grounds on the Thursday from 12 noon to 2.00 pm. All help will be welcome to help with the BBQ and other events planned for that day.

The City Centre Walk of Witness on Good Friday at 12.30 pm.

Our rhythm of services at 8.00 am in the morning and at 7.30 pm in the evening will take a familiar pattern but which again will speak of the suffering of our Lord for our Salvation.

“This is how we know what love is: Christ Jesus gave up his life for us.” [1 John 3:16] This is the good news for people in our community and for the people in the community around St. Apollo School. We pray that people will get involved, support and value the message of God’s love which brings forgiveness, peace and hope.

Blessings in the name of the crucified and risen Lord.

Paul

Family Matters Burials “Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord” - Rev. 14 v13 13 14 24 05 16

Feb Feb Feb

Sarah (Sylvia) McCarter, 8 Rushmore Crescent, Lisburn Margaret Black, 13 Grove Street, Lisburn Mary McCulley (Molly) Roberts, Lisburn Care Home, Hillsborough Road, Lisburn Mar James Alexander Moore (Jim) Atkinson, Parkside Nursing Home, 4 North Circular Road, Lisburn Mar Samuel Purdy McKeavney, Pond Park Care Home, 2 Derriaghy Road, Lisburn

Our Sympathy goes out to all loved ones who are bereaved at this time.

Please uphold them in your prayers at the Throne of Grace.

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Worship for April 2015 Sunday 29th March 2015 - Palm Sunday 11.30 am 6.30 pm

Morning Worship & Holy Baptism - “Words of Praise and Adoration” Readings and reflections for Palm Sunday

Monday, 30th March 2015 8.00 am 7.30 pm

Morning Worship Evening Prayer

Tuesday, 31st March 2015 2.00 pm 7.00 pm 8.00 pm

Old Manor House Prayer Walk - Meet at Church. Supported by City Centre Churches 20’s/30’s event in Coffee Bar

Wednesday, 1st April 2015 8.00 am 7.30 pm

Morning Worship All Age Worship with the Youth Organisations - Preacher: Leanne Dunlop from Scripture Union NI

Maundy Thursday, 2nd April 2015 12 noon 2.00 pm 2.30 pm 7.30 pm

Fun Day Acorn Group Washing of Feet and the Lord’s Supper in the Hall

Good Friday, 3rd April 2015 8.00 am 7.30 pm

Morning Worship Tenebrae Service with readings and hymns - “Words of Sacrifice and Surrender”

Sunday 5th April 2015 - Easter Sunday - “Jesus is Alive” 7.00 am 8.30 am 11.30 am 6.30 pm

Dawn Service at Castle Gardens Holy Communion - 1 Cor 15: 1-11 & Mark 16: 1-8 Family Communion - 1 Cor 15: 1-11 & Mark 16: 1-8 “Words of Life & Hope” Hymns and Readings on the Easter Story 8

Sunday 12th April 2015 - Easter 2 10.15 am 11.30 am 6.30 pm

All Age Worship Holy Communion 1 - 1 John 1: 1 - 2:2 & John 20: 19-31 Evening Prayer 1

Sunday, 19th April 2015 - Easter 3 - Worship in Parish Hall 11.30 am 6.30 pm

Morning Prayer 2 - Prayer: Unanswered Prayer (Acts 12: 117) Evening Prayer 1

Sunday, 26th April 2015 - Easter 4 11.30 am 6.30 pm

Morning Worship - Preacher: Rev Pat Mollan, Churches Ministry of Healing Holy Communion 1 - 1 John 3: 16-24 & John 10: 11-18

Music in May Concerts Tuesday 12 May at 1.15pm The Choir of Downshire Primary School, Hillsborough Tuesday 19 May at 1.15pm Sheelagh Greer (soprano), Gillian McCutcheon (clarinet) and Mark McGrath (piano) The concerts take place in Christ Church at 1.15pm each Tuesday and last approximately 30 minutes.

Admission is FREE. However, retiring donations would be gratefully appreciated.

Our choir will be serving lunch from 12.15pm on the day of each concert, and you are invited to partake of that too. Salads, desserts and refreshments will be available at a cost of just ÂŁ6: A great chance to enjoy a time of fellowship before a musical treat! You can confirm your place by signing the sheets in the church porch from the end of April or by contacting Iris in the Parish Office on 028 9267 3271. In light of previous demand for lunches, we would strongly advise early booking.

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Holy Week Dates for your Diary of some events taking place during Holy Week

Tuesday, 31st March at 7.00 pm (Starting at Christ Church) Please come and join us this year for the Prayer Walk

Tuesday, 31st March at 8.00 pm

‘20’s/30’s Get-together in the Coffee Bar (light supper and fellowship)

‘All Age Worship’

Wednesday, 1st April at 7.30 pm

with Leanne Dunlop from Scripture Union You are invited for Refreshments in the Hall afterwards Everyone welcome 10

Every on invite e is d this ev to ent

Holy Week Maundy Thursday, 2nd April 12 noon - 2.00pm

Fun Day & BBQ in the Church Grounds and Hall

(BBQ will take place at the bottom gates of the Church

Maundy Thursday, 2nd April at 7.30 pm

‘Washing of Feet & The Lord’s Supper’

in Lisburn City Centre on 3rd April at 12.30 pm 11

Ev

Easter General Vestry Date: Time: Venue:

Tuesday, 14th April 7.30 pm Main Church Hall

This will include the Financial Report for 2014, Rector’s Report and the election of the Select Vestry.

All parishioners can attend but only those who are on the Register of Vestrymen and women can be nominated for a post or vote in the elections.

Gift Day Thank you to all parishioners for your generosity on Sunday, 15th March. The total as of 17th March is £6,382.50 and gift aid will be added to this. Any additional contributions by parishioners towards the organ repairs and visual system can still be made by using the designated envelopes.

Stay & Chill Club in Christ Church Coffee Bar on Mondays from 2.15 pm to 4.30 pm    

Children can do their homework Tea/coffee/juice and biscuits provided Children must be supervised by their own parent/grandparent/carer 2 parishioners from the Parish will be present at all times.

Volunteers required - contact Parish Office 9267 3271 12

Commissioning of the Parish Mission Team

Above - Fourteen people were commissioned at the Morning Worship Service on Sunday, 15th February, namely Anita Evans, Jayne Logan, Audrey Knowles, Emma Jane Marks, Beth Harris, Patrick Logan, Roberta Thompson, Colin Mitchell, Paul Dundas, Jane Marks, Gary Knowles, Beverley Ringland, Johnston Boyle and Raymond Geddis. Also included in the photograph are Rev John Pickering and The Right Worshipful the Mayor, Councillor Andrew Ewing.

Below - Some of the congregation pictured at the Morning Worship with the Parish Mission Team.

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Reflections on St. Apollo Trip This was my second visit to St. Apollo. When we left the school in 2012 to return home, the school wasn’t quite finished and I knew I would have to go back. So when a plan was made to build the staff accommodation I just had to be part of the team.

The experience has been a wonderful journey. A journey which involved emotional, spiritual and physical feelings.

Emotional – On arrival at the school, the sight of 300 children all in their green uniforms, lining each side of the track, singing, clapping and dancing to welcome us brought a lump to my throat. Some were affected even more so.

Spiritual – To see the commitment to the Lord from these children, their teachers and parents sets an example we could all follow. Their praise, prayer, faith and worship was inspiring.

Physical – it was hot! Fortunately most of my work was in the shade and it remained bearable. I admire those who took the sports programme in the sun.

Sleeping at night was difficult. As I write this today, the wind and rain is beating off the window, now I long for some of that African sunshine and heat.

At the end of our time there, I left with a feeling of achievement, of completion, of satisfaction, of fulfilment. We had achieved all we set out to do.

Johnston, Raymond and Gary with one of the 12 bookcases they made As the accommodation block had not been completely finished by our departure date, I now have another reason to return in the future. There will always be a part of me at St. Apollo!

Johnston Boyle 14

(continued)

Sewing and knitting with the girls and some parents

An experience that I will never forget for many reasons.

The welcome, the children's love for learning, and how God has become central to a community that was learning under a tree before Christ Church Lisburn provided a school with God's help and guidance.

The community of St. Apollo have used the school for the Glory of God and we were welcomed with the route lined with children, teachers and parents all clapping, singing and cheering how pleased they were to see us. Is this what Jesus felt like on route to Jerusalem on the donkey?

This was just the beginning of a fabulous 11 days of God’s blessing on the community with 40 women turning up for the health education programme with their girls, the children so keen to learn memory verses and have fun at sports, crafts, and worship. A sports day that was an enjoyable experience for all even the team who when leaving the bus said, “Bev, I have never enjoyed a sports day as much and I have attended many" but this proved to be an enjoyable experience for all even in 30 + degrees. My lasting memory is when we say GOD IS GOOD to the children they reply ALL THE TIME we say ALL THE TIME and they reply GOD IS GOOD AND THAT IS HIS NATURE. WOW. God supported the team in good health and a focus on the jobs we needed to do and although plans changed, we delivered all that He had planned for us. We have many photos and memories that will last forever but it is God’s love that is central to all in St. Apollo that has and will sustain them in all they plan to do.

Beverley Ringland On the day of the celebration meal, the Head Girl of St. Apollo addressed the crowd – she spoke in perfect English with words full of meaning and said “For 15

(continued) God and my country, never lose hope.”

‘Never Lose Hope’ is the school motto and it is very clear that the pupils, staff and parents heed these words in their daily lives.

They are enthusiastic in all they do, eager to learn new skills, encourage one another and praise God with their wonderful singing voices.

Jayne with Emma-Jayne, Anita & Audrey during Healthcare

The school and community have progressed immeasurably since the last team visit – and with the hope and faith which they place in God, they will surely go from strength to strength.

I believe that every day is a school day and I have returned home having learnt so much from the people I have had the pleasure of being with in Uganda. Never Lose Hope!

Jayne Logan

Two main thoughts on the trip:

Raymond and Colin playing rugby with the children

St. Apollo has developed significantly – when we arrived in 2012 there were 65 pupils being taught under a tree.

There were various health issues evident, worms, skin 16

(continued) diseases and general illnesses. There was also an obvious shortfall in the food provision for all children.

In 2015 we found some 300 pupils, in very good health, (no evidence of worms or skin diseases), being well fed in comparison to 2012, (as a minimum, each child was getting a large mug of thick, warm maize porridge each day), with generally enthusiastic teachers. They have also commenced vegetable gardens located at the school and the old church land which are being used to supplement the provision of food.

Visit to Bethel Royal – what an example of what can be done when the will is there. 700 secondary school pupils, (520 boarding). Self sufficient due to dairy, poultry and maize growing/milling operations. All food produced at the school is used on site. We also saw how the school and community can work together to the benefit of both parties. Jen, who had been abandoned by her husband to raise her 11 children, in a mud house that had partially collapsed received 2 pigs from the School Principal, Annette. From this, she now has a successful pig unit, has purchased around 10 cows and has built a brick home for her children. Her husband has returned and is now a leading person in the village community.

Raymond Geddis I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the people of Christ Church without whom this trip would not have been made possible. Words cannot express the great joy I experienced on my return to St. Apollo. If only I could explain the miraculous changes to the lives of 300 children, families and the community. These wonderful people now have hope. The children appear healthier and the standard of hygiene has improved. The whole community takes so much pride in their excellent Beth school. planting A lasting memory for me will be the thanks expressed by the children to God for their lives and their knowledge.

Thank you all for giving me the opportunity to return to St. Apollo to see the great work God is doing.

Beth Harris 17

a mango tree

(continued) Friday 20th February was a wonderful day for me, unsure what to expect, I was overwhelmed by the welcome from the children and teachers. They were lining the road clapping and singing “Welcome, Welcome�. This was the start of an amazing week.

A few words I shall never forget. Before the start of each class the teacher and children say these words with such sincerity and enthusiasm. Thanking God for life and knowledge: Teacher: Class: Teacher: Class: All:

God is good.

All the time!

All the time!

God is good And that is his nature.

WOW!!

Roberta showing a pupil how to wash her hands

I was privileged to experience the gratitude of the teachers, children and mothers have for the people of Christ Church and how much they appreciate and care for their school as it is the centre of the community.

I thank God for enabling me to be a member of the team of 2015 and St. Apollo will always have a special place in my heart. Hopefully I will return some day.

Roberta Thompson

School children doing a dance routine at Friday's celebration

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(continued)

Front wall being plastered at the Staff Accommodation

Rev Dundas cutting the ribbon at the opening of the Staff Accommodation

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(continued)

Celebration Meal on Friday, 27th February

Canon Eridard, the Bishop Elect of Luweero presenting Rev Dundas with a gift from the school to the team

Raymond and Gary - Games Times

Beth with Theopister (a child sponsored by GFS)

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(continued)

Patrick and Colin varnishing one of the bookcases which was made by the Parish Mission Team

Johnston with Bridget from Fields of Life

Parish Mission Team at St Apollo

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(continued) Ms Namuleme Esther, Head Teacher Mr Kaliiba Godfrey, Deputy Head Teacher

Children dancing on Celebration Day

Children wearing football shirts kindly donated

by Michael’s Chippy Shop

Violet A child sponsored by the Sunday School

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A gift of a chicken was given to the Parish Team

Acorn Club Maundy Thursday, 2nd April at 2.30 pm

Everyone is invited to come along to hear the Uganda Team speak at the Acorn Club

‘Holy Communion Service’ (in the Church) followed by

‘A Talk by the Uganda Team’ in the Coffee Bar

Summer Outing Date: Departing: Coffee Stop: Lunch: Touring: Board Ferry: Travel Home: Cost of Trip: Coach: Sign Up Sheets:

Thursday, 14th May 9.00 am sharp from Christ Church Car Park Newtownards Harrisons at Greyabbey (approximately 1.00 pm) Travel down Ards Peninsula to Portaferry Portaferry to Strangford

By Downpatrick (There will be a short stop between Strangford and Lisburn) £20.00 (Needs to be paid to Parish Office by Thursday, 30th April).

33 Seater Available in the Church Porches and the Coffee Bar.

t 60+ Smar Pass/ art Senior Sm Pass

It is important that you bring your bus pass with you for the ferry.

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Prayer Points for April “The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

[Phil 4: 5-7]

Points for Thanksgiving:            

The Parish team that went to St. Apollo in February, for good health, a blessed time at the school with all the activities. The many memories of this mission team and seeing the Lord at work.

The community at St. Apollo School and the life and vitality so evident as well as the progress in so many wonderful ways, particularly in terms of their health. The leadership of Esther and Godfrey.

The Church at St. Apollo for their faith, joy and hope. The support of Bishop Evans and Bishop elect, Eridard.

The generosity of parishioners to support St. Apollo School with so many gifts to resource it.

For the focus on Prayer in 2015 in worship and in our teaching.

The appointment of our Curate, Matthew as the Rector of Milltown Parish in the Diocese of Armagh.

Our worship shared on Mothering Sunday with Bishop Pat Storey.

The witness of the Lisburn City Centre Ministers’ Fellowship and opportunities to display unity and serve the community. Our plans for a witness during Holy Week and with Foodbanks.

For the development of the Parish Youth Council, the fellowship and training to be set up.

Parishioners who are back to worship after recent illness. What an encouragement!

For those who deliver the Contact magazine and all involved in the gift of welcome, hospitality, pastoral care and prayer.

For all who exercise a ministry in the Parish and community but especially those who are role models of faith to our children and young people.

Points for Prayer: 

Our worship, the teaching of God’s Word and fellowship on a Sunday as we journey through 2015 with the theme “Seek and Serve” and as we focus on “Prayer”.

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       

     

  

Our preparations for Holy Week on the theme of “For Us” which begins on Sunday 29th March.

For the projects on the Organ Repairs and a Visuals System after Easter and parishioners’ generosity to these projects.

Richard, Renee and the choir and our Worship Band as they lead worship and our team of intercessors. For new members for the choir as well as singers and musicians for the Worship Band.

For our Parish staff, leaders of organisations, Iris in the Parish Office and John our Sexton as we serve God together.

For our Parish Organisations, those who lead and all who are involved. For renewed vision in a new year and for new members.

For the continued work of the Vision Strategy team in shaping ministry and mission in the Parish.

For discernment about a ministry for boys.

For the witness of St. Apollo School in Kasizi, Luwero, with 300 children attending for education, the staff, resourcing the school, child sponsorship and Bishop Evans Kisekka who leads the Diocese of Luwero as he retires and as Canon Eridard is to be consecrated as Bishop in May. For Beryl Thompson, GFS Diocesan President and Laurie Randall as she heads up the ministry of Clergy Support in the Diocese.

The continued development of the ministry of the Christians Against Poverty Debt Centre in Lisburn with Paul Bailie as the Manager.

Our ongoing support and partnership of the Simon Community Hostel in Lisburn. The monthly “soup or pizza run”.

Those of our parish who are ill and undergoing treatment at this time to know God’s presence, peace and healing.

The many people who have experienced the loss of a loved one over the last number of months. We pray for their continued healing and comfort.

The Anglican Church throughout the world, for the many challenges it faces and for our own Bishop Alan’s leadership in the Diocese and for Bishop Hilary as he leads in Yei Diocese and develops training and education in the Diocese and as the Church cares for the refugees because of the conflict there.

For Bishop Rennis Ponniah as he leads the Anglican Diocese of Singapore.

For Christians who have been persecuted in Iraq, Palestine, Nigeria, Syria, Pakistan and Egypt.

For all elected to Stormont and our local City Council as they seek the wellbeing of all people in challenging economic and political times. For the new super council of Lisburn/Castlereagh.

For renewed efforts to bring peace and stability to our nation. For the PSNI Chief Constable, George Hamilton and godly wisdom in his leadership.

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Mothers’ Union

Old Manor House Service

Friday, 3rd April at 7.30 pm in Christ Church

No Service in April. The next Service will be on Tuesday, 5th May at 2.00 pm

Service Senior Citizen Lunches

Prayer Breakfast

Thursday, 30th April at 12.30 pm in the Coffee Bar Sign Up Sheets in Main Church Porch & Coffee Bar All Senior Citizens welcome

in the Coffee Bar on Saturday, 18th April from 8.00 am - 9.00 am (Light Breakfast, Short Thought followed by Prayer Time) 26

Opening of Christ Church on Tuesdays

The Link No Meeting in April

from 10.00 am – 2.00 pm

The next meeting is on 2nd May at 7.30 pm at Florence & Eric Crangle’s house

Co-ordinator Required Volunteers Required Contact Rev Paul Dundas on 07740589465

Something to think about 1. Don’t ask the Lord to guide your footsteps if you are not willing to move your feet. - Anon 2. If you judge people, you have no time to love them. - Mother Teresa 3. Don’t miss the beautiful colours of the rainbow while you’re looking for the pot of gold at the end of it. - Anon 4. Do what you can, with what you have, where you are. - Theodore Roosevelt 5. Beautiful young people are accidents of nature but beautiful old people are works of art. - Eleanor Roosevelt 6. Life can only be understood backwards but it must be lived forwards.

- Soren Kierkegaard 7. Life’s tragedy is that we get old too soon and wise too late. Benjamin Franklin 8. Some people, no matter how old they get, never lose their beauty they merely move it from their faces into their hearts. - Martin Buxbaum 9. What we weave in time, we will wear in eternity. - Anon 10. Do the best you can but rejoice with those who do better! - Anon 27

Thought for Prayer And Jesus went a little further and fell on his face and prayed saying, “Oh my Father if it be possible, let this cup pass from me.” Matt 26:39 Everything about Calvary is a picture of judgement. Look at the cross and you will see the holy Son of God dying there. Why is he hanging there? Why is he suffering? Why is he dying? Never did he commit a sin, neither did he have any evil thoughts. He is dying there in judgment, he is paying for your sins and mine. The Bible tells us that he was made sin for us, he did not sin but he was made sin for us. All of our sins and the sins of the world were on him. Sin had to be punished and God’s wrath fell upon him instead of us. He said on one occasion as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, so must the son of man be lifted up that whosoever believeth in him should not perish but have eternal life. You remember how the Israelites were bitten by the fiery serpent, this meant certain death. There was absolutely no human remedy available but Moses was told by the Lord to put a bronze serpent on a pole in the centre of the camp. Those who looked to the serpent were healed, so today, men are bitten by the serpent of sin. There is no human remedy for their sin but God has provided a divine remedy. He gave us his son that was lifted up on a cross and those who look to him in faith are saved but how can a serpent be a type of Christ? All through the Bible the serpent is a type of sin and of Satan. The serpent came into Eden and deceived Adam and Eve. He is spoken of as that old serpent, the devil.

Well there is only one time when the serpent was a type of Christ in the Old Testament. Brass was a symbol of judgment so this serpent represented sin and being made of brass represents sin unto judgement. So we look at Christ on the cross we see that he is taking the sinners’ place. We see judgement falling upon him.

There were three hours of darkness while he hung on the ‘cross.’ This is also a picture of judgement. We are told that in the judgement, those who have rejected Christ will be cast into outer darkness so this darkness fell upon the earth while Jesus hung upon the cross. This is simply a picture of the awful darkness which will surround the sinners in their eternal doom. We are also told that Christ was made a curse for us when he hung on the cross. Just think of it, he was the finest person who ever lived, he opened blind eyes, he cured the lame, he cast out devils and he healed the sick. We see that Calvary is the picture of judgment, the judgement which fell on Jesus because of our sins. This was our Jesus, he did not deserve it but he bore it all for you and me.

Bobby Moore (Prayer Fellowship) 28

Leaders and parents of Tots Together who took part in Mothering Sunday Service (Louise, Sylvia, Barbara, Andrew, Bertha and Louise).

Also included are The Most Rev Pat Storey and two children from Tots Together.

Indoor Bowling Club The winners of our annual mixed pairs competition were the man and wife partnership of David and Jennifer Henry, who were drawn out together.

More surprising twists occurred when David and Jennifer beat David Bodell and their son, Christopher in the final. Chris had won the competition last year, but this result assured no one has won the competition twice.

But, the other Henry son, Andrew, should really have spoiled the party for his mum and dad, when partnered with Topsy Dobbs he was well on the way to the final, but dropped a maximum four at the last end and lost by a shot.

That is parental love at its best!

Harry Allen 29

Acorn Club Outing to The Civic Centre

The Acorn Club met at the Civic Centre on 12th March to “meet the Mayor� Councillor Andrew Ewing. The Mayor welcomed everyone and we were shown into the Council Chamber. The Mayor gave an update on all the road works that had been going on in the City for quite a considerable time. He also explained about new businesses that had started in the City and that John Lewis still wants to come to Lisburn and hopefully this will be sorted out as it would bring quite a number of jobs to the City.

He covered a lot of queries from the Acorn Club.

Councillor Jenny Palmer also was able to answer a 30

(continued) number of questions regarding the Lagan Canal which was ongoing.

We then were treated to refreshments in the Cherry Room after which we were taken to the Mayor’s Parlour and relaxed.

A donation was then presented to the Mayor in aid of his charity “Marie Curie” and Rev John Pickering thanked the Mayor for his hospitality and for the gifts he gave the Acorn Club.

Our next meeting is on Maundy Thursday, 2nd April at 2.30 pm in the Church followed by tea in the Church Hall and a talk by the Uganda Team.

The summer outing is on Thursday, 14th May to the Ards Peninsula.

Sign Up sheets are in the porches and Coffee Bar. Please ensure you sign up as soon as possible.

Margaret Little

31

Volunteers Required for

Scripture Union Summer Camps & Missions See website for dates and full details of Camps and Missions www.suni.co.uk/campsandmissions www.suni.co.uk/volunteer Closing date for volunteers: 20th April 2015 (See Church Hall Notice Board for full details)

Crosslinks - Summer Camps BBQ’s, Treasure Hunts, Bible Stories, Camp Fires, Activities & More Castlewellan Castle (8th-12th August) Cost: £80 (8-11 year olds) Junior Camp - (A Great Escape - An Adventure in the Book of Exodus) (8th - 15th Aug) Cost: £130 (12-17 year olds) Senior Camp - Rock Solid - A Letter to the Colossians Dunluce Parish Centre, Bushmills Reset - Annual Young Adults Conference (21st - 23rd August) Cost: £35 Book online at www.crosslinks.org/camps

Belfast Bible College - Women’s Study Fellowship Opening Morning - 20th April (9.40 am-1.00pm) Women’s Study Fellowship is a three year course for women who are interested in deepening their Biblical knowledge and understanding and growing in their faith. The course takes place every Monday morning and is made up of three lecture periods covering various Biblical, theological and practical subjects. The course provides the opportunity for women from a range of ages, backgrounds and denominations to join together not only to study but also to share fellowship together. A certificate is awarded on successful completion of the course and the required assignments. WSF is suited to women interested in developing their own personal faith through study and fellowship and women who are interested in joining with other Christian women of a variety of ages and church backgrounds. For more info tel 02890 301551. www.belfastbiblecollege.com 32

Hill Walking Club

The Walk on the 7th March was to Doan. It turned out to be a cold and misty day with poor visibility. 14 people joined us for the walk and we were able to find the top despite the poor visibility. The conditions under foot were quite wet and soft, but everyone enjoyed the exercise. The next walk is on Saturday, 11th April to Tollymore Forest Park. David Bodell

Bible Verse of the Month

For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes

in him shall not perish but have eternal life.

33

Crèche Rota 05 12 19 26

Apr Apr Apr Apr

Co-ordinator: Roberta Thompson - Tel. 9266 4218 Easter Day - No Crèche Family Service - No Crèche Geraldine Ferguson & Emily Thompson Beverley Ringland & Vivienne Crawford

05 12 19 26 03

Apr Apr Apr Apr May

No Junior Church - Easter Family Service - No Junior Church Denise Moreland & Oliver Crangle Florence & Timmy Crangle Sandra McKimm & Jayne Logan

05 12 19 26

Apr Apr Apr Apr

Co-ordinator: Naomi Littler - Tel 9266 1894 No Coffee - Easter Tim & Naomi Littler Kitty, Garth & Rosalynd Anderson Nola & Paul Dundas

07 14 21 28 05 12 19 26 02

Apr Apr Apr Apr May May May May Jun

NO COFFEE MORNING - Easter Jean Briggs, Valerie McGhie, Isabel Porter Sylvia Creighton, Evelyn Greer, Helen Dickinson Jennifer McDonald, Irene Roy, Myrtle Watterson Janet Hendren, Verity Gilmour, Yvonne Boyle Myrtle Allen, Jean Ferguson, Florence Crangle Florence Beckett, Lucy Wallace, Dorothy Littler Topsy Dobbs, Annie Stevenson, Avril Wilson Daphne Sloan, Margaret Little, Valerie Christy

Junior Church Rota

Sunday Coffee Rota

Tuesday Coffee Rota

Flower Rota 05 Apr 12 Apr 19 Apr 26 Apr 03 May

Margaret Little Mrs J Hendren Rosalynd Anderson Vacant Edith Allen

34

Saturday Car Park Rota If you are unable to do Car Park duty, please swap with another person on the list.

Date 09:00-11:00 11:00-13:00 13:00-14:30 14:30-16:00 04 Apr 11 Apr 18 Apr 25 Apr

David Bell Robert Craig Ivan Soden Bill O’Neill

Alex Henderson Dennis McFarlane Barbara Watson Myrtle Watterson

Noel Glover Jean Craig Jack Moore George Christy

Victor Coleman Peter Lindsay Gary Knowles Jack Craig

Welcoming Rota 05 Apr 12 Apr 19 Apr 26 Apr 03 May

Time

East Door

Nicholson Door

Baptismal Door

11.30 am 10.15 am 11.30 am 11.30 am 11.30 am

Valerie McGhie Garth Anderson Garth Anderson Margo McDowell Margo McDowell

Janice Thompson Beryl Thompson Beryl Thompson Roy McDowell Roy McDowell

Florence Beckett Sylvia Eskins Sylvia Eskins Norman Nortcliff Norman Nortcliff

Simon Community Soup/Pizza Rota 18 16

Apr Mildred Briggs & Jayne Logan May Vacant Volunteers Required - 3rd Saturday each month (5.30 pm – 6.00 pm) If you can make a pot of soup or provide pizzas for the Simon Community, please add your name to the Soup Run Sheet in the Main Church Porch.

Saturday Car Park The Car Park on Saturday is now on the Summer Rota of 20 helpers. The number during the winter months is 26.

When summer staff go on holiday, this puts great pressure on filling the Rota each Saturday.

If you feel you could help even on an occasional basis, please let me know at the start of any month and you could be slotted in on any date and time which suits you.

Your help is needed and would be much appreciated.

Many thanks.

Jack Craig 35

SUNDAY Sunday School Geraldine Ferguson c/o Parish Office Tel: 9267 3271 2nd Sunday - Church Service 10.15 am 1st, 3rd, 4th, 5th Sunday in Halls 10.15 am Praise Group 3.00 pm Youth Fellowship Rev Matthew & Mrs Lisa Milliken (Year 8 and upwards) 7.30 pm - 8.50 pm

MONDAY Indoor Bowls

Mr Harry Allen 7.30 pm Telephone: 9260 2663 Guides Mrs Elisabeth Dougherty Telephone: 9264 8419 Senior Section (10-15 years) 7.30 pm Rainbow Guides Miss Karen Tilson Telephone: 9267 9849 (4 - 7 years) 6.30 pm – 7.30 pm

TUESDAY Badminton

Mr Garth Anderson Telephone: 9266 3938

7.30 pm

Teaching Series

Rev Paul Dundas

7.30 pm

WEDNESDAY Tots Together

(Parent and Toddler Group) 10.00 am - 12 noon Sylvia Eskins 9267 0524

Craft Club

Mrs Daphne Sloan

Prayer Fellowship

10.30 am - 12.30 pm

7.30 pm Mr Bobby Moore Tel: 9267 8791 Missionary Prayer Fellowship Mr Wesley Dickinson Tel: 9262 2021 (4th Wednesday Monthly) 7.30 pm 36

WEDNESDAY - continued Brownies

Mrs Georgie Adams Tel: 9267 9573 (7-10 years) 6.30 pm Girls Friendly Society Mrs Janice Thompson Tel: 077 538 252 10 Teddy Bears 3–5 years 6.45 pm Candidates 5–7 years 6.45 pm Junior Members 7–11 years 6.45 pm Members 11–15 years 8.00 pm Walking Group Mr & Mrs David Henry Tel: 9266 2631 (Meet at Springsteen’s at the Omniplex for a walk and a coffee) 7.00 pm

THURSDAY Acorn Club Rev Paul Dundas (2nd Thursday monthly) 2.30 pm Mrs Margaret Little (9267 1119) Choir 8.00 pm Mrs Sylvia Creighton Tel: 9266 4294 CLB Mr Tommy Ringland Tel: 9263 8252 Juniors 4-7 years (Main Hall) 6.45 pm Seniors 8-10 years (No. 2 Room) 6.45 pm JTC 11-14 years (No. 3 Room) 7.30 pm Senior Corps 15-21 years 8.00 pm

FRIDAY Mothers Union Mrs Nola Dundas (2nd Friday Monthly)

Tel: 9266 2163

Youth Club Mr Tom Doran (P4-P7)

Tel: 9262 2056 7.00 pm – 8.30 pm

SATURDAY Prayer Breakfast (3rd Saturday Monthly) Hill Walking Club Mr David Bodell (2nd Saturday Monthly) The Link

Mr & Mrs James Harper (1st Saturday Monthly) 37

8.00 am Tel: 9266 3317 Tel: 07787524859 7.30 pm

CLUB

.

Sunday, 26th April 2015 The preacher at the Morning Service will be

Rev Pat Mollan

Wendy Gibson R.A.D. Teaching Certificate and Fully Registered R.A.D. Teacher * * *

(Churches Ministry of Healing)

Classical Ballet Training from 4 years of age.

Pupils entered for Royal Academy of Dancing Examinations.

Classes held on Monday and Friday afternoons in Christ Church Hall, Lisburn.

Everyone welcome

Church Panel Safeguarding Trust

For more details contact 028 92 629258

Rev Paul Dundas Robin Smythe Beverley Ringland

Garden Services •Landscaping •Patios •Fencing •Grass Cutting •Planting •Hedge Cutting •Power Washing •Tree Pruning •Drainage Work

Tel 92 662163 Tel 92 664883 Tel 92 638252

Parish Office Opening Hours Mon - Tues 9.00 am - 3.00 pm Wed - Thurs 9.00 am - 12.00 noon Friday Closed

Memorial Care Services

Note From The Editor

Unable to look after a loved ones Grave?

We offer a Quality Personal Service to care for and tend Headstones, Surrounds etc.

All material for the May issue MUST be in the Parish Office by

All work carried out Expertly For further details telephone Rodney Toland on 07753 357172 55 Belsize Road, Lisburn

Monday, 13th April 38

Lisburn (028) 9267 4292 or (028) 9266 0262

BOBBY MORRISON 38 HILLSBOROUGH ROAD LISBURN, BT28 1AQ

Funeral Director Floral Tributes Wedding Limousines MEMORIAL MASONS Prestige Shoe Repairs & Key Cutting

David Ferguson

Self Employed Painter and Decorator

5 Bon Accord Terrace, Smithfield Street, Lisburn (Tel: 02892 603 055)

30 Years Experience

   

10 Ravarnet Walk, Lisburn County Antrim, BT28 1NG Telephone:

(H) 9266 2397 (M) 0790 1988 776 39

High Class Boot & Shoe Repairs Leather Goods Repairs Orthopaedic Repairs Key Cutting Service

WHO'S WHO IN CHRIST CHURCH PARISH STAFF

RECTOR Rev Paul Dundas, B.Sc, B.Th, Christ Church Rectory, 27 Hillsborough Road, Lisburn, BT28 1JL Telephone Number: 92 662163 Mobile Number: 07740589465 Email address: paul_dundas@yahoo.com Curate: Rev Matthew Milliken Tel: 07886413543 74 Woodland Park, Lisburn, BT28 1LD Email address: Matthew28181920@hotmail.com Senior Minister: Rev John Pickering

Tel: 07752339558

Parish Reader: Brian Littler

Tel: 9266 5897

CHURCH WARDENS David Bell, People's Church Warden Harry Allen, Rector’s Church Warden

HONORARY SECRETARY

Tel: 9267 9343 Tel: 9260 2663

HONORARY TREASURER

Garth Anderson Tel: 9266 3938

David Bodell Tel: 9266 3317

DEPUTY ORGANIST

ORGANIST Richard J G Yarr M. Mus (Lond.), B. Mus. Tel: 9047 2676

Renee Madden Tel: 9267 0802

SEXTON

PARISH OFFICE Iris Murphy Tel: 9267 3271

John Glasgow Tel: 07590560652

Parish Office Email Address: iris.murphy@btconnect.com Christ Church Website Address: www.christchurchlisburn.co.uk 40