December 2016 and January 2017 by St Columbas

The Columban st. columbaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s church, knock, december/january 2016/17

Rector’s Letter

Dear Parishioner,

THANK YOU I thank all those who supported our Christmas Tree Festival with such great enthusiasm, commitment and hard work. It was an extremely busy time for St. Columba’s but a most rewarding one as we had the privilege of welcoming so many people to our church. I was very encouraged to see the strong united team spirit of St. Columba’s reflected through members of our parish and our organisations giving of their best in so many ways. This was very evident through the generous giving of time, talents and finances which I deeply value and appreciate. I also want to thank our local schools and business for their generous sponsorship and encouragement. An important aspect of the Festival was to further strengthen and develop our Connections with the local community following the Week of Mission last year. It was a great source of encouragement to have the schools and businesses involved in our parish in this new and innovative way. They were all very appreciative of the opportunity to be part of the Festival. By working together we shared the Christmas Story, through the beautifully decorated trees with their bright lights and the accompanying biblical verses, with all those who came along. I hope that the Festival provided you with an opportunity to focus on the true meaning of Christmas - that Jesus is coming into our world to accompany us on our journey. As Jesus himself said “I am the way, and the truth and the life; no one comes to the Father, but by me.” (John 14:6). The Festival also reminded us through a number of the decorated trees and biblical verses that life is not all joyful as many people experience pain and suffering. We were therefore presented with a clear challenge to allow Jesus to be born again in our lives and to allow His great mercy, compassion and concern for others to be reflected through our words and actions. May we rise to this challenge throughout Christmas by ensuring that the light of Christ shines 2

brightly though everything we say and do in a world which can seem so dark through tragedies, suffering and selfishness. At the time of writing the amount collected is £8000 and further monies are expected over the coming months. The final figure will be announced in church over the Christmas period. This was an excellent result which reflected the great support we received from all those who visited the Festival along with the invaluable guidance and direction provided by the Parish Administrator Karen Patterson, the Organising Committee and Festival Co-Ordinator, Ronny Martin. Caroline, Charles and Henry join me in wishing you God’s richest blessing for Christmas and throughout 2017. Yours in His service,

Blue Christmas Service Sunday 11th December, at 7.00pm This service, first introduced to St. Columba’s five years ago, has been very much appreciated by parishioners and members of the community. This service is for all those for whom Christmas is a difficult time, through bereavement, illness, unemployment, loneliness, trauma, anxiety, worry or sadness. These words of introduction offer support and encouragement, which is reflected throughout the service: “The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; on those who lived in a land of deep shadow a light has shone. For the yoke that was weighing upon them, and the burden that was upon their shoulders, you have broken in pieces, O God, our Renewer”. This is a quiet and reflective service with readings, hymns, prayers and silence which offers an opportunity to escape the commercialism of Christmas. It focuses on the true hope and light which God provides to us all in the Christmas story through our faith. During the service there will be an opportunity to light a candle to remember a particular situation of pain or darkness in your own life. The church will remain open after the service for those who wish to stay for a time of further prayer and reflection.

The Rector 3

SERVICES IN DECEMBER Thursday 1st 10.30am

Saint Andrew (Transferred) (Red) Holy Communion followed by refreshments in the Choir Vestry

Sunday 4th 8.15am

The Second Sunday of Advent (Purple) Holy Communion Reader Ronny Martin Romans 15: 4-13 Gospel Clergy Matthew 3: 1-12 Intercessions Karen McAlpine

10.30am 7.00pm Thursday 8th 10.30am

All Age Worship followed by refreshments Reader Hazel MacPherson Matthew 3: 1-12

(Purple) Holy Communion followed by refreshments in the Choir Vestry

Sunday 11th 8.15am

The Third Sunday of Advent Holy Communion Reader Billy Nelson Gospel Clergy

10.30am

Holy Communion Reader Caroline Auchmuty James 5: 7-10 Gospel Clergy Matthew 11: 2-11 Intercessions Karen McAlpine

7.00pm Thursday 15th 10.30am

Blue Christmas Service Preacher Karen McAlpine

Sunday 18th 8.15am

The Fourth Sunday of Advent Holy Communion Reader Irene Gray Gospel Karen McAlpine

Evening Prayer Reader Eileen Anderson Reader Eileen Anderson Occasional Prayers Karen McAlpine

1 Kings 18: 17-39 John 1: 19- 28

(Purple)

James 5: 7-10 Matthew 11: 2-11

(Purple) Holy Communion for Senior Parishioners followed by seasonal refreshments in the Choir Vestry (Transport provided)

(Purple) Romans 1: 1-7 Matthew 1: 18-25

9.30am

Family Communion Reader Lucy Armstrong

Matthew 1: 18-25

10.30am

Morning Prayer and Holy Baptism Reader Victor Dukelow Reader Gillian Sadlier Occasional Prayers Noel Higginson

Isaiah 7: 10-16 Matthew 1: 18-25

7.00pm

Evening Prayer Reader Esther Templeton 1 Samuel 1: 1-20 Reader Esther Templeton Luke 1: 39-45 Occasional Prayers Karen McAlpine

Thursday 22nd 10.30am Saturday 24th 8.00pm

(Purple) Holy Communion followed by refreshments in the Choir Vestry Christmas Eve Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols

(Purple)

Sunday 25th Christmas Day (White) 9.00am Holy Communion Reader Billy McAlpine Hebrews 1: 1-4 Gospel Karen McAlpine John 1: 1-14 10.15am

All Age Worship Reader

Emma Ryan

Luke 2: 8-20

PLEASE NOTE THAT THERE IS NO EVENING SERVICE TODAY. Thursday 29th The Holy Innocents (Transferred) 10.30am Holy Communion

(White)

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 wish to serve your church in this way, please contact Muriel Arndell (9065 5500). The readings are from Year C of the Revised Common Lectionary and are printed on our parish website: www.coiknock.org

SERVICES IN JANUARY Sunday 1st 8.15am

The Naming and Circumcision of Jesus (White) Holy Communion Reader Joe McKee Galatians 4: 4-7 Gospel Karen McAlpine Luke 2: 15-21 Intercessions Karen McAlpine

10.30am

All Age Worship followed by refreshments Reader Muriel Arndell Luke 2: 15-21

7.00pm

PLEASE NOTE THERE IS NO EVENING SERVICE TODAY

Thursday 5th 10.30am

The Epiphany (Transferred) (White) Holy Communion followed by refreshments in the Choir Vestry

Sunday 8th 8.15am

The First Sunday after the Epiphany The Baptism of our Lord Holy Communion Reader Jayne Martin Gospel Karen McAlpine

10.30am

Holy Communion Reader Moranne Noad Gospel Karen McAlpine Intercessions Gina Greeves

(White)

Acts 10: 34-43 Matthew 3: 13-17 Acts 10: 34-43 Matthew 3: 13-17

7.00pm Choral Evensong Reader Billy McAlpine Joshua 3: 1-8, 14-17 Reader Billy McAlpine Luke 3: 15-22 Thursday 12th (White) 10.30am Holy Communion followed by refreshments in the Choir Vestry Sunday 15th 8.15am

The Second Sunday after the Epiphany (White) Holy Communion Reader Paddy Malone 1 Corinthians 1: 1-9 Gospel Karen McAlpine John 1: 29-42 Intercessions Karen McAlpine

9.30am

Family Communion Gospel Robert & Hazel Macpherson John 1: 29-42

10.30am

Morning Prayer followed by refreshments hosted by Youth Etc. Reader Marie McCordick Isaiah 49: 1-7 Reader Linda Wilson John 1: 29-42 Occasional Prayers Roberta Rogers 6

7.00pm

United Belmont & District Council of Churches Service for the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity in Stormont Presbyterian at 7.00 pm No Service in St. Columbaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

Thursday 19th (White) 10.30am Holy Communion followed by refreshments in the Choir Vestry Sunday 22nd 8.15am

The Third Sunday after the Epiphany (White) Holy Communion Reader Muriel Arndell 1 Corinthians 1: 10-18 Gospel Clergy Matthew 4: 12-33

10.30am

Holy Communion Reader Jill Armstrong Gospel Clergy Intercessions Karen McAlpine

7.00pm

Evening Prayer Reader Gerald Hill Ecclesiastes 3: 1-11 Reader Gerald Hill Luke 4: 14-21 Occasional Prayers and Preacher: Karen McAlpine

1 Corinthians 1: 10-18 Matthew 4: 12-33

Thursday 26th The Conversion of St. Paul (Transferred) (White) 10.30am Holy Communion followed by refreshments in the Choir Vestry Sunday 29th 8.15am

The Fourth Sunday after the Epiphany (White) Holy Communion Reader Carol Willis 1 Corinthians 1: 18-31 Gospel Karen McAlpine Matthew 5: 1-12

10.30am

Songs of Praise

7.00pm

Healing Service with the Laying On of Hands Reader Anella Gallen Mark 1: 21-28

Private Holy Communion Services It is always a privilege for the Clergy to conduct private Holy Communion services for those housebound parishioners who are unable to attend Christmas services in St. Columba’s. Please telephone the Parish Office (Tel: 02890 656 891 Mon- Fri 9.00am – 1.00pm) by Friday, 9th December, to make an appointment if you would like a private Holy Communion service in your home.

Holy Communion for Senior Parishioners in St. Columba’s Parish Church on Thursday, 15th December at 10.30am There will be Christmas Carols and seasonal refreshments. Please phone the Parish Office (9065 6891) from 9.00am to 1.00pm, Monday to Friday, to arrange transport.

All Age Worship Tea & Coffee Many thanks to everyone who donated so generously after the November service - we raised £121.35 on behalf of Sandes. Fundraising on the 4th December will be on behalf of the Dean’s Black Santa appeal, the proceeds of which are distributed to local charities, with a proportion given to Christian Aid. The range of charities includes medical research, those caring for children, youth and the elderly, the improvement of employment opportunities for young people, and a host of small charities which cannot afford paid fund-raisers. On the 1st January we will be supporting Assisi, which provides shelter for around 200 animals. With running costs of £450,000 per annum and no government or council help, Assisi is entirely dependent on fundraising, legacies and public donations. Thank you for your ongoing support. Suzanne 8

SIDESPERSONâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S ROTA Sunday, 4th December Sunday, 11th December Sunday 18th December Sunday 25th December

The Macpherson family Eleanor and Geoff Launchbury Joy Montgomery and Jack Dunlop Rosemary and Ivan Coffey

Sunday 1st January Sunday 8th January Sunday 15th January Sunday 22nd January Sunday 29th January

Helen Donaghy and Helen Proctor Yvonne and John Robb Lilias Smith and Pauline Darke Moranne and Ian Noad Jill and Brian Gillespie

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 Canon Ken Smyth (028 91458706). In addition to requested Parish Visiting, the Clergy will be visiting parishioners in the following districts during January: Rector

Canon Ken Smyth

Kingsdale

Kingsway Park

Kingsway Avenue

Knock Green

Kingsway Close

Knock Grove

Kirkliston Park

Knock Link

Knock Way

Knock Road

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. Please do not assume the Clergy already know the information as situations change and there have been occasions recently when they have not been informed. Please telephone the Rector (9047 1514) or the Canon Ken Smyth (9145 8706) to enable them to take careful note of the details. Thank you.

FLOWER ROTA DECEMBER 2016 Sunday 4th …………………………….......... .Esther Templeton Sunday 11th …………………………..........................Jane Scott Sunday 18th ………………………….............. …Lindsay Brown Sunday 25th …………………………............Christmas Flowers

FLOWER ROTA JANUARY 2017 Sunday 1st …………………………….................... .Jack Dunlop Sunday 8th …………………………............. ..Auchmuty Family Sunday 15th ................................. Eleanor & Geoff Launchbury Sunday 22nd …………………………...Mason/Mitford Families Sunday 29th …………………………...Noel Little & Sandra Lowe

DECORATING THE CHURCH FOR CHRISTMAS Thursday, 22nd December 11.30am- 1.00pm No flower arranging skills necessary! Gifts of flowers and a willingness to help is all that is required. Children and young families will be particularly welcome to help with the decorating.

From the Registers Our Joys

Holy Baptism Sunday 27th November Stella Victoria Raphael 199 Sandown Road Ava Louise Chalmers 4 Eastleigh Dale

Our Sorrows Christian Burials Tuesday 25th October

Rodger Christie Douglas 25 Kings Crescent

Thursday 10th November

Thomas Morgan Strathearn Nursing Home

PAUSE This week PAUSE met at the newly refurbished Neillâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hill for coffee.We had refreshments and lots of chat. By the time you read this the Christmas Tree Festival will be but a fond memory and the pine needles should have disappeared. It will soon be time to decorate our homes for the festive season. We are planning to meet in December 2016 and January 2017 as follows: Monday, 12th December at 10.30am - Cloud Nine (Newtownards Flying Club) for coffee/tea. Wednesday, 11th January 2017 at 10.30am - Park Avenue Hotel for tea/coffee. If you require further details or help with transport please contact me. May I wish all of you a Happy Christmas and a great New Year. Eileen 9020 3684

Thank you! A big thank you to all the parishioners who visited 44 Casaeldona Rise on Sunday, 23rd October for a Fairtrade afternoon. Business was brisk and tea /coffee was served with lots of chat. We sold almost ÂŁ1,000 worth of goods! Thank you for your support once again. Jim, Joyce, Kim & Laura 11

Thought for the Month

REFLECTIONS ON SUNDAY SCHOOL

A memorable episode in my childhood reading featured in Mark Twain’s ‘The Adventures of Tom Sawyer’. The question put to the Sunday School session Twain described asked for the names of the first two disciples. Tom, with a view to impressing a visiting dignitary with his biblical scholarship, blurted out ‘David and Goliah’ to the mortification of his Sunday School teachers. Little did I realise that in the fullness of time I would fulfil a role as a Sunday School teacher in St. Columba’s for the greater part of the 1980’s and well into the 1990’s. I held responsibility for the oldest group of pupils, the pre-Confirmation class. I had occasion recently to sift through Sunday School registers of the time. An assortment of memories was invoked. I recall vividly one Sunday when the topic for study, under the tutelage of an important visitor, was baptism. The question ‘What might another meaning of ‘baptise’ be?’ Sir, might it mean ‘cleanse’? And then the Tom Sawyer moment. “Who was talking about the Glens?” voiced a pupil accustomed to using Sunday School as an opportunity for restful somnolence. He had, of course, a passionate interest in East Belfast’s favourite football team. It was interesting and pleasing to note from the scan of the old roll books the contribution being made by pupils from the 1980’s and 1990’s to the St. Columba’s of the present day. They perform a range of roles; roles as diverse as Diocesan Reader, Select Vestry member, Church Warden, organisation leader and, indeed, Sunday School teacher. Others have taken time out in overseas volunteering work. A number were central participants in the Zambian project. Some have brought their own children to baptism. It is often contended that the Sunday School children of today are the church of tomorrow. The contribution made to St. Columba’s in recent times by those pupils of some 20 plus years ago certainly lends substance to that. But of equal, if not more importance, is the recognition that today’s Sunday School children are an integral part of St. Columba’s. We are fortunate that, through the good offices of the clergy and the conscientious commitment of church members who take Sunday School and who lead and take part in their organisations, our young people are regarded and treated very much as the church of today. Ivan Coffey Our sincere thanks to Ivan Coffey for sharing his ‘Thought’ with us. The February ‘Thought for the Month’ will be written by Jack Dunlop

PARISH CHRISTMAS CARD This year our parish Christmas Card features the popular carol “I saw three ships”. The words from the song are very familiar to us: “I saw three ships come sailing in On Christmas Day, on Christmas Day I saw three ships come sailing in On Christmas Day in the morning..,” While the origins of this carol are unknown it is believed to be a carol from the Victorian era. It has a very optimistic theme throughout and the carol is easily remembered through the repetition rate of the chorus line. It is thought that the three ships bore the purported relics of the magi to Cologne Cathedral in the 12th century. I thank the Art Club members who designed Christmas cards and congratulate Betty Gregory whose card was chosen. Betty had carefully designed this beautiful card which is bright in colour and features the well-known image of this familiar Christmas carol with words that mean so much to us all and which will assist us to focus on the true meaning of Christmas. The inside of the card contains full details of of all our Christmas services in St. Columba’s. Come and join us! The Rector

PARISH PRAYER

God, our Heavenly Father, make the door of our Church wide enough to welcome all who need human love, fellowship and a Father’s care; but narrow enough to shut out all envy, pride and hatred. Here may the tempted find help, the sorrowing receive comfort and the penitent be assured of your mercy. And here may all your children renew their strength and go on their way in hope and joy; through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen. Bishop Thomas Ken 1637-1711 13

Karen Salmon My two month placement at St. Columba’s is coming to an end, and so I want to thank you, as a parish, for your warm and friendly welcomes each Sunday. This Autumn placement aimed to integrate my classroom learning with practical experience of ministry and theological reflection. My placement has more than met the Church of Ireland Institute’s requirements. The quiet reflective focus of the 8.15am Holy Communion service was the perfect start to my Sundays with you. Although I trust I shall never miss step another set of sanctuary steps again! Canon Auchmuty evidenced great trust in me by allowing me the privilege of administering the communion cup, reading the Gospel, and leading intercessions. I shall always appreciate his direct and constructive comments, encouraging me to give of my best in service each Sunday. I had fun putting the children’s talk together, and was blessed by my preparation of a homily for the hymn For the Beauty of the Earth. That Songs of Praise service was memorable. More memorable however have been sermons by your Canons. You are blessed to have such gifted Bible teachers to help you in your understanding of Scripture. The variety of services I was able to participate in has also been instructive. While I grew in confidence as I practised certain aspects of leading worship each week, my greatest learning was in watching your rector and assistant priests lead services, preach, and interact with you all. My strong desire is to be as competent a preacher. The rector’s striving for excellence, pre planning, and attention to detail are other examples I aim to follow in my own ministry. Finally, I want to encourage you to seek God’s guidance on how you can serve Him and his church. My journey towards ordination has not been long and circuitous, but at each stage God gave me clear direction and encouragement to step forward in trust. Do open your hearts to consider a vocation in ministry or some other aspect of service at St. Columba’s. My experience is that following our faithful God is always exciting, so pray, and make a plan to speak to the rector! I count it a privilege to have had these months learning with you. In Christian love, Karen.

Doves These are photographs of the Doves over the Halloweâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;en period. We took part in apple covering activities, wrapping each other in toilet roll like mummies and making ghost lollies. In December we look forward to taking part in Christmas crafts and activities. There will be no Doves on 28th December or the 4th January and we will resume on 11th January. Moira

Mums and Tots Friday morning in the hall is a very busy time with happy children trying out all the many toys and parents, grandparents and carers chatting over a cuppa and making new friends. Anyone wanting to join the fun and help us out, please contact 9065 1412. Anne Congratulations to Fiona Haldane who won the Gold Medal in Fencing (epee) for her age group (60-69) at the Commonwealth Veterans Championships in Christchurch, New Zealand.

Christmas Tree Festival

The Brownies have been really busy. We visited Knock Fire station where Blue Watch taught us all about fire safety. The next week we were tested and we earned our Fire Safety badge. We also have been learning about the seasons and earned a badge for this as well. At Hallowe’en we joined with the Doves and we all dressed up, played games and ate ‘healthy snacks’. We are presently planning Christmas treats – a visit to Aunt Sandra’s and to the Opera House to see Cinderella. Wishing you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year from all the Brownies. Amanda

Brenda Auchmuty I want to thank all those who have sent messages of sympathy following the very sudden death of my mother. Caroline, Charles, Henry and I are very grateful for the cards, letters, telephone calls and expressions of kindness which we have received. We would also like to thank all those who attended Mum’s Funeral Service in St. Nicholas’ Collegiate Church, Galway. We have taken great comfort from the prayers and the support of the parish which is being expressed in so many ways. Mum always enjoyed her visits to St. Columba’s and took great delight in attending church services and parish events. In our grief we give thanks that our last memory of Mum is one untainted by illness as she died having been busy taking in the Geraniums and potted plants - gardening in a place she loved. The Rector 21

Beat the Street St Columba’s Parish Church recently entered an enthusiastic team into the Northern Ireland Beat-the Street game over a period of seven weeks from 14 Sept – 2 Nov. The aim of the game was to walk, cycle, scoot or run as many journeys as you could during the seven weeks. Our team scored points on their way to and from work, school, shops or while walking their dogs by tapping their Beat the Street card on Beat Box sensors placed on lamp posts at intervals across Belfast. As the weeks progressed so did the competitiveness as we fought to stay in the top 10 places of the leader board week after week. By the end of the game St Columba’s team of 30 people clocked up a total of 14,980 points and 725 miles. This amazing achievement put us at the top of the community group leader board earning a fantastic prize of £500 for the Church. In addition to the prize money, members of the team reported a wide range of benefits. They mentioned quality time with their family, enjoying the dry October weather, meeting new people, being more active. The St Columba team dogs seemed to particularly enjoy it! The prize money is a legacy of the game and is to be used in the spirit of the competition, i.e. to further engage members of the church and support them to be more physically active in their day-to-day life. We look forward to considering how best to use this money for that purpose and to support our Church.

LADIES BOWLS We are well into our season and are enjoying the new hall decor. We have the usual attendance of 12 or more and we were all enthusiastic about the Christmas tree festival. Our theme was PEACE and we were very please with how it looked. Phyllis 22

Railway and Model Club As promised, we have included a photograph of our (Model) War Memorial with the Guardsmen, in full Dress Uniform. This may be just a tiny model, but it still shows that our members wish to pay their respects to all those who have died, in the service of their country. In this model, it will remain on display for all to see..... and remember. Shopfronts are now underway, via John Robb, for the main street of the Kensington village. We’re not sure about M&S, at the moment!! Other work ongoing is the construction of the overhead viaduct which, on completion, will be quite a feature. We should have pictures in the New Year. During the next couple of months we will be showing our model harbour layout, hopefully at the back of the church. At 1200th scale, it is only the size of a small noticeboard, so keep watching....you don’t want to miss it! Hope you all have a happy and peaceful Christmas. In the meantime, keep’er rollin’! David

Activity Group After all the planning and excitement of the Christmas Tree Festival we are looking forward to relaxing and enjoying our Annual Christmas Dinner on Tuesday, 13th December 2016 at Neill’s Hill, Ballyhackamore. I hope everyone will enjoy this wonderful time of the year and I look forward to seeing you after the Christmas break on Tuesday, 10th January 2017. Maureen

Choir As we come to the end of the year, which coincides with the choir’s busiest period culminating in the annual Festival of Lessons and Carols, I’d like to record my thanks to all our singers, and to our Assistant Organist Brian Clements, for an outstandingly busy and successful year. Week by week our musicians strive to produce the best music they can achieve, calling for high levels of loyalty and commitment. I know, from the regular comments which parishioners share over coffee after services, that their efforts are greatly appreciated by the congregation. After many years of dedicated membership of the Parish Choir, Murray Hunter has decided to retire from singing. Not only has Murray been a valued member of the bass section of the choir, he has also made a significant contribution, as a flautist, to the instrumental group as well as working quietly in the background as Honorary Sacristan, changing the altar frontals as required during the liturgical year. I’m delighted that Murray will continue to carry out these latter functions. Murray has asked for there to be “no fuss” about his retirement, but I could not let this pass without recording my warmest thanks, and those of the members of the choir, to someone who is such a good musician and a much respected colleague. I hope we might see, on very special occasions, a surpliced Murray from time to time in the back row of the choir. Every choir, of course, needs to recruit new members to maintain numbers and to sustain the overall quality of the choral sound. I would again extend a very warm invitation to anyone who might like to sing with us. I can promise you a very interesting repertoire and a weekly rehearsal where you will be made welcome by our hard-working choristers. Please give this some thought. Thanks. Joe McKee

FEBRUARY PARISH MAGAZINE

Any articles or photographs for publication in the February parish magazine should be handed or e-mailed to the editor, Billy McAlpine, by Wednesday, 11th January. His contact details are:10 Old Quay Court, Holywood BT18 0HT Tel: 9042 4390 Email: colmaged@outlook.com

We all love to see photographs of people enjoying our Church activities. So we can all benefit fully from this and for reproduction purposes, it is very important that photographs are clear and in focus. Many thanks 24

CRAFT & HOBBY CIRCLE Wasn’t the Christmas Tree Festival wonderful, so many imaginative interpretations of a variety of themes. Awe inspiring! Change of plan – for the last time this year we will meet in the Choir Vestry on Monday, 5 December when we can chat about the Tree Festival and sell our decorations and anything left over from our table of wares in the Church Hall. Tea and coffee will be served and everybody is welcome to join us for a cuppa and chat and we look forward to meeting you then. I would take this opportunity to thank everybody who has come to our meeting during the year and also all those who have so willingly helped us, especially with the Christmas Tree. We will have a break until we return on 16 January 2017. The Craft Circle wishes everybody a very Happy Christmas and a healthy New year. Carol

Men’s Club I reported in our last article of the then upcoming bowling match against Stormont Presbyterian on the 24th October. The good news is we overcame a strong contingent from Stormont and were worthy winners by a score of 62 – 38 in our favour. Thanks are due to Stuart Beckwith in his role as Captain for guiding us to a good victory. Worthy congratulations also must go to all the members present for their gallant efforts on the night. It will be the New Year before our next match. We are looking forward to our Club President’s impending installation as Canon in Down Cathedral. Our best wishes to the Rector on this momentous occasion. In the meantime may you all have a pleasant and peaceful festive season and a very happy and prosperous 2017 from all the club members. John

Art Club Julian Friers, past President of the Royal Ulster Academy and our Honorary Tutor, held a workshop for club members on Thursday, 17th November. This was greatly enjoyed by all. The following week we visited the RUA exhibition in the Ulster Museum. Club members have been actively involved in producing miniature paintings/drawings to decorate our tree for the Christmas Tree Festival. Our theme is St. Columba and everyone has been searching the internet and books for suitable interpretations. We felt it looked really well. Congratulations to Betty Gregory whose design was chosen for the parish Christmas card this year (see page 13). The annual Christmas lunch will be held in the Royal North of Ireland Yacht Club, Cultra, on Thursday, 8th December at 1.00pm and the club will recommence our painting sessions on Thursday, 5th January. Billy

Youth Etc. Youth Etc. had an enjoyable evening ten pin bowling at Dundonald Ice Bowl. We split into two teams and the bowling was keenly contested. On this occasion the overall winner was Andrew â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;strikeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Kelly. Get practising as we will have a rematch in a few months time. We look forward to having more events organised and will be in touch with members on a regular basis over the coming months. David

Ladies Guild In October we enjoyed a visit from Mike Yarr, otherwise known as The Wood Man. Mike took up Wood Turning six years ago and the profits from his work goes to Marie Curie Cancer Care. He explained that a good piece of wood needs to be well dried out. He also told us that a tree felled in the summer months contains up to 60% moisture. These items and others may be purchased from Mike Yarr at 112 Kings Road but please phone for an appointment 07710 115923. We also had a letter from The Leprosy Mission thanking us for our used stamps. It was interesting to find out that they raised £6,500 from the sale of stamps, so please save your Christmas stamps for us so we can help this Mission again. Don’t forget our Christmas Dinner on 14th December at Shandon Golf Club. If you haven’t booked your place yet get in touch. On behalf of The Ladies’ Guild Officers and Committee may I wish you a peaceful Christmas and good health and joy for 2017.

Imelda

Parish Finance As the year draws to a close, we wish to remind parishioners that any financial contributions for the 2016 year must be received by 31st December 2016. Any contributions received after that date will be allocated to 2017. The Select Vestry would like to take this opportunity to thank parishioners for their continued financial support and to remind any UK taxpayers who have not already completed a Gift Aid form that by so doing, the Parish is able to claim a further 25% of the value of contributions at no additional cost to the parishioner. The majority of parishioners now contribute to Parish funds by standing order. The Select Vestry is very grateful for all financial contributions, however made, and is mindful of personal preference regarding the means of contributing. However standing orders are the preferred method for regular giving as they are both secure and cost effective, attracting lower bank charges than cash or cheque equivalents. If you require either Gift Aid or Standing Order forms, please contact Karen in the Parish Office. Thank you again for your continued support. Gillian Sadlier (Honorary Treasurer).

SUNDAY SCHOOL Sunday, 4th December 10.30am All Age Worship Sunday, 11th December 10. 30am Sunday School Sunday, 18th December 9.30am Family Communion Sunday, 25th December Christmas Day, 10.15am All Age Worship The Sunday School children worked enthusiastically to make decorations for their Christmas tree and we hope everyone enjoyed the result. The children will be singing in church on 4th December and on Christmas Day. We hope there will be good numbers on both days. Sunday, Sunday, Sunday, Sunday, Sunday,

1st January 8th January. 15th January. 22nd January 29th January.

Holiday 10. 30am 9.30am 10.30am 10.30am

Sunday School Family Communion Sunday School Sunday School

Happy Christmas to all the children and adults involved in Sunday School Joyce

CHURCH CAR PARKING As our autumn season of Church Services and Parish Organisations are now well under way, please be sensitive to the residents in the local community by taking care not to block entrances or pavements. Thank you!

Facebook St Columba’s Parish Church is now on Facebook. ‘Like’ our page to see updates on events, services and photos. Search coiknock on Facebook or Messenger to find us easily. For those who are new to St Columba’s and would like more information about the life and membership of the parish, please give your name and phone number to our Churchwardens or contact the Parish Office during office hours Monday – Friday, 9.00am – 1.00pm on 028 9065 6891.

Pastoral Care: If anyone has a pastoral concern and would like to

speak to someone, please contact the Rector (028 9047 1514) or the Assistant Priest (028 9145 8706).

SAFEGUARDING TRUST The Rector, Select Vestry and parish leaders are committed to upholding good practice in the parish’s ministry with children and young people. Should you have cause for concern or suspicion regarding child welfare in the parish, please contact: The Rector...........................................................028 9047 1514 Patrick Good.......................................................028 9065 6908 Elizabeth Leonard............................................028 9065 3162 29

PARISH ORGANISATIONS New members are always welcome at any of our organisations! Sunday

Monday

Sunday School Bubbles (3-5 years) Splash (5-8 years) X-treme (8-11 years) The Grid (11-14 years) Crèche Craft and Hobby Circle Ladies Bowling MU Afternoon Group Mens’ Club

Tuesday

Ladies Badminton Ladies Badminton Activity Group Mothers’ Union

Wednesday

Brownies Doves Railway and Model Club Bible Study Group Ladies Guild

Thursday

Art Club Choir

Friday

Mums & Tots

Bi-monthly

Toddler Soccer (3-5 years) Pause

Monthly

Youth Etc. (11-15 years) Young Families

2nd, 4th and 5th Sundays 10.30am

Superintendent: Joyce Stevenson 9058 3381

2nd, 4th and 5th Sundays

Lynn Ryan 07955 479065 1st and 3rd Monday each month Carol Willis 10.30am 9079 9997 2.00pm Phyllis Newton 9048 2113 2nd Monday each month 2.30pm Joy Montgomery 9029 5427 7.30pm John Robb 9058 1438 10.30am Gillian Popplestone 9080 3799 2.00pm Kyleen Clarke 9079 7155 Maureen Irwin Except 1st Tuesday 7.30pm 9079 5155 Katrina Dukelow 1st Tuesday each month 8.00pm 9029 0625 6.30pm Amanda Fee 07739 039750 6.30pm Moira Saunders 07739 041392 7.00pm David Beattie 9028 5868 7.30pm Eileen Anderson 9020 3684 Imelda Shephard 3rd Wednesday each month 7.45pm 9079 7683 9.30am Billy Nelson 9048 3889 7.30pm Dr Joe McKee 07976 294574 9.45am Anne Clarke 9065 1412 3.45 - 4.30pm Tim Wareing 07740 120788 As arranged Eileen Anderson 9020 3684 As arranged David Kelly 9079 6658 Social events as arranged Emma Macpherson 9028 2076

Requests for the occasional use of the church halls must be submitted to the Premise’s Convenor.

WHO’S WHO IN ST. COLUMBAS Parish website: www.coiknock.org

Rector

The Reverend Canon John R Auchmuty

St. Columba’s Rectory 29 Kings Road BT5 6JG 028 9047 1514

The Reverend Canon Ken Smyth

3 Mount Royal Bangor BT20 3BG 028 9145 8706

The Reverend Canon Walter Laverty

6, Hanwood Heights Dundonald 028 95738743

Diocesan Lay Reader

Karen McAlpine

readercolumba@gmail.com

Diocesan Lay Reader (Emeritus)

Bryn Harris

028 9187 8816

Rector’s Churchwarden

Andrew Hirst

028 9065 8785

People’s Churchwarden

Andrew Ellis

07920 112818

Assistant Priests

Junior Churchwardens

Henry Auchmuty, Jonathan Kelly

Rector’s Glebewarden

Jim Stevenson

028 9058 3381 07973 392448

People’s Glebewarden

Mark Reid

028 9028 4367 07810 648167

Honorary Sexton

John Proctor

028 9087 0526 07989 469773

Select Vestry

Rector, Churchwardens, Glebewardens,Honorary Secretary, Honorary Treasurer, Assistant Honorary Treasurer, Suzanne Allen, David Craig, Helen Donaghy, Jill Gillespie, Patrick Good, John Macpherson, Mark Ryan, Moira Saunders, Mark Wilson

Honorary Secretary

Elizabeth Leonard

28 Knockdene Park South BT5 7AB 028 9065 3162 elizabeth.leonard@me.com

Honorary Treasurer

Gillian Sadlier

70 Kensington Road BT5 6NG 028 9040 3278

Assistant Honorary Treasurer

Victor Dukelow

028 9029 0625

Gift Aid Secretary

Ronny Martin

028 9079 0821 07526 396838 ronny.martin@sky.com

Parochial Nominators

Victor Dukelow, Patrick Good, Elizabeth Leonard, Moranne Noad

Diocesan Synod members

Patrick Good, Moranne Noad, Ross Thompson (under 30)

Organist and Choral Director

Dr Joe McKee

07976 294574

Assistant Organist

Brian Clements

028 9079 3641

Reader’s and Intercessor’s Co-ordinator

Muriel Arndell

028 9065 5500

Sidespersons’ rota Co-ordinator

Rosemary Coffey

028 9754 2198

Crèche rota Co-ordinator

Lynn Ryan

07955 479065

Magazine Editor

Billy McAlpine

028 9042 4390 colmaged@outlook.com

Parish Webmaster

Ivan Roche

028 9514 0141 ivan.roche@me.com

C of I Gazette Distributor

Moranne Noad

028 9079 3704

Bible Reading Fellowship notes

Evan Preston

028 9048 9884

Church flowers

Eleanor Launchbury

028 9028 1204

Premise’s Convenor

Stewart Beckwith

028 9048 6622

Crucifer

Mark Laverty

028 9513 8743

Parish Office Administrator/ Financial Giving Secretary

Karen Patterson Office hours: Monday to Friday 9.00am – 1.00pm

028 9065 6891 office@coiknock.org