The Columban st. columba’s church, knock, september 2018
PILGRIMAGE TO RATHLIN ISLAND
Rector’s Letter
Dear Parishioner,
COME AND JOIN US September marks the beginning of a new season of Church Services and parish activities. It is a wonderful opportunity for a fresh start and new beginning for us all. Following the summer break it is good to return to the routine of parish life in all its fullness and diversity. For that to happen effectively, however, your church needs you, your gifts and experiences. This new season comes at the right time for each of us to show greater interest, enthusiasm and commitment to our church. This edition of The Columban contains full details of all the many things that are happening in the parish.
BACK TO CHURCH SUNDAY SUNDAY 9TH SEPTEMBER If you have been away during the summer months, or if you have not been to church for a while, then I encourage you to join us for any of our ‘Back to Church’ services on Sunday 9th September. This is a wonderful opportunity to meet fellow parishioners, renew old friendships and to find out what you are missing! Come along, bring family, neighbours and friends – we look forward to seeing you there – not just on Sunday 9th, but any day! Why not come and join us? You can be assured of a warm welcome where your individual contribution to St Columba’s will be greatly valued and appreciated.
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HARVEST SERVICES SUNDAY 7TH OCTOBER This year, we are adopting a fresh and imaginative approach to our Harvest Services on Sunday 7th October when Henry Auchmuty and Murray Hunter will be sharing their personal experiences of people from different backgrounds and countries who are in great need of assistance. At the 11am All Age Worship Service, Henry will be describing his work in Kenya during the summer. He was part of the Jengana Team of eighteen people who worked in the Kibera slums, where he was involved in building programmes, street feeding, home visits and teaching children. All the money raised through your generous donations was used to further develop these projects. At the 7pm Choral Evensong Service, Murray will be sharing with us his experiences of “The Larder” in East Belfast. Murray and Pam Hunter deliver the food items which we bring to St Columba’s to “The Larder” throughout the year for those in our local community who can not afford to buy food. The food items used in the decorating of our church at Harvest will be given to support “The Larder”. As St Paul reminds us: “Rejoice always, Pray without ceasing, Give thanks in all circumstances For this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” (1 Thessalonians 5: 16-18) I encourage you to come along to these services as we thank God for His blessings to us and also to deepen our commitment to support those who are in great need. How encouraging it will be for us all to hear the personal stories of two members of St Columba’s at these services talking about the importance of serving people in different situations. In addition to the services with the familiar hymns and Harvest music, there will also be the very popular Harvest Lunch in the Church Hall. Come and join us! Yours in His Service,
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SERVICES IN SEPTEMBER Sunday, 2 The Fourteenth Sunday after Trinity 8.15am Holy Communion Reader Paddy Malone Gospel & Intercessions Karen McAlpine
(Green) James 1: 17-27 Mark 7: 1-8, 14-15, 21-23
10.30am
All Age Worship followed by refreshments Reader Jamie Sadlier
Mark 7: 1-8, 14-15, 21-23
7.00pm
Choral Evensong Reader Reader
nd
Tilly Heyburn Esther Templeton
Exodus 12: 21-27 Matthew 4: 23 – 5: 20
Thursday, 6th The Birth of the Blessed Virgin Mary (Transferred) 10.30am Holy Communion followed by refreshments in the Choir Vestry
(White)
Sunday, 9th 8.15am
The Fifteenth Sunday after Trinity Back to Church Sunday Holy Communion Reader Jayne Martin Gospel Karen McAlpine
(Green)
10.30am
Holy Communion with Dedication of Parish Organisation Leaders Reader Joy Montgomery Gospel Karen McAlpine Intercessions Elizabeth Leonard
7.00pm
Compline Reader
Murray Hunter
2 Thessalonians 2: 13-17 Matthew 7: 24-29
2 Thessalonians 2: 13-17 Matthew 7: 24-29
Matthew 7: 24-29
Thursday, 13th 10.30am Holy Communion followed by refreshments in the Choir Vestry
(Green)
Sunday, 16th The Sixteenth Sunday after Trinity 8.15am Holy Communion Reader Billy McAlpine Gospel & Intercessions Karen McAlpine
(Green) James 3: 1-12 Mark 8: 27-38
9.30am
Family Communion Gospel
Mark 8: 27-38
10.30am
Morning Prayer followed by refreshments hosted by Railway & Model Club Reader David Beattie Proverbs 1: 20-33 Reader Geoff Launchbury Mark 8: 27-38 Occasional Prayers: Clergy
7.00pm
Holy Communion Reader Gospel
Henry Auchmuty
Fiona Haldane Clergy 4
Exodus 18: 13-26 Matthew 7: 1-14
Thursday, 20th 10.30am Holy Communion followed by refreshments in the Choir Vestry Sunday, 23rd The Seventeenth Sunday after Trinity 8.15am Holy Communion Reader Kyleen Clarke Gospel Karen McAlpine
(Red) (Green)
James 3: 13 -4: 3, 7-8a Mark 9: 30-37
10.30am
Holy Communion Reader Gospel Intercessions:
Lindsay Brown Karen McAlpine Barbara Laverty
James 3: 13 -4: 3, 7-8a Mark 9: 30-37
7.00pm
Evening Office Reader Reader
Eileen Anderson Andrew Ellis
Exodus 19: 10-25 Matthew 8: 23-34
Thursday, 27th Saint Michael and all Angels 10.30am Holy Communion followed by refreshments in the Choir Vestry.
(White)
Sunday, 30th The Eighteenth Sunday after Trinity 8.15am Holy Communion Reader Ronny Martin Gospel & Intercessions Karen McAlpine
(Green)
10.30am
Songs of Praise
7.00pm
Healing Service with the Laying On of Hands Reader David Craig
James 5: 13-20 Mark 9: 38-50
Matthew 9: 1-8
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 Readers and Intercessors: If you cannot read or lead the prayers on the appointed day, please arrange a swap with someone else on the rota and let the Churchwardens know. We are always delighted to add new names to the Rota of Readers and Intercessors. If you would wish to serve your church in this way, please contact The Rector (02890 471514). The readings are from Year B of the Revised Common Lectionary and are printed on our parish website: www.coiknock.org
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FROM THE REGISTERS Our Joys
Holy Baptism 12th August 19th August
Holly Claire Baxter Elijah Luke McDermott
Weddings Saturday 30th June
Sarah Jane Fullerton and James Samuel Weller
Christian Burials Saturday 16th June Thursday 9th August
Our Sorrows Edward Victor Oswald Geraldine Mcgowan Gallen
SAVE THE DATE FLORAL EVENING - TALK AND DEMONSTRATION Wednesday 28th November at 7.30pm St Columba’s Parish Hall
SEPTEMBER FLOWER ROTA Sunday, 2 Sunday, 9th Sunday, 16th Sunday, 23rd Sunday, 30th nd
Barbara Laverty Lynn & Mark Ryan Carol Willis Frances O’Donnell Betty Burnett
SIDESPERSON’S ROTA 2nd September
The Sadlier family
9 September
Alison and Brian Acheson
16th September
Helen Armstrong and Rosemary Coffey
23rd September
Yvonne and John Robb
30 September
Eileen Anderson and Ann McGarvey
th
th
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CHURCH HALL KITCHEN REFURBISHMENT There has been a lot of activity in the Church Hall kitchen during the summer months as the long-awaited refurbishment got underway. This has been a big project as the Select Vestry made essential improvements to our main hall kitchen. This work included the replacement of the ovens and hobs along with installation of new worktops. The walls have also been painted and a sink for your hand washing has been installed. The Property Committee are discussing options for a new water heater and floor covering. Before this work could even commence it was necessary to clear out all the kitchen cupboards which wasn’t an easy task as there were many items which hadn’t seen the light of day for many years! I thank Suzanne Allen and Lindsay Brown for doing all this clearing before David Kelly, Jim Stevenson and Moira Saunders could commence their work. They have all done an excellent job and I wish to convey my grateful thanks. Through the generous giving of their time and talents they have saved the parish a considerable amount of money. The Rector
CRAFT AND HOBBY CIRCLE How quickly the past two months have gone by, they do say as you get older time passes faster and now I must agree with that. The important thing is to make the most of each day you can draw those marbled limbs over the edge of the bed! Over the next few weeks we will be pulling together our Raise the Roof Coffee & Craft Event to be held on Saturday, 29th September, and then we can draw breath and get on with other things. We have been knitting and crocheting squares in response to a request to make blankets for the homeless pods in East Belfast, now to collect them all and join together. Please note: We will re-commence our meetings on Monday, 3rd September and not as stated in the last magazine. As always this group is open to all even if not a parishioner so bring a friend whether or not they craft, our emphasis is more upon people than craft! Carol 9079 9997 / 07831 345560
or
Email: pchwillis@hotmail.co.uk 7
DEDICATION OF PARISH ORGANISATION LEADERS SUNDAY 9TH SEPTEMBER
On Sunday 9th September, we will be holding the Service of Dedication for our Parish Organisation Leaders during the 10.30am Holy Communion service. We would be grateful if you could bring along as many members of your organisation as possible to join in, as together we prepare for the new season of activities. Each of our organisations enjoy enthusiastic leadership and we would like to celebrate the hard work and commitment shown by each group at this service. Thank you to all of our organisation leaders, members and to those who give so much of their talents to provide friendship, fellowship and entertainment, as well as valuable support for St Columba’s. Happy new season!
CRÈCHE Crèche will recommence on Sunday 9th September and runs on the 2nd, 4th and 5th Sundays of each month in the Church Hall. I welcome any new members, especially those that have brothers and sisters in the Sunday School. I would be grateful if any parents would assist with the crèche rota, or alternatively feel free to come along with your child and have a cup of coffee while they play. I will be at the back of the Church after the service on Sunday 2nd September, to introduce myself and to answer any questions or queries that parents have about crèche or please feel free to contact me by phone or text. I look forward to seeing you all. Claire Hirst - 07949 298473
Art Club Please note - The Art Club starts the new 'season' on Thursday 6th September. 8
MEN’S CLUB Hard to believe we are already at the stage of starting another season within the club. A busy year ahead of us planning the forthcoming 60th anniversary of the foundation of what is now known as The Men’s Club. 2019 is officially the 60th year of existence and a programme of events will be put together to best celebrate this major event not only for us but also the church family as a whole. We will be discussing a format and will advise as soon as we have it finalised. In the meantime we extend a warm welcome to any potential new members. We meet each Monday evening in the main hall starting at 7.30pm. Although bowling is our main purpose we propose to widen our scope and include other items such as talks or outings. Details will be posted when available. Come join us, meet the members and have a bit of crack. See you hopefully on the first night in September 3rd at 7.30 pm. Any further details required can be obtained from me on my mobile number 07956 061929. John
PAUSE Why is it that summer months seem to pass more quickly than months in the middle of winter? I hope that every reader of the Columban will have had time to relax and enjoy the summer of 2018, whether at home or away. Autumn is here and the children are back at school, ready for the new academic year. Parish organisations have begun or are about to do so very soon. As usual, PAUSE continued throughout July and August, meeting at Neill's Hill and the Park Avenue Hotel. In September we will meet on: Wednesday, 12th September, at 10.30am at the Secret Garden for coffee and a chat. PAUSE is an opportunity to come along for a short time to have a cup of tea or coffee and a chat - with whoever happens to be there. The day varies as does the venue. Everyone is welcome. If you are free do come along. Come on your own or bring a friend. We look forward to seeing you. If you require further details or help with transport please contact me. Eileen (02890203684) 9
As many of you know I have recently completed my A-levels. Sixth form has been a busy but fun year, a good way to finish my time in Campbell College. This now leads to a new chapter in my life with so many exciting possibilities. However at this point the most difficult decision is what do I really want to do with my future?
Thought for the Month
Charles Auchmuty
In my opinion it is these sorts of decisions that challenge my generation, there are so many opportunities and possibilities that it is really difficult to actually decide what you want to do. When you do work out what you can see yourself doing, even that can change in a heartbeat. From personal experience I chose a course 12 months ago that I could see myself doing for the foreseeable future recently however, I have been having second thoughts. This has led me to question the possibility of a year out in order to decide what I really want to do at third level and beyond.
This all stems from having time to reflect over the summer months as I look back over my experiences throughout the past 18 years in particular my visit to Kenya in 2016 which had a profound effect on me. It made me look at life in a completely different way. I realised that it is the care of people which really matters, as I saw individuals there making so much out of so little. My trip across Eastern Europe this summer has also given me a fresh insight into what it is like to be completely independent. I have come to realise that maybe you don’t have to move on through the system as quickly in life as you think. It is important to stop and think what it is that you really want to achieve, whether it is short term or long term. It is important to reflect on your strengths, achievements and past experiences in order to fully comprehend what it is that you really want to achieve. Although at the same time I have come to realise not to be worried if you don’t know what you want to do, work hard, concentrate on what matters and something will eventually work out. Our sincere thanks to Charles for sharing this ‘Thought’ with us. The October ‘Thought for the Month’ will be written by Patricia Clements. 10
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) as Canon Ken Smyth is on holiday this month. In addition to requested Parish Visiting, the Rector will be visiting parishioners in the following districts during September: Cherryvalley Park Clara Park Clarawood Crescent Clarawood Park
Rector
Circular Road Clara Road Clarawood Grove
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 they will be pleased to offer them pastoral support. This will allow for better use of clergy time and resources, allowing them to visit as many people as possible. Please do not assume that they already know this information. Please telephone the Rector (9047 1514), to enable him to take careful note of the details. Thank you.
Hospital Visiting
– A note from Canon Ken Smyth Each month parishioners are encouraged in the Columban to notify the clergy when admitted to hospital, and also to do likewise when they are discharged. This enables the Rector, and assistant clergy to maximize their use of time when providing pastoral care. As you will be aware, I have now retired as Church of Ireland Chaplain in the Ulster Hospital to which many parishioners are admitted for treatment. In inviting me to remind you of that fact, the Rector is anxious to ensure that you continue to receive care and attention in the Ulster, in other Belfast hospitals, and beyond. Your cooperation and assistance would be much appreciated. Please telephone the Rector (9047 1514) to enable him to take careful note of the details. THANK YOU.
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THANK YOU! While hesitant about submitting a personal note to the Columban, I feel that it would be remiss if I did not express my thanks and appreciation to the Rector, my colleagues and parishioners for the many messages received on the 50th anniversary of my Ordination as Deacon, in early July. It was my intention to mark the occasion very quietly but the presence of all my children- Sarah, Catherine, and Peter with wife Liz and grandchildren, Aedan and Isaac, visiting from Vancouver, made it a time which Jenny and I will never forget. It is a great privilege to have been called to serve in the ordained ministry, and a particular blessing to have reached such a significant landmark, for which I thank God. For over six years, Jenny and I have been associated with the parish family at St. Columba’s. That has been a joyful and affirming experience, which we trust will continue. Your friendship is appreciated greatly. In particular, I wish to acknowledge the kindness of the rector and the unceasing hospitality of Caroline, Charles and Henry, in the rectory. A number of things stand out as I reflect on that special day when we celebrated our faith at the sacrament of Holy Communion, including the invitation by the Rector to Peter, who is an Anglican priest in Canada, to robe and join me in the sanctuary. That, and the sentiments he (The Rector) expressed in spoken and written word, overwhelmed Jenny and me. In expressing grateful thanks, it is appropriate that I acknowledge that it is to God that all glory and honour is due. Canon Ken Smyth.
ACTIVITY GROUP Since Activity finished on 15th May, and as the weather has been so good, we have been enjoying scenic walks every Tuesday which continued into July. We have visited all our usual walking spots and have introduced Ormeau Park, Botanic Gardens, and Victoria Park to our list. In July, we enjoyed a lovely walk along the Down Coast finishing the evening with supper at the Coast Restaurant and as a change from walking we have been to the cinema to see Mamma Mia, Here We Go Again which was a fun filled evening. I hope everyone has enjoyed the summer break. We return to the Church Hall on Tuesday, 11th September, 2018 at 7.30 pm and I look forward to seeing you then for another year of badminton and Scrabble. Maureen 12
What wonderful weather we have enjoyed this summer. I trust you all had an opportunity to have a break and come back now refreshed. We meet again on Tuesday 4th September at 8.00 pm in the church for a service of Holy Communion. Some members in our branch have been committed to our worldwide fellowship for 60, 50, and 40 years. It is the intention of the committee to present certificates to mark these milestones after the service. I look forward to seeing you at this service. Some members of our committee have taken part in a sponsored walk to raise funds for Mothers' Union Projects. There is still an opportunity to contribute by sponsoring or taking a copy of the fireside quiz which will be available at our meeting. Next month, 2nd October, we are hosting a guest evening and will be inviting our friends from neighbouring churches to this event. Our Speaker will be Frances Gibson who will give us some ideas on how to plant garden containers and decorate our homes with “Autumn Colour”. Some planters will be available for sale on the evening and the Mothers' Union bookstall will be set up for those wishing to purchase diaries etc. Please put the date in your diary. Barbara
AFTERNOON GROUP 33 intrepid travelers set off by coach from St Columba's bound for the Knitted Village of Cloughmills. The number was made up of ladies from the Afternoon Group, the Craft Group, the Art Group and others from the neighbourhood churches. The weather was fine and we received a warm welcome from the ladies of Cloughmills at the Orange Hall. The work that had gone into both the knitted village and the other craft work on display was amazing. Lunch of homemade soup, sandwiches and tray bakes was provided. We paid £5 per person which was then passed on to Macmillan as a community project. In the afternoon we continued to Coleman's Nursery where we were given both a warm welcome and a discount voucher. I began to worry when I saw the amount of items purchased that the coach would be unable to continue the journey back to Belfast. On the journey home we sang songs made famous during the war years. The atmosphere in the coach was electric and many new friendships were made. Our thanks to Engage with Age for providing the coach and the 33 ladies for making the trip such a success. Our next meeting will be on Monday 10th September at 2.30 pm in the choir vestry. ALL WELCOME Joy Montgomery 13
OUR CLIMB TO THE ROOF OF AFRICA On the 15th August we boarded a plane in Dublin bound for Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, on the first leg of the biggest adventure of our lives to travel to Tanzania and, hopefully, climb Africa’s highest mountain, Kilimanjaro. From there we had another flight to take us close to our base camp in Arusha at the foot of the mountain. The climb is being organised by a group called “Straight to Swimming” which is an all-Ireland organisation which provides swimming pool focused physiotherapy for people with scoliosis. All the young people climbing suffer from the condition which will make the climb all the more challenging. This will be the third climb undertaken by the group and it is arranged through an organisation called “Kilimanjaro Achievers” which is a non profit organisation which through various projects has raised hundreds of thousands of Euros for various projects in Africa. In Tanzania they work closely with Dr Clemence at his clinic, The Sharmah (Biblical reference meaning “God be with us”) and the Cheti Orphanage which are both based in near Arusha where we start our climb. We decided to use our climb to fund raise for the Orphanage through various events and are also taking out clothes and stationery donated by our friends. Both of us are really looking forward to spending some time with the children there and supporting those who work so hard in very difficult conditions to provide a safe environment for vulnerable children who have absolutely nothing. At this point we would like to thank all those who stayed after church on Sunday (4th August) for coffee and so generously supported us. A fantastic sum of £477 was raised which has been a great boost to our fund raising effort. The climb itself will be tough and it will take us approximately six days to go up and 2/3 days to come down. The mountain is 5895 metres (19,341 ft) high which is 14
the equivalent of about seven Slieve Donards! In addition to the physical challenge there is an added potential problem of altitude sickness so we have been training hard with the focus on hiking to get our muscles used to constant walking. Also the organiser’s experience in running these expeditions will be invaluable in trying to stave off the effects of altitude sickness and the route taken is one of the longest to try and allow us all maximum time to acclimatise. The group also includes a doctor and a couple of physiotherapists who will help with try to keeps us moving. Especially first thing in the morning! The preparation and training has already been a great experience and allowed us to meet other teenagers from all over Ireland and when we climbed Slieve Donard recently for most it was their first time in the Mournes. We have also travelled to places near Carlingford and Glendalough in the Wicklow mountains to meet up and hike together while the organisers keep an eye on our training/progress. The process started way back in February when we all met up for the first time at St Mary’s Hospital Dublin for an induction talk and the taking of bloods etc to ensure we were all healthy enough to attempt the climb. We have also had advice on diet to build up our stamina for the challenge ahead. Another task has been assembling the necessary equipment as we will experience various conditions from the heat at the beginning of the climb to minus zero temperatures at, hopefully, the summit. We start out for the summit at 1.00am so have head torches and we had a trial run in Glendalough a couple of weeks ago when we walked through the night. There are strict weight limits in what we can bring and we will be carrying a modest enough pack with the majority of our personal equipment, together with pretty much everything else needed for camp, being carried by porters. These men are amazing and with absolutely no high tech gear go up and down the mountain on a regular basis. We are pleased that Kilimanjaro Achievers have an excellent record and reputation for treating their porters properly and fairly which, unfortunately, is not always the case with some other more commercial organisations. The porters are regulated by the local government and the climbs do provide very welcome employment and income to local people. We have to take US dollars to pay them. Once again we would like to thank you for your support and we will let you know how we get on! Emma and Sarah Craig 15
PARISH BIBLE STUDY – NEW FORMAT Doesn’t it make your blood boil? You set out to go on a simple journey on a road you know well only to be met by “Diversion” or “Road Closed”. You are then sent off the beaten track which doubles your journey and your time. Either that or there are lane restrictions involving long queues of traffic and many hold ups! Likewise, as we journey through life we find that, sooner or later, life involves a diversion. Perhaps it takes the form of a new job or a redundancy. Perhaps it is the result of an illness or an injury or a bereavement that we didn’t expect. At times like that we can be left feeling confused and wondering where our life is going. The Bible has often been described as “a road map” offering guidance on daily living. This is true; but the Bible is far more than a text book! In it is found the living word of God and Jesus as the Word Incarnate for all time and for all humanity. Yet so many of us know so little about it that it seems to remain God’s buried treasure! This is far from God’s will. Here in St Columba’s we wish to see many more people coming to our Bible Study as we look at St. John’s account of the gospel. This is a fascinating gospel and one in which we can so easily relate to our own experiences. In order to try to increase our numbers we have decided to change our weekly meeting to Thursday afternoons from 2.30 – 4.00 p.m. The first of these will be on Thursday September 13th in the choir vestry. It is a delight to any parish church to see more people expressing enthusiasm to study scriptures and St Columba’s would be no exception! Please do not feel that you will be “preached at” or “put on the spot”. Our aim is to teach the contents of the Bible and to learn how to apply them to daily living. In the psalter there is Psalm 119. It is the longest psalm by far- 176 verses! But did you know that every single verse contains some reference to the Word of God? Such was the psalmist’s devotion. Verse 162 reads as follows: - “I am as glad of your word as one who finds great spoils” . Could that be said of you and could you be challenged by it? Canon Walter Laverty
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Harvest
LUNCH
SUNDAY, 7TH OCTOBER 2018 following the 11.00am All Age Worship service
Tickets available from the back of church. (for catering purposes only) Voluntary donations for Church Hall Refurbishment Fund. Everyone is welcome to join us!
A NEW LOOK FOR A NEW SEASON Following many years of extensive growth, the Evergreen hedge at the Rectory and down towards the Church Hall was getting bigger and bigger. It was almost as tall as the Rectory and was causing damage to the telephone lines. Many people have commented that the hedge was extensively covering the entire path and extending into the Rectory garden. Following professional advice, the hedge at the Rectory carpark has been removed and the section leading down to the Church Hall has been lowered by a third and faced on both sides. This has been a big project and I wish to thank the Glebewardens and Select Vestry for all their hard work. It is good to start the new season with this part of the church grounds in a much tidier and safer condition. The Rector.
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From the Organist and Choral Director SUMMER MUSIC EVENTS During the summer months two of our musicians attended valuable events. I’ve asked them to share their experiences with the readers of The Columban. RCO SUMMER SCHOOL 2018 I’ve just returned from my 10th attendance at the Royal College of Organists' Summer School held in the City of London at St Gile’s Cripplegate. The week’s course included masterclasses with some of the top organ tutors in the country and I had personal lessons with at least three excellent teachers. The course included classes on hymnplaying, church music, keyboard skills, repertoire, registration and pedal techniques. I was able to play at least ten different organs in the Square Mile of the City of London, including some very historic and famous instruments; notably, St Michael’s Cornhill, where Harold Darke, composer of In the bleak mid-winter was organist, and St Stephen’s Wallbrook, a Christopher Wren church where Chad Varah, founder of the Samaritans, was Rector. Every day we had a full church service at St Gile’s at which various members of the course accompanied the ad hoc choir and congregation in the hymns, canticles and anthems. We were also expected to play various organ preludes and postludes. I was honoured to have been chosen to accompany a major anthem by Stanford in the final day service. On each day a Student Concert took place where each participant was asked to play his or her selected concert piece. I was privileged to play in the final day concert in front of sixty of my peers and tutors, including Martin Baker, President of the Royal College of Organists and Director of Music at Westminster Cathedral. In that concert the players came from Japan, Hong Kong, Singapore, Europe, as well as the British Isles. All in all, an exhausting week of stimulating organ playing and music-making which hopefully will enable me to contribute more fully to the musical life of St Columba’s. When I attend such an event and talk to other church musicians, I realise what a high standard of music we have in St Columba’s, thanks to the commitment and hard work of our choir members along with the expertise and enthusiasm of our Choral Director and Organist, Joe McKee. I would here like to express my personal thanks to Joe for his continued support and encouragement.
Brian Clements, Assistant Organist. THE RODOLFUS CHOIR After attending an Eton Choral Course in 2017, I was awarded a place in the Londonbased Rodolfus Choir, under the direction of Ralph Allwood MBE. During July I traveled with the choir on a ‘Mini Tour’ in England with concerts in Greystoke in Cumbria and at the Thaxted Festival in Essex whilst being based in London for rehearsals. It was an intense week with only three days to learn the music before our first performance
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together, but it was very rewarding and I met a lot of new, like-minded people and had really great fun learning and performing a new and challenging repertoire. This past year my main focus has been preparing for my AS exams. I also completed my Associated Board Grade 8 singing exam in which I was delighted to obtain a high distinction. In January 2018 I won the open class at the Belfast Music Festival and because of this performance I was awarded the overall cup for the highest mark received in all singing classes. I’d really like to take this opportunity to thank the Rector and everyone else at St Columba’s for the opportunities I’ve been given in the parish, from singing in the choir to giving a presentation on my trip to India earlier in the year during a Morning Service, and for the funding I’ve received as a Choral Scholar which has helped to pay for my tour with Rodolfus, as well as my wider development as a singer. Thank you.
Caroline McCartney, Choral Scholar. CALLING NEW SINGERS At this time of the year it’s to be expected that we would be looking for new members for the Parish Choir. Potential singers of all ages will be genuinely made to feel very welcome. The Parish Choir works through a significant amount of music each month, so there are obvious musical benefits (not least around sight-reading and aural awareness) especially for younger people who may be studying an instrument or involved in GCSE or AS/A Level Music at school. These music skills and attributes, of course, are not limited to any specific age group! Choir rehearsals are held on Thursday evenings and immediately before the principal services. If you’re interested, please get in touch with me, either through my mobile phone (07976 294 574) or at joe.mckee76@yahoo.com. Why not think about joining us for a few weeks, as a trial, to see what’s involved?
Joe McKee CHORAL SCHOLARS Dr McKee and the Rector with our three Choral Scholars, Ramesh Wilson, Caroline McCartney and Gary Hunt, at the conclusion of the Choir Summer Concert in June. We wish Ramesh and Gary every success as they move to university and college in the new term. Caroline is moving into her final year at Methodist College.
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SUNDAY SCHOOL Sunday, 2nd September Sunday, 9th September Sunday, 16th September Sunday, 23rd September Sunday, 30th September
10.30am 10.30am 9.30am 10.30am 10.30am
All Age Worship Sunday School Family Communion Sunday School Sunday School
I hope all the children and leaders have had a lovely summer break. Sunday School recommences on Sunday 9th September and we welcome all boys and girls from 3 - 13 years to the church hall from 10.20am on the 2nd, 4th and 5th Sundays each month. The children engage in a variety of activities including art, craft, stories, role play and discussions. During the All Age Worship service on the first Sunday each month the children play an integral role by reading the lessons, leading the prayers, singing an anthem and lifting the collection. On the third Sunday the children and their families are encouraged to attend a short family Communion service at 9.30am. We would welcome any new church members to come and join us. Joyce
CHURCH ROOF APPEAL FUND Thank you to all those who have already contributed so generously to our Church Roof Appeal Fund. It is very encouraging to report that the amount raised to date is £63,000. This is very good news which is greatly appreciated by the Select Vestry and myself. If you haven’t already contributed to this appeal and would like to do so, please place your financial gift in one of the Church Roof Envelopes which are available from the back of church or the Parish Office. Cheques should be made payable to “St. Columba’s Parish Church”. The Rector
MUMS AND TOTS Mums and Tots will start again after the summer break on Friday 7th September from 10 am to 11. 45 am. There is a wide range of large toys, table top activities, books and a popular rhyme time on offer. We provide a healthy snack for the children and tea/coffee for the adults. We would be delighted to welcome any new parent/ grandparent/childminder with their children under nursery age. It’s a great place to make new friends so come along and join the fun. Joyce 20
RAILWAY AND MODEL CLUB What? .....yes, we are now four years old. What a four years! In that time we have been building our major OO gauge layout with churches, farms, cricket teams, villages, war memorials .......and of course tunnels!! The work on this layout is continuing. From parishioners, and friends from other parishes, we have been given enough kit to build an N gauge layout and been given two more OO gauges. Our Comber member, Ian Parsons, has given us another large N gauge layout. This layout has been exhibited at a number of Model Railway Shows around the Province, and now resides in our large new room. Alongside this is a OO gauge layout donated by another member, Jack Dunlop. Many of you have visited this new room, given to us by our Select Vestry, and will know that we have expanded our model making side. Now under construction is a model of a WW2 fighter airfield, with Spitfires and Hurricanes....and bofors guns, of course. During the summer we had a lovely dinner at The Royal Ulster Yacht Club. This was mainly to say thanks to our wives for their patience over the last few years On the 16th September, we will be providing Tea/Coffee (and biscuits) after the 10:30am Service. Some models and railway layouts will also be on show. Please do stop and talk to us. The next year promises to be even more exciting and busy.....and sure the craic is great. Hope to see you on the 16th. Till then......keep'er rollin. David (Rockie) Beattie
OCTOBER PARISH MAGAZINE
Any articles or photographs for publication in the October parish magazine should be handed or emailed to the editor, Billy McAlpine, by Wednesday, 12th September. 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 21
ST. COLUMBA’S PARISH CHUCH, KNOCK PILGRIMAGE TO RATHLIN ISLAND Leaving behind a glorious blue sky in Belfast on Sunday, 1st July, that would surely have lured even Van Gogh into his back garden with paintbrush and easel, a posse of some 60 parishioners from St. Columba’s, young and old, plus Canon Ken’s two dogs, set sail from Ballycastle on the 10.00am ferry across a mill pond north channel. The itinerary had been painstakingly reconnoitred by our Organist and Choral Director, Dr Joe McKee and Yvonne, already ensconced on the island for the weekend with Alastair and Ruth McCartney in most comfortable accommodation overlooking Church Bay. The visit was a repeat of that undertaken by St. Columba’s in August 2013, a truly trans-diocesan affair between Connor and Down and Dromore, aiming to renew support and friendship with the parishioners of Rathlin by joining them in a service of Holy Communion in their own historic parish church of St. Thomas. Disembarking at the harbour, a large number of parishioners headed straight for the delightful coffee shop, The Watershed, where they were served coffee and delicious scones by an industrious and most willing staff in record time, before proceedings were due to commence at 11.30am. St. Thomas’ was packed to capacity, with standing room only! The service was conducted with aplomb by our Rector, Canon John Auchmuty, to whom grateful thanks must be expressed for the faultless organisation of the whole day, ably assisted by Canon Ken Smyth and Epistle reader, Andrew Ellis. In his sermon, the Rector focussed on the importance of responding to the needs of the individual in both word and deeds, whilst Dr Joe Mckee, on the digital piano, accompanied by several members of St. Columba’s choir, lead the music and singing of the combined congregations in rousing style, metaphorically raising the very rafters of the roof with wonderfully appropriate hymns such as Summer Suns Are Glowing and the maritime Will Your Anchor Hold? The spirit of communion and fellowship experienced by everyone present was matched by the warmth of welcome and friendship afforded, once again, to the happy visitors by the resident parishioners. The service concluded in a most practical manner, with Canon Ken drawing on his unrivalled local knowledge to proffer helpful tips about the many places of interest to visit on the island. After what had been an early start to the day for many – and none earlier than the Rector and Caroline, who had duly delivered son Henry to the city airport at 5am! – lunch time soon beckoned, with parishioners producing a magnificent array of picnic offerings for consumption whilst enjoying the view across the bay, and others opting to take the island bus to the recently re-opened RSPB Seabird Centre for their relaxing repast. Thereafter, parishioners fanned out to invade the island in earnest though mercifully with considerably less murderous and shocking intent than that of earlier raiders during the turbulent 16th and 17th centuries – visiting the East, West and Rue lighthouses as well as the interesting Heritage Centre, spotting the many species of birds and seals, or just strolling along the winding 22
roads and relaxing on the sea front. Regretfully, the famous cave where Robert the Bruce allegedly gained inspiration by the untiring efforts of an indomitable spider could only be accessed by sea. The afternoon provided a unique opportunity for parishioners and their families to “do their own thing” on the island, whilst enjoying each other’s company with much laughter and merriment along the way. The unusual summer heat was tempered by a delightfully cool onshore breeze, perfect for walking and strolling, or just sitting and relaxing, and the island was looking at its very best, simply beautiful, in every possible direction. In what seemed like no time at all, the 5.30pm ferry appeared and parishioners enjoyed another smooth and highly sociable crossing back to Ballycastle, where many decided to conclude the outing by sampling the famous local fish and chips. Others driving home by car who happened to tune into Radio Ulster were serenaded by the Ballylone Concert Flute Band on the programme Strike Up the Band, presented by none other than our very own Dr Joe McKee! A perfect end to a perfect day, blessed by superb weather and thoroughly enjoyed by all from St. Columba’s who participated in an abundance of friendship, joy and fellowship, whilst offering a real sense of support and purposeful outreach to the parishioners of St. Thomas’ on Rathlin Island. It cannot be too long before we are back again. Ian Noad
FOOD FOR OUR NEIGHBOURS IN NEED Decorating the Church window sills for Harvest – Please can you help We need lots and lots of non-perishable tinned and dried in-date foods to decorate the 7 window sills in the church for the Harvest Service. All donations will be going to our special Harvest effort for ‘The Larder’ to assist in their work to provide food for those around us in need. A typical food parcel includes:
Cereal Pasta/rice Soup Tinned tomatoes/pasta sauce Tinned meat Tinned vegetables Tinned fruit Tea/coffee Biscuits Fruit juice As an individual, family or organisation you can help in the following ways:• Weekly donation of items – please leave in the Baptistry from 1st to 30th Sept • As an organisation, organise your own collection of items prior to 30th Sept • As a family, provide a box containing a typical food parcel prior to 30th Sept Thank you to everyone not only for assisting in decorating the Church but also benefiting the work of ‘The Larder’ this Harvest-tide. Other areas of the Church will be decorated in the usual Harvest fashion with help from all willing volunteers on the morning of Saturday 6th October. Any queries, please contact Patricia Clements at 07470 474527/ aandpclements@gmail.com or Murray Hunter, our CAP representative, at 9076 1295. 23
TIME IS ALMOST UP! Thank you to everyone who very kindly returned their GDPR promptly – we are delighted that you want to stay with us! We are still waiting for responses from around 73 families, and time is running out! If you wish to continue as a parishioner, please return your GDPR forms before the end of September. After this date, we will not be able to contact you. If you require new forms, please contact the Parish Office to arrange so, or please forward any completed forms before the end of September. Thank you.
Belfast Cathedral announces Autumn Talks’ speakers Wednesday, August 8th 2018 Belfast Cathedral’s Autumn Talks series 2018 gets underway on Wednesday September 5th. Speakers this year are specialist conservation architect Graeme Moore, Roger Dixon MBE, from National Museums of Ireland, practising barrister Patrick Good QC, and retired nurse Joan Thompson OBE, secretary of the Friends of Belfast Cathedral. Graeme’s topic for the first talk is Royal Exchange – reconnecting the city centre and Roger speaks on Ghosts, witches and fairy tales from Ulster’s haunted past on Wednesday October 3rd. On Wednesday, 31st October Patrick will share some recollections on The Bar of Northern Ireland, while Joan concludes the series on Wednesday December 12th giving a talk entitled in simplicity and singleness of heart (Florence Nightingale 1859). Talks begin at 12.45pm and last 45 minutes. Light refreshments will be served at 12.15pm. A suggested donation is £5.
LADIES BOWLING CLUB The autumn season will open on Monday 17th September at 2 pm in the Church Hall. A warm welcome to all our regular members. We would love to welcome new members. Ladies, even if you have never bowled before, come and give it a try. All you need to bring are flat shoes. We can supply bowls and there are many experienced bowlers who will help you get started. Then one learns as one goes along. We all help one another. Even if you find that bowls are not for you at least you'll have some fun and a cup of tea! Helen Coates
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PARISH ORGANISATIONS New members are always welcome at any of our organisations! Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
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
Superintendent: Joyce Stevenson 9058 3381
2nd, 4th and 5th Sundays
Claire Hirst 07949 298473 Carol Willis 9079 9997 Helen Coates 9065 8977 Joy Montgomery 9029 5427 John Robb 9058 1438 Gillian Popplestone 9080 3799 Anne Clarke 9065 1412 Maureen Irwin 9079 5155 Barbara Laverty 9573 8743 Lisa Boyle, 07872 511527
Ladies Bowling
1st and 3rd Monday each month 10.30am 2.00pm
MU Afternoon Group
2nd Monday each month 2.30pm
Mens’ Club
7.30pm
Ladies Badminton
10.30am
Ladies Badminton
2.00pm
Activity Group Mothers’ Union Wednesday Brownies
Except 1st Tuesday 7.30pm 1st Tuesday each month 8.00pm 6.30pm
Doves
6.30pm
Railway and Model Club
7.00pm
Ladies Guild Thursday
2nd, 4th and 5th Sundays 10.30am
Art Club Bible Study Group
3rd Wednesday each month 7.45pm 9.30am 2.30pm - 4.00pm
Choir
7.30pm
Friday
Mums and Tots
10.00am
Bi-monthly
Pause
As arranged
Monthly
Youth Etc. (11-15 years) Young Families
As arranged Social events as arranged
David Beattie 9028 5868 Jennifer Beattie, 9028 5868 Billy Nelson 9048 3889 Eileen Anderson 9020 3684 Dr Joe McKee 07976 294574 Joyce Stevenson, 9058 3381 Eileen Anderson 9020 3684 Jonathan Martin, 07980 885990 Emma Macpherson 9028 2076
Requests for the occasional use of the church halls must be submitted to the Premise’s Convenor.
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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 johnauchmuty@yahoo.com
The Reverend Canon Ken Smyth
3 Mount Royal Bangor BT20 3BG 028 9145 8706
The Reverend Canon Walter Laverty
6, Hanwood Heights Dundonald BT16 1XU 028 9573 8743
Karen McAlpine
readercolumba@gmail.com
Rector’s Churchwarden
David Kelly
028 9079 6658
People’s Churchwarden
Richard Caldwell
028 9079 3163
Assistant Priests
Diocesan Lay Reader
Junior Churchwardens
Sophie King and Daniel Sadlier
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, Andrew Ellis, Andrew Hirst, John Kerr, Elizabeth Leonard, Moira Saunders, Jonathan Stewart, Mark Wilson
Honorary Secretary
John Macpherson
10 Sandhill Gardens BT5 6FF 028 9028 2076 jdmacpherson@hotmail.com
Honorary Treasurer
Gillian Sadlier
70 Kensington Road BT5 6NG 028 9040 3278
Assistant Honorary Treasurer
Victor Dukelow
028 9029 0625
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Gift Aid Secretary
Jack Dunlop
028 9065 4103
Parochial Nominators
Victor Dukelow, Patrick Good, Elizabeth Leonard, Linda Wilson
Diocesan Synod members
Patrick Good, Elizabeth Leonard Hollie Wilson (under 30)
Organist and Choral Director
Dr Joe McKee
07976 294574
Assistant Organist
Brian Clements
028 9079 3641
Sidesperson’s rota Co-ordinator
Rosemary Coffey
028 9754 2198
Crèche rota Co-ordinator
Claire Hirst
07949 298473
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
Joan Madill
028 9065 6591
Church flowers
Eleanor Launchbury
028 9028 1204
Premise’s Convenor
Stewart Beckwith
028 9048 6622
Crucifer
Mark Laverty
028 9573 8743
Parish Office Administrator/ Financial Giving Secretary
Karen Patterson Office hours: Monday to Friday 9.00am-1.00pm
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028 9065 6891 office@coiknock.org
CHURCH CAR PARKING When parking to go to church services or Parish Organisations 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 Canon Ken Smyth (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