The Columban st. columba’s church, knock, december 2018/january 2019
Rector’s Letter
Dear Parishioner,
ADVENT Sunday, 2nd December marks the beginning of our Advent journey as together we prepare ourselves for Christ’s coming into the world and also for His second coming to be our judge. All this is happening when our diaries are at their busiest and our energy levels are at their lowest! There is so much to be done as Christmas Day draws even closer. This was clearly reflected in a newspaper article with this eye engaging headline: “Busy parents doing an extra day’s work a week!” It caught my attention as it described how working parents have to undertake no less than 43 jobs around the home before arriving at their place of work. This has the effect of parents working for the equivalent of an extra day a week from all the rushing and fulfilling household tasks and getting their children ready for school. Does this represent the morning routine in your home? It is into this busyness that the season of Advent comes, and it does so just at the right time. It provides us all with a fresh opportunity to focus on the Incarnation – when God entered into the mess and pain of our world in the form of a baby, to bring hope to us all no matter what our circumstances or situation. Now that is good news and is something which we don’t want to miss because we are too busy rushing around trying to fulfil yet another “to do” list. In addition we are also preparing for Christ’s second coming to be our judge. If we are honest, so much of our time is spent making judgements on many issues, and while some are relatively minor, there are those which are really important. A misspoken word or phrase can cause so much damage and once it is said cannot be withdrawn. Such occurrences can do so much to shatter an individual’s confidence, leading to an opportunity being lost for all time. A potential situation of hope can suddenly be turned into one of hopelessness through our carelessness. Could we perhaps have missed something about that person? 2
The good news is that God sees us as we really are. Unlike our judgements on others which can be prejudiced and unjustified, God’s judgement will be somewhat different. It will be fair and just. As God is merciful, it matters how we live our lives, as that is how we will be judged. Can it be said of us that we have been faithful to God and to one another? Now that would make a good New Year’s Resolution – that we would be more faithful to God and to one another, and if I could just add to it by including that we would be less judgemental of others? It is in the Incarnation that hope finds its true roots amongst us. Emmanuel – God with us - and what is more, He is here to stay! Christ’s birth brought great hope at a time when there was such little hope. I invite you, your family and friends to join us in St Columba’s for our Festival of Nine Carols and Lessons on Christmas Eve, and our Christmas Services to share this great hope and to allow Christ to enter into your life afresh. May we be ready in St Columba’s to receive with gratitude God’s gift to us of His Son Jesus Christ this Christmas, who taught us to “love one another, even as I have l loved you” (John 13:34). Our hope for the future depends on this baby in a manger, His life and ministry and how we respond. As the angel said to Mary in our reading, “Do not be afraid” – neither should we as Jesus is with us to guide and influence us for the good this Christmas and throughout 2019. Caroline, Charles and Henry join me in wishing you God’s richest blessing for Christmas and the New Year. Yours in His Service,
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 3
SERVICES IN DECEMBER Sunday, 2nd 8.15am 10.30am 7.00pm
The First Sunday of Advent (Purple) Holy Communion Reader Joe McKee 1 Thessalonians 3: 9-13 Gospel & Intercessions Karen McAlpine Mark 13: 24-37 Advent Carol Service with the Choir of Cregagh Presbyterian Church BDCC United Advent Carol Service in Gilnahirk Presbyterian Church No Evening Service in St Columba’s.
Thursday, 6th 10.30am Holy Communion followed by refreshments in the Choir Vestry Sunday, 9th 8.15am 10.30am 7.00pm
(Purple)
The Second Sunday of Advent (Purple) Holy Communion Reader Murray Hunter Philippians 1: 3-11 Gospel Karen McAlpine Luke 3: 1-6 Holy Communion Reader Charles Auchmuty Philippians 1: 3-11 Gospel Clergy Luke 3: 1-6 Intercessions Elizabeth Leonard Blue Christmas Service
Thursday, 13th 10.30am Holy Communion followed by refreshments in the Choir Vestry
(Purple)
Sunday, 16th The Third Sunday of Advent (Purple) 8.15am Holy Communion Reader Patricia Clements Philippians 4: 4-7 Gospel Karen McAlpine Luke 3: 7-18 Intercessions Karen McAlpine 9.30am Family Communion Reader Sophie King Luke 3: 7-18 10.30am Morning Prayer followed by refreshments by the Mothers' Union Reader Linda Wilson Zephaniah 3: 14-20 Reader Caroline Auchmuty Luke 3: 7-18 Occasional Prayers Barbara Laverty 7.00pm Holy Communion Reader Lindsay Brown Isaiah 35: 1-10 Gospel Karen McAlpine Luke 1: 57-66 Thursday, 20th (Purple) 10.30am Holy Communion for Senior Parishioners (with Carols) followed by seasonal refreshments in the Choir Vestry (Transport provided) 4
Sunday, 23rd The Fourth Sunday of Advent (Purple) 8.15am Holy Communion Reader Kyleen Clarke Hebrews 10: 5-10 Gospel Karen McAlpine Luke 1: 39-45 10.30am
Holy Communion Reader Gospel Intercessions
Josephine Kelly Clergy Jenny Smyth
7.00pm
Evening Prayer Reader Reader
Eileen Anderson Tillie Heyburn
Hebrews 10: 5-10 Luke 1: 39-45
Isaiah 10: 33- 11:10 Matthew 1: 18-25
Monday, 24th Christmas eve 8.00pm Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols Tuesday, 25th Christmas Day 9.00am Holy Communion Reader Ronny Martin Gospel Karen McAlpine 10.15am
(White) Hebrews 1: 1-4 John 1: 1-14
All Age Worship (Children present a gift at this service) Reader Henry Auchmuty
Luke 2: 8-20
Thursday, 2th Saint John the Evangelist 10.30am Holy Communion Sunday, 30th The First Sunday of Christmas 8.15am Holy Communion Reader Paddy Malone Gospel Clergy 10.30am
Christmas Songs of Praise
7.00pm
Late Evening Office Reader Clergy
SIDESPERSON’S ROTA
Sunday, 2nd December Sunday, 9th December Sunday, 16th December Sunday, 23rd December Sunday, 30th December Sunday, 6th January Sunday, 13th January Sunday, 20th January Sunday, 27th January
(White) (White)
Colossians 3: 12-17 Luke 2: 41-52
Luke 2: 15-21
The Macpherson family Joan Madill and Lindsay Brown Pam and Murray Hunter Patricia and Adrian Clements Rosemary and Ivan Coffey Eileen Anderson and Ann McGarvey Moira Saunders and Andrew Ellis Jayne and Ronny Martin Alison and Brian Acheson 5
SERVICES IN JANUARY Tuesday, 1st The Naming and Circumcision of Jesus 10.30am Holy Communion
(White)
Thursday, 3rd 10.30am Holy Communion followed by refreshments in the Choir Vestry
(White)
Sunday, 6th 8.15am
(White)
The Epiphany Holy Communion Reader Joe McKee Gospel Karen McAlpine Intercessions Karen McAlpine
10.30am
All Age Worship followed by refreshments Reader Alex Kerr
7.00pm
Choral Evensong Reader Reader
Esther Templeton Esther Templeton
Ephesians 3: 1-12 Matthew 2: 1-12
Matthew 2: 1-12 Isaiah 60: 1-9 John 2: 1-11
Thursday, 10th (White) 10.30am Holy Communion followed by refreshments in the Choir Vestry Sunday, 13th 8.15am
The First Sunday after the Epiphany Holy Communion Reader Paddy Malone Gospel Karen McAlpine
10.30am
Holy Communion Reader Gospel Intercessions
7.00pm Compline Reader
Adrian Clements Clergy Patrick Good Fiona Haldane
(White) Acts 8: 14-17 Luke 3: 15-17, 21-22 Acts 8: 14-17 Luke 3: 15-17, 21-22
Mark 1: 4-11
Thursday, 17th (White) 10.30am Holy Communion followed by refreshments in the Choir Vestry Sunday, 20th 8.15am
The Second Sunday after the Epiphany Holy Communion Reader Carol Willis Gospel Karen McAlpine Intercessions Karen McAlpine 6
(White) 1 Corinthians 12: 1-11 John 2: 1-11
9.30am
Family Communion Gospel Daniel Sadlier
10.30am
Morning Prayer followed by refreshments hosted by Sunday School Reader Alan Boyd Isaiah 62: 1-5 Reader Emma Macpherson John 2: 1-11 Occasional Prayers Noel Higginson
6.30pm
United Belmont & District Council of Churches Service for the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity in St. Molua’s Parish Church No Service in St. Columba’s
John 2: 1-11
Thursday, 24th The Conversion of St. Paul (Transferred) 10.30am Holy Communion followed by refreshments in the Choir Vestry
(White)
Sunday, 27th 8.15am
The Third Sunday after the Epiphany (White) Holy Communion Reader Kyleen Clarke 1 Corinthians 12: 12-31a Gospel Karen McAlpine Luke 4: 14-21
10.30am
Holy Communion Reader Gospel Intercessions
Michael Sadlier Clergy Murray Hunter
7.00pm
Evening Prayer Reader Reader
Tillie Heyburn Imelda Shephard
1 Corinthians 12: 12-31a Luke 4: 14-21
Numbers 9: 15-23 Mark 1: 21-28
Thursday, 31st Saint Brigid (Transferred) 10.30am Holy Communion followed by refreshments in the Choir Vestry
(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 would wish to serve your church in this way, please contact The Rector (028 90471514). 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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CHRISTMAS REFLECTIONS FROM CANON KEN SMYTH Christmas is only around the corner.’ That was a comment made earlier today as I prepared this brief contribution for the Columban. It is early November, and the suggestion on a TV advertisement was, that no bargains would remain if I didn’t embark on a shopping spree immediately. Whatever opinions may be held about the festival of Christmas by the non-Christian world, it is a moment of the year when many families come together, when people think about their loved ones, whether in another country or resting in the care of God, and also, when we reflect on the high and low points in our lives during the year which is drawing to a close. Christmas is a festival when we recognise the fact that ‘The Word became flesh and dwelt among us.’ Our celebration of Christmas is not an escape from the realities of life into some dream world of religion, but a recognition that we need to rediscover something of ‘the divine on earth.’ As we prepare to celebrate the Nativity of Jesus, it is my prayer and wish that all of us, regardless of our personal circumstances, may experience something of the joy and peace contained in the Christmas message. My wife, Jenny joins me in wishing you a peaceful Christmas. Ken
CHRISTMAS REFLECTIONS FROM CANON WALTER LAVERTY One of my earliest recollections of Christmas is the family Christmas tree. We kept the tradition of putting it up on December 14th in time for my Dad’s birthday on 15th. When I was 14 years old I started to decorate it myself; but Mum would come afterwards and re-arrange the lights for better effect! Light is one of the great themes of Christmas. I can recall a conversation with someone who was trying to make sense of the entire Nativity narratives as found in Matthew and Luke. He said “I don’t accept everything that happened is exactly as recorded in the gospels”. Then he asked “What part of the story is the most important?” I thought for a moment and gave this answer. “The most important part is not contained in the events surrounding the birth of Jesus; but the fact that it happened!” The light shines in the darkness. That is what gives hope to a broken world and The Word became flesh and dwelt among us is what gives us encouragement and the sense of God’s presence with us. In other words, the events themselves do not bring us hope and salvation, only the eternal message that God sent us His Son. How exactly it happened is the mystery of the Incarnation that belongs to God alone. A very happy and peaceful Christmas to you and yours, Walter. 8
BLUE CHRISTMAS SERVICE SUNDAY, 9TH DECEMBER AT 7.00PM St Columba’s first introduced this service seven years ago. Our Blue Christmas Service recognises that this season, full with so many holidays, parties and celebrations, may be hard for those who mourn or are going through painful passages in their lives. We recognise that not everyone may feel joyful and we acknowledge our sadness and burdens while seeking peace and comfort for our souls. Everyone is welcome to this service of quiet music, readings, prayers, reflections and silence. In this service of light, come to find hope and healing, to honour the memory of someone known to you, light a candle to remember pain or sorrow in your own life, or to support someone else in their time of difficulty. The church will remain open after the service for those who wish to stay for a time for further reflection, quietness and prayer. You are most welcome to invite family members, neighbours and friends to this reflective service which begins with the words: “The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; on those who lived in a land of deep sorrow a light has shone. For the yoke that was weighing upon them, and the burden that was upon their shoulders, you have broken into pieces, O God, our Renewer.”
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 Monday- Friday 9.00am – 1.00pm) by Friday, 7th December, to make an appointment, if you would like a private Holy Communion service in your home. 9
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 9047 1514) or Canon Ken Smyth (028 9145 8706). In addition to requested Parish Visiting, the Clergy will be visiting parishioners in the following districts during January:
Rector
Canon Smyth
Greer Park Drive Kensington Gardens Kensington Gardens South Kensington Park Kensington Road Kilhorne Gardens Kincora Avenue
Hanwood Avenue Hawthorn House Hawthornden Road Holland Drive Holland Gardens Holland Park Kensington Drive
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 information 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. Please telephone the Rector (9047 1514) or Canon Ken Smyth (9145 8706) to enable them to take careful note of the details. Thank you.
Art Club Thanks to everyone who supported the club's exhibition and sale held on 17 November. It was a great success with the money raised to be used to purchase a defibrillator for the church. A full report and pictures will be posted in the next magazine. Vida
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TUESDAY AFTERNOON BADMINTON All is going well. We have one new enthusiastic member and are still hopeful some more will come and join us. It is a very relaxed, happy group with lots of laughs over missed shots so don't be intimidated about joining us. We will finish on 27th November and will start again on 8th January. Anne
HOLY COMMUNION FOR SENIOR PARISHIONERS in St. Columba’s Parish Church on Thursday, 20th December at 10.30am Christmas Carols and seasonal refreshments. Please phone the Parish Office (028 9065 6891) from 9.00am - 1.00pm, Monday to Friday, to arrange transport.
FEBRUARY PARISH MAGAZINE
Any articles or photographs for publication in the February parish magazine should be handed or emailed to the editor, Billy McAlpine, by Wednesday, 9th 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 11
Belfast has been my home for the past 16 years apart from trips to Australia and Mexico to visit our sons and family. Elizabeth and I met in Malawi when she was there with VSO and we were married in St. Columba’s on 1st June 1968 when I was on leave. It seemed fitting that we should join St Columba’s when we came here to live. Although we had been coming here on leave and I was familiar with the area it was a different matter living here permanently with neighbours only 10 metres away when our nearest one in Malawi was 10 miles away!
Thought for the Month
Hugh Miller
I was born in Nyasaland, which David Livingston reached in 1859. It became a British Protectorate in 1907. In 1953 the Federation of Rhodesia and Nyasaland was formed so that was why I did my National Service in Rhodesia. In 1964 Malawi gained her independence from Britain. It has always been a predominantly Christian society with the Church of Central Africa Presbyterian being the largest group. I often marvelled at people going to church on a Sunday in their crisp white dresses or shirts emerging from their wattle and daub houses with no running water and only charcoal irons.
The Malawi people on the whole are very friendly, generous and appreciative and they can also have a sense of humour. One tobacco farmer who had a glass eye was in the habit of taking it out and putting it on a stump, telling his labourers not to slack as he “had his eye on them”. This seemed to work well until one bright chap went to the stump and put his hat over the eye! Not much work was done until the farmer returned! One of the things that I appreciate about living here are the seasons and I particularly like the freshness of spring and the autumn colours. In Africa the seasons just merged one into another with the rains coming mostly in the hotter months around Christmas. All year was considerably warmer than it is here. It made arranging a picnic very easy! I have lived in both countries for a considerable time and realise there are problems in each - just different ones. Here the roads are good (!) and the electricity is on all the time. Here we can walk to the shops so easily for just one item. There, the roads were often dirt ones which turned to mud and the nearest shop was thirty miles away. Also we had to have a UPS, Uninterrupted Power Supply, which meant that when the lights went out we had time to shut down the computer and turn on the generator! What I miss most about Malawi are the dramatic sunsets, the echoing drums at night and the happy smiling faces – those who had nothing materially, valued the little they had and shared it. We should be so humbled. Our sincere thanks to Hugh for sharing these ‘Thoughts’ with us. The February ‘Thought for the Month’ will be written by Evelyn Deane. 12
SUNDAY SCHOOL Sunday, 2nd December
10.30am
Advent Carol Service (Children welcome in church)
Sunday, 9th December
10.30am
Sunday School and Crèche
Sunday, 16th December
9.30am
Sunday, 23 December
Holiday
Tuesday, 25th December
10.15am
Sunday, 30 December
Holiday
rd
th
Family Communion All Age Worship Christmas Day
Sunday, 6th January
10.30am
All Age Worship
Sunday, 13th January
10.30am
Sunday School and Crèche
Sunday, 20 January
9.30am
Sunday, 27th January
10.30am
th
Family Communion Sunday School and Crèche
Thank you to Henry and Katie for stepping in at the last minute to read at November’s All Age Worship. In December we will be making decorations for the church Christmas tree and learning a new anthem to sing on Christmas Day. I hope that many of the children from Crèche and Sunday school will attend the party on Saturday 8th December. Wishing all the children and teachers a Happy Christmas Joyce
MUMS AND TOTS We will finish on Friday, 14th December with a small party and we start back again on Friday, 4th January. We wish everyone a Happy Christmas and look forward to seeing you in 2019. Joyce
FROM THE REGISTERS
Our Joys Reaffirmation of Wedding Vows Wednesday 24th October
Christian Burials
Friday 2nd November
Robert and Margaret McDonald
Our Sorrows Nigel Jonathan McKeown 13
RAILWAY AND MODEL CLUB Oops! Oh Dear! We had a derailment on our 00 gauge layout!!! Fear not, our very own 'elf and Safety Man (Geoff ) was quickly on the scene to discover the reason for the accident. Repairs were soon completed and normal service was resumed, just in time for our Open Day. Our Open Day went with a swing, with a number of new, non-parish, visitors coming down to see us. Both ladies, gents and a number of children.... and the craic was great. All five layouts were in full operation, and there was even some tea/coffee to be had. Many thanks to all our visitors for their support on the day. Next we have Christmas. One of the church windows will again be decorated by our merry band. Our theme this year......you will have to attend services in that season to see our work! During this wonderful season we hope to celebrate with a club party, not in an upper room, but down at RUYC in Ballyholme. One of our members will be absent as he will be working hard, over In Jordan (yes, in the Middle East) Our Christmas wishes and prayers go to Richard(the under-sea welder). Here's wishing you all a wonderful, peaceful Christmas. Keep 'Er Rollin', in the meantime. David. (No Christmas 'elfs were harmed, during the production of this article)
New Leader required! The Rector is very keen to recommence our Brownies at St Columba’s at the earliest opportunity. He has received interest from people who are willing to assist, however we still require a Leader to take charge. Please contact the Rector at your earliest convenience if you think that this is a way in which you can help your parish. All expressions of interest will be gratefully appreciated! Thank you. 14
It has been a busy few days. Joyce and I attended the Mothers’ Union council in Belvoir and are happy to report that Roberta McCartney, wife of our Diocesan Chaplain and prayer coordinator has been elected as Diocesan President. Her commissioning service has been arranged for Sunday, 6th January at 3.30 pm in Rathfriland parish. We send our prayerful support to Roberta as she takes on her new responsibilities. At the time of writing these notes we are preparing for the annual Diocesan Mothers' Union Advent Service here in St Columba’s. I look forward to this event every year as it enables me to find a quiet space at the beginning of the busyness which has become part of a modern Christmas. It is a time for reflecting through Bible readings and hymns on the importance of God coming into the world as a Saviour. Please come and join us on Monday, 3rd December at 8.00 pm. Next years programmes are ready and being distributed to members. We will have extra copies for distribution on Sunday, 16th December when we will be providing refreshments after the service. Our next meeting is on Tuesday, 8th January 8.00 pm in the choir vestry our speaker, Kate Morphey, will talk about “Gemstones”. I wish you all a blessed Christmas and a happy new year. Barbara
DECEMBER FLOWER ROTA Sunday, 2 Sunday, 9th Sunday, 16th Sunday, 23rd Sunday, 30th nd
Carol Willis Louise Mercer Jane Scott Christmas Flowers Karen Patterson
JANUARY FLOWER ROTA Sunday, 6 Sunday, 13th Sunday, 20th Sunday, 27th th
Lindsay Brown Geoff and Eleanor Launchbury Jack Dunlop Mason/ Mitford Families 15
HABITAT FOR HUMANITY – DELHI. 22ND SEPTEMBER – 4TH OCTOBER 2018 On the 22nd September this year, myself and a team of ten others travelled to Delhi in India to volunteer with Habitat for Humanity. Going to India itself was a daunting thought, but going to a colony to help build houses was even more daunting. We were working in a colony called Bawana. It is roughly an hour (depending on traffic) from central Delhi and it is quite truly like nothing I have ever seen before. The streets leading up to it are virtually unused, just filled with people walking to and from work and lined with unfinished tower blocks due to the projects running out of money. As we entered Bawana the poverty is extremely hard hitting, roadsides filled with rubbish and waste. Smells that will never leave me for as long as I live. Saying that, every day when we got off our bus, the kids just surrounded us. These are some of the happiest kids I have ever seen. They walked us round to our community centre called Chetnalia. Each morning we were briefed and sent to work. As there was a team of 11 we were split into two groups. To build a house in Bawana costs £2000. It took one of the families 15 years to save and the other 9 years. 16
The jobs for both teams varied from digging foundations, moving 6000 bricks, filling in foundations and some of us got a go at brick laying. Although Bawana, and Delhi itself are overcome with poverty, the inhabitants attitude to life is something to be admired. It is humbling to see how people with so little can be so happy and it is something I think a lot of people can learn from. It was an intense week of building and as you can see from the photos a good amount of progress was made. Speaking with the families we saved them a month’s work, which in itself is rewarding. Nicola Hillier
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PARISH MISSION COMMITTEE The committee met in the first week in November under the Chairmanship of the Rector. On behalf of the committee may I express a very sincere thank you for the tremendous support you gave to the two appointed charities for 2018 - the Larder (local) and Jengana (Kenya). Both of these charities have expressed their unlimited gratefulness for your understanding, extreme kindness and prayerful support. At our meeting we discussed which two charities (local and overseas) we would recommend the parish supports during 2019. The overseas charity will be Asra in India, made known to the Parish by Caroline McCartney. Caroline is a parishioner who attends Methodist College Belfast and they will be sending a group of students to India next October. The local charity will be Flourish NI - this is an East Belfast charity involved with combating human trafficking. The committee will meet in January after which we will give an update on the progress we have made with these charities. The committee members are Linda Wilson, Jane Martin, Yvonne Robb, Alan Boyd, Murray Hunter and the Chairman (the Rector). Murray
MEN’S CLUB Prior to writing this article the Men’s Club held its first event of the season on Monday 29th October. We were due to play our first match as hosts to our friends from Stormont Presbyterian. Owing to depleted numbers on both sides we decided to simply join forces and mixed together on the night. The hall was filled with laughter as we played our games before enjoying a light supper afterwards. All agreed the change of format added to a night of fun, friendship and fellowship. That was the big winner on the night. No bragging rights, just good craic!!. We were due to play Knock Methodist in the hall on the 3rd December but rearranged the fixture for the 10th December instead to accommodate the Mothers' Union Area Advent Service which is being held in the church on the evening of the 3rd December. There will be no meeting of the Men’s Club that night. Our first talk of the season took place on the 12th November in the church where Canon David Humphries gave a talk on his many pilgrimages to the Holy Land. A full report of the evening will be detailed in the next Columban. The Men’s Club will once again be collaborating with The Railway and Model Club in decorating one of the windows in the Church for the festive season. It only remains for me to wish everyone a Happy Christmas and a peaceful and prosperous New Year from all in the Men’s Club. John 18
Bible Study
Bible Study Bible Study
Bible Study Group now meet every Thursday afternoon, from 2.30 – 4.00pm in the Choir Vestry.
We examine passages from the Bible and discuss Bible Study Group meet Bible Studynow Group now meet how they relate toafternoon, modern life. This will take place every Thursday afternoon, every Thursday over a cuppa, so feel free to come along to this from 2.30 – 4.00pm in the Choir Vestry. from 2.30 – 4.00pm in the Choir Vestry. informal gathering and join in – or sit and We examine from thefrom Bible and discuss We examine passages the Bible and discuss listen –passages the choice is yours! We are how they relate to modern life. This will take place how they relate to modern life. This will take place currently studying John’s Gospel. over a cuppa, feel free to come along to along this to this over aso cuppa, so feel free to come informal informal gathering and join and in – join or sit gathering in and – or sit and listen – the choice yours!isWe are We are listen – theischoice yours! currentlycurrently studyingstudying John’s Gospel. John’s Gospel.
DECEMBER meetings at 2.30pm in the Choir Vestry: Thursday 6th and Thursday 13th
DECEMBERJANUARY meetings at 2.30pm in the meetings at 2.30pm in the
Choir Vestry: Vestry: Thursday 10th, Thursday 17th, th 24th and 31st. Thursday 6th &Thursday Thursday 13Thursday
Choir
DECEMBER meetings at 2.30pm in the in the DECEMBER meetings at 2.30pm
Choir Vestry: Choir Vestry: PAUSE th that thmeetings th quickly JANUARY inasthe I wonder what happened to62018! must pass2.30pm more the candles on the Thursday 6 & Thursday 13 Thursday & Time Thursday 13 birthday cake increase in number! Choir Vestry:
The last meeting of PAUSE inth 2018 will be on:th Thursday 10 , Thursday 17Hill , Thursday 24th for tea/ th Monday, 10 December at 10.30am in Neill's at Ballyhackamore st . 2.30pm and Thursday 31 JANUARY meetings at in the in the JANUARY meetings at 2.30pm coffee. InChoir JanuaryVestry: 2019 we will meet twice. Choir Vestry: Wednesday, 9th January at 10.30am in the Park Avenue Hotel for tea/coffee. Thursday 10th, Thursday 17th, Thursday 24th Thursday 10th, Thursday 17th, Thursday 24th th Monday, 28 January at 10.30am for st tea/coffee in Binkys - beside the cinema at and Thursday 31st. Dundonald.and Thursday 31 . If you are free on any or all of these dates please come and join with whoever else is there. It is a different group each time we meet. The PAUSE in Neill's Hill may be a peaceful respite from all the hustle and bustle but by the January meetings we should be recharged for the year ahead. If you require help with transport or further details please contact me. I would like to wish each of you a Happy Christmas and a healthy and happy New Year. Eileen (9020 3684) 19
ST. COLUMBA’S CHILDREN’S CHRISTMAS PARTY for members of our Sunday School, Crèche, Youth ETC, and Mums & Tots
in the Church Hall Saturday, 8th December 2018 3pm - 5pm Greet our very special guest in church with Christmas songs… Parents: Please speak to a leader for more details!
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LADIES GUILD We had an excellent number of members attend our postponed first meeting on 17th October. Our guest Speaker was Lesley Moreland, currently a Pastoral Assistant at Knock Methodist Church. Lesley shared with us her experiences of a five year Mission from 1994-1999 which involved living amongst a group of ‘New Age Travellers’ on Cool Mountain in West Cork. The audience was greatly shocked by pictures of the very primitive conditions which existed on the site and deeply moved by the images of the neglected state of the many children who Lesley “took under her wing”. She supported and educated them in addition to caring for their well-being when they were being left to their own devices for much of the time. She achieved a great deal during her time there, overcoming the deprivations and often dangers which were ever present and eventually gaining the trust of some of the adults on the site. Our Christmas Dinner arrangements are in place and menus were distributed. Any member who has not received a menu or who would like one for a friend and would like to attend, please contact either Jenny Beattie or Joan Madill before 5th December. We shall be participating in the decoration of a window sill in the church for Christmas. Our theme will be ‘Christmas Morning before Technology Took Over!’ Looking forward to January and (weather permitting) our Film Night – the chosen film is “Finding Your Feet”, a light hearted comedy with Imelda Staunton and Celia Imrie. Details can be found on the Church noticeboard. On behalf of the Committee and myself may I wish all our members and their families a very Happy Christmas and New Year. May the blessings of this special time be with you all. Eleanor
CRAFT AND HOBBY CIRCLE We still have indecisive weather, it just cannot make up its mind what to do. Brolly absolutely necessary one day and on another we have glorious sunshine but it will be cool. Advent is fast approaching as I write and we look forward to that special time with family and friends and into the new year our new resolutions and beginnings. We are so fortunate to have our “Circle of Friends” in the Craft group and we are always delighted to welcome anybody who comes along, or drops in for a cup of coffee. So remember the 1st and 3rd Mondays from 10.30am and come along and join our group. Everybody welcome, so please bring a friend! Carol 9079 9997 / 07831 345560
or
Email: pchwillis@hotmail.co.uk 21
Saturday, 8th December 3pm – 5pm December Children’s Christmas Party Saturday, 15th December 10am – 12noon Decorating the Church for Christmas Wednesday, 19th December 7.30pm Bloomfield Collegiate School Carol Service Thursday, 20th December 10.30am Holy Communion with Carols For Senior Parishioners
Christmas Eve 8.00pm Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols CHRISTMAS DAY SERVICES
9.00am Holy Communion 10.15am All Age Worship (Children may present a gift at this service)
Tuesday, 1st January The Naming and Circumcision of Jesus 10.30am Holy Communion Thursday, 3rd January 10.30am Holy Communion followed by refreshments in the Choir Vestry Saturday, 5th January 10am – 12noon Removal of Christmas Decorations in Church Sunday, 20th January 6.30pm United Belmont & District Council of Churches Service for the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity in St. Molua’s Parish Church.
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PARISH CHRISTMAS CARD Our Parish Christmas Card this year depicts the journey of the shepherds following the birth of baby Jesus. They are making their way on this important journey with great confidence having heard such wonderful news as we read in Luke, chapter 2: 8-12: In that region there were shepherds living in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. Then an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid; for see—I am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people: to you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, who is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign for you: you will find a child wrapped in bands of cloth and lying in a manger.’ The card illustrates a sense of urgency in their journey – they want to see baby Jesus and to share personally in this good news which is for all people. They are focussed on getting there, with the bright star lighting their path as they make their way. May we respond with such confidence and focus to the news of the birth of baby Jesus, just like these shepherds, and make the journey to see this good news for ourselves here in St Columba’s. Full details of all our Christmas services are contained in this delightful Christmas Card for your convenience. Come and join us in St Columba’s as we journey together to Bethlehem just like those shepherds. What a wonderful example they give us! I thank the Art Club members who submitted cards for consideration, and to Anne Clarke whose design was selected as our Parish Christmas Card this year. The Rector 23
THE ORGAN SCHOLARSHIP SCHEME Did you know that St. Columba's parish plays a significant role in administering the Down and Dromore and Connor Dioceses' Organ Scholarship Scheme (OSC)? What is the OSC? Established in 1990, following a generous anonymous donation, the OSC addresses a perceived need to provide churches within the Dioceses with people who have basic skills in organ playing and choir direction. The overall aim is to ensure that the sung parts of the Church of Ireland liturgy (hymns, psalms, canticles and anthems) are accompanied to a good standard. Today, unlike earlier times, there is a dearth of professionally qualified organists and, therefore, the OSC is instrumental in encouraging those with piano/keyboard skills to learn the organ. Often, such people are 'reluctant organists', playing piano/keyboard in church but having little or no knowledge of the organ. Since its inception, some 80 scholars have passed through the OSC. How is the OSC managed? A Management Board, chaired by our rector, Canon John Auchmuty, and comprising of representatives of each Diocese, meets regularly to consider applications, review scholars' progress reports provided by the tutors and ensure that the OSC continues to meet its founding objectives. A sub-committee meets annually to audition applicants. This is chaired by the Rector, with two other members, Mr Timothy Wilson and Mr Gerald Hill. At the end of each year all scholars are assessed against agreed standards and assessors' reports are considered by the Board. Assessments are carried out by qualified organists on the Board: Canon David Humphries, Mr Timothy Wilson and Mr Gerald Hill. What tuition is provided? The OSC is a structured three-year programme of free tuition, providing scholars with the knowledge and skills to accompany choirs and congregations. Tuition includes how to 'manage' the organ console, i.e. choosing stops, which keyboards to use (most organs have at least two) and pedalling technique, and how to 'read' the pointing of psalms and canticles. Scholars also attend choral training sessions where they are taught how to lead and conduct a choir. Who provides tuition? The Board is fortunate in being able to avail of the services of three eminent organists: our own Dr Joe McKee, Mr Michael McCracken (organist of Down cathedral) and the Reverend Dr Ian Mills (formerly organist of St. Columb's cathedral).
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What do scholars say about the OSC? Scholars are appreciative of the opportunity to learn the organ and choral training techniques. Many comment on the excellent quality of tuition and express their sense of achievement on having completed the course. Several scholars have been inspired to continue organ studies privately. St Columba's has benefited directly from the OSC, as our Assistant Organist, Brian Clements, was a scholar from 1999 - 2002. Since completing the course he has continued studies privately and has become a very competent organist, accompanying many of our services confidently and sensitively, under the direction of Dr McKee. More recently, Caroline McCartney, a member of our choir, has completed her first year on the OSC and we look forward to hearing her accompany some of our services. The OSC has provided our parish with the opportunity to give both time and talent in the service of church music in the Dioceses and, in return, to receive tangible benefit as we strive to uphold the high standard of choral music and organ playing here in St. Columba's.
"I have benefited greatly from the OSC. After having expert help and guidance on technique from Dr Mills, I now feel much more confident. I have learned a huge amount about repertoire and continue to enjoy the lessons." Caroline McCartney "The OSC gave me a very encouraging start learning to play the organ. It has been a long journey involving much study and long hours of practice. It has, however, been an enriching and exciting experience that has enabled me to serve God and contribute to the musical life of St. Columba's." Brian Clements 25
PARISH FINANCES - A YEAR END CHECKLIST The Select Vestry would like to take this opportunity to thank parishioners sincerely for their continued financial support throughout 2018. Without that support, St Columba's would not be able to flourish, to grow or to be the beacon that it is across the Parish and beyond. As the year now draws to a close, there are a number of points you may wish to check: I have donated all my intended 2018 contributions before 30th December 2018. Parishioners are reminded that any financial contributions for the 2018 year must be received by Sunday 30th December 2018. Any contributions received after that date will be allocated to 2019. If I am a UK taxpayer I have completed a Gift Aid form. Any UK taxpayers who have not already completed a Gift Aid form are reminded to do so. Gift Aiding means that the Parish is able to claim a further 25% of the value of your contributions at no additional cost of the parishioner. I contribute to Parish funds by Standing Order. The Select Vestry is very grateful for all financial contributions regardless of how those are made and is mindful of the personal preference regarding the means of contributing. Nonetheless, the majority of parishioners now contribute to Parish funds by standing order. This is the preferred method for regular giving as it is 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 Phone: 028 9065 6891 or e-mail: office@coiknock.org. Thank you again for your continued support. Gillian Sadlier (Honorary Treasurer) Victor Dukelow (Assistant Honorary Treasurer)
PARISH STATISTICS Together with the Rector, we spent an interesting time at Belvoir Parish Church on a Monday night in late September at the Diocesan Statistics evening. To be honest, the idea of spending hours pouring over Church of Ireland statistics after a long day in the office was far from appealing, but the Bishop and his guest Dr Bev Botting, Statistician with Church of England, gave a detailed and informative presentation on trends in the Diocese and most importantly trends in our very own St Columba’s Parish. 26
THE GOOD NEWS In a society that places ever increasing demands on people’s time, with more Parish Statistics weekend working and more households with two working adults, and of course manyTogether with the Rector, we spendtan interesting couple of hours at Belvoir Parish Church on a alternative options to choose from on a Sunday morning, St Columba’s Monday night in late September at the Diocesan Statistics evening. To be honest, the idea of attendance is holding up very well. Since 2007, both church attendance and church spending hours pouring over Church of Ireland statistics after a long day in the office was far from income is broadly flat, which is in sharp contrast to parishes across England. Also, appealing, but the Bishop and his guest Dr Bev Botting, Statistician with Church of England, gave a Sunday school numbers have recovered well from a dip and are now very stable and detailed and informative presentation on trends in the Diocese and most importantly trends in our very own St Columba’s Parish. consistent. It is clear that parishioners value St Columba’s. The good news In a society that places ever increasing demands on people’s time, with more weekend working and more households with 2 working adults, and of course many alternative options to choose from on a Sunday morning, St Columba’s attendance is holding up very well. Since 2007, both church attendance and church income is broadly flat, which is in sharp contrast to parishes across England. Also, Sunday school numbers have recovered well from a dip in and are now very stable and consistent. It is clear that parishioners value St Columba’s. 300 250 200 150 100 50 0
2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017
THE OPPORTUNITIES FOR IMPROVEMENT Weekly church attendance Weekly Sunday school attendance People particularly value the church at important moments in their lives, baptisms, The opportunities for improvement confirmations, weddings and funerals, and also at Christian festivals, Christmas, EasterPeople particularly value the church at important moments in their lives, baptisms, confirmations, and Holy Week. At these times the church is full, so the challenge for us is how to useweddings and funerals, and also at Christian festivals, Christmas, Easter and Holy Week. At these these occasions to galvanise support for all our church activities throughout times the church is full, so the challenge for us is how to use these occasions to galvanise support for the year. Many parishes are now focusing on youth activities by creating innovative all our church activities throughout the year. Many parishes are now focusing on youth activities by programmes to attract the young. We could certainly learn from others here to creating innovative programmes to attract the young. We could certainly learn from others here to betterbetter engage our young people. engage our young people.
St Columba’s current activities to connect with Young Families • Regular Clergy visiting across the parish • Increased communication through the Columban, Parish Website, Facebook and Pew News • Monthly All Age Worship and 9.30am Family Holy Communion Service • Developing the involvement of young people across the parish – select vestry, sub committees, reading lessons at services • Substantial growth in Mums & Tots Group
David Kelly (Rector’s churchwarden), Richard Caldwell (People’s churchwarden) David Kelly (Rector’s Churchwarden), Richard Caldwell (People’s Churchwarden)
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THE WIDER PICTURE The above statistics were based on the NI State census (2011), the annual Easter Vestry returns and the 2016 Church of Ireland Census. Dr Botting, who is head of research and statistics for the Church of England analysed all the data available to the Diocese. As a result there is now an overall picture of the Diocese and each parish has an individual dashboard. There is also some thought required on the future collection of different data. Some interesting Diocesan findings across the diocese are *the number of children attending has increased. *one fifth of those attending the Church of Ireland in the whole of Ireland are worshipping in Down and Dromore. Dr Botting concluded by saying that it is important to celebrate the good work going on in the parishes and to remember that numbers represent people. Elizabeth Leonard (Lay Honorary Secretary of Diocesan Synod and Council)
COFFEE MACHINE We are delighted to invite organisations to make use of the new Johnson’s Coffee Machine in the newly refurbished Church Hall Kitchen! This is the same as the coffee machines in church, which will continue to deliver the delicious coffee which many of you have been enjoying after church services. Voluntary donations for use of the machine will be grateful accepted. Please enjoy!
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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
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
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