The Columban st. columba’s church, knock, november 2019
Rector’s Letter
Dear Parishioner,
REMEMBRANCE SUNDAY 10th NOVEMBER Remembrance Sunday is an important opportunity for us to pay our respect and honour to all those who lost their lives in both World Wars and in conflicts past and present. The Act of Remembrance during our morning service on that day commences with these words: We meet in the presence of God. We commit ourselves to work in penitence and faith for reconciliation between nations, that all people may, together, live in freedom, justice and peace. We pray for all who in bereavement, disability and pain continue to suffer the consequences of fighting and terror. We remember with thanksgiving and sorrow those whose lives, in world wars and conflicts past and present, have been given and taken away. On Remembrance Sunday, the whole nation pauses to remember. We come together in the words, “We will remember them”. We do so as a way of showing our respect. As we remember them, we remember also those who were left mourning. There were dreams and hopes for the future which would never be realised. We will also pray for peace throughout the world. This is something which we should do daily in our personal devotions, no matter what the circumstances. The Bugler will play “The Last Post” at the beginning of the Two Minute Silence and “Reveille” at the end. Regretfully there has been so much coverage in the media recently of the lack of respect being shown to individuals in the world around us. Respect needs to be very much promoted through our lives and worship. As we receive the love of God in Christ, so we are called to share that love with one another through mutual respect. We will have an opportunity to show our respect to those who made the supreme sacrifice for us in times of war and conflict, during our worship on Remembrance Sunday. This edition of The Columban contains two very personal articles about Remembrance. The first is from Ian Noad about a visit he and Moranne made to the French village of Pont-Remy on Friday 9th November 2018 with a group of 2
members and friends of the Royal Army Medical Corps Association, Ulster Branch, to commemorate the centenary of the signing of the Armistice. The second, from our Parish Administrator, Karen Patterson tells the story of her Great Uncle, John McCance, who died in the First World War aged only 22 years. He was remembered in “Pages of the Sea” by Danny Boyle in 2018, an event which took place over 32 venues in the UK to mark the Centenary Anniversary of the WW1 Armistice. John was from Dundrum, and he was selected as a local soldier for the memorial at Murlough beach. John has no grave – just his name written on the Tyne Cot Memorial, along with 35,000 others. His name is also on the WW1 Memorial Plaque in Castlewellan, as the family moved to Annsborough around this time. As a parish, may we come together on Remembrance Sunday to respect and honour all those who served, to ensure that their sacrifices are never forgotten. “We will remember them.” 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
ONLINE AUDIO SERVICES We are delighted to advise you that our Audio Services are back! Following an appeal for a gift to the parish, the required online recorded licence was generously purchased recently by a parishioner. We are again able to continue with the provision of recorded services, which are available on our parish website www.coiknock.org This important aspect of our work allows those unable to attend church, for whatever reason, to hear and enjoy the services and notices. We thank the contributors of the licence very much for their generosity and assistance.
SERVICES THIS MONTH Sunday 3rd 8.15am
The Fourth Sunday before Advent (Green) Holy Communion Reader Joe McKee 2 Thessalonians 1: 1-4, 11-12 Gospel Clergy Luke 19: 1-10
10.30am 7.00pm Thursday 7th 10.30am
All Age Worship followed by refreshments Reader Jasmin Saunders Mulgrew Luke 19: 1-10
All Saints Day (Transferred) Holy Communion followed by refreshments in the Choir Vestry
(White)
Sunday 10th 8.15am
Remembrance Sunday Holy Communion Reader Murray Hunter Romans 8: 31-39 Gospel Karen McAlpine Matthew 5: 1-12 Intercessions Karen McAlpine
(Green)
Choral Evensong Reader Reader
Gerald Hill Paul Gallen
Lamentations 3: 22-33 John 11: 32-44
10.30am Morning Prayer with Act of Remembrance Reader Ian Noad Isaiah 10: 33- 11: 9 Reader David Kelly Romans 8: 31-39 Occasional Prayers Clergy 7.00pm Compline Reader Clare Best Matthew 5: 1-12 Thursday 14th
(Green)
10.30am
Holy Communion followed by refreshments in the Choir Vestry
Sunday 17th 8.15am
The Second Sunday before Advent (Green) Holy Communion Reader Adrian Clements 2 Thessalonians 3: 6-13 Gospel Karen McAlpine Luke 21: 5-19 Intercessions Karen McAlpine
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9.30am Family Communion Gospel Charles Auchmuty Luke 21: 5-19 10.30am Morning Prayer followed by refreshments hosted by the Bible Study Group Reader Elizabeth Miller Isaiah 65: 17-25 Reader Muriel Arndell Luke 21: 5-19 Occasional Prayers: Clergy 7.00pm Holy Communion Reader Anella Gallen Daniel 6 Gospel Karen McAlpine Matthew 13: 1-9, 18-23 Thursday 21st (Green) 10.30am Holy Communion followed by refreshments in the Choir Vestry Sunday 24th 8.15am
The Kingship of Christ (White) Holy Communion Reader Billy McAlpine Colossians 1: 11-20 Gospel Clergy Luke 23: 33-43
10.30am
Holy Communion Reader Joy Montgomery Gospel Clergy Intercessions Barbara Laverty
Colossians 1: 11-20 Luke 23: 33-43
7.00pm
Evening Prayer Reader Fiona Haldane Reader John Macpherson Occasional Prayers Karen McAlpine
1 Samuel 8: 4-20 John 18: 33-37
Thursday 28th Saint Andrew (Transferred) 10.30am Holy Communion followed by refreshments in the Choir Vestry
(Red)
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 C of the Revised Common Lectionary and are printed on our parish website: www.coiknock.org
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FAREWELL TO OUR BISHOP On the morning of 29th September, St Columba’s was privileged to welcome their “resident” Bishop, The Right Reverend Dr Harold Miller (and his wife, Liz), to preach and celebrate communion at his final diocesan service before retirement. A large congregation gathered to hear our Rector warmly greet Bishop Harold and Liz. Over his twenty-two and a half years as Bishop of Down and Dromore, Bishop Harold had always been immensely supportive of his local parish church, encouraging all the many changes that had taken place at St Columba’s during that time. A regular attender whenever his busy diocesan schedule permitted, the Rector added that Bishop Harold enjoyed nothing more than to slip into the congregation unannounced, literally one minute before the service commenced! In fact, Bishop Harold had also become well acquainted with the Rectory itself, residing there for some time with Archdeacon Gregor McCamley and his wife, Rosemary, while the See House was made ready for the arrival from Cork of Liz and their growing family, Kevin, Kiera, Laura and Niall. The service had a beautiful range of liturgy, organ music and singing, enhanced by a large choir, with one of the Bishop’s favourite hymns, Approach My Soul, following his valedictory sermon. Referring to the reading from the Book of Revelation, Bishop Harold evoked the sometimes sentimental image of angels in contrast to the real presence, even in today’s world, of the devil and his influence, urging the congregation to be alert to his many temptations and the importance of resisting them. Following the communion service the congregation gathered at the West End of the church for coffee/tea and refreshments and to chat informally with Bishop Harold and Liz about their plans for a thoroughly deserved retirement in their new home in Lurgan. Farewell wishes, parting anecdotes and blessings lingered for as long as the duration of the service itself before Bishop Harold and Liz left, assured by everyone of a very warm welcome return to St Columba’s to them and the family on any future occasion. Ian Noad
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LEST WE FORGET During the years of the First World War, 48 parishioners from St. Columba’s served in H.M. Forces, the vast majority in the Army. Tragically, twelve did not return, a truly horrific rate of attrition. The names of both the fallen and the survivors are shown on the memorial plaque in the south transept where, in 1919, the beautiful memorial window was erected to their eternal glory. No less than three MC’s, one MM and one DFC were awarded for gallantry. In the Second World War, reflecting its far greater global reach, 120 parishioners from St. Columba’s served in HM Forces, not only in the Army but also in the Royal Air Force, the Royal Navy, the Merchant Navy, the Women’s Royal Naval Service, the Auxiliary Territorial Service and the Women’s Auxiliary Air Force. Tragically, twelve also did not return, eight from the ranks of the Royal Air Force alone, as high a rate of attrition as that suffered by those parishioners who served in the army during the First World War. In more recent times, Constable Mark Evans was killed on 7th September 1981 whilst serving with the RUC in Pomeroy, and his name is displayed on a memorial glass case towards the rear of the church. St. Columba’s Roll of Honour in two World Wars, inscribed on the front two pillars of the nave, reads as follows: 1914-1918 J. Burke A. D. Deane T. B. Elliot H. Hooton I. C. McCormick H. McCormick R. Nelson W. Nelson J. Purvis A. Rodgers W. H. Unsworth G. W. Webb
1939-1945 A. S. Craig R. A. A. Doherty M. D. Green J. C. Harris A. R. Hill M. C. Hind H.G. Montgomery R. N. Morgan C. McConnell A. McFarland J. H. Rice N. Turner
Mindful of all current ongoing military operations, let us pause on Remembrance Sunday to remember those men and women who, in countless conflicts, made the ultimate sacrifice for their country and for our freedom. We also remember all worldwide victims of war, brutality, terror and oppression. Let us above all pray for those valiant young men who set forth from this parish in those dark and storm filled days, never to return home nor see their loved ones again.
They knew their duty and they died for it
LET US HONOUR THEIR MEMORY 7
ARMISTICE CENTENARY VISIT TO THE SOMME On Friday 9th November 2018, parishioners Ian and Moranne Noad joined a 45 strong party of members and friends of the Royal Army Medical Corps Association, Ulster Branch, to commemorate the centenary of the signing of the Armistice in the pretty village of Pont-Remy situated on the banks of the River Somme. We were met in Paris by our expert guide for the weekend, Michael Smith, an Englishman who had lived with his family for some 30 years in Pont-Remy. We then travelled to the small town of Abbeville, a few miles from Pont-Remy, which was to be our base for three nights. The following morning, we embarked on a fascinating tour of some of the local battlefield sites. Our first port of call was a guided tour of the famous Thiepval Wood and reconstructed trenches in which the 36th Ulster Division had been stationed just before unleashing their uphill assault on the Schwaben Redoubt, early on the morning of 1st July 1916, the opening day of the battle of the Somme. To their everlasting credit they achieved their initial objectives and overran the forward German defensive positions, but at a staggering cost of 5,500 casualties in the first two days. They were eventually forced to withdraw due to lack of supplies and ammunition. On the first day across a 16-milewide frontal attack, the British army was to lose a staggering 57,740 men killed, wounded or missing, the greatest single loss in its entire history. Whilst we wandered through the woods absorbing these horrific facts, we stopped beside an open trench to hold a short service of Remembrance led by the Association Padre, with a fitting recital of John McCrae’s famous poem ‘In Flanders Fields’. The party then moved on by foot to visit the iconic Ulster Tower, the memorial to the 36th Division modelled on Helen’s Tower at Clandeboye, Co Down, where soldiers had trained prior to embarking for France. We resumed our tour to the infamous battlefield of Beaumont8
Hamel where the Newfoundland regiment advanced downhill on that same 1st July against an impregnable (but unanticipated) German defence, suffering over 90% casualties in 30 minutes, including all their officers. Out of a complement of some 800 only 68 were available for roll call the next day. Their heroism is marked by a beautiful 50-foot-high cairn of Newfoundland granite on top of which stands a magnificently defiant bronze caribou. Our final destination was the world famous Thiepval Memorial designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens, on which are inscribed the names of 72,337 British and South African soldiers of no known grave killed during the entire three-year Somme campaign. We were able to spend time wandering under the monumental arches, reading the countless names, overwhelmed by the sheer scale of loss. The mood on the coach back to Abbeville was understandably sombre as we pondered the horrific effect of the industrialised warfare visited upon the battlefields we had toured, and the gallantry of those who fought there. Sunday morning, 11th November, dawned dry but fresh, and after breakfast the party, many members bedecked with medals, travelled to Pont-Remy and assembled at the British war cemetery on top of a hill on the outskirts of the village. We were able to wander around the 56 gravestones of all ranks and place some wooden crosses before being joined by the Mayor, Madame Annie Roucoux, her Deputies, many village residents, members of the Queen’s Royal Regiment (a group of English re-enactment enthusiasts), and representatives from the local branch of the Federational
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National de Combattants Republique (FNCR), the equivalent of our Royal British Legion. Michael Smith read out the names on the individual gravestones and the children of the village solemnly placed a Union Jack beside each one. The Association chairman laid a wreath at the foot of the memorial, followed by the Mayor and Chairman of the FNCR. The band played the ‘Last Post’ and the children sang God Save Your Gracious Queen in excellent English, followed by La Marseillaise. It was a most moving tribute to the British fallen by the entire village and touched us all deeply. The whole assembly then paraded to the large and beautifully kept French cemetery (civil and military) where wreaths were laid this time to the memory of the 87 young men (from a village population of some 1500) who bravely gave their lives in defence of their country during WW1. The children once more gave a lovely rendering of both national anthems and graciously accepted gifts of memorial coins specially minted for the occasion by the Association. The return journey to Dublin, and thence to Hydebank, were all on schedule. Post Script One of the most striking aspects of the battlefield visits was the relatively short distance between the opposing front line trenches, often a matter of no more than two or three hundred yards apart. The wholesale killing of thousands of young men took place in an area the size of an average field, with no strategic value whatsoever other than the paltry distance gained or lost at a truly appalling cost of human life. With the massive mechanised firepower available to each side at such close proximity, death and maiming were violently visceral, abrupt and brutal, with men literally pulverised into smithereens, accounting for the vast numbers of soldiers whose remains were simply never found again. At the close of carnage on yet another day of unrestrained slaughter, the softly soaring souls of fragmented men must have paused to ponder: ”Were we really once in human form on earth below? No more to be done now, our mortal days are over. We must bequeath the battle, the fear, the horror, the suffering, the pain and the bitterness to our living comrades on that mud strewn, ravaged, bloodied field down there. But thanks all the same, old friends, for the kindly mention on yonder massive monument….much appreciated….. we tried our best, you understand.” LET US HONOUR THEIR GLORIOUS NAMES FOR EVER. Ian 10
REMEMBRANCE 2018
In 2018, movie director Danny Boyle (designer of the 2012 London Olympics Opening Ceremony) spearheaded Pages of the Sea, an event which took place in 32 key locations around the UK on Sunday 11th November, to mark the 100th anniversary of the WW1 Armistice. The purpose was to remember the millions of men and women who had left these shores to fight and serve during the war, many never to return home. A large-scale portrait of a local soldier who died in the First World War, designed by sand artists ‘Sand In your Eye’, was to be drawn in the sand on the beach at each location, and then as the sea began to roll in, those in attendance would have the opportunity to say a final goodbye to them, watching as the waves washed over and removed them forever. In the weeks before the event, it was extremely humbling to discover that my great uncle, John McCance, had been selected as the soldier to be represented on the sand at Murlough Beach in Co. Down for this poignant event. That particular morning at Murlough started with heavy rain, which gradually stopped as the crowds made their way onto the wet beach for 8.30am. The large-scale portrait of John had already been carefully
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drawn into the sand before everyone arrived. Beside his portrait, people were encouraged to use the supplied templates to rake the sand into silhouettes of soldiers, and many people enjoyed taking part in this. Before long, the beach was covered in stencils, almost like small platoons of soldiers. Around 10.00am we joined together with members of the Mourne Community Choir and sang hymns, prayed and gave thanks to those whose lives were taken or were forever changed by war. A beautiful poem called ‘The Wound of Time’ by Carol Ann Duffy was read aloud and then everyone then stood in silent reflection as the waves began to tumble over the sand etchings. It took approximately 40-45 mins for all of the silhouettes to vanish into the sea, and many people stood along the edges of the sea as it rolled in. I will never forget the stillness and the silence except for the sound of the waves, and the feeling of loss as I watched the final images of John and the soldier silhouettes wash away for ever. John McCance was born and raised in Dundrum, one of 11 siblings, and he died on 16th August 1918 aged 22 years. He worked as a flax spinner before the war, then enlisted in the 13th Battalion of the Royal Irish Rifles in Downpatrick and was one of many soldiers who lost their lives at the Battle of Passchendaele, near Ypres in Belgium. This was the site of one of the costliest battles of the war and conditions were harsh as most of the companies here had lost many men while holding the line under almost continuous enemy shelling. The ground was covered in shell holes, uncut barbed wire and mud. It is very likely that John was wounded during the ferocious barrage of heavy machine gun fire and was lost in the mud, where he eventually succumbed to his wounds. He has no known grave and he is commemorated on the Tyne Cot Memorial along with 35,000 others. His 12
name is also on the WW1 Memorial Plaque in Castlewellan, as the family had moved to Annsborough around this time. The family received the customary letter of condolence from the King together with the 1915 Star, the British War Medal and the Victory Medal. 100 years after he left to travel to France, John had finally returned home to the shores of Murlough beach that he knew so well, not as a soldier this time, but instead as a portrait in the sand, helping people to remember the ultimate sacrifices made by so many. What a beautiful and long-overdue send-off he eventually received, surrounded by members of his family and close to his home, as he marked his own special place in history. His story, although personal to my family, is now shared with those who came to show support and to share their own memories and stories of loved ones. As the tide washed hauntingly over John’s portrait, I reflected on how short our time is in this world, how bravely those young men must have fought, and how devastating it must have been for those at home, waiting for news or receiving the worst possible news of their loved ones. It is important that we never forget those who made the ultimate sacrifice for us, during various conflicts, as well as those who return home with life-changing injuries - both physical and mental. Standing on the cold beach, watching the waves wash over the silhouettes and eventually cover them, was a very poignant and moving experience, providing us younger generations with the unique opportunity to say a final and personal goodbye to those brave souls. I am extremely proud of my Great Uncle John and the many like him, who gave no consideration to their own safety and travelled to places they had probably never even heard of, facing dreadful conditions, unknown hardships and the horrors of war of which we have no comprehension, in order that we might enjoy the freedom they provided for us. We need to keep their memories alive for future generations so that their sacrifice was not in vain.
WE WILL REMEMBER THEM. Karen Patterson 13
Thought for the Month
The first line of Hymn 352 ‘Give Thanks with a Grateful Heart’ is a philosophy which I try hard to adopt each day of my life.
I was born in East Belfast to a Church of Ireland mum and Presbyterian dad and was their only child. My parents gave me love and affection and taught me the importance of good manners. I was educated in local primary schools and progressed to further education where I studied typing, shorthand, book-keeping and commerce. I gained certificates in all subjects which allowed me to obtain employment very quickly. As I expanded my skills I became the Personal Secretary to the Managing Director of a large plumber's merchants in Belfast.
Clare Best
St. Patrick's Church, Ballymacarrett was an important influence on my life. I sang in the choir, was a Sunday School teacher and a member of the youth club. I was confirmed by Bishop Frederick Mitchell in 1960.
During the late sixties, I changed career and began training as a woman constable in Enniskillen Training Depot, after which I transferred to Londonderry for two years. I encountered some difficult and challenging situations there. My spiritual life was centred around St. Peter's Church and there I experienced a wonderful fellowship and was a member of their choir. I returned to Belfast in March 1972 and began working in RUC Headquarters, Brooklyn. I believe there is a plan for each of us as I met the man I was to marry, who was also a police officer. Jim and I married in St. Patrick's Ballymacarrett and have recently celebrated 45 years of marriage. Our daughter Nicola was born in 1976 and her brother Colin was born in 1978. They were both baptised in St. Patrick's by Archdeacon W.A.Macourt who is now deceased. We are proud grandparents of four granddaughters and one grandson. Jim and I have been part of the family of St. Columba’s since 1987 and this connection has been invaluable to us. We have been supported with amazing pastoral care in times of family bereavement and illness. Over the years there have been highs and lows along the way, but through it all I Give Thanks with a Grateful Heart every single day of my life and my faith remains strong. Our sincere thanks to Clare for sharing this ‘Thought’ with us. The December/January ‘Thought for the Month’ will be written by Donald Kerr. 14
Harvest Festivities Sunday 6th October 2019 The festivities commenced with All Age Worship at the later time of 11.00 am. The church was decorated beautifully with all the signs and smells of Harvest, from straw bales to harvest produce, and of course some lovely artwork from the Sunday School. A big thank you to all those who helped to decorate the church prior to the service and to those that donated food. These donations were increased further as the Sunday School children came up to the front of the church with their Harvest gifts. The gifts have been gratefully received by The Larder, a community run emergency food bank operating off the Newtownards Road which provides food for around 150 people every month. The service continued with an excellent reading by Alex Kerr from John 6 which describes how Jesus says not to work for the food that perishes, but for the food that endures for eternal life. This was followed by a wonderful solo rendition of All Things Bright and Beautiful by Lynda Barrett. We warmly welcomed the Reverend Dr Ian Mills, the curate of Larne and Inver, preaching on the theme of “we are what we eat”. The Sunday School children then delighted the congregation with the children’s anthem – 'Someone’s Brought a Loaf of Bread'. After the service the congregation retired to the church hall where lunch was served. This was magnificent mince pies, garnished with mint boiled potatoes and peas. A fantastic selection of tray bakes was provided, along with either tea or coffee, to finish off a delicious lunch. The noise of the numerous conversations being held over lunch was only dimmed when the food was being eaten!! A special thank you to the catering committee and all the volunteers who helped out on the day, without which, the lunch would not have been possible. As ever the Rector was on hand to take a fantastic array of photographs. All in all, the Harvest lunch was a great success with around 150 attendees raising over £2,600 for the Church Hall Fund, the highest amount ever raised at the lunch. Stephen Armstrong
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HARVEST GIFTS FOR THE LARDER May I take this opportunity to thank all of you most sincerely for your generosity in donating so many items of food for the Harvest Thanksgiving. The baptistery was awash with your gifts and many visitors were drawn to it through the very colourful display. They were impressed by the resourcefulness of the church in supporting such a wonderful cause. Again, many thanks for the consideration you have shown for those who need assistance in feeding their families. Murray 17
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 October: Rector
Canon Smyth
Schomberg Avenue
Sandringham Mews
Schomberg Park
Sinclair Street
Shandon Park
Stormont Park
Summerhill Park
Thorndale, Carryduff
Sunbury Avenue
Thornhill Crescent
Thornhill Park
Thornhill Drive
The Walled Garden
Thornhill Parade
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) or Canon Ken Smyth (9145 8706) to enable him to take careful note of the details. Thank you.
NOVEMBER FLOWER ROTA Sunday 3rd
Barbara Gibson
Sunday 10th
REMEMBRANCE
Sunday 17th
Ladies’ Guild
Sunday 24th
Helen and John Proctor 18
YOUNG FAMILIES GROUP Wine & Cheese Evening Friday 29th November 7.30pm St Columba’s Young Families group is a great informal opportunity to meet up with other families in St Columba’s. Jonathan and I have attended many of these in the past and have always had an enjoyable evening at events including wine and cheese evenings, pot luck dinners and nights out to some of our local Ballyhackamore restaurants. I am really excited to play a more active role in organising future events and welcome any ideas others might have. Our next event will be a wine and cheese evening in the Rectory on the 29th November, I hope you will all welcome the opportunity to take some time out before the busy month of December. Rachel The Rector writes… I thank Emma Macpherson for all her hard work and great support with the Young Families Group. As co-ordinator she has organised many very successful and enjoyable social events for this group over recent years. This has enabled many of our members to meet up with each in different social settings and become good friends. Emma has recently retired from this role and I welcome her successor Rachel Stewart. Rachel along with her husband Jonathan and son Ethan are well known in the parish. I send her every good wish in her new role.
DECEMBER PARISH MAGAZINE
Any articles or photographs for publication in the December parish magazine should be handed or emailed to the editor, Billy McAlpine, by Wednesday, 6th November. 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 19
FUND RAISING Thank you very much to everyone who has contributed so generously to our Church Roof Fund to date. The fund has now reached £100,000.00 – a tremendous result! However, we are still £175,000.00 short of our target. I would like to encourage you all to consider ways in which you can boost this important fund. Envelopes are available from the back of church if you would like to make a donation or why not donate monthly by standing order? Please contact Karen Patterson in the Parish Office for further guidance – 028 9065 6891 Monday – Friday 9am-1pm. I thank you in advance for all that you are doing to help St Columba’s Church Roof Fund, for your help and support at various fundraising events, and for your voluntary contributions. Every donation, of any amount, makes a difference.
SIDESPERSON’S ROTA 3rd November
Yvonne and John Robb
10th November
Moranne and Ian Noad
17th November
Eleanor and Geoff Launchbury
24th November
Patricia and Patrick Wilson
Afternoon Badminton What we lack in numbers is more than made up for with enthusiasm! Despite starting the month with just three members, it did not deter us, we managed 4 games of 2 against 1 and found it helped us improve our game! We would, however, still love to have some new members, do think about coming to join in the fun Anne 20
PAUSE As you will all remember from the September Columban parishioners were visiting ' The Poet' for the first time. To honour the occasion Angela decided to write a poem about 'Pause'. Those present had a lovely surprise when, after coffee, Angela read her poem to us. The applause was thunderous but there was not to be an encore on that occasion! Please read 'Pause' and do come and join with us in November. Apart from refreshments and chat we don't know what might happen. Many, many thanks to Angela and my admiration for her wonderful way with words. This month we will meet for lunch at: Hillmount Garden Centre on Tuesday 19th November at 12.30pm. I look forward to seeing you there. If you need further details or help with transport, please contact me. Eileen (028 9020 3684)
A time to ' pause' we all need Eileen ensures she does the deed! An expert she is at choosing a venue Coffee shops with a tasty menu! All are made welcome each time we meet Eileen ensuring we get a good seat! Non-stop chat is the name of the game With culinary treats-that is the aim! A new location today in King's Square The ' Poet' is ready to share its fare! Sharing stories and the latest news A tonic for all without doubt ensues. Many venues spring to mind Eileen ensuring all easy to find! Cloud Nine at Ards Airport was the place to be As the ladies hoped handsome pilots they would see! Hillmount, Neill's Hill and Binky's welcomed all. Cream and the Old Mill also given a call Park Avenue Hotel hosted a big crowd Our Rector should be feeling proud 'Pause' is an activity with an open gate So make sure you join us on the next date. You will be welcomed in a warm way From each and everyone I can safely say! Angela Kerr 17th September 2019
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St. Columba’s Children’s Christmas Party for members of our Sunday School, Crèche, Youth ETC, and Mums & Tots
in the Church Hall Saturday, 7th December 2019 3.00pm-5.00pm Greet our very special guest in church with Christmas songs… Parents: Please speak to a leader for more details!
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Bible Study The Bible Study Group meet every Thursday afternoon, from 2.30 – 4.00pm in the Choir Vestry. We examine passages from the Bible and discuss how they relate to modern life. This will take place over a cuppa, so feel free to come along to this informal gathering and join in – or sit and listen – the choice is yours! We are currently studying the Epistle to the Philippians.
In the Choir Vestry: Thursday 7th November Thursday 14th November Thursday 21st November Thursday 28th November We look forward to seeing you there!
Ladies’ Bowls Since the beginning of September bowling has been in full swing on Monday afternoons in the Church Hall. We have only missed one week when road works on the Kings Road made access to the car park impossible. Bowling mats are very heavy and awkward to manage and so we are very grateful to the gentlemen who lay the mats for us each weekend. Without their help we could not play. We welcome new members-bowlers and those who would like to 'give it a go’. Just come along any Monday at 2.00 pm and enjoy the fun, the companionship and, of course, the bowling for a couple of hours. Helen 23
SUNDAY SCHOOL Sunday 3rd November
10.30 am
All Age Worship
Sunday 10th November
10.30 am
Sunday School and Crèche
Sunday 17th November
9.30 am
Family Communion
Sunday 24th November
10.30 am
Sunday School and Crèche
Congratulations to Alex who read the lesson so clearly at Harvest and all the children who led the prayers. The children made a wonderful sound when they sang “Someone’s brought a loaf of bread”. The artwork created by the children was displayed over the Harvest weekend. Well done to all the children who contributed in any way. Joyce
RAILWAY AND MODEL CLUB All types of plans are now afoot for the coming season. Our next Coffee Morning/Open Day and Exhibition will be on Saturday, 16th May 2020. As before, the venue will be the church hall and we hope to have several layouts and models on show. Also, we hope to have our Dolls' House friends with us and various arts and crafts, with lots of coffee/tea and buns. No doubt there will be some models for sale, with other pieces of memorabilia. So, please get it into your diary now......Saturday, 16/05/2020. Come and drive a model train!! Before that date we will, of course, be showing another new layout, in the main church porch, at Christmas time. A new harbour is being planned for Kings Road and this should be in place by early 2020. You may find that you will have to "tunnel" your way into the "Railway Complex" before very long!!! Watch this space....or better still pop down some Wednesday evening around 7:15pm up to 9:30pm. 'Till then, keep 'er rollin'. David B.
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LADIES' GUILD Our opening meeting was well attended by our members and in addition, we were pleased to welcome two new ladies. The speakers were four ladies from NI Women in Fisheries, a voluntary group with three of the speakers from Kilkeel and one from Portavogie. We began the meeting with the singing of ‘The Fisherman’s Psalm’. All four are fishermen’s wives and each, in turn, shared their stories of becoming involved with the fishing industry and the many hardships endured by their men and the crews in bringing home ‘the catch’. In addition they had to deal with the many regulations attached to quotas and employment and keeping the boats afloat whilst not forgetting the domestic tasks of home and family. Whilst two ladies cooked some tasty samples another defined the many health benefits to be gained from including fish in our weekly diet plans. Our members went home with fresh fish to cook and recipes to try. In October our 60th Anniversary was marked by two events. Our meeting took the form of a ‘Reminiscence Evening’ when we looked back to the 1950s and 60s and how very different life was then. With the help of items supplied by the Ulster Museum, photo albums, music etc. there was much nostalgia and some laughter too. Sunday 20th October was the date of a joint Service of Thanksgiving with the Men’s Club for our founders and members during the past 60 years. More about this next month. Our Speaker in November will be Mrs Eva Baxter who will tell us of the work of the great hymn writer, Cecil Frances Alexander. We are looking forward to 11th December and our Christmas Lunch at Assembly Buildings, Stormont. Please remember to return your menu choices by the November meeting or by 3rd December at latest Eleanor
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PSNI – Public Notice • Unsolicited telephone calls are used by genuine and fraudulent businesses. The Telephone Preference Service (TPS) 0845 0700 707 is a free register that allows you to opt out of receiving unsolicited sales and marketing calls. • Be wary of calls from companies with whom you have had no previous dealings. • Do not be afraid to put the phone down or end the call. • If you have received a call that you think may be fraudulent please contact your local Neighbourhood Policing Team (NPT) officers Phil McGarry or Barry Stewart on 07585 979344.
FROM THE REGISTERS Our Sorrows Christian Burials Thursday 3rd October
William (Bill) McGookin
THE LARDER We in St. Columba’s support The Larder at St. Christopher's Parish Church in Mersey Street by bringing food donations to them so that they may help families in need. We appeal for your support throughout the year and any gifts of food can be placed in the shopping trolley in the baptistery. In the run up to Christmas you may want to bring more seasonal items as well. Suggestions are -Mince pies / Christmas puddings / Chocolates / Crisps / Christmas Crackers / Biscuits. Feel free, however, to bring any little treats of your choosing. Murray
CHURCH HALL CLEANING ROTA Saturday, 9th November
Anna and Heather Caldwell
Saturday, 23rd November
Joyce Stevenson and Yvonne Robb
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CRAFT AND HOBBY CIRCLE Seasons change as the world goes round and we bemoan the weather. We cannot control that, so let’s make the most of each day we have together. Our picture this month shows some of the colourful “fish and chip” jumpers gifted to us to pass on to the charity which distributes them in Africa where previously babies were wrapped in paper used for newsprint. They have now been packed up, together with some we have made, all ready for delivery which Doe is organising. We have been crocheting dishcloths and have made marmalade to sell in order to boost the ‘Church Roof Fund’ and these will be on sale on craft Mondays in the choir vestry. We look forward to seeing you all again on 4th November, please feel welcome to bring a friend or even two. Carol 9079 9997 / 07831 345560 or Email: pchwillis@hotmail.co.uk
Our November meeting is on 5th November at 8.00 pm in the choir vestry and the guest speaker will be Dot Blakeley, an expert on native birds. Dot often leads guided tours of local wet lands and bird sanctuaries and she will give us advice on how to look after our garden birds. We have arranged to have the enterprise stall at this meeting where a selection of cards, diaries and other products will be on sale. The October meeting was very informative and Professor Jim Dornan was an entertaining and challenging speaker. He highlighted the work of the United Nations and other organisations working to improve the status of women. This links well with the event being organised on Saturday 23rd November, at the Millbrook Lodge Hotel 10.00am, where a prayer breakfast/vigil will be held to highlight the 16 days of activism which focuses on women’s issues. I hope to have more details for our meeting. Please feel free to join us at any of our meetings I assure you of a warm welcome. Barbara 27
DEFIBRILLATOR A defibrillator has been installed in the church grounds, beside the hedge on the Kings Road. It is in a secured cabinet and Emergency Services have been provided with the entry code to the safe box it is housed in. Training can be arranged for those who require it.
ALWAYS RING 999 BEFORE USE - the access code will be provided by emergency services and will activate medical responders immediately.
The LIFEPAK CR2 defibrillator is an automated external defibrillator (AED). For many years, defibrillators have been used by medical professionals to treat patients in sudden cardiac arrest. Today, the ability of defibrillators to save lives is so widely recognized that AEDs are being made available in public spaces worldwide. When the cabinet is unlocked, and the defibrillator removed the white case can be opened. The defibrillator will then provide full, clear instructions on how to use it. The verbal instructions should be followed until the emergency services arrive. We express our grateful appreciation to the Art Club for their very generous donation following their Art Exhibition and Sale, as well as money received from “Beat the Street�, which have provided this piece of vital equipment for the community.
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PARISH ORGANISATIONS New members are always welcome at any of our organisations! Sunday
Monday
Sunday School Bubbles (3-5 years) Splash (5-8 years) X-treme (8-11 years) The Grid (11-14 years) Crèche Craft and Hobby Circle
2nd, 4th and 5th Sundays 10.30am
Superintendent: Joyce Stevenson 9058 3381
2nd, 4th and 5th Sundays
Claire Hirst 07949 298473
1st and 3rd Monday each month 10.30am
Ladies Bowling MU Afternoon Group
Tuesday
2.00pm 2nd Monday each month 2.30pm
Helen Coates 9065 8977 Joy Montgomery 9029 5427
Mens’ Club
7.30pm
John Robb 9058 1438
Ladies Badminton
10.30am
Gillian Popplestone 9080 3799
Ladies Badminton
2.00pm
Anne Clarke 9065 1412
Activity Group
Except 1st Tuesday 7.30pm
Maureen Irwin 9079 5155
Mothers’ Union
1st Tuesday each month 8.00pm
Barbara Laverty 9573 8743
Wednesday Railway and Model Club Ladies Guild Thursday
Carol Willis 9079 9997
7.00pm 3rd Wednesday each month 7.45pm
Art Club Bible Study Group
9.30am 2.30pm - 4.00pm
David Beattie 9028 5868 Jennifer Beattie, 9028 5868 Billy Nelson 9048 3889 Eileen Anderson 9020 3684
Choir
7.30pm
Dr Joe McKee 07976 294574
Friday
Mums and Tots
10.00am
Joyce Stevenson, 9058 3381
Bi-monthly
Pause
As arranged
Eileen Anderson 9020 3684
Monthly
Youth Etc. (11-15 years)
As arranged
Jonathan Martin, 07980 885990
Young Families
Social events as arranged
Rachel Stewart 07812 247343
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 rectorknock@down.anglican.org
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
Linda Wilson
028 9076 1040
People’s Churchwarden
Jayne Martin
028 9079 0821
Assistant Priests
Diocesan Lay Reader
Junior Churchwardens
Lara King and Emma Ryan
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, Richard Caldwell, Andrew Ellis, Andrew Hirst, David Kelly, John Kerr, Elizabeth Leonard, Moira Saunders, Jonathan Stewart,
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