Diocesan

Rev Graham Hare Congratulations on your appointment as Rector of Drumragh with Mountfield. music and always have some playing in the and then experiencing the fullness of life background. In terms of holidays, options have Please tell our readers a little which he offers. Through faithful Biblical been a bit limited of late, but we love Donegal. about yourself and your journey shepherding and engaging Bible teaching I to Drumragh with Mountfield. am passionate about seeing people, of all What book are you reading at Many thanks. Together with my family, we are ages, realise their value, worth and potential the moment and why would you just delighted and are truly excited about our in Christ and growing in their desire to serve recommend it? move to Drumragh with Mountfield. Hannah and proclaim him faithfully. I tend to have a few books on the go at any one and I have three daughters; Bethany-Joy aged time. Currently I am reading ‘Staying Fresh’ 8, Anna-Grace aged 6 and Lois-Faith aged 4, Please tell our readers a little about by Paul Mallard which is a great read full so family life is busy but full of fun. Hannah a person (living or dead) who has of practical wisdom for anyone in Christian is a P1 teacher, currently working part-time. I had an influence on your ministry. leadership. I love a political or detective thriller am also a teacher by trade and loved my time It has been an enormous privilege to have too and enjoy the James Patterson and Lee in the classroom before spending ten years at been shaped and mentored by some fantastic Child books when reading for pleasure. Love for Life, an independent Christian charity. people, but for me, the real heroes of the faith The call to ordained ministry is an enormous are those who have prayed for me, and many What is the best advice you’ve privilege and it is a true joy to serve the Lord others, consistently over the years. There is a been given? and his Church in this role. Having served in small number of people who pray for me daily - Just before we became parents for the first our own home parish of Magheralin, then in St that is both humbling and inspirational and time, we were naturally anxious about all that Mark’s, Armagh and currently in Drumglass, I know that it is they who have had the lay ahead. A very wise lady encouraged us to Dungannon, we are now excited about settling greatest influence. remember that we would never have enough into the community in Omagh. Having earnestly wisdom to do it all on our own, and pointed sought the Lord’s will on this appointment, we How do you chill out? us to James 3:17 where we are reminded that have seen his hand everywhere in the process A morning walking on the beach, an afternoon pure wisdom comes from God alone. As parents, and are trusting the promise that he who calls in a coffee shop with a good book and a slice of particularly in times of change, we have had to is faithful. cake, and an evening around a big table with lean on God for his direction about raising our good friends enjoying great food. family. Added to that is the daily 5p challenge What are you passionate about in to pray for our children - Protection, Purpose, ministry? What is your favourite food; Purity, Peers and Partner. In John 10:10 we read the words of Jesus music; holiday destination? who said, “I have come that they may have I am a big foodie so I love everything but have life, and have it to the full.” There is simply no a pretty sweet tooth! I also love a variety of greater joy than seeing people come to Christ

28 N:VISION | DIOCESE OF DERRY & RAPHOE Rev Canon Judi McGaffin Congratulations on your appointment as the first female Canon of St Eunan’s Cathedral, Raphoe.

What challenges and changes do you think your appointment will What book are you reading at bring to your ministry? the moment and would you Being appointed by the Bishop was a huge recommend it? surprise and it made me realise that I had n The students and staff in the Church of ever paid any attention to the role of a Canon! Ireland School in Buncrana (St Mura’s) I am therefore blissfully unaware of the each year take part in “READ DL”. I also challenges and changes that I will now face! I would add another piece of advice to this - read the book that is chosen so that I can WITH HUMILITY! I am naturally a reflective person and so ask discuss it at our class assemblies! This year me this question this time next year and I the book chosen was the “children’s” book Do you have a favourite charity? may be better equipped! - “Brilliant” by Roddy Doyle. It takes the Although I feel it is important to give to subject of depression and makes it accessible How do you chill out? different charities as they need donations, I to children. A book with great language, pace have 2 I give to regularly. I had cancer a few Before COVID chilling out was, in the main, and illustrations that everyone should read! channelled into travelling abroad a couple of years ago and was supported through it by I am also currently reading “Stolen Girls” by so many people - but in particular Macmillan times a year! I was very bad at adding chill out Patricia Gibeny, a murder mystery set in a time to my daily routine! However, COVID has Cancer - so that is one. The other is a Cat small town in Ireland. It is the second book in Charity that my mother supported - and when allowed me to take a serious look at my whole the Detective Lottie Parker series. A bit hard life and I have now managed to get a rhythm she died I decided to keep on giving regularly to get into but worthwhile sticking with - on a to that - I love cats as did my mum and this is that takes care of my spiritual, emotional lot of levels! and physical health! This rhythm is in itself part of her legacy! “chilling”. Chilling now involves devotions, What is the best advice you’ve What is your favourite colour? walking , knitting, watching TV (WITH) my been given? husband and reading. I do miss chilling with Red or purple. But now, given my current In any situation remember - TEAMWORK and situation, green may be my new favourite!! friends and wider family. However, with COMMUNICATION! This advice was given to the lifting of restrictions, getting back to me when I was a very young dentist by a very “relational” chilling will be good! What is the best Canon pun you wise man. It has stood me in good stead all have heard? of my life and over the past number of years Maybe a bit tangential but - I am looking forward to this new Chapter of my ministry!

SUMMER 2021 29 Diocesan

Sarah Mac Bruithin Congratulations on your appointment as Bishop’s Secretary. How do you relax? You were the Bishop’s Secretary a I love walking on the beach or in Downhill few years ago. What have you been forest with our labrador Feargal. During doing in the intervening years? lockdown (along with many others!) I What is the best advice you’ve Thank you, it’s great to be back. I’ve been started making sourdough and have enjoyed been given? enjoying life as a full time mum and wife! We’ve experimenting with different recipes using the moved twice since I was last in the role - to Trust your instinct as a mother. I’m not starter (natural yeast). My favourite so far is always very good at doing it, but I find things Enniskillen and then to Castlerock. Whilst in cinnamon buns but I’ve yet to master focaccia. Enniskillen I worked for a time in the Clogher go better when I do. Diocesan Office, and trained as a breastfeeding What book are you reading at peer supporter. Most of our time in Castlerock Do you have a favourite charity? the moment and would you Chris and I both volunteered with Latin Link has been in lockdown, but we’ve still managed to recommend it? get to know a few people and make some friends. in Bolivia and I worked in the UK offices, so it I’ve just finished The Grass is Singing by is a charity very close to our hearts. I am still Doris Lessing, which was a difficult read What differences and challenges involved in mentoring and supporting volunteers in some ways, but very well written. It’s in Latin America and enjoy attending events. do you foresee in your role now? not a book I would have chosen, but I would Obviously it’s now a different bishop, but The British Heart Foundation were also very definitely recommend it! I’m also reading A helpful when my dad suffered a heart attack a otherwise the role is very much the same. At Cheesemonger’s History of the British Isles the moment I’m working from home, which has number of years ago and so I have had some by Ned Palmer, which is a fun mix of history, involvement with them and their work also. taken some getting used to. A lot more is done travel and all one would ever need to know online and it will be interesting to see how much about cheese. changes back to in-person changes post-Covid.

30 N:VISION | DIOCESE OF DERRY & RAPHOE Don't forget you can pull out my special pages from the magazine!

It is so great to be back with you all. I am really happy that we are coming into the summer and I am really looking forward to all my CJ News summer adventures. NUMBER 27 How about you? I know that it has been a bit of a challenge for us all over the past few months. Hopefully we will continue to move back to the normal times that we have all been used to in the past.

We often hear I also know that this can also lead to worry for some people tell us to be of us as we start to do things normally again. We strong. Who is the may find it a bit strange and we may feel unsure strongest person about how best to do things and do them safely. you know?

We all have different ideas on who is strong and who is not. Sometimes people we think are strong are not real life, like superheroes for example. We can think that people close to us could be the strongest. What we can all be very sure of is our God is real, He is not made up. God is very strong!

What we can be sure of is that our God is actually the strongest and is bigger than any problem that we may have to face or any worry that we may have. He is ‘BIGGER’ than everything and everyone else.

SING My God is so big, So strong and so mighty, A Our God is so big, that There’s nothing my God cannot do. SONG He is even bigger than My God is so big, So strong and so mighty, mountains, elephants, the There’s nothing my God cannot do. sky. He’s even bigger than The Mountains are His, the whole Earth. That’s The valleys are His, amazing isn’t it? The stars are his handiwork too!

My God is so big, So strong and so mighty, There’s nothing my God cannot do. This is a bible If our God is so big, then what verse that is very does that mean for us? We know important to me that we can trust God to take and one that I often care of us because He is so big, think about. When I and so we should praise Him for am worried, anxious all that he does for us. or even feeling sad, this comes to mind.

It means that we should not be so busy that we forget to thank God for all that He is doing for us. God is so big that sometimes we just have to stop and remember how What does it mean to be amazing He is. We have got to trust him with what we hold in our hearts, that includes still and know our worries and concerns, and take all of these to Him in prayer. This is what I do. that God is God? Sometimes it can be so easy to get caught up in all our thoughts that we forget about how big our God really is. We need to take time to ‘be still’ and just be with Him.

Sometimes I have to remind myself to ‘be still’. I took some time when I was out walking to be still... spend time with God and share all of my thoughts and worries with Him. I was reminded of so many things and how we really do have a ‘BIG’ God as I journeyed through my day.

I always enjoy walking and looking out into the ocean. Isn’t it amazing, all the water in all the oceans God can measure in His hands. Just imagine how big God’s hands must be.

If you go outside and look up at the sky you will notice it goes on for ever and ever. But to God, the heavens are only as big as his hands.

Isaiah I just love visiting the beach. It has to be one 40:12 of my favourite places. As I walked I could take a look! see sand stretched out for miles. It is just amazing that God can measure all the sand on the earth. How big is our God!

God is stronger and more God can weigh even the mighty than anybody else. God is still God mountains. Mountain no matter what situation we find ourselves are so small compared in, if we are having a bad day, if we are to our God. scared, sad or worried, we must take time to stop and involve God. We should pray for his help and thank Him for being bigger than any problem we may have. and know that i am god A family challenge Think about what ‘My God is bigger than’ and CJ CHALLENGES YOU TO... act out each one of your examples. Your family will have to guess what is being acted out. Take turns. Let’s colour! ‘My God is bigger than...’ e.g. Earth, an elephant, a lorry, the sun etc. Write some more of your ideas below.

Pinwheel Craft

Materials One square piece of heavy construction paper; Scissors; Thumb tack; Pencil with eraser; Crayons, colouring pencils and stickers for decorating

Method 1) Fold the paper on the diagonal from corner to corner. Open the paper up and fold on the second diagonal across the other two corners. 2) Make one cut along each fold beginning at the corner and cutting towards the centre. The cut should stop about halfway toward the centre. 3) Decorate each section of the square on both sides of the heavy construction paper using the materials available. 4) Take every other corner, one at a time and gently pull it up to the centre of the square. 5) When all four corners meet at the centre, take the thumb tack and Design a push it through all four corners through the centre of the square. picture to 6) Push the thumb tack through the eraser of the pencil. show how BIG 7) Blow on the pinwheel and watch it spin! God is. This is to remind you that although we cannot see God, we know how big he is as the results of His work are all around us.

Method

Gingerbread Men/Women 1) Sift together the flour, bicarbonate of soda, ginger and cinnamon and pour into the bowl of a food processor. Add Ingredients the butter and blend until the mix looks like breadcrumbs. • 350g/12oz plain flour, plus extra for rolling out Stir in the sugar. • 1 tsp bicarbonate of soda ) • 2 tsp ground ginger 2 Lightly beat the egg and golden syrup together, add to the • 1 tsp ground cinnamon food processor and pulse until the mixture clumps together. • 125g/4½oz butter Tip the dough out, knead briefly until smooth, wrap in cling • 175g/6oz light soft brown sugar film and leave to chill in the fridge for 15 minutes. - • 1 free range egg 3) Pre-heat the oven to 180C. Line baking trays with • 4 tbsp golden syrup greaseproof paper.

4) Roll out the dough and use people cutters. To decorate writing icing (optional) 5) Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until lightly golden-brown. cake decorations (optional) Leave on a tray to cool. When cooled decorate. The Parishes of Fahan Upper and Lower continue CJ... KEEPING IN CONTACT! to be very busy in their ‘Praises’ time on a Saturday morning. They have shown how important Prayer is through the work they have completed. They certainly know how to praise our ‘BIG’ God. I just love tuning in on a Saturday morning to see what they are up to.

On Easter Sunday Fahan Upper and Lower unveiled their butterfly cross which shows God living among us following the resurrection of Jesus. This really shows us that our God is so big, so strong and so mighty there’s nothing our God cannot do. He sent his son so that we all would live. Isn’t that amazing? I think so.

let’s pray Can you write your own prayer below, sharing what you have on your heart and mind at this time. God, thank you for being the biggest and best thing in our lives. Please help us to remember how wonderful you are and to share what is in our minds and hearts with you. Amen

Until next time, take care and stay safe!

Contact me on email [email protected] Mums in May... Mums in May (MIM) is an All-Ireland This year, June Butler, All-Ireland President, fund, established in 2012 in celebration plans sponsored walks of 21km, Covid of 125 years of Mothers’ Union in Ireland. restrictions permitting, over three days in each of the 12 Diocese in Ireland. Here The fund, replenished by members every in Derry and Raphoe, June, accompanied three years, is used to initiate and support by Bishop Andrew, socially distanced of outreach projects throughout Ireland and course, has already completed two walks, specific projects overseas. During Covid one in Castlerock on the North Coast and lockdowns, tackling loneliness and isolation one in Londonderry. The North Coast walk and supporting those in our communities wound its way past Haslett House towards has been central to our outreach. Mums Castlerock taking in the stunning views in May has provided funds to produce of the Mussenden Temple, Inishowen and newsletters for members and, recently, an Scotland. In Londonderry, the walk followed uplifting summer greeting card and packet St Columba’s Trail, from St Columba’s statue of wildflower seeds for each member. in St Columb’s Park, across the Peace Bridge Last summer it funded bookmarks for our to Derry’s Walls, stopping at St Augustine’s “Thank You” project to key workers and, Church and St Columb’s Cathedral. The third just before lockdown, 150 children’s books walk in Drumboe Woods, Stranorlar, Donegal, were presented to the children’s library at will be arranged when Covid restrictions Magilligan Prison Visitor Centre. Over the are lifted. Members are raising funds for years the fund has subsidised Diocesan MIM too, by creating their own sponsored Family Fun days, events to encourage challenges, depending on their skills, (baking, members and it helped to produce the Faith knitting, walking, swimming, etc.) Each in Action, anniversary book which told the member is also supporting the fund with a transforming stories of many members. “Count Your Blessings” calendar, whereby members donate for the wonderful blessings The fund provided the original seed grant on each day in the month of May. for AFIA, Away From It All, days out, and helps to fund the assemblies and workshops “Mum’s Marvellous Meals”, the Mothers’ in secondary schools during the 16 days of Union cookery book, produced last year Activism, where gender- based violence and before lockdown as the third strand of the domestic abuse are explained and highlighted fundraising, is now on sale in the diocese. to students. At All-Ireland it funds training Donations may be given via the Just Giving days, our Irish MU magazine ‘Focus’, prayer Platform www.justgiving.com/fundraising/ booklets and teleconferencing, enabling MumsinMay21 members who are unable to leave their homes to communicate. By Doreen Sidebottom

Bishop Andrew and June Butler at St Columba’s statue, St Columb’s Park

Walkers outside St Paul’s Articlave

SUMMER 21 35 News for the pews... Facebook details are included for parishes that use Facebook. PLEASE NOTE - you do not have to be on Facebook to access a parish page. Just type the parish Facebook name or address, e.g. @cccmsp into your search engine on smart phone or laptop/tablet etc and click on the parish page.

Templemore, Derry Cathedral The Very Rev Raymond Stewart: Rector of Templemore The Rev Canon John Merrick & Dean of Derry Tel: 028 7126 2746 Pastoral Assistant Email: [email protected] Facebook: St. Columb’s Cathedral

“The earth, O Lord is full of your steadfast pews in the centre aisle of the Cathedral. who celebrates the 40th anniversary of his love; teach me Your statutes” Psalm 119:64 Pews at the front will be filled first. The ordination on The Feast Day of Saint Peter, Sacrament of Holy Communion will continue Tuesday 29th June. He was the Curate- Tuesday Service of Holy Communion to be administered in one form only - bread. assistant of Saint Columb’s Cathedral, Before the first lockdown the last Tuesday Due to the restrictions, at present it will not 1981-1984. morning Service of Holy Communion be possible to serve refreshments after the was held in Saint Columb’s Cathedral 15 service. I thank Canon John Merrick for his To a son of the Parish, The Reverend Ronnie months ago on The Feast Day of Saint continuing assistance and I hope that the Lawrenson, who will celebrate the 50th Patrick, Tuesday 17th March 2020. members of ‘The Tuesday Group’ will enjoy anniversary of his ordination this month. Having considered carefully the COVID- meeting together again. To our parishioner The Very Reverend Cecil 19 protocols the Dean and Canon John Orr who will celebrate the 64th anniversary Merrick are agreed that the Tuesday Ordination Anniversaries of his ordination on Wednesday 7th July. morning Service of Holy Communion This is the time of the year when many should begin again. (Tuesdays at of the ordained clergy are celebrating the Service of Installation 10.30am). COVID-19 protocols will anniversary of their ordination as deacons The Service of Installation of The continue to be observed. Parishioners (and or priests. Reverend Colin Welsh, Rector of The visitors) will be required to sanitise their Parish of Castledawson, as a Canon will hands on entry. To wear a face covering We offer our congratulations to our be held in Saint Columb’s Cathedral on on entry and exit and during the service - parishioner The Reverend Mervyn Peoples Thursday 23rd September at 7.30pm. unless exempted from doing so. who celebrates the 15th anniversary of his ordination as a deacon on The Feast Day of To observe social distancing The Birth of Saint John the Baptist, Thursday Parishioners (and visitors) will sit in the 24th June; To The Reverend Patrick Lawrence

Clooney Rector: Rev David McBeth Email: [email protected] Facebook: All Saints Clooney

36 N:VISION | DIOCESE OF DERRY & RAPHOE Glendermott Curate Assistant: & New Buildings Rev Iain McAleavey Rector: Rev Canon Robert Boyd Tel: 028 7134 3001 Facebook: Glendermott and New Buildings Church of Ireland

The Sun is shining, and the holiday season the vast majority of our regular worshippers members into the church. It was good to is just around the corner. Those holiday back at our shorter than normal services, and see them all out at the next available Holy plans may well have to be changed as we it is great for us as clergy to try and work Communion Service. A 100% turnout was go from green to amber or even red and out who is behind those masks each week, impressive. We look forward to seeing you hopefully the other way as well. We hope especially now that you are not sitting in regularly at the weekly services. and pray that you will make the most of your usual seats. Isn’t it strange that the your well-earned break over the summer roof hasn’t fallen in because you have had We offer our sympathy to all who have period and find rest amongst some of the to sit in a different pew each week. Have lost loved ones recently and mourn their beautiful parts of our wee country. we set a new tradition? Time will tell. passing. We as a parish will continue to pray that God will grant you his peace in We plan to continue with our present We congratulate all who were appointed to these days. We offer our congratulations arrangement of services over the summer, the Select Vestry this year and I am grateful to all are newly married couples. The 10.15am in Newbuildings and 11.30am in to the Churchwardens for agreeing to clergy nearly know the service off by Glendermott each Sunday continuing to continue in post for another year. heart at present, but it is good to see the follow all the safety arrangements in place. restrictions being gradually lifted and We thank our churchwardens and stewards Confirmation services conducted by Bishop allowing more friends and families to for all that they do keeping us in as safe Andrew were held in both churches during attend. We wish all the new couples every environment as possible. It is good to see May and we welcomed 26 new communicant blessing in their married lives together.

Faughanvale Rector: Rev Canon Paul Hoey Email: [email protected] Tel: 028 7181 2462 www.faughanvale.derry.anglican.org Mob: 00447712873322 Facebook: St Canice’s Parish Church @StCaniceParishChurch

As I celebrate 40 years of ordained ministry taught, and served from the margins of society, Bishop Andrew this month, I’ve been reflecting on some of and it was from such a place that the majority Our Bishop will be with us twice on 20th the changes I’ve seen over that time. There are of his followers were recruited. I wonder will June: at the morning service he will commend many: forty years ago, the Church of Ireland we be able to learn, like Jesus, to serve from our Building Fund to parishioners. He will had 1400 full-time stipendiary clergy; today it a place of weakness in society rather than a also be with us that evening at 6:30pm when has around 400: forty years ago, most children place of power? I hope so, for then we will 10 of the younger members of our church in NI were involved in Sunday School or discover the truth of his promise, that when family are due to profess their faith during a church; today it might be something around we are weak we become strong, and when service of Confirmation. Please pray for Alice, 10% at the optimistic end of the spectrum: we are poor, we can become truly rich. Ben, Bethan, Brad, Callum, Callum, Jack, Josh, forty years ago, most weddings took place Lewis, and Owen as they make their promises in church; today, it’s about 1 in 5. Looking at Building Fund to serve Christ. these figures, it would be easy to become One way to maintain the witness of the discouraged. They show that the Church is Church for the future is by handing on Church Memory Cloth now on the edges of society rather than at buildings that meet the needs of and are Parishioners past and present who would the very heart as it used to be. attractive to a rising generation. That’s why like their own names or names of loved ones we are launching a Building Fund this month. to be added to the church memory cloth, Actually, that might not be a bad place to be. Every parishioner will receive information please contact Roberta on 07720405550 or Jesus, after all, having been excluded by the indicating a variety of ways that they can [email protected]. A minimum donation religious organisation of his day, worked, and be involved. Continued on page 44...

SUMMER 21 37 Continued from page 43... of £5 per name is suggested. The cloth will that people put forward for not be displayed for all to see when complete participating in church activities. and on special occasions. However, I can’t help but admire Groucho Marx’s excuse: “I would And Finally… Over the years I’ve generally never belong to a club that would been underwhelmed by the reasons have me as a member.”

Cumber Upper, Cumber Lower, Banagher and Learmount Rector: Rev David Slater Tel: 028 7133 8214 Facebook: Cumber Upper & Lower, Learmount, Banagher Group of Parishes

Dungiven & Bovevagh

Rector: Rev Mark Loney Email: [email protected] Tel: 028 7774 1226 www.dungivenbovevaghparishes.com Mob: 07720 321 283 Facebook: Dungiven Church of Ireland

‘Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up’ Galatians 6 v 9

Dungiven and Bovevagh Parish Churches children are thin on the ground. The advent for the sake of action - it’s thought-filled have both been open since Easter Sunday. of summer will perhaps not help matters, but and purposeful. It requires the ability to We continue though to provide a drive- we look forward to a flurry come September pause and see things from a different angle. in alternative on Sunday mornings in when we aspire to re-open our groups Anyone can see problems and attack them, Bovevagh. Worshippers are able to gather and fellowship opportunities more fully, but it isn’t just about the here and now. in the car park and listen to the service circumstances permitting. It will all require Leading means having vision to see what being led from inside the church building. a bit of good old patience. can be ...not only about thinking outside It is also possible to be inside and enjoy the box, but recognising there is no box. the service. We broadcast on a local radio Joyce Meier said that ‘Patience is not the So when we look up words connected channel too! The parish centre is also ability to wait, but the ability to keep a with patience, we find great themes available, to which the service is relayed good attitude while waiting’. I find that very like endurance, perseverance, humility, audio-visually. Our Dungiven congregation helpful. When we think about leadership persistence. It all sounds a bit uphill, but is steadily coming back, bu,t as I am we often think of constant action. Taking it is probably the sort of stuff that helps sure is the case everywhere, families and action is of course part of it, but not action us grow in faith.

38 N:VISION | DIOCESE OF DERRY & RAPHOE Balteagh, Carrick, Tamlaghtard and Aghanloo Rector: Rev Rhys Jones Facebook: Aghanloo, Balteagh, Caarrick and Tamlaghtard @TamlaghtardCofI

Then Jesus asked, “What is the kingdom of The Big Picture Bible Adventure God like? What shall I compare it to? It is Jennifer McNeil and her team from like a mustard seed, which a man took and Children’s Evangelical Fellowship will lead planted in his garden. It grew and became a a week of activities, games, tuition & tree, and the birds perched in its branches. adventure, for the children across the four parishes in Drummond Cricket Club during As we have travelled through the lectionary the week beginning 7th June. We pray scriptures each week since Easter we The Horseshoe Fellowship that God will abundantly bless all involved have endeavoured to permit the seed especially the children. of God’s word to take root and grow The Parish Trekkers Walking club held its within our hearts and lives, and to ask of inaugural meeting in May in Roe Valley Park. Small seeds perhaps, but as we continue ourselves: ‘What is our response to God’s Below are some of those who participated. to emerge from lockdown let us remember goodness and his call to grow in faith and Walking together reminds us that we journey from small acorns mighty oaks do grow. togetherness? And what evidence can we throughout life with one another and that we We’re just asked to plant them. Samantha offer that we are doing so?’ Those questions never really travel anywhere alone. Many other & I wish every parishioner a restorative will continue to shape our thinking over excursions are planned and everyone of course and peaceful summer. God bless you all. the summer months. Already however, the is welcome to be part of our travels. Rev Rhys. shoots of post-pandemic recovery and growth have begun to appear across our The Horseshoe Fellowship four parishes as a real sense of family unity & purpose continues to emerge:

The Horseshoe Fellowship The Horseshoe Fellowship attracts good numbers each week to the Rectory where in fun and togetherness we perhaps begin to consider: ‘What are we aiming at in life? The Parish Trekkers Walking club What is our goal as Church?’

Tamlaghtfinlagan & Myroe Rev Canon Harold Given: Rector and Rural Dean Tel: 028 7776 2743 Email: [email protected] Facebook: TAMLAGHTFINLAGAN PARISH CHURCH

Normality is beginning to return to It is good to be able to meet friends applicants for the vacancy. The first was Ballykelly and beyond. More traffic on the and neighbours again. Our Presbyterian rejected because he was a bachelor, the roads, more people in the town now that neighbours have been without a minister for second because he was over forty, the third restrictions have been relaxed. We have over two years now. I happened to meet one because he was bald, the fourth because he more people returning to church too. We of the congregation who told me of their wore glasses and read his sermons. still wear the face masks and keep our quest for a new minister. In the course of our distance but we are getting there, getting conversation he told me the following story. back to a new normal. One Presbyterian congregation heard four Continued on page 46...

SUMMER 21 39 Continued from page 45... In despair the minister in the neighbouring a bachelor, over forty, growing bald, wore Hopefully next year we will be able to parish telephoned a friend to take the glasses and read his sermons! Makes you do so. service the Sunday after the abortive think ! God works in mysterious ways. election. He so pleased the congregation Our on-line services will have ended by that they unanimously elected him. Yes, it’s great to be able to meet others the time this magazine appears. May l again. Sadly the ease of restrictions did not thank all those who helped make them It was only after he had been settled a come early enough for us to organise our possible and to those who joined us few months that they realised he was usual “Fun Day” down at St. John’s this year. each Sunday.

Drumachose, Limavady

Vacant Rural Dean: Rev Canon Harold Given Tel: 028 7776 2743

Castlerock, Dunboe and Fermoyle Rector: Rev Chris MacBruithin Facebook: Parish of Castlerock & Dunboe @CastlerockDunboe

Our Easter General Vestry was held on 12th Now that restrictions are easing, we are April by Zoom. Congratulations to those looking forward to reconnecting especially appointed to serve the Lord in this way. with our younger parishioners.

We thanked God for a beautiful day on In an effort to welcome back younger 7th May when MU All-Ireland President members of both congregations, we June Butler visited the parish as part of her celebrated Pentecost Day with an extra- fundraising walks across each diocese. We special All-Age Service of Holy Communion. were also joined by Bishop Andrew and During the service, children and young our own MU Diocesan President Jacqui people helped prepare the celebration of Armstrong. Branch Leader Marlyn Quigley Our Confirmation group will the Church’s birthday, ready to devised the 7km loop, starting at St Paul’s, be doing the next phase receive the gifts of the Holy Articlave, which turns 330 years old in June, of preparation using social Spirit. down to Castlerock’s seafront. Along the media. Candidates will be route, we enjoyed spectacular views of Islay able to explore topics such as We look forward to hosting and Jura, the Bann Estuary and Inishowen. the Bible, prayer, fellowship CSSM again this summer, and although their beach mission Liffock Surgery has almost completed its Holy Communion in this will of course be lower-key and vaccination programme, using Christ Church new format. look very different to other Parish Hall in Castlerock. Practice manager years. Even so, we pray they Trevor Patton says, ‘We are so grateful for Kids’ Club is still operating are able to share the Good the use of the parish hall. It has worked so in remote learning mode, News with children and families well. We have vaccinated over 2000 people but with plans for some over the holidays, and we pray and not wasted a single dose.’ summer get-togethers. especially for good weather, as

40 N:VISION | DIOCESE OF DERRY & RAPHOE this year most of the programme will be Castlerock and Articlave are getting busy. delivered outdoors in order to facilitate Normally, we’d be welcoming visitors and social distancing. part-time residents into our churches. Let’s pray that we can open the doors again soon With caravan parks open again, and people to visitors in need of a quiet space to pray spending more time at their holiday homes, and reflect.

Killowen (Coleraine)

Rector: Rev Donard Collins Tel: 028 7034 2629 Email: [email protected] www.killowenparishcoleraine.co.uk Facebook: Killowen Parish Church @killowenparishchurch “May we show Christ’s love + teach his Word.”

Camus-Juxta-Bann (Macosquin) Rector: Rev Paul Lyons www.camus-juxta-bann.org Facebook: St Mary’s Church @camusjuxtabannconnections

‘Let them give thanks to the LORD for his grateful for the kindness shown to us and for all E - for ‘Encouragement’. There is a desire to unfailing love and his wonderful deeds for the hard work and perseverance to complete the encourage more of the church family back mankind, for he satisfies the thirsty and fills the work during the difficult pandemic times. As a to Sunday worship. ‘Walk & Talk’ is one of hungry with good things.’ Psalm 107 v8,9 parish we are indebted to Mr Tommy Oliver, a the ways we are trying to do this. This new faithful servant, for project managing the work. initiative is on Wednesdays 7pm, during The past three months have brought many June, July and August, meeting at limitations for everyone. Yet as I reflect on T - for ‘Tidy Up’. The parish worked alongside the picnic tables in Castlerock to go for what God has been doing there are many Macosquin Primary School and the local a walk on the beach. Some of the young reasons to be thankful. We know the letters Community Association to tidy up our village people might want to bring a ball and play ‘RTE’ mean Radio Telefís Éireann, the Public in May. Over forty bags of litter were collected whilst the adults walk. These evenings will Service Broadcaster of the Republic of Ireland and this effort certainly helped the village to allow parishioners to meet outdoors for but they also describe where God has been look better. Equally important was the bringing physical exercise and have an opportunity working in Macosquin together of the local groups to work together. to renew friendships. We’ve encouraged It was also a joy to see different generations all generations to come along and bring R - for the ‘Rectory’. The refurbishment working with a joint focus on improving our a friend, family or pet! We aim to finish work on the rectory has been completed. community. It’s been a blessing to hear people at 7.45pm and therefore should be The outside of the house has been painted wanting to do further outreach together across home for 8! and looks very well. The inside required an the summer. When we know what these plans extensive renovation. My family and I are very are we’ll let you know.

SUMMER 21 41 Aghadowey Rector: Rev Louise Crawford-McCafferty Tel: 07890745359 40 Brone Road, Garvagh BT51 4EQ Facebook: St Guaire’s Church Aghadowey Email: [email protected]

We are back in church and baptisms are infamous Haight-Ashbury area had become do you know the name of your bus stop?” coming thick and fast. All these new names gentrified. The “flower children” who’d once the teacher asked. I have to learn! I’d hate to get a name inhabited its “crash pads” now held down wrong at baptism. I’ve even had a dream regular jobs. Many of these ‘has-been hippies’ No answer. That wasn’t so strange, the that I got a name wrong, so I write it into had moved out to Santa Cruz, where the teacher thought, because the boy hadn’t the service sheet big and BOLD so I don’t rents were cheaper. said much all day. One of those shy kids get it wrong! maybe? This population of former flower children had Friends of ours have just had a new a certain impact when their children hit the But no matter, the teacher had a trick up grandchild. They don’t have a name yet public schools. One of the things the teachers her sleeve. All the parents had been told but as we are allowed 6 weeks to register found difficult were the names of the first- to write the names of their children’s bus and the baby is only 4 days old now there grade kids. Those classes had their share of stops on the reverse side of their name is lots of time. The grandparents said it kids called Michael and Lisa and Margaret, tags. The teacher turned over the boy’s will take the full 6 weeks as both parents but there was also Sunbeam, Time-Warp and tag, and there, neatly printed in block are very indecisive! Meadow. One teacher thought she’d seen letters, was the word “Anthony!” just about everything when it came to names, Names are very important in the Bible until the first day of school came round, and Names are important! They’re the labels and they are still something we want to she met a boy named Fruit Stand. we bear through life, the invitations we think about. There are many books with offer up to other people so they may know the meanings of names and this has me The teacher felt sorry for little Fruit Stand, us better. Should somebody forget our thinking about crazy names, like Moon, having to go through life with a name like name, or somehow misuse it, we feel hurt, Dweezil and, Diva...all children with a that, but she decided there was nothing else even abused. That’s probably how little last name of Zappa! to do but make the best of it. All through that Anthony felt, after spending his entire first day of school it was: “Fruit Stand, can first day of school as Fruit Stand. Let’s go back to Santa Cruz, California, you bring me the chalk?” and “Fruit Stand, in the ‘70’s. It was a very different sort are you ready to tell us about your family?” But don’t panic, if you have a name as of place. What made it different was But this little boy seemed oddly distant. He unusual as Fruit Stand or one you don’t a group of people who lived there in participated in all the classroom activities, like very much just remember God takes great numbers. They were hippies - or, but he didn’t seem very happy. note of our character and isn’t interested you might say, ‘has-been hippies’. The in the names we are given by family, and Summer of Love had long since faded Finally, at the end of the day, it was time for the only name God is interested in is His into a psychedelic sunset. San Francisco’s the children to go to their buses. “Fruit Stand, name written on your heart. Amen

Kilrea, Tamlaght O’Crilly Upper & Lower

Rector: Rev Gary Millar Facebook: The Parishes of Kilrea, Tamlaght O’Crilly Upper & Lower @kilreatamlaghtocrillyupperlower

42 N:VISION | DIOCESE OF DERRY & RAPHOE Errigal & Desertoghill (Garvagh)

Rector: Rev Carmen Hayes Tel: 028 2955 8226 Facebook: St. Pauls Church of Ireland, Garvagh

Some of you, well those of you with And there’s more, for once he’d got himself exceptionally good friend, another most good memories, will recall that I wrote in his favourite position, that being in behind hateful and destructive individual, called an n:vision article back in March 2013 the very fabric of the building, he’d take Mr Woodworm! about this unwanted visitor that had been root, set up camp, claim squatters’ rights discovered lurking in the wee church of St and make himself as hard to get rid of as the Maybe they think that it would take a full- Columba’s, Draperstown, where I happened Herpes or even the Coronavirus. And if things on dual pronged attack to get the better of to be the Rector at the time. And I even weren’t bad enough, the actual cost of trying me and maybe they’re right. But have they introduced you to the horrible beast, to treat what is basically a cancer, a demon got me worried, anxious, or concerned? whose name was Mr Dry Rot, the most in the form of a plant, could be both costly Well, they definitely would have IF it were hateful and destructive individual that and even crippling to the vast majority of my battle to fight but thankfully it’s not. I’d personally ever met, and why was congregations! You see, in His Word (Matthew 16:18) the that the case? Lord has this to say: “I will build my church But why am I telling you any or all of that? and the gates of hell (the demons, the dry Well simply because Mr Dry Rot’s modus Well I do so because it would seem that this rot and the woodworm) shall not prevail operandi was (and believe me still is) to Mr Dry Rot guy is a fan of mine because it against it.” Hallelujah and Amen! sneak his way into a building uninvited looks like he’s followed me from St Columba’s and then under the cover of darkness to St Paul’s in Garvagh or more accurately hide himself in the very structures of that he’s been happily and joyfully encamped building - so well that you’d hardly even there, fully engaged in his destructive actions notice that he was there. Yet all the while, for some time now - basically waiting to he’d be causing lots of damage absolutely show himself on my arrival. However, on everywhere as the parishioners and I were this occasion he’s recruited some assistance. sadly to discover. For Mr Dry Rot has joined forces with his

Maghera & Killelagh Rector: Rev Terence Kerr Tel. 028 7964 2252 www.magheraparish.co.uk Facebook: The Parish of St. Lurach’s, Maghera & Killelagh

The weather has at last changed and conducted a wedding ceremony with only guests. I need not have worried as the we are all enjoying some welcome sun 14 guests and to be honest I was a little soloist used her incredible voice to on our backs. In more than one way it’s apprehensive. I shouldn’t have worried, bring solace to the mourners and we all been a cold month or two, as we again as I knew all the guests and I was able experienced a very meaningful service. experienced a very strict Lockdown. For to welcome them by using their first Mentally, this Lockdown did challenge my many of us the memories of holidaying names. They had a beautiful service which prayer life. I found myself asking God to on the Continent are again pulling at our culminated in the bride’s dad purchasing reveal Himself in old established ways and heart strings. My family have all been a carryout from a local restaurant. indeed new ways to bring me comfort and vaccinated so I do look forward again healing. As a family we had experienced a to spending some time at my favourite Today I conducted my first funeral service number of challenges and, coupled Spanish village, La Cariheula inside our Parish Church. Again I was slightly with the Parishes being closed, I confess During these unprecedented days I concerned as the family only invited 30 I struggled a little. Continued on page 44...

SUMMER 21 43 Continued from page 43...

Recently, I was drawn to this story of the Lion, the Scarecrow, and the Tinman. Their I now understood I was asking God Wizard of Oz, a classic movie that helped adventures lead them to the Emerald City, for things I already possessed. I had me regain my confidence in God. The basic in search of a wizard who will grant them experienced His Salvation – He loved story is about Dorothy who gets trapped their wishes. The lion is seeking courage, me unconditionally and His Son Jesus in her basement and she ends up in the the scarecrow wants a brain, and the tin Christ was guiding and even carrying me mythical Land of Oz. The young girl’s only man is pleading for a new heart. It is a great along the chequered pathway of life. God desire is to find her way back home to her children’s tale with a very important message: through His Holy Spirit was with me all family. Her search for a solution leads her Sometimes, you already possess the very the time, even through the Lockdown. to make three new friends: The Cowardly things for which you are searching. What an awesome God we worship.

St. Tida’s, Parish of Ballyscullion, Bellaghy NSM in Charge: Rev Brian Hassan

Thankfully, as I write this, summer has in the future. Miss Anna Donnelly sang two During the long winter months of arrived and as a typical Northern Ireland wonderful solos during the service as she lockdown it certainly was a time to man I set about painting the garden played her guitar. She has only turned 14 test our faith, but God will never push furniture and getting some gardening and taught herself to play the guitar during us too far. Even when we feel isolated done; then looked at my arms - as red lockdown - quite an achievement! and frustrated God is always there. He as the soft cover of the Book of hears our cries and knows our concerns. Common Prayer! I was delighted that all members of the Select I often think of Jesus when the darkness Vestry happily remained in post for another was closing in on Him in the Garden. He In Ballyscullion we reopened on Good year. As I was detached from the parish was frightened, He was worried, He even Friday and our attendance numbers have during lockdown I was so grateful to my two sweated drops of blood, so much was His been very encouraging as we have got Wardens, Pamela and Wesley, who kept me concern, but He still carried on. We too back into the rhythm of worship. It is still a informed and were my eyes and ears on the must carry on, Covid cannot destroy our bit strange with no congregational singing ground. Without them I would have been out faith. The Lord is our Shepherd and He will but I have indulged in playing some praise of touch - thank you. be with us. Better days lie ahead and with music from Christian ‘stars’. Our organist, faith - and a good dose of common sense Fred, underwent a serious operation As we progress, the Select Vestry will meet - we will move forward and the House of towards the end of this current lockdown on 15th June and the following Sunday we God is the best place to be in. Hopefully, and is convalescing well at present. are encouraging the Sunday school kids and we will never close our churches again but their parents to attend for All Age Worship one thing is assured, God will never close We were very pleased to welcome Bishop in an attempt to ease them back in. The His love or presence from us. Andrew to St Tida’s on 9 May and we painters will be in over the summer months thank him for his very encouraging address to give our lovely church a much needed and words to us as a parish. We look freshen-up and, as the saying suggests, ‘It’s forward to him visiting us many times steady as she goes.’

44 N:VISION | DIOCESE OF DERRY & RAPHOE Christ Church Castledawson Rev Canon Colin Welsh: Rector and Rural Dean Tel: 028 7946 8235 Email: [email protected] Facebook: Christ Church Castledawson

Question! Will the Church survive in a Our priorities may change during and after to cope with the forced closures, revert post pandemic world? the pandemic. The old ways of doing things to online worship services for a time and God empowers his people to survive and may have to be tweaked or even be radically apply covid protocols before and during thrive in difficult times doesn’t He? different but the Holy Spirit and God‘s will the return to church, that God would open The Bible is packed with stories about for his church will not change. So YES! As up our hearts and minds to learn more people that God empowered to overcome Christ’s Church, we will survive. Didn’t Jesus of His will for our individual lives and for adversity. A few examples are: Noah, himself say, ...”and the gates of hell shall not His Church, and how we can become the Joseph, Job, Moses, Gideon and of prevail against it.” disciples God wants us to be. course Jesus and His disciples. The Apostle Paul writes: “We pray that you’ll May we be encouraged to meet safely Each of these, and many others we read live well for the Master, making him proud of together for fellowship, discipleship, the about in the Bible, had the patience, trust you as you work hard in his orchard. As you study of God’s word (our guidebook) and and determination, with God’s help, to learn more and more how God works, you to pray for God’s continuing intervention overcome the often worrying, challenging will learn how to do your work. We pray that in our lives and our churches. All this will and even dangerous situations in which you’ll have the strength to stick it out over the lead us into serving God more faithfully in they found themselves. long haul-not the grim strength of gritting the church and supporting the community your teeth but the glory-strength God gives. around us by focusing on the needs of We too, in the post pandemic church, must It is strength that endures the unendurable others and reaching out to the lost. have the same steely resolve, the same and spills over into joy, thanking the Father trust and determination if the Church is to who makes us strong enough to take part in Let’s get ready to not just survive but survive and thrive. And the good news is: everything bright and beautiful that he has thrive! we won’t be doing it alone. The God of all for us” (Colossians 1:10-14, MSG). Hope, the God of all creation, the God who Have a blessed Summer. through His Son, the Lord Jesus, has made Friends, my prayer is that, having journeyed Colin a way for us and will be with us. through this Covid pandemic and having had

Desertmartin and Termoneeny Vacant Rural Dean: Rev Canon Colin Welsh Tel. 028 7963 2455

SUMMER 21 45 Kilcronaghan, Ballynascreen Tobermore & Six Towns Rector: Rev Rosie Diffin Email: [email protected] Tel: 028 7962 7811 Web: http://kilcronaghan.vpweb.co.uk Facebook: Kilcronaghan Parish Church @kilcronaghanparishchurch

The Snowdrops, Bluebells and Cherry For more than 15 months now, the knowledge experience, sang praise to God, declaring blossom around the Old Rectory were of God’s great faithfulness, mercy and love, God to be “exalted over all the nations,” particularly beautiful this year, but now has been a very welcome constancy in our that “God’s glory is above the heavens.” they lie dormant in order to reappear, God lives. Everything seems to have changed. The for “God is enthroned on high.” willing, in Spring 2022. With Spring, such rhythm and routine of our lives has been as it was, behind us, nature now moves on disrupted, but hopefully, the more useful Very appropriate really, since one of the to display the beauty of trees, covered areas of our lives are simply lying dormant outworkings of praise, is the reminder that with fresh green leaves. The Azealia’s and with the Snowdrops, Bluebells and Cherry we are trusting in One who is greater. As St John’s Wort are in full bloom, and I can blossom, ready to bloom once more. In we look upward rather than inward, we see the first signs of flowers forming on the meantime, as we wait for life to burst direct our hearts and minds towards our the Hydrangea’s, summer has arrived into bloom, we can turn to the One who is God who transcends all of time and space. once more. constant, and in His word find some great We have a BIG GOD, who is not limited advice as to how to spend this period of by time, circumstances and events. There is something very reassuring about waiting. In Psalm 113 the Psalmist tells the constancy of nature, with its rhythms us that, the antidote to all of life’s more So today, can I encourage you to take a and routines. Perhaps that is why so many difficult times, is praise; unending and moment to reflect on your Great God, and hymn writers have turned to nature for unceasing praise. allow those thoughts to translate to praise. inspiration. Did you know that Psalm 113 is one of 6 Praise the Lord. Think of: All Things Bright and Beautiful. Hallel Psalms? (Hallel meaning Hallelujah). Praise the Lord, you his servants; Can You Count the Stars? For the Beauty These Psalms would be sung at the end of praise the name of the Lord. of the Earth. Or, a favourite of mine: How the Passover meal, which means that Jesus, Let the name of the Lord be praised, Great Thou Art. Summer and winter, and would have sung these Psalms, on the night both now and forevermore. spring-time and harvest, Sun, moon and stars before his Crucifixion. From the rising of the sun to the place where in their courses above, Join with all nature in it sets, the name of the Lord is to be praised. manifold witness To Thy great faithfulness, What an incredible thought! That Jesus the Psalm 113 1-3 mercy and love. Son of God, knowing what He was about to

Ardstraw, Baronscourt, Badoney Upper & Lower and Greenan Rector: Rev Ivan Dinsmore Tel: 028 8166 1342 Facebook: Ardstraw Parish

Confirmation need to observe social distancing. We are very two young people from the Parish of 18 of our young people were confirmed on grateful to Bishop Andrew for giving so much Drumclamph and Langfield who joined with the first weekend of June in three of our of his time, in what is for him a very busy us to be confirmed. We are thankful that churches. We welcomed Bishop Andrew season, to come twice to the parish in one all of our young people are now confirmed, on his first visit to our Parish on June 4th weekend, so that we could comfortably and even though some of them had to self- in Lower Badoney to the first of three safely welcome our young people into full isolate during the previous number of weeks. services, which became necessary due to membership of God’s Church in Confirmation. the large number of candidates and the We were also very pleased to welcome Derry & Raphoe Youth (DRY) are beginning

46 N:VISION | DIOCESE OF DERRY & RAPHOE an initiative called “Summer Kick Start” forward to the “New Normal”. Although the Freeborn, Lynsey Galbraith, Kenzie Moore which will encourage parishes to host safe, COVID-19 virus will undoubtedly be with us and Dylan Moore, from Baronscourt. socially distanced youth events over the for years to come, we hope that due to the Andrea McConnell from Gortin, Mia summer. We have decided to host a special, successful roll out of the vaccines, we can Whelan, Ashton Hazzard, William Watson, socially distanced First Holy Communion look forward to the continued easing Keelan Bradley, David Bradley, Logan and Barbecue in the Parish Hall, Dublin of restrictions and more freedoms in the Kerrigan, Lily Monaghan, Christopher Street, as there was not a celebration of months to come. Spratt, Jamie Duddy, Maisie Dunlop and Holy Communion at the Confirmation Conor Finlay from Ardstraw Parish and services. God willing, this will be a Please pray for our new communicants as Hannah Rankin and Joshua Dennison celebration of the beginning of the end of they begin their days as full members of from Langfield Parish. the pandemic and of the parish moving the Church. They are Molly Freeborn, Lucy

Cappagh & Lislimnaghan Rector: Rev Canon Derek Quinn Tel: 028 8224 2572 Email: [email protected] Facebook: Cappagh Parish Church @CappaghParishChurch

At last it looks as if we are starting to get shelters for the homeless and disaster relief, and warning endeavour to lead them to back to some semblance of normality, but and providing humanitarian aid to developing think of their immortal souls. the fact remains that the pandemic that countries. Sixteen years before founding swept the globe has changed people and The Salvation Army, William Booth penned THAT I will read no less than four chapters the world significantly. We are now living a number of resolutions which only came in God’s Word every day. in what has been dubbed ‘the new normal’, to light following his death. On a faded and and the question that faces the Church worn page was written in his own hand the THAT I will strive to live closer to God, and today is how does it respond effectively following words: to seek after holiness of heart and leave to the challenges and opportunities of providential events with God. these times. “I promise... THAT I will read this over every day or at In 1865 The Salvation Army was founded THAT I will rise every morning sufficiently early least twice a week. in London by William Booth and his wife (say twenty minutes before seven o’clock) to Catherine. Their aim in starting that wash, dress and have a few minutes, not less God help me, enable me to cultivate a evangelistic organisation was to help the than five, in private prayer. spirit of self-denial and to yield myself a poor, the destitute, and the hungry, by prisoner of love to the Redeemer of the meeting both their physical and spiritual THAT I will as much as possible avoid all that world. Amen and Amen.” needs, and in this regard they were babbling and idle talking in which I have lately essentially following the example of their so sinfully indulged. The Booths were an ordinary couple who Lord who spent His time on earth doing did extraordinary things for God and their good, helping others, and teaching about THAT I will endeavour in my conduct and legacy continues right across the world the love of God. Today The Salvation Army deportment before the world and my fellow to this day. There is much we can learn boasts a worldwide membership of over servants especially to conduct myself as a from their life and witness. May we, like 1.7 million people and is present in 132 humble, meek and zealous follower of the them, always seek to put God first and countries, running charity shops, operating bleeding Lamb, and by serious conversation to minister to others in His name.

SUMMER 21 47 Drumragh & Mountfield Rector Elect - Revd Graham Hare www.drumragh.derry.anglican.org www.drumragh.derry.anglican.org Facebook: St Columba’s Church Omagh @stcolumbsomagh

The Dungannon curate, Rev Graham Hare, teacher in Lisneal College in Londonderry. has been appointed Rector of the Parishes He also worked for a number of years of Drumragh with Mountfield in County as general manager of the independent Tyrone, succeeding Rev Ian Linton who Christian charity Love for Life, which moved to Rathfriland and Ballyward in provides relationship training in schools. February last year. The move to Omagh provides the new The news was broken this morning to incumbent with an opportunity to renew the Rector Elect’s current parishioners in acquaintances with an ‘old boss’. After being Drumglass (Dungannon) and shared with priested in 2018, Graham served as Bishop his new congregations about 30 miles Andrew’s curate in Dungannon. away in Omagh and Mountfield Parish getting the feel of the place, and we’ve Churches. The new Rector said he was looking forward enjoyed the warmth of the welcome we’ve to this next phase in his ministry. “I’m leaving received. I’m really looking forward to Rev Hare, who is 38, is married to wife Dungannon with a heavy heart,” he said. meeting and getting to know people, and Hannah and the couple have three “Drumglass is a special place, with great seeing them come to faith.” young children, Bethany-Joy, Anna-Grace people, but I’m convinced that the move to and Lois-Faith. His appointment marks Omagh is of the Lord and I’m trusting in His Rev Hare will be instituted into his new a return of sorts to the Diocese of Derry sovereign grace. Hannah and I have spent parishes at a Service in St Columba’s Church where, from 2005 to 2008, he was an RE time in Omagh over the last few weeks, in Omagh on Friday 2nd July.

Edenderry & Clanabogan Rev Canon Robert Clarke: Rector and Rural Dean Tel: 028 82245525 Email: [email protected] Facebook: Edenderry Union of Parishes

Forgive Me When I Whine “Oh, thank you, sir”, and then I saw that he was I’m blessed indeed - the world is mine; Today upon a bus I saw a lovely maid with blind. Oh, God, forgive me when I whine, Oh, God, forgive me when I whine. golden hair; I envied her - she seemed so I have two eyes - the world is mine. happy, and how I wished I were so fair; Summer Schedule When suddenly she rose to leave, I saw her Then, when walking down the street, I saw a Due to Covid-19, the usual Sunday pattern hobble down the aisle; She had one foot and child with eyes of blue; He stood and watched of one church worship is not happening used a crutch, but as she passed, she wore a the others play, it seemed he knew not what this year. Separate services will be held in smile.Oh, God, forgive me when I whine, to do; I stopped a moment, then I said, “Why each church each Sunday throughout July I have two feet - the world is mine. don’t you join the others, dear?” He looked and August. These will be at 10.00am in ahead without a word, and then I knew he Clanabogan and 11.30am in Edenderry. When I stop to buy some sweets, could not hear. Oh, God, forgive me when I The lad who served me had such charm; whine, I have two ears - the world is mine. Afternoon Tea-Treats He seemed to radiate good cheer, his We are grateful to the Branch Leaders and manner was so kind and warm; With feet to take me where I’d go, Office Bearers of Edenderry and Clanabogan I said, “It’s nice to deal with you, such With eyes to see the sunset’s glow, Mothers’ Union who have delivered courtesy I seldom find”; He turned and said, With ears to hear what I would know, afternoon tea boxes to members of the

48 N:VISION | DIOCESE OF DERRY & RAPHOE Mothers’ Union. These gifts were funded Pause for Thought Open my ears that I may hear by Fermanagh and Omagh District Council “The fewer the words, the better the prayer.” the voice that is quiet yet ever near. through the South West Age Partnership. Martin Luther Open my heart that I may feel Members were most appreciative of this the love of God so close and real. gesture which helped reduce the feelings Open my eyes that I may see Open each sense, make me aware of isolation at this time. the Presence that is all about me. of the Power and Peace that’s always there.

Drumclamph & Clare, Langfield Upper & Lower

Rector: Rev Robert G. Keogh Tel: 028 8167 1433 Email: [email protected] http://www.drumclamph.derry.anglican.org Facebook: Drumclamph ClareandLangfield

The vaccination program is going very parishes on Sunday April 18 and took newspapers from Drumclamph hall which well and thankfully vaccine hesitancy is confirmation services in Drumclamph and raised £700-00. We thank the group of at a very low level. It is the only way to Lower Langfield churches. It was great that volunteers who helped to load the lorry escape from the problems of lockdown this eventually happened because with the and everyone who leaves in the newspapers which has had an effect on hospital waiting pandemic many confirmation services have which can be left in the wheelie bin in lists, mental health and employment, had to be cancelled throughout the diocese Drumclamph. particularly in the tourist sector. On the and our candidates have waited a very long plus side, many people have been able time to be confirmed. This is an important Point of Prayer to work remotely from home to save step in the lives of our young people, and There have been a number of funerals travelling to work which enables them we trust that they will continue to grow recently in our group of parishes and we to spend more time with their families. in faith in their Christian lives remember in our prayers those who have been bereaved of a loved member of Confirmation Recycling of Newspapers their family. Bishop Andrew visited our group of The newspaper lorry picked up 10 tons of

Derg & Termonamongan Deacon Intern: Rector: Rev Peter Ferguson Rev Claire Henderson Tel: 028 8167 1362 Facebook: Derg Parish Church. Termonamongan Parish

Reaching Up, Reaching In, Reaching Out: opening God’s Word in both Derg and Killeter. of hope continued when we held an Easter for God, for Each Other, for our Community. On Easter Sunday we rejoiced with uplifting Praise Party with Bishop Andrew. This was an hymns of victory at all services. It was a great afternoon service for parents with children In Derg and Killeter Parish Group we were return to in-church worship and the sense of and young people. We enjoyed a fun quiz, delighted to return to in-church worship on Easter hope and praise throughout this season some praise and Bishop Andrew delivered Good Friday with Dean Raymond Ferguson has been felt even more this year. This sense Continued on page 50...

SUMMER 21 49 Continued from page 49...

a memorable talk and certainly left his In May we welcomed our BCMS Crosslinks Gareth Porter (I.F.A.) has kindly agreed to mark in Killeter! After both services all were mission partners Andrew and Eunice Moody. come and lead our games. treated to ice cream from an ice-cream van They shared about their ministry in Northern - always a winner. We enjoyed ice cream Uganda and into Southern Sudan through their Summer Madness Youth Festival plans to and chat outside in glorious Co. Tyrone work in the refugee camps. hold a 3-day non-residential festival at sunshine. Easter was also significant for our Coleraine University 2-4th July. All the usual Bright & Beautiful Campaign to restore St Looking ahead to the summer months we plan Summer Madness programme will take Bestius Church. On Sunday afternoon 18th to hold Sunday School Prize Giving services on place in a covid-safe environment. Groups April we held a Giving Day and Window Sunday 20th June 3pm in Killeter and 4pm in are encouraged to attend on one day, 10am- Reveal. This was the first time for folks to Derg - with chat over a cuppa, juice and treats 10pm, and get the full Summer Madness see our newly installed All Things Bright afterwards (the eat treats will be provided, experience in a day. and Beautiful stained-glass window. We families to bring their own flask/juice). This has celebrated the completion of Phase 1 and been a tough year for all our children and young After meeting with our leaders we are enter immediately into Phase 2. Thanks to people and we want to share God’s love and already looking forward to Sunday School everyone for their support. give a special gift to all. Kirsty McCartney has and Derg Valley Ducks Youth recommencing kindly agreed to bring a message to everyone. D.V in September in a revived and relevant Another source of real joy was to be invited format and programme. Journey Towards to resume monthly worship in Silverdale In June we plan to hold a Youth Kickstart Games Confirmation will also begin in September. and Parkview nursing homes in Castlederg. Night and BBQ at Castlederg High School. This These are a few of the activities that have How moving it is to see and worship with will be the first event with our young people taken and God willing will take place. our dear friends again. face-to-face in some time and we cannot wait. Peter

Urney and Sion Mills Rector: Rev Jonathan McFarland Facebook: Parish of Urney Christ Church and Church of the Good Shepherd @urneyparish

“And Isaac dug again the wells of These wells were essential for the lives of we forget where the wells of salvation are, water, which they had dug in the days both the families and the flock. Had it not for all practical purposes we will find that of Abraham his father; for the Philistines been for these wells, they could not have they have been stopped up, by the enemy, had stopped them after the death of survived. After Abraham’s death, Philistines in the same way that the wells became Abraham: and he called their names had destroyed these vital sources of blocked during the days of Isaac. after the names by which his father refreshment and sustenance, and it fell to had called them” (Gen. 26:18). Isaac to rediscover and re-dig them. This As we approach the summer we have an story reminds us that each generation opportunity to take stock and to return Isaac had the misfortune of living in the must re-dig the old wells. to the Lord, our first love, and to seek His shadow of a truly great father. Often kingdom first. it is exceedingly difficult for a son of I am sure that like me you have heard many such a father to achieve significance and people say that they do not want to go Lord, grant us strength and wisdom to use recognition in his own right. The Bible back to the bad old ways of living once this what you have given us, to see a return to does not describe any great achievements pandemic is over. If we are to see a fresh new order and refreshment in this new season. of Isaac as it does of his father. However, start we must use the time and resources we Yours in Christ Jonathan Scripture records several times that he “dug have now to clear away the rubbish that has again the wells of water, which they had been blocking our relationship with God. been dug in the days of Abraham his father; If we permit the old sinful ways, to distract for the Philistines had stopped them.” us from the things of God to the extent that

50 N:VISION | DIOCESE OF DERRY & RAPHOE Camus-Juxta-Mourne (Strabane) Rector: Rev John White Facebook: Christ Church, Strabane @ChristChurchStrabane Our Vision… ‘Preach the Word… be shaped by the Word’.

When is it OK to not be OK? Naomi Osaka If we really believe the good news is to they, too, might be arrested and suffer as the Japanese Grand Slam tennis winner has “heal the heartbroken, announce freedom Jesus did, he was willing to do whatever recently been in the news. Threatened with to all captives, [and] pardon all prisoners …” it took to lift His disciples out of their expulsion from the French Open because Isaiah 61:1 Message despondency. The encounter with Thomas, of her refusal to talk to the media, she in particular, reminds us that our doubts revealed how she had struggled with Those of you in the church could start talking and demands don’t bother Jesus at all. He bouts of depression. about what people are really going through will still reveal Himself to us. And Jesus’ and find ways to meet them there. We need message to Peter is the same to us today, A recent email from the Bishops Office to show them the acceptance God shows to especially if we are struggling with mental featured a mental health survey called us. We must normalise the battles people health issues - ‘I love you. I see what you’re Mind Matters COI, which seeks to promote have with depression so those who suffer going through. I know who you really are. positive mental health. It aims to raise from it will be willing to turn to us for help, My Father created you and wants you to awareness of, and respond to the mental comfort and community. Too often we heap thrive. I still have a purpose for your life’. health needs of communities across the shame on those who are struggling rather Whatever we’re going through, Jesus gives island of Ireland. Reports have expressed than help them come out of the darkness us the power to overcome. He has defeated concern over the mental health of young into the light. We are all broken in different death and He is more powerful than people out of school for a year during ways. No particular shape of brokenness is anything that could ever come against us. Lockdown, whether it is not being able worse or better than any other. His victory is your victory. He invites us to to interact with friends, or concerns over share in His triumph, the ultimate win-win. exam assessments, an issue which schools Of course, Jesus meets us right where we are seeking to address. are. Just as Jesus forgave Peter for denying So it’s OK not to be OK. he even knew Jesus, and chose him to be But don’t settle for a lifetime of ‘not OK’. Through isolation… Through fear of the a foundational leader of the Church. Jesus God is calling us into the light of His disease …. Through separation from family made it clear to His disciples, especially presence. and friends … Through concern about Thomas, while all of them had locked employment, or lack … themselves in an upper room for fear that God bless and stay safe. John

Donagheady Vacant Rev Canon Paul Whittaker (Rural Dean) Tel. 07770691560 E.mail. [email protected]

The Rev Dr Robin Stockitt has led his final way in which they have given of themselves to move forward, as evidenced by Jigsaw Service of Sunday Worship in Donemana to us as a parish, to us as a diocese, to us as a and the Monday Club and other things I prior to his retirement as Rector of community and to us as a Church of Ireland.” saw at the time. I thought that there was Donagheady (St James). He was joined for Bishop Good, who instituted Dr Stockitt into a willingness there for creative and fresh the occasion by another retiree, Rt Rev Ken the parish seven years ago, talked about Robin approaches to ministry. Good, who preached the Sermon. “I want and Joan’s legacy in Donemana. They had to thank Robin and [his wife, Joan] Joan for made their mark, the Bishop said, and their The Bishop praised the Rector’s skill as a so many things,” Bishop Good said in his mark had been a very positive one. “My sense “very gifted communicator” who was able address, “but particularly for the generous was that this parish was ready and willing Continued on page 52...

SUMMER 21 51 Continued from page 51... to make complex things understandable. They spoke of a message and a way of living Robin was flexible and adaptable, and that transformed whole communities and ready and willing to take on a challenge. enthused them with the qualities of heaven. “What I think people appreciate as your And for that motto to become more than legacy, and there are many things, is just words hanging on the wall, there had your genuineness and authenticity,” to be change, and risk-taking, and growth Bishop Good said, “that there are no airs and experimentation, and excitement, and and graces - even though he might be a kindness and joy. So, I tried in my own way, posh Englishman - there are no airs and these seven years, to fulfil that vision.” graces about Robin, or Joan, they are real sacred, isn’t it? Church communities are and without pretence; they are down to Dr Stockitt said he was glad that he and always intended to be places where there’s earth and easy to be with, and that’s an Joan had come to Donemana and glad that something beautiful, something awesome, important part of a legacy, so that people they had been accepted as blow-ins into something tangibly ‘other’ about them. And feel that you understood them, you related parishioners’ homes. “The past year has been on a human level, churches are all about to them, you were interested in them, you a very challenging one for all of us. Many kindness. They’re not about hierarchy, or were part of their life and of their crises businesses will not survive the pandemic position, or status, or power; they’re not and emergencies and joys and sorrows.” and if there’s one thing that the pandemic about jostling and elbows. It’s just about can teach us it’s that we can take nothing kindness, that’s all. How simple is that? In his final words to his congregation, Rev for granted. “Some churches, as well as How difficult is that?” Dr Stockitt reminded parishioners of the businesses, may not survive, which leaves Diocesan vision statement - ‘Transforming me wondering what is it about the church “So as Joan and I leave this place, we do Community; Radiating Christ’, which that makes it attractive, magnetic, [so that] so with gratitude in our hearts, to God, were displayed in St James’ Church. people will be drawn towards [it]?” and gratitude to all of you who have “I was intrigued by those two words, enriched our lives. So, thank you. Thank ‘transforming’ and ‘radiating’. “At a spiritual level, it’s about a sense of the you - all of you.”

Leckpatrick & Dunnalong Rev Canon Paul Whittaker: Rector and Rural Dean Tel: 028 71880397 Mob: 07770691560 Email: [email protected] Facebook: Parishes of Leckpatrick and Dunnalong Church of Ireland

Our highlight of 2021 has to be the lovely diocese there were no Confirmations at all, Comfort - God’s comfort through the Confirmation services we had on Pentecost so the very fact that we’re able to do this is Holy Spirit will give you peace. Sunday 23rd May in Leckpatrick Parish a good sign.” Afterwards at both services we Challenge - be challenged by the Holy Church. At 11am we had 7 Candidates had arranged for an ice cream van to visit Spirit to step out in Faith. from Leckpatrick and at 2pm we had 10 the church grounds after the services, and Candidates from Dunnalong. In his sermon, all present - young and old - were treated Series on the Beatitudes Bishop Andrew referred to the trials of the to free 99s.Please continue to pray for our Over the past couple of weeks the Rector past year, during which the Coronavirus Confirmation candidates. has begun a series of sermons on what pandemic had wrought havoc around the is known as the ‘Greatest Sermon in the world, claiming hundreds of thousands On this Confirmation Sunday, remember World’ the Beatitudes in Matthew chapter of lives and disrupting life everywhere, what Bishop Andrew told us. 5. In our newssheet is a plan on what he including in parishes the length and breadth will be sharing over July and August. If of Ireland. “The very fact that we are able Presence - God’s presents to you is his something happens and you can’t make to have this Confirmation Service,” the presence through the Holy Spirit. Church some week and would like a full Bishop said, “shows us that things are Power - the power of the Holy Spirit will text copy of the sermon then let him getting better. For just over a year in the empower you. know and he will email it to you.

52 N:VISION | DIOCESE OF DERRY & RAPHOE in Raphoe. Rev Canon McGaffin said she Jolly Church Outing Magheramason and New Buildings. We plan was dumbstruck when she learned that she We are planning a Parish outing to Portrush to leave Portrush at around 4.30pm. Sign-up had been chosen to succeed Rev Canon Dr on Saturday 4th September. We are hiring sheets will be at the back of each Church. Bill Long who retired in March. a bus to bring us all away for the day and it will be FREE! Seats will be on a first come Congratulations to our Former Parishioner We congratulate all who were appointed to first served basis and everyone is invited. The Rev Judi McGaffin has made history after the Select Vestry this year and I am grateful The bus will leave Leckpatrick Church at being appointed the first female canon in the to the Churchwardens for agreeing to 10am stopping to collect people in Bready, centuries-old history of St Eunan’s Cathedral, continue in post for another year.

St. Augustine’s, Londonderry Rector: Rev Nigel Cairns www.saintaugustines.co.uk www.facebook/weechurch

Creche cakes and traybakes along with soups, salads, next year. Admission to the exhibitions is free, We were delighted to finally relaunch our lunches and desserts. Planters for the area have and the dates coming up for the summer creche facility for the under four-year-olds been bought and the greenery softens the space exhibitions are: Aimee Melaugh: Opening Night within our church family. There are brand as well as separating the outdoor furniture 2nd July 2021 / Exhibition 6th - 10th July 2021. new resources and the creche area is looking to ensure social distancing. We see this as a Peter Richard: Opening Night 20th August 2021 fabulous. This was the final part of our Growing wonderful opportunity to engage in mission at / Exhibition 24th - 28th August 2021. Lives grant project, which has now enabled us a local level, and prayers that we can be good to give our entire children and young peoples’ witnesses for Christ would be greatly valued. It’s Columban Young Ambassadors provision a complete make over. Well done a huge undertaking for our team, so if you’re in The Churches Trust are delivering an exciting to everyone involved, and it’s great to see so town, why not call in and give us a wee bit of new programme for post-primary young many younger families returning. encouragement. people. The programme aims to meet new people from Londonderry and Donegal who Hospitality and Tourist Ministry Summer Programmes will learn together about Columba, progress As soon as Governmental and wider Church Our plans are well advanced for our lunchtime skills in app development and complete an policy permits, we are ready to open our doors concert programme each Tuesday from 1pm OCN endorsed qualification. The project to the ‘staycation’ tourists who might visit the - 2pm in the church. Legislation permitting, will consist of a range of interactive fun city during the summer months. This year we they will begin on 22nd June, and run each workshops, outdoor activities, visits to have an exciting new addition to our tourist Tuesday throughout the summer months. These some museum exhibitions and a scavenger offering - churchCAFE. Some of you may have events have been funded by DCSDC Heritage hunt along the Columba Heritage trail. The already seen our new patio space outside the Animation Grant, and therefore all concerts programme began on Thursday 27th May and main hall on the Bishop Street carpark side. It’s are free of charge for visitors to enjoy. The we have four of our young people involved. a perfect area which lends itself to an outside grant also funds the programming element of We wish all the young people participating café! It will be open on Thursdays, Fridays and Art Arcadia, which is based in our cottage and from the various churches every blessing as Saturdays, 10am-4pm, throughout the Tourist old schoolhouse. We look forward to the Art they journey together over the next couple Ministry season serving hot and cold drinks, Arcadia programme being rolled out over the of months.

SUMMER 21 53 Christ Church, Culmore, Rev Canon Katie McAteer, Pastoral Director E [email protected] Muff and St. Peter M 07813 885145 Rector: Venerable Robert Miller, Archdeacon of Derry Mrs Angela Dobbins E [email protected] Parish Administrator H 028 71352396 E [email protected] Website: www.cccmsp.org Facebook Page: CCCMSP @cccmsp Our Vision: Transforming Community, Radiating Christ.

Psalm 33:22 ‘Let your steadfast love, O work across our diocese and to be thankful. us that as people of hope we are called to Lord, be upon us, even as we hope in you.’ share it. So, as Summer begins, I am asking One of the topics in my mind is discipleship: you to join me in praying that our parish Although much of my engagement with you how do we nurture our faith; how do we numbers will grow. When we pray, we open all is still in the virtual world or by telephone challenge our level of understanding so we can ourselves to God’s working through us as it is good to be writing in the knowledge be growing in our understanding and love of well as actively seeking to discern how He is that we have been able to resume in-person God? The Wednesday service has been a good at work in our world to answer our prayers. worship across our whole group of parishes: time to draw together; I would like to look As we pray that we will draw people to our in June we returned to Muff. I am going and see how we can build on this time in the local Church family, I want you to be praying to use the Summer period to reflect on middle of the week. I also want to help resource about who you will invite to come with you what I have learnt about how we engage us to share our faith. I am more convinced than to our Church worship; with whom will you with one another and build fellowship and ever that following Jesus in your daily living is a share our Facebook service invites? EACH community. Whilst we all acknowledge source of hope, and reliance on God’s strength ONE, REACH ONE is also a reminder to that there are challenging times ahead, I is the place from where our real resilience to be actively connecting with one another. I also believe it is good to pause and reflect face challenging times comes. The verse from know the Clergy have appreciated your on how God has been faithful to us during Psalm 33:22 reminds us of this; maybe you’ll messages of support and your prayers for us; this past year. The Summer is a good time commit it to memory? we continue to keep you in our prayers. to do this. This very magazine gives you an opportunity to see how God has been at EACH ONE, REACH ONE - is a way to remind Yours in Christ, Robert+

Moville, Greencastle, Donagh, Malin & Culdaff

Vacant Rural Dean: Rev Canon David Crooks Mob: 00447871974658 Tel: 074 914 0135 Email: [email protected]

The death of Sammy Bredin of Cooley, many years, serving as a Church Warden for Treasurers and members of Select Vestry Moville at the age of 84 years, is a cause a number of terms. May he rest in peace, elected. Thank you to all who serve the of great sorrow to his wife of forty years, and may God bring comfort to the family. churches in any way throughout the year. Sylvia, and their sons Robert and Samuel We sympathise also with the families of Miss John and Maureen Williams are most and their daughter Elizabeth and her Nary Walker and Mrs Margaret Henderson of grateful for your prayers and good wishes husband Seamus and the six grandchildren. Moville Parish, and Mrs Elizabeth Martin of as John continues to make some recovery Sammy had been in declining health for a Cloncha who died recently. from his illness. We are also most grateful to number of years. Throughout he was most the four Parish Readers who are conducting lovingly and faithfully cared for by Sylvia The four postponed Easter General Vestry Morning Prayer Services as Maureen is not and the family. Sammy had been a faithful meetings have now been held, and Church at present available. They are Mrs Valerie and active member of Moville Parish for Wardens, Glebes Wardens, Secretaries, McKinley, Mrs Rosina Doherty-Allan, Mrs

54 N:VISION | DIOCESE OF DERRY & RAPHOE Linda Parke and Mrs Dorothy Carey. They make his diocese financially solvent, and to the people of Madagascar. On Wednesday are not permitted to preach, but they will recruit, train, house, and pay clergy. 7th July, I shall cycle from Moville to be supplied with sermons which they can Newtowncunningham, 41 kilometres. I use. They are grateful for your appreciation Bishop Forster and Bishop Speers have met, would greatly appreciate your support. and support. and our Bishop has kindly agreed to set Sponsorship cards are in circulation, and this up a diocesan project and ask each parish event will be, hopefully, the contribution I have arranged a sponsored cycle to raise group to hold events, which hopefully will of the Moville and Donagh Group with funds for my brother-in-law, Bishop Hall raise this sum. We have our own financial Taughboyne, All Saints and Killea Group. Speers in Mahajanga, Madagascar. Bishop problems, and charity begins at home, but we Speers needs about £50,000 in order to are living in luxurious wealth compared to

Fahan Upper and Lower

Rector: Rev Canon Judi McGaffin Tel: 0769361154 Facebook: Fahanandbuncranachurchofireland ”Cherishing and connecting with all God’s children”

We have been through an inordinate thank God for his boundless blessings - even Those students that are in 6th class who amount of change and challenge over through the challenging times we have and will be leaving to go to secondary education the past 15 months or so - and now we are still facing. in September will be having a special are embarking on returning to in-church celebration involving prayer before the end worship and reflecting on what we have Bible study has continued to blossom over of the school year. learned as we have faced all the disruption. Zoom - and now that we have together read and discussed and prayed through the Over the summer we are looking forward to This year as we again travelled through Lent 4 Gospels, we look forward to looking at restrictions easing a bit more so that we can with HOPE every household got sunflower other parts of the word of God together begin to meet together - not only virtually seeds to plant and a thankyou card to send into the future! Zoom has also been the but in person - to begin to discern what it is to someone who they felt might need a communication platform of choice in God wants us to do to spread his word, not bit of encouragement! On Easter Day the communicating with St Mura’s National only within the parish bounds but “to all the art and craft that has been so carefully and School since they returned to in-school ends of the earth” thoughtfully created over the season of learning. We have been thinking in depth Lent was displayed in 2 ways! First all the about the Lord’s Prayer. The senior students As we return to in-church worship we will pictures of hope - the word Hope made have been creating their own illustrated copies be continuing Facebook services too! Please from everyday objects, snowdrops, lambs, of the Lord’s Prayer and those in the junior keep in touch with us on our Facebook page churches, Mother’s Day cards, buds and new classes are completing activity books around fahanandbuncranachurchofireland for all the life, palm branches and palm crosses - were each of the petitions in the prayer. The Bishop latest news! expertly made into 4 letters to spell HOPE! will be joining us for our final Zoom of the year We also had a huge flutter of butterflies to talk to the students about their work! made, painted, drawn and coloured which then “landed” on our empty cross to make it “alive” with colour and hope of a new creation! You can see the cross on CJs page in this edition and here is HOPE!

As the Easter season continued, we entered a month of Praise and Thanksgiving through praying the psalms together. Our “May Month of Prayer” consisted of everyone praying a verse of a psalm every day to

SUMMER 21 55 Taughboyne with Craigdooish, All Saints & Killea Rev Canon David Crooks: Rector and Rural Dean Tel: 074 914 0135 Mob: 00447871974658 Email: [email protected]

Congratulations to Alistair and Wendy Albert Hepburn died on 19th May after a I have arranged a sponsored cycle to raise Moore on the birth of a daughter, Tara, and short period of illness, at the age of 87 years. funds for my brother-in-law, Bishop Hall to Rebecca and Ciaran Coyle on the birth of Albert was a loyal member of Craigadooish Speers in Mahajanga, Madagascar. Bishop a daughter, Maddison Ruby, and to Robert until increasing age made it more difficult to Speers needs about £50,000 in order to and Tina Arthur on the birth of a daughter. attend his place of worship. In thanking God make his diocese financially solvent, and Our condolences are with Jonathan and for his life of quality, we sympathise with his to recruit, train, house, and pay clergy. Anne Williams on the loss in stillbirth of wife Marty, his sons William and Eric and his Bishop Forster and Bishop Speers have met, their baby, Leo John. Such a tragedy brings daughters Irene, Caroline and Avril, and with and our Bishop has kindly agreed to set great sorrow to all the family. We continue all the grandchildren and great-grandchildren. up a diocesan project and ask each parish to hold Jonathan’s mother and father, group to hold events, which hopefully will Maureen and John in our prayers, and hope All the postponed Annual general Easter raise this sum. We have our own financial that John will continue his recovery from vestry meetings have now been held. The problems, and charity begins at home, but his illness and be able to remain at home. Church Wardens, Glebes Wardens, Secretaries, we are living in luxurious wealth compared Treasurers and members of Select Vestry have to the people of Madagascar. The death of five-week-old Baby Megan, been re-elected, and we thank them for all infant daughter of Sean and Alison Moore, their service to the parishes. On Wednesday 7th July, I shall cycle from has brought sorrow and grief to their Moville to Newtowncunningham, 41 family. Her Funeral Service in St Eunan’s People are delighted to be back to church. It kilometres. I would greatly appreciate Cathedral in Letterkenny was indeed a is hoped that church attendance will recover your support. solemn and sad occasion. We assure Sean as people realise their human mortality. We and Alison of our prayers at this time. must learn to depend upon God much more.

Conwal Union with Gartan Rector: Rev David Houlton Facebook: The Parish of Conwal Union @ConwalParish

Is Covid-19 Over Again? lack of dancing ability; and no Burns Night (no Despite the problems, we found a lot of doubt the haggis was happy - being spared a interest in the Services filmed in church. Little did we realise when we had our cruel stabbing)! Very sadly we also couldn’t So have been “broadcasting” monthly from Christmas 2020 services that we would not give Canon Brian Smeaton and Sandra a big each church including: Mothering Sunday, be able to worship God together in church send off when they left for Dublin. Palm Sunday, Maundy Thursday, Good Friday for almost exactly 5 months! This was made and Easter Sunday; plus once or twice on all the worse looking across the Foyle to And now at the beginning of June there Sundays from the Rectory. We will probably see churches opening, communal worship can be no outdoor diocesan celebration of continue Sunday morning prayers online at restarting, brides and grooms marrying and Columba 1500 - we will only be able to have a least until parishioners are happy to come children being baptised. short in-church celebration shown live online. out to church, and for those not able to But Rev David has contributed to an online come out any more we are setting up for There was no Big Dip in Gartan Lake to get series on the legacy of St Columba abroad, long-term live broadcasting of Services the New Year off to a refreshing start; no and Rev Heather is to participate in the from Conwal Parish Church. Sunday School pancake parties; no parish unveiling of a memorial stone at the Colmcille socials for St Patrick’s Day where Rev Heritage Centre in Gartan on 9th June. Online has also proven very useful for Heather and I could again demonstrate my “Next year in Gartan”! people meeting midweek: in the autumn the

56 N:VISION | DIOCESE OF DERRY & RAPHOE popular “Alpha Course” was well attended; Finally, in the period since the last n:vision Sunday Services for Summer 2021: during the winter even more people joined we lost one of Gartan’s senior parishioners, 9am: Prayer at Home online from Conwal Rectory in for the “Prayer Course”; and as spring and a long standing member of Conwal - on Conwal and Gartan’s Facebook pages. ends we are just finishing the “Bible Course”. parish who had moved to near Church Hill 10.30: Morning Prayer or Holy Communion in All three were great courses, with people sometime ago; we mourn with the family, Conwal Parish Church, Letterkenny who joined in saying how they felt closer to friends and neighbours of Mary Gamble 12.30: Morning Prayer or Holy Communion God, and able to pray and understand the and Noel Scott. in St Columba’s Gartan, Church Hill Bible for themselves.

Tullyaughnish, Kilmacrennan, Killygarvan & Glenalla Rector: Rev Canon Harry Gilmore Tel. 0749151013 Email: [email protected]

Clondevaddock, Rossnakill, Portsalon & Leatbeg Vacant Rural Dean: Rev David Skuce

Clondehorkey, Cashel & Mevagh Priest in Charge: Rev Canon George Irwin Tel: 028 81659531 Mob: 07444642760 Email: [email protected]

Good to Be Back! and we must continue to keep closely to the a total of €600.00 has been donated. This is What a thrill to be back in our Church health and safety guidelines. We must also be a very encouraging piece of “good news for buildings for Sunday worship and fellowship. mindful that there are people who may still the poor.” The worshipping congregation meeting be reluctant about getting back into meetings regularly for prayer, sacrament and the and social events, until further progress is Episcopal Visit proclamation of the Word is the central axis made towards a totally safe environment. We look forward to welcoming our of the Church’s mission and outreach to the Accordingly, Canon Irwin continues to Diocesan Bishop, the Right Rev. Andrew community. So, it was with joy and relief broadcast a Service at 3pm on Sundays to Forster to our Services on Sunday, 18th July. that we resumed congregational worship on facilitate those who cannot get along to the Sunday 16th May. Perhaps seldom have the church. You can tune in to this on: facebook. Baptism words of the Psalmist seemed so meaningful: com/wgirwin. St. Columba’s, Cashel “I rejoiced with those who said to me ‘Let us 28th May, 2021 Riley Anna Moore go to the house of the Lord.’” Christian Aid Week 10th - 16th May, 2021 daughter of Brad and Leanne Many thanks to all who contributed to However, there is no room for complacency Christian Aid this year. At the time of writing

SUMMER 21 57 Dunfanaghy, Raymunterdoney & Tullaghobegley

Rev David Skuce, Rector and Rural Dean, Kilmacrennan East & West Rural Deanery Facebook: Holy Trinity, Dunfanaghy @holytrinitydunfanaghy

Baptism great to see the country open up. I would Harvest, Advent, Christmas and Easter. This 15th Sept 2020: Luke Tyson McLaughlin. encourage you to continue to adhere to the has been very much appreciated and my 13th Dec 2020: Sam Tommy Alcorn. Government guidelines. Our first in-person thanks also to Kirsty for the material she 29th Dec 2020: Katie Jane Boal. church service this year was held on Sunday has been providing. 16th May. I would like to thank all those Wedding who have helped in facilitating the smooth This might be a bit late (!) but I would like 21st November 2020 - Mervyn White running of the parish during the extensive to pay tribute to the parishioners for their and Ruth Stewart. lockdown period. generosity to the special collections over Christmas. The sum of €1,520 in response Funeral Each Sunday during the lockdown services to the Bishops’ Appeal and €1,200 from 7th February 2021 - Isobel Stewart, Kill, were recorded and posted on Facebook. the Christmas Fireside Quiz in aid of the Dunfanaghy. Once again, I want to express my thanks to Simon Community in Letterkenny. A further Niall, John, and Denise for their technology Fireside Quiz was distributed along with the We are delighted to welcome Luke, Sam skills and to Patrick for assisting with the Easter edition of the n:vision. Although, this and Katie into the Church and would services. On behalf of the parishioners of quiz was free the sum of €370 was received also like to wish Ruth and Mervyn every Raymunterdoney and Tullaghobegley I would in donations. This will be added to the happiness in their future life together. It was like to thank the Revd. Father James Gillespie Lenten box appeal of €1,590 in aid of the great that Isobel (Ruth’s mother) was able for allowing me use his radio technology to “Jeel al Amal Boys’ Home” in Nazareth. to be present with us for that very happy broadcast live services each Sunday from St. day. We were deeply saddened when Isobel Finian’s Church, Falcarragh. Please accept my apologies for no notes in passed away in February, and we would like the last two editions of the n:vision. I had to extend our deepest sympathy to the Our Sunday School teachers continued to compiled them but sadly sent them to an Stewart and Boyd families on her death. be very busy during the lockdown preparing incorrect email address! After the long period of restrictions, it is work for our young people for the seasons of

Gweedore (Carrickfinn & Bunbeg) & Templecrone

Bishop’s Curate: Rev Liz Fitzgerald Tel. 074 953 1043 Email: [email protected]

As lockdown eases and churches are open I was reading psalm 6 a few days ago, and both you and me; for our family and friends, for worship, I have been unable to return as I hobble around on my crutches, it made especially as vaccinations increase, the risk to parish life as I recover from quite major me smile: “Have mercy on me, Lord, for I am of illness reduces and restrictions ease. I knee surgery. weak; Lord heal me, for my bones are racked.” encourage you to call out to him, because; (Ps6:2) I send my thanks to Canon Stanley Johnson “...the Lord has heard the voice of my for taking Sunday services, to the Rural We should always be mindful that when weeping. The Lord has heard my supplication; Dean, Revd Skuce for providing emergency we do cry out for help - in times of trouble, the Lord will receive my prayer.” (Ps 6:8a.9) pastoral cover, to my Church Wardens and sickness, or adversary, as many of us have teams who ensured churches are reopened over the past 15 months, we have a God I look forward to being back in parish life in accordance with government guidance, who listens and cares and responds in love. by mid-late July, DV. and all who have sent me good wishes. I thank God for his continuing care for

58 N:VISION | DIOCESE OF DERRY & RAPHOE Ardara, Glencolumbkille, Glenties, Inniskeel & Lettermacaward Bishop’s Curate: Rev Robert Wray The Rectory, Lackegh, Portnoo, Co. Donegal Email: [email protected]

Inver, Mountcharles, Kilaghtee & Killybegs Bishop’s Curate: Rev Lindsey Farrell Tel: 074 973 6013 Email: [email protected] Facebook: Inver and Mountcharles Church

Blessings and Baptisms! for the baptism of Mason George Armstrong clothing drive. In St. Peter’s Killaghtee, a We were truly thankful to open our church in St. John’s Inver on Sunday 6th June, and collection of scrap has been organised, doors for in-person worship on Sunday the baptism of Jamie Robert Torrens in St. with the sale proceeds going to the church. 16th May 2021 with all the necessary John’s Inver on Sunday 13th June. It is a rich Killaghtee have also raised much needed precautions in place. There was a definite blessing to see so much new life coming into funds by selling items donated on Done atmosphere of hope our churches as parents make that bold Deal. All of these efforts are sincerely as we gave thanks to and confident commitment to raise and appreciated, especially in the midst of such God for his protection teach their children in the Christian faith. trying circumstances. I am reminded of the and care during the words of the apostle Paul who said, ‘But we pandemic. Our services As I write these notes we are preparing have this treasure in jars of clay to show that continue online for the to bid a fond farewell to Revd Marcia this all-surpassing power is from God and not foreseeable future for Davenport. Marcia has lived and served from us. We are hard pressed on every side, those who are unable to in the parish of Killaghtee for 25 years but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; return to church, or who alongside her husband Bob who passed persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, perhaps are not quite away some years ago. Marcia has but not destroyed. We always carry around in ready. Who would have decided to return to the United States our body the death of Jesus, so that the life thought that Zoom and to be closer to her family. We will miss of Jesus may also be revealed in our body. Facebook would have her warm and cheerful demeanour, ’ 2 Cor. 4:7-12 proved such a blessing her commitment to serve God and in these times?! her devotion to St Peter’s Killaghtee. So, as we prepare to emerge further into We hope it won’t be too long before she the sunshine I give thanks to a God who is Our return to worship has also seen a returns on holiday. steadfast, a God who protects, a God who number of infants coming for Baptism. On provides and a God who has promised to Sunday 30th May 2021 Lucy Iris Margaret Our parishioners have been busy fundraising remain with us. And I thank you for your Shaw was baptised in St. Peter’s Killaghtee. despite the challenges of lockdown. In Inver continued support, and for the ways in As I write these notes, we are preparing and Mountcharles we had a very successful which you serve, all for the glory of God.

Drumholm, Kilbarron & Rossnowlagh Rev Canon Brian Russell: Rector and Rural Dean Tel. 0749734025 Email: [email protected]

SUMMER 21 59 Donegal, Killymard, Lough Eske & Laghey Rector: Venerable David Huss, Archdeacon of Raphoe Tel: 074 9721075 Email: [email protected] www.donegal.raphoe.anglican.org Facebook: @DonegalGroupofParishes

Re-openings Churchwardens, Glebewardens, Secretaries, Rev Robert Wray We were delighted to be able to re-open Treasurers and Select Vestry members for We pray for healing and restoration for our church doors for gathered worship their work, and to all parishioners who have Rev Robert Wray of the Ardara Group of on the Sunday after Ascension Day, 16th continued to give their financial offerings Parishes who was injured in a motorcycle May 2021. It truly is great to be back, through the lockdown. Parish finances accident recently. despite the understandable restrictions on remain sound - thanks be to God! numbers, service length, singing and face How to Connect masks. We pray for the day when all these The Mustard Seed Anyone is very welcome to follow us on rules are no longer necessary. For now, We’re so happy to be re-opening for outdoor Facebook, YouTube, Instagram etc. - just look we willingly accept these inconveniences dining from 9th June and we can’t wait for ‘Donegal Group of Parishes.’ We have as part of what it means to love our to welcome old and new faces to enjoy regular online services (Sunday, Wednesday neighbours during a pandemic. friendship and refreshment at Donegal Town’s & Friday) and a recorded service accessible first no-price-list café. During lockdown the any time from any phone on 074 9710199 Confirmation Mustard Seed was part of the local food bank (from UK: 00353 74 9710199). Sadly, due to public health advice in system, and also hosted numerous Zoom the Republic, our Confirmation services gatherings throughout the week. Funerals have been postponed until September Eileen Robinson 4th April 2021 Laghey 2021. Please continue to pray for the Alpha in the autumn Georgina Morrow 16th May 2021 Lough Eske 14 candidates who are patiently We are planning to run an Alpha course May Montgomery 17th May 2021 Donegal preparing for their confirmation. for 11 weeks starting around September. This course, which has been attended by Marriage Easter Vestries millions of people around the world, is highly Christopher McCaul & Rachel Wilson These were held online using Zoom. Fair recommended. Details will be available in 6th June 2021 Killymard. play to everyone who logged into the due course on our website and Facebook meetings, some using video-conferencing page (just search for Donegal Group for the first time. Many thanks to our of Parishes).

Stranorlar, Meenglass & Kilteevogue Rector: Rev Adam Pullen Mobile 087 7547880 Email: [email protected] Facebook; Stranorlar, Meenglass & Kilteevogue CofI @smkcofi

Different times known, masks, distancing etc, yet we have so a number of reasons. Many can be part of Many months ago I quoted the Chinese much to be thankful for. While yes it has been the Church, the community of God, even proverb ‘may you live in interesting times’. immensely difficult for many, we can now, bit if ill health, not being able to be there at Thankfully we are living in ‘different times’, by bit, see others outside and return to a more that time or have moved away, led them as we are getting used to a new normal. At personable life. to believe they weren’t part of the Church. the time of writing we are back into two of I’m reminded of one lady of poor sight who our church buildings for in-person worship. We are still continuing with our on-line and now due to the Dial-A-Phone service listens It is different to what we would have on the phone services. We are doing so this for in each Sunday and feels more part of the

60 N:VISION | DIOCESE OF DERRY & RAPHOE Church then she did pre-Covid. Indeed we in these times. How to do and get a service Give thanks to the Holy One have many join us near and far who are out via Facebook, Youtube and so much Give thanks because He’s given Jesus completely new and if you are reading this more. I am indebted to Elsie and John for Christ, His Son. you are most welcome. Let’s take head of all their help and support and to Karl and the wisdom of Proverbs. Brian for their help. Thanks to digital means And now let the weak say, “I am strong” we have been able to offer funeral services Let the poor say, “I am rich Proverbs 2:5-6 online so that while many cannot be there Because of what the Lord has done for us.” Trust in the Lord with all your heart physically, they can be there in part, with and lean not on your own understanding; those who are mourning and you can tune One last little thing I was part of recording in all your ways submit to him, in from Newton to New York! Therefore the RTÉ Sunday Service, which was and he will make your paths straight. let us cultivate an attitude of gratitude. broadcast on the 13th of June with the Council for Mission. Did you spot me? I never cease to be amazed how the Lord I leave you with the words from Give God brings good out of what can seem Thanks, by Don Moen anything but good. I have learnt so much Give thanks with a grateful heart

Convoy, Monellan & Donaghmore Vacant, Rural Dean: Rev Canon David Crooks Tel: 074 914 0135 Mob: 00447871974658

All three of the postponed Annual Bishop Speers is Bishop of Mahajanga in Convoy to Donaghmore, to Monellan and General Easter Vestry meetings have Madagascar, which is a very underdeveloped back to Convoy, 27 kilometres, departing now been held. The Church Wardens, part of the world. Bishop Forster has met from Convoy at 11.00am on Tuesday Glebes Wardens, Secretaries, Treasurers with Bishop Speers, and they have asked 13th July. Your support would be greatly and members of Select Vestry have been that Derry and Raphoe parishes might appreciated. appointed. At each meeting, The Chairman organize fund raising events to raise money thanked all who had served the Parishes to enable the Bishop to provide rectories, Every effort will be made to find a new on the Select Vestries, and who keep the rice fields and schools for his clergy. Many Rector. In the meantime during the churches all looking so neat and tidy both of the clergy have not been paid for years vacancy, please do not hesitate to get inside and outside. and have simply left their ministry. Despite in touch if you require pastoral support. our own financial problems, we here are Thank you also to the Revd Arthur Burns I will be doing a sponsored cycle in aid wealthy compared to people in Madagascar. for conducting the services. of my brother-in law, Bishop Hall Speers. The cycle will be from St Ninian’s Church,

SUMMER 21 61 Raphoe, Raymochy & Clonleigh Vacant, Rural Dean: Rev Canon David Crooks Tel: 074 914 0135 Mob: 00447871974658 Facebook: St Eunan’s Cathedral @cathedralraphoe

At each of the three Easter General Vestry conducting services until a new Rector is will depart from the Cathedral at 11.00am meetings which had been postponed, the appointed. and cycle to Clonleigh, Raymochy and back Chairman thanked the Church Wardens, to Raphoe. Your support would be greatly Glebes Wardens, Secretaries, Treasurers and On Monday 19th July, Colvin Beattie, Rodney appreciated. members of the Select Vestries, and all who Lindsay, William Laird, Geoffrey Devenney serve the parishes so faithfully and who and I will be going on a sponsored cycle in aid On Tuesday 7th December, there will maintain the churches and their finances of Bishop Hall Speers in Mahajanga Diocese be a special Diocesan Service in Raphoe during difficult times. in Madagascar. Bishop Forster has asked that Cathedral to celebrate the 1,500th all the parishes of Derry and Raphoe might anniversary of the birth of St Columba. Work on the restoration of the Cathedral organize some event to support Bishop The special Preacher will be the Primate, has now resumed and is progressing Speers. The clergy of his diocese have not the Most Revd John McDowell, Archbishop satisfactorily. It will be a pleasure to be been paid for years, and are poorly housed. of Armagh, and the Choir of St Columb’s able to return to our much-loved Mother We would be delighted to raise money to Cathedral has been invited to sing Choral Church. We are very grateful to the Revd enable Bishop Speers to recruit, train, house Evensong. More details will be announced John Deane and to Mr Peter Clampett for and pay a sufficient number of clergy. We nearer the time.

New Beginnings Thrift Shop

Eglinton’s New Beginnings Thrift Shop is on the move - in every sense! The shop, an outreach of St. Canice’s Church, has had such a successful start to trading that it’s already having to expand to create extra space for the huge quantity of top-class items that have been donated for sale. From Friday 11th June the shop will have a new base at 6a Benbow Industrial Estate, on the edge of the village, SPECIAL OPENING OFFERS! just a minute’s drive from Eglinton Health Centre. The existing shop on the Main Street All proceeds will be ploughed back into the will remain open until the end of July. local area, to help with the building of a new hall to serve the whole community, and to The new space has separate rooms for men’s, support local charities. Opening hours: women’s and children’s clothing, as well Tuesday to Saturday 10:00am to 4:00pm as a book and toy room, and an area for household and general goods. Many new Visit the New Beginnings Facebook items at unbeatable prices. page for details or call 07860809598.

62 N:VISION | DIOCESE OF DERRY & RAPHOE PAUL MCFADDEN DIOCESAN PRESS OFFICER

And finally...

A few years ago, during an inter- It is often said that for many people the fear with his own adjective” and concludes that denominational meeting at the Diocesan of public-speaking is greater than the fear faith is “so recklessly counter-intuitive”, “so Office, the Roman Catholic Bishop of of dying. It takes rare courage (or extreme challenging”, “so dynamically un-modern” Derry, Dr Donal McKeown, suggested that recklessness) to walk onto a stage to try and that he gets excited just talking about it. Faith in years to come it wouldn’t be religious make an audience laugh. I suspect it requires is, he says, “a privilege with a sell-by date”. difference which mattered in our society even more courage to share with the public but religious indifference. The observation your most intimate conversations with the Faith can be a hard sell in this increasingly has stayed with me ever since. Creator. In the past, the author had been secular era of fake news and instant open about his Roman Catholicism and gratification, but Skinner does it subversively, Recently I read a new book by the comedian, about his battles with alcohol, but faith like a stealth Christian. The private person Frank Skinner, called ‘A Comedian’s Prayer is a different matter altogether. is very different, I suspect, to what most Book’. Skinner possesses one of the sharpest people imagine. minds in stand-up comedy: he is lightning The Daily Telegraph said that inside the fast on his feet, extremely quick-witted and covers of ‘A Comedian’s Prayer Book’ were ‘A Comedian’s Prayer Book’ is often funny, little escapes his gimlet eye. But a prayer “a series of highly personal, unguarded although probably too gamey in parts for book? It seemed a surprising change of tack monologues by Skinner, directed to a silent some tastes (caveat emptor). Perhaps, though, for the 64-year-old Birmingham man. God, with the reader invited to eavesdrop”. that occasional irreverence allows the author In his introduction, Skinner himself writes to reach parts that more orthodox Christian Until recently, it appeared, his attention that his book is “a bit like reading the writers can’t reach. There is one charge that was focused on the seams of absurdity in life Bible, except you only get one side of the certainly cannot be levelled against Skinner - which he mined relentlessly for comedy gold. conversation and all the jokes are left in”. that of religious indifference. He honed his act and his brilliance earned him a legion of fans. The Evening Standard The subject matter is diverse, ranging from ‘A Comedian’s Prayer Book’, by Frank Skinner, described him as “the king of stand-up”. The the fate of his late mother to Christian is published by Hodder and Stoughton. Guardian said his way with a punchline was statuary, and, at 106 pages, it is short, “masterful”. The Sunday Times described his accessible and offers much food for thought. act as “beautifully confessional”. I especially enjoyed Skinner’s reflection on That latter verdict, in particular, must have the nature of faith. He describes Doubting made him smile inwardly. Thomas as “the only disciple who comes SUMMER 21 63 Design: Chris Conville Design [email protected] Print: EPS Churches Back to Disclaimer: Viewsexpressed inn:visionmay notbethoseof theChurchofIreland ortheEditor. (depending onGovernment andDiocesan guidelinesatthetime) Magazines willbe availableforcollectionon24thSeptember 2021. THE DEADLINEISNON-NEGOTIABLE Assistant editor:[email protected] Parish notesmustbewiththeassistant editornolaterthan12noonon1stSeptember2021. Editor: [email protected] c/o The DiocesanCentre, LondonStreet, BT486RQ Londonderry must bewiththeeditornolaterthan12noonon25th Articles August 2021. n:vision Magazine, DiocesanCentre, 24LondonStreet, LondonderryBT486RQ O and anticipation. A heartfelt welcome extended by the Rector and Churchwardens, with Government protocols in place, I was escorted to a pew. Having completed my private devotions, I suddenly realised things had changed! The aroma of hand sanitiser filled the air, parishioners not in their accustomed pews faces hidden behind colourful face coverings, no organ music setting the tone for the service or choir members organising their books to lead us in worship. Setting these and other changes aside the most important thing was that we were gathered, once again, in God’s house,

Roberta Merrick, Holy Trinity Dunfanaghy n a beautiful May Sunday morning, the church bell tolling, I approached Holy Trinity Church with an air of excitement

R people from my community again and see their faces. Sitting in Church helps me to stay focused and have a feeling of peace. I love listening to Marion play the Church organ and I felt a lot of joy when singing the hymns again. Amy Louden (teenager) Holy Trinity Church Culmore

eturning to Church was really lovely. It’s nice to be among

‘Come let us worship’. us let ‘Come

...

Anne Reid, Organist, Christ Church Castledawson Church Christ Organist, Reid, Anne

the King of instruments.” instruments.” of King the

Mozart remarked, remarked, Mozart

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church worship is to me and the sound of the organ, whether in in whether organ, the of sound the and me to is worship church

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seen choir members come and go and accompanied many brides brides many accompanied and go and come members choir seen

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occupant of the organ seat. I have played in many churches, churches, many in played have I seat. organ the of occupant

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Rev Canon David Crooks, Taughboyne David Canon Rev

that we still depend on Him. on depend still we that

God alone is sovereign and almighty and and almighty and sovereign is alone God

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