301147 Autumn Cover 30/10/2014 10:54 Page 1

Friends’ News Christ Church Cathedral

ISSN 0791-2331 Vol. 32 No. 2 Autumn 2014 ¤3 301147 Autumn Cover 30/10/2014 10:54 Page 2

Friends’ News Christ Church Cathedral is published by The Friends of Christ Church Cathedral, The Chapter House, Christchurch Place, Dublin 8

The opinions expressed in this journal are those of the authors and need not represent the views of the Friends of Christ Church Cathedral.

The Friends of Christ Church Cathedral support the work and worship of the cathedral. Membership is open to all

Patron: : The Most Revd Dr Chairperson: of Christ Church: The Very Revd Dermot Dunne Vice-chairpersons: Residential Priest Vicar: The Revd Garth Bunting Archdeacon of Dublin: The Ven Archdeacon of Glendalough: The Ven Ricky Rountree Honorary secretary: Kenneth Milne Honorary treasurer: David Bockett Honorary membership secretary: Patricia Sweetman and Eileen Kennedy Honorary editor: Lesley Rue

Committee members: Brian Bradshaw Desmond Campbell Valerie Houlden Eileen Kennedy Ruth Kinsella Don Macaulay Patricia Sweetman Terence Read David Wynne

Friends’ Office: Lesley Rue: 087 790 6062 [email protected] Membership applications to The Hon. Membership Secretary The Chapter House Christ Church Cathedral Christchurch Place Dublin 8

Minimum subscriptions: Within Ireland – ¤20 or Overseas – $35 Contributions of ¤250 and over may be tax refundable in Ireland and include five year membership of the Friends Friends are invited to give more if they can

E-mail: [email protected]

front cover: Portrait of Dean Des Harman, Sue Harman, (and her grandson), Olivia Bartlett (artist) with Dean Dermot Dunne. (Photo by Lynn Glanville) back cover: March lectures being held in the Cathedral.

Origination and Printing by FPC Graphics Ltd., Dublin Ph: 01 892 8009 Email: [email protected] 301147 Autumn Newsletter 30/10/2014 13:36 Page 1

Friends’ News – Autumn 2014

Contents

From your editor Lesley Rue 2

Dean’s Letter The Very Rev Dermot Dunne 3

Ordination Sermon The Rev Gary Dowd 4

Heritage week and Culture night Nuala Kavanagh 6

Celebrating with an Ghaeilge The Rev Adrienne Galligan 7

The Little Museum of Dublin Maggie Mack 8

Getting to know your Chapter The Rev Nigel Sherwood 9

Focus Ireland 9

Portrait of Dean Desmond Harman Olivia Bartlett 10

Ice Bucket Challenge 12

Residential Priest Vicar The Rev Garth Bunting 13

A Century ago Dr Kenneth Milne 14

My Ordination The Rev Kevin Conroy 15

Bikers arrive at the Cathedral The Rev Andrew McCroskery 16

Getting to know your Chapter The Rev Canon William Deverell 17

News from the Music Department Ian Keatley 18

Tax Relief on donations Brian G. Bradshaw 19

Launch of new biography Lynn Glanville 20

Christ Church portraits Dr Raymond Refaussé 22

Retreat in the City 23

Subscription Form 24

Contacts at Christ Church Cathedral inside back cover

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Friends of Christ Church Cathedral

From your Editor Lesley Rue

Where has the year gone… “Christmas is not all about giving – It is time to reflect on your life and to give thanks for all we have”

Welcome to the autumn edition of the Friends’ News. The Friends AGM was held on Sunday 15 June, this was a very busy day, we catered for over sixty Friends at lunch and the lovely portrait of our former Dean, Desmond Harman, was unveiled. You can read in this issue on page 10 how the artist Olivia Bartlett got her inspiration for the painting.

We are delighted to welcome back one of our Canons – Ken Kearon. Ken has worked as Secretary General of the Anglican Communion since 2005. He has recently been appointed elect of Limerick and Killaloe.

I would like to thank all those who were kind enough to write articles for this issue and also to Lynn Glanville for photographs.

Wishing you all a Peaceful and Blessed Christmas.

Lesley

Sung Services: Said Services:

Sunday: 11.00: Choral Eucharist Monday-Friday: 10.00: Morning Prayer

Sunday: 15.30: Choral Evensong Monday- Saturday: 12.00: Peace Prayers

Wednesday: 18.00: Choral Evensong Monday- Friday: 12.45: Eucharist

Thursday: 18.00: Choral Evensong Monday- Friday: 17.00: Evening Prayer

Christmas Services and Concerts during December:

Tuesday 9 Annual Charity Carol Service in aid of Peata Therapy Dogs 13.15

Wednesday 10 Christmas Concert by the Cathedral Choir 20.00

Thursday 11 Christmas Concert by the Cathedral Choir 20.00

Sunday 14 Celebrity Organ Recital by Daniel Hyde 16.45

Monday 22 December Nine Lessons & Carols (NO TICKETS) 20.00

Tuesday 24 December First Eucharist of Christmas 23.00

Wednesday 25 December Christmas Day 11.00

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Friends’ News – Autumn 2014 Dean’s Welcome The Very Rev Dermot Dunne

workings of the cathedral and this year is no different. Last year we inaugurated this day as Cathedral Foundation Day and this year we will be continuing in that vein. This is an occasion when I invite everyone who has any connection to the cathedral to come along and celebrate Choral Evensong with us at 6pm in the evening and enjoy a reception afterwards. This year I am inviting all the Friends of the cathedral to come along to this celebration. I do hope you are able to come and be with us for this celebration of cathedral life. If you do intend to be present on the evening please contact me by email to indicate your intentions. My email address is: [email protected].

You will see in this issue many events advertised for the Christmas season including the Christmas services. One that stands out is the annual service of Nine Lessons and Carols which takes place on Monday 22 December at 8pm. In the past we had to free-ticket this service as so many Dear Friends attended. In recent years the attendance numbers have dropped. I have therefore decided for the service to be a Welcome to this autumn edition of the Friend’s News. It non – ticketed event and those who come will get seats is always good to remember how the cathedral is central on a first-come-first-served basis. to the life of the united dioceses. Many diocesan occasions in the cathedral serve as such a reminder. As the leaves begin to drop and the autumnal cool air Events such as, the Mothers Union annual diocesan begins to take grip and we prepare to batten down the service, the schools’ service, ordinations to the diaconate hatches for winter, may I wish you and yours every and priestly orders and confirmation are but a few of blessing and a safe passage through, hopefully a mild many such events. This past year we celebrated a winter. particular event that enjoined the cathedral to the diocese in a common celebration of the life and ministry Blessings of one of our best loved archbishops, namely . Cathedrals have a special link with the archbishop Dermot of the day as it constitutes the teaching seat or cathedra for him to teach in the diocese on matters of faith and morals. In late July we honoured Donald as his biography, authored by our own Aonghus Dwane, was launched at a dedicated reception which took place after a celebration of Evensong. In a note from Nancy Caird, Donald’s dear wife (and I hope she will not mind me sharing this with you), she recounted how Donald came alive that evening, enjoying the contact with so many familiar faces and being back in his spiritual home. It was a delight to honour a man who was humble in his life and ministry, who was a great support to his priests and people and who gave so much to the life of the dioceses and to the cathedral. It was a tribute to him to see former archbishops present accompanied by our current primate, Archbishop Richard Clark of Armagh.

We celebrate the life of St Lawrence O’Toole on 14 November next. It is a special day in the life of the cathedral commemorating the contribution to Christ Church made by the patron saint. Usually the cathedral chapter meets on that day to discuss the life and

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Friends of Christ Church Cathedral Ordination of Deacons Sermon preached by the Rev Gary Dowd (Glenageary)

Forgive me for beginning terms of structure and practice, has to be shed or radically on a personal note. But it reformed, so that the Church has the freedom to minister is just over 28 years since I more dynamically and effectively. was ordained deacon, together with Paul I read with great interest the profiles of each of the Willoughby and the late candidates as they appeared on the Diocesan website at the Stephen Hilliard, in this end of August. Firstly, I was struck by the diversity of very building by backgrounds within the group and the circuitous route each Archbishop Donald Caird. I has already travelled to get to this point this afternoon. At have no idea where that least two have lived or worked on another continent. Sensing time has gone. I cannot a call to move from Hawaii to Dunmurry certainly recall who preached at demonstrates that God has a sense of humour! All the that service back in June 1986 let alone anything that was said candidates have already been involved in other forms of from this pulpit so I am under no illusions that any of the ministry, often within other denominations and traditions, five candidates this afternoon will remember, let alone be much of it innovative and new. And now they believe that inspired or motivated, by anything I might say. God has called them to be a deacon in his Church, God obviously wants to work through each of them as they build On the day I was made deacon, I probably looked at some of on those experiences. A very real danger for those of us who the senior clergy present and offered a silent prayer “Lord, have responsibility for these intern deacons for the next nine please may I never end up like them”. But of course in those months is that we will be tempted to overlook, ignore or intervening years I have become them and these days I must belittle that experience. “O forget what you have done in the confess, I am often weary, disillusioned and cynical about the past, this is how things have always been done in the Church Church I have tried to serve. If the institutional Church were of Ireland!! Such an attitude would be to the detriment of a ship I have come to see it as being rudderless, fatally holed both the newly ordained deacons and to the wider Church as below the water line, sinking, a vessel long since abandoned a whole. Could the diverse nature of this group of candidates by many of those in whom we have invested so much of our be a sign that old boundaries and divisions within the time and energies trying to keep on board. If I was being institutional Church are finally crumbling? Is the Church of totally honest with David, Kevin, Alan, Cathy and Abigail I Ireland at last ridding itself of the perception that it is little would NOT want to be in their shoes this afternoon, starting more than a private members club? Hopefully we are finally out, as they are, in ordained ministry in 2014. moving towards becoming the inclusive, witnessing community that welcomes every seeker regardless of their I realise that this could hardly be described as a very positive background or tradition. message so far. Nothing like the affirmation or encouragement each of them needs on this life changing David, Kevin, Alan, Cathy, Abigail, in believing that God has occasion. called you to be a deacon in his Church you also acknowledge Let us try and change that. Just a few minutes ago the that God is calling you to serve. No matter what sort of Archbishop asked each of the candidates the following preferment may come your way in the future you should question: Do you believe in your heart that God has called you never forget, as some of us unfortunately do, that serving to the office and work of a deacon in his Church? Each others is at the heart of ALL ministry. Recently, prominent replied: I believe that God has called me. You cannot get much Church figures such as Pope Francis and the Archbishop of more positive than that: I believe God has called me. However Canterbury, Justin Welby, have been putting renewed ageing, cynical fools like me view the current state of the emphasis on their call to service. Both have chosen to shun Church and the effectiveness or otherwise of its ministry and many of the traditions and symbols of office in order to give mission, God continues to call people to serve the Church. Of them greater opportunities to come alongside people, humbly course, God can revive the Church. God will revive the offering themselves and their gifts to others. All of us are Church, God is reviving the Church, despite the best efforts of called to do the same. some of us, but that Church is unlikely to be in the form that many of us have known or been familiar with. That thought One thing that has changed quite dramatically over the 28 may well frighten us. Some will always resist change, try to years since I was ordained is the standing of clergy in the selfishly cling on to what makes them feel comfortable and wider community. Once upon a time it set you apart, gave you secure, they will do all in their power to hinder innovation, status, guaranteed you a place at the top table, automatic thwart fresh ideas and impede new ways of being Church but access to places such as hospitals and insured you had a I have come to believe that we are presently living through a platform from which to speak. Those days, in my experience, period of transition as we struggle to deal with the gradual have largely gone. Surely this is not a great cause for regret, realisation that much of what served us so well in the past in but rather a welcome development. With fewer barriers and

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Friends’ News – Autumn 2014

pre conceptions between those of us who are ordained and the knock on the door will bring. The excitement and enthusiasm people we encounter, it should make ministry that little bit each of you is experiencing as you look forward is, I hope, easier. mixed with more than a little nervousness, apprehension and fear about your worthiness and ability to deal with all that The second thing that came through from reading those lies ahead. That is quite normal, we would worry if it were profiles of the candidates today was their excitement and not so. enthusiasm about their forthcoming ordination and the hopes they had for their future ministry. Sitting in on a few select One of the certainties about ordained ministry is the vestry meetings over the coming months should soon temper uncertainty of it. Those being ordained today do face more that. Seriously though, I urge those about to be ordained uncertainties than my generation, there can be no getting deacon today, do everything you can to maintain that sense of away from that. Is our parish system on the verge of collapse? excitement and enthusiasm going forward, make time to pray, Will there be the financial resources to provide stipends for as read, study, think, spend time with family and friends, get many full time clergy as we have had in the past? Is the away from time to time, maintain your hobbies and interests institutional Church in terminal decline? These are just some outside of the Church, otherwise you will burn out. You may of the issues we face but ones that, so far, we have lacked the think that you have travelled in a rather roundabout way to courage or the vision or the energy to really confront. But get to this stage but please believe me when I say there are instead of becoming increasingly disillusioned, lethargic and many more ups and downs, twists and turns, highs and lows cynical we must look on the current challenges we face as a yet to come. That sense of being “called by God” doesn’t mean Church as a God given opportunity to offer the good news of that a smooth path lies ahead. As in any walk of life there Jesus Christ to the world in new, fresh and dynamic ways. will be the routine, the mundane and the downright boring, As God is still calling diverse and gifted people to serve the but you just never know what the next telephone call or Church, we should be facing the future.

Newly Ordained Deacons - L to R The Rev Alan Breen, the Rev Cathy Hallissey, the Rev Abigail Sines, the Rev Kevin Conroy & the Rev David Martin with Archbishop Michael Jackson. Flowers We are very grateful to those people who generously gave donations towards flowers and arranged them over the past few months: Bríd Conneely, Marion Coombs, Flo Fennell, Helen Finn (in memory of my brother Jim, his son Marc and Seth, Cian, Ricky & Clodagh), Noel Healy (in memory of Rose & David), Joan Heney (in memory of my parents George & Anne and my brother Harold), Rev W. Heney (in memory of my parents John & Frances), Vera Huet, Elizabeth Hurley, Johanna Hyland, Joan Lambert, William & Margaret Marshall, Muriel McCarthy (in memory of Prof. Charles McCarthy), Alison O’Donoghue, Maureen Reid and Tracy Stewart.

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Friends of Christ Church Cathedral Heritage week and Culture night Nuala Kavanagh, Director of Operations at the Cathedral

Heritage Week 2014 was extremely well supported in the composer, David Bremner. Truly there is no better way to cathedral. Five expert guided tours were given by members of celebrate the season than by enjoying Christmas in the the cathedral community, all of which were fully subscribed magnificent and beautiful setting of Christ Church Cathedral. with over 20 participants each day. Dr Kenneth Milne Singing a wide variety of classic carols and modern presented ‘Christ Church in Context’ whereas Dr Michael favourites, the renowned choir will inspire and entertain, O’Neill took participants on a short guided walking tour of whilst the rousing audience carols will really get you into the the cathedral and its surroundings, taking in ‘1000 years of Christmas spirit. Complimentary mulled wine and mince pies history in one hour’. Head Verger, Daire Daly gave a guided will be served during the interval. Sing along with favourites tour of cathedral and belfry, Education Officer, Lesley-Anne such as O Come, All Ye Faithful, be inspired by glorious choral Carey gave a special musical tour of the cathedral, complete gems such as Good King Wenceslas, and top it all off by with organ recital by Director of Music, Ian Keatley and Revd singing Handel’s beloved Hallelujah Chorus along with the Canon Roy Byrne lead a tour of the treasury. stellar voices of the Cathedral Choir in a beautiful candle-lit setting. Carols by Candlelight sell out every year so book early Traditional music was provided by Comhaltas Ceolteoirí to avoid disappointment. Tickets cost €25 and can be Éireann Navan on the Friday of Heritage Week. The Cumann purchased from Entertainment.ie or by calling 01 677 8099. Gaelach na hEaglaise exhibition in the South Ambulatory was also promoted as part of Heritage Week and was enjoyed by our many visitors, as was our exhibition of concrete sculptures in the Chapter House Ruins, in collaboration with the MEDS international Design Workshop. We gave discounted admission to Irish families visiting during this week and many families availed of this offer.

Culture Night 2014 took place on Friday September 19th and the cathedral produced a wonderful programme centred on music. A number of choral works were performed by the cathedral choir followed by a very special silent film screening accompanied by the Christ Church Cathedral Assistant Organist, David Bremner. Organ scholar, Martina Smyth, performed pieces by J.S. Bach on the Organ and we also had a piano and flute recital with Katie Hyland and Fiona Gryson. The cathedral also ran historic tours of the Cathedral, Crypt and Belfry as well as storytelling for children in the Crypt.

Following last year’s sell-out success of ‘Der Golem’, Christ Church Cathedral was delighted to welcome back acclaimed, eclectic music ensemble, 3epkano, performing a live score to the legendary Gothic classic, ‘The Cabinet of Dr Caligari’ on Friday 24 October was in association with the Bram Stoker Festival. A huge commercial and critical success in its day, it is one of the most influential films of the German Expressionist movement and considered the first true horror film as well as introducing the ‘twist ending’ in cinema. 3epkano are a Dublin based music ensemble who are dedicated to producing original soundtracks to silent, avant-garde, and contemporary cinema. Since 2004, the group have played numerous headline shows in both Ireland and the US to huge critical acclaim.

Christ Church Cathedral is delighted to announce the return of the annual Christmas Concert featuring the resident Cathedral Choir on Wednesday 10th and Thursday 11th December at 8pm. Under the direction of Ian Keatley, Director of Music, the choir will be accompanied by organist and

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Friends’ News – Autumn 2014

‘Celebrating with an Ghaeilge’ Rev Adrienne Galligan

to bind and to heal, as evidenced by the growing interest in Irish in . He also mentioned that inadequacies are exposed in a monolingual existence and the very sounds of language, in this instance, Irish, give a certain type of joy: This he emphasised by quoting the beauty of sounds in Seán Ó Ríordáin’s ‘Ag filleadh abhaile ó rince an tsaoil is solas an peaca ag dul as.’ The President was presented with copies of the Prayer Books, the most recent one being the Cumann Gaelach na hEaglaise visit Áras an Uachtaráin Bilingual edition. After the interesting speeches, we were invited to enjoy refreshments and were then given a guided tour of the When Lord Chesterfield, the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland from State rooms by Commandant Louise Conlon, the President’s Aide 1745-6, developed the Ring of Wilderness around the Phoenix de Camps. We were informed about Donegal woven rugs specially Column (completed in 1747) he opened up the Park to the designed to reflect the ceiling; the windfall enjoyed by visitors to nobility of his day. That era of class distinction has the Áras when they discovered a genuine Italian designed diminished, thankfully, and now Phoenix Park is very much a fireplace in their home based on information gleaned from the shared space. Today, the Phoenix Column marks the meeting design of the Áras fireplace! and the unique lighting point of roads serving north, south, east and west of the city arrangement in the small sitting room. The visit was very and country and symbolically it is also the point at which the leisurely and cordial. For some it was the first time to be in the road leading into the Áras begins. Significantly for the Áras and for some it was the first time to meet the President. For Cumann Gaelach na hEaglaise visit to Áras an Uachtaráin on all it was an opportunity to use the ‘cúpla focal.’ As the President the 24th June 2014, it also marks the spot where we met and had further engagements that day with new ambassadors of the waited our turn to enter through the gates of the Áras. As we Federal Republic of Nigeria, Macedonia and Iraq presenting their made our way from the car park, introductions were made credentials, we parted company, headed back to the Phoenix between Cumann members some of whom had never met Column and took to ‘na ceithre háirde.’ Those of us who had the before and walking to the main entrance, first to greet us opportunity to attend thank Caroline and all on the committee from the President’s party were his two wonderfully friendly for organising the event and I would also like to thank Lynn Bernese Mountain dogs, Bruno and Snow. Glanville for permission to use her photos and Bishop Burrows Representatives of the Cumann travelled from Dublin, for permission to use quotations from his address. Wicklow, Kilkenny, Waterford, Cork, Kerry, Mayo, Donegal, and Cavan for our historic visit. Historic because it was one of the events marking the 100th year since the Cumann was founded at a meeting in St Anne’s, Dawson Street. Historic also because one of its instigators became President of Ireland from 1938-45, namely, Douglas Hyde. One of his speeches entitled ‘The necessity for de-Anglicising Ireland’ gave rise to the founding of the Gaelic League and Hyde saw the Irish language as a ‘neutral field upon which all Irishmen might meet.’ The Irish language formed in his thinking a constituent part of Irish identity, and was not to be used as a political weapon. Worshipping God through the medium of Irish was a natural extension of his cultural endeavours. His inauguration was conducted in Irish; all of the Áras staff spoke Irish – Making ourselves at home in the Áras except the butler (as none could be found fluent in Irish). One of the similarities with our current President, Michael D. Higgins, was Hyde's determination to promote the Irish language and culture at every opportunity. After greeting everyone individually, the President commended Cumann Gaelach na hEaglaise for doing “invaluable work in keeping our vernacular alive.” Responding to the President’s words of welcome to the Cumann members, Bishop Burrows, President of Cumann Gaelach na hEaglaise stated that the language was a God given gift which we give back to God as we celebrate and worship through Irish. Bishop Burrows also emphasised the power of the Irish language President Michael D Higgins with Daithí Ó Maolchoille and Bishop Burrows

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Friends of Christ Church Cathedral The Little Museum of Dublin Maggie Mack

An entire room is furnished to look like a mid-century office in “The Irish Times”. Before leaving this room take a peep through the window! There’s a U2 room, a 1916 room and a James Joyce room. In the 1930’s to 1990’s room we see that John Lennon wrote in Jammet’s guestbook, “The other three are saving up to visit !” When the museum was being prepared for use an electrician on the job said he had something of interest. When he was a schoolboy his teacher asked her class to find out who had lived in their houses and to write to the former occupants asking about their memories of the house. The electrician, as a young boy, discovered that Group of Friends who visited the Little Museum Samuel Beckett had lived there and he sent off a letter as part of the project. The famous writer replied and his fascinating Trevor White is a publisher and food critic. On 9th September handwritten letter, which he signed “Yours antiquatedly” is seventeen Friends of Christ Church Cathedral met at 15 St there, for all to see, beside the photo of the house. Another Stephen’s Green, near the top of Dawson St., to see “The Little photo shows Micheál MacLiammóir and Hilton Edwards Museum of Dublin”. Eileen Kennedy and Patricia Sweetman walking in Stephen’s Green. were organizers and leaders. Trevor opened a new museum in 2011 which illustrates the history of Dublin from 1900 to 2000. An apocryphal story says that an urchin ran up to Micheál He called it “The Little Museum of Dublin” and he asked the and shouted, “Why don’t you marry him?” public to lend or donate artifacts to it relevant to twentieth “How could I?” says Micheál. “He’s a Protestant!” century Dublin. Christ Church Cathedral loaned the ensign of HMS Dublin which was presented to the Cathedral following Alfie Byrne also gets a life-size cardboard cut-out. He was the Battle of Jutland called “The Shaking Hand of Dublin” due to his eternal canvassing. It worked - he was Lord Mayor ten times. We paid €4.50 each and trooped up the stairs. The walls are covered with photos and news cuttings of publicity-worthy When we had absorbed enough culture we were led persons, events and things. A life-size cardboard cut-out of Mrs downstairs and out on to the street. We turned right and Brown is near an Alex Findlater delivery bicycle with its big clambered down to the basement of the house next-door to an basket. The Dublin trams did not turn around when they unusual cafe called “Hatch & Sons Irish Kitchen”. It provides reached the terminus: the driver went to the other end for the organic fare and the impression is that everything is return journey. A seat from one of those trams shows that the tremendously good for one. Also everyone who visits the back, which is fixed on other seats, could be moved forward or museum gets 10% off. Just keep the receipt. I had tea and a backward so that passengers could sit facing either way. delicious lemon something. There’s a guided tour every hour and we caught the 2 o’clock Altogether we had a delightful afternoon. Thank you Eileen one. Our guide said we could try the sweets from a large jar and Patricia. on a table - not museum pieces but fresh Jelly Babies!

Dates for your 2015 Diary Saturday 21st March: Afternoon visit to Maynooth College, Co Suggestions Lunch at various eateries in the town or at the Orchard Garden Centre Cafe Dublin Road , and/or afternoon tea following the tour. Tuesday 28th April: Afternoon visit to St Fin Barre’s Cathedral Cork. Lunch at the Farmgate Restaurant English Market optional. Travel by train/bus or your own transport Watch out for further details of these two events in the 2015 Bulletin

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Friends’ News – Autumn 2014 Getting to know your Chapter Rev Canon Nigel Sherwood

Can you give me a brief history of your ministry in the so fortunate to serve under ? who in my opinion was one I was ordained deacon in St. Fethlimidh’s Cathedral in of the best clergy to train Kilmore by the late Right Reverend Gilbert Wilson on the 29th curates in the Church of June 1986. I was the first of a new phase of curates to be Ireland. The late Dean introduced to that diocese in the mid-eighties. I was working Herbie Cassidy taught me in the parish of Kildallon and Kilmore as a curate with the the importance of pastoral contact in the parish as well as late Dean Herbie Cassidy. After exactly three years I was many other significant aspects of ministry in rural and urban appointed as Incumbent of the Tullow Group of Parishes in life. My history teacher in the King’s Hospital School, the Diocese of Cashel and Ossory. I remained there for six Maurice O’Connell, gave me a sense of the importance of years and in 1995 was appointed to the Arklow Group of trying again, despite failure and disappointment. As well as Parishes where I still minister today. receiving a bible on the day of my ordinations two close friends gave me a gift of two books that I still look to for What did it mean to you becoming a canon of the Cathedral? inspiration, especially when I am about to pull my hair out. I viewed my appointment as a great privilege. Having said “The Christian Priest Today” written by a previous Archbishop that, titles do not really interest me and I am still wondering of Canterbury, the late Michael Ramsey and “The Minister’s where the big gun is when the c word is used! I could not Prayer Book “edited by John W. Doberstein. understand the fuss and importance that other people have placed on the title and appointment especially in the parish What aspect of the Christian faith means most to you? and the local community. I was very humbled when the The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ and his example through a parishioners hired a bus to attend my installation. When I ministry to all people, especially those who were outcasts in recovered from the ordeal of preaching for the first time in society through no fault of their own. the Cathedral I began to actually enjoy my day out with my wife and the welcome we received from the cathedral staff Can you tell me about your family? and congregation. The distance from Arklow sometimes makes My wife Carol has been a great support and inspiration attending the Cathedral a little difficult but I hope that I will throughout the past twenty seven years of married life. We be able to contribute to the life of the cathedral as well as I have three sons Adam, Robin and Peter who at present still can over the years. live at the Rectory!! A pet rabbit Hobnob (named after the biscuits) and guinea pigs Trinny and Susannah were an Who are the most inspirational people you have known? integral g part of our lives up to their death a few years ago. My National School Teacher, Mrs. Thompson gave me a great sense of the importance of God in my life in a very steady, What are your leisure interests and hobbies? non-emotional way, when there was a great emphasis on The annual holidays in the summer with as many family treating those around you with respect and honesty. She members as possible. This keeps me sane and recharges the would say something like it does not matter what other batteries for another year. I walk regularly and attempt to people think, God will always know what you really did. I was play golf when the occasion presents itself.

Focus Ireland

The Very Revd Dermot Dunne, Dean of Christ Church Cathedral would like to thank to everyone who, last month, supported him in helping to raise money in aid of Focus Ireland’s Shine a Light on homelessness campaign. On Friday 17 October, The Dean left the comfort of his own home for one night to ‘sleep rough’ in the Gardens and ‘Shine a Light’ on homelessness in Ireland. He slept on cardboard, in a sleeping bag with just a cup of soup. Considering it unacceptable that over 5,000 people are homeless in Ireland today and that one in seven is a child, he signed up for ‘Shine a Light Night’ so that he could play his part in helping Focus Ireland provide vital prevention services which help change people’s lives. Focus Ireland aim to break the cycle of homelessness by giving people access to information, housing, childcare and a range of education services throughout Dublin, Cork, Kilkenny, Limerick, Sligo, Waterford, Clare and Wexford. Dean Dunne added “I am delighted to be part of such a worthwhile cause. Focus Ireland is a very important charity and do such wonderful work in the homeless sector. Your support not only helped to raise critical funds, it brought us all together to help people who are homeless or at risk. With your help, Focus Ireland can continue to provide services to those most in need and enable them to move to a place they can call home.”

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Friends of Christ Church Cathedral Painting a Portrait of Dean Desmond Harman. Olivia Bartlett

First of all, I want to thank the Committee of the Friends of Christ Church Cathedral Dublin. In the reference photograph, Christ Church Cathedral for commissioning me to paint a kindly provided by David Bockett, this emblem is partially portrait of Dean Des Harman. I feel not only honoured but hidden and I have chosen to portray it that way because Dean also delighted to have been given the opportunity to depict Harman was a self-effacing man. He came to us as one who him as I understood him to be. came to serve, as one who never flinched from his duties and responsibilities, and he carried these out with the utmost The first time I saw Canon Harman was when he was at the modesty. cathedral as a member of its Board. There he was, in his high clerical collar. I had not seen one of those for decades. My I remember when he first came to us as Dean we all rejoiced grandfather always wore one and so did my uncle! I felt a real that we were in safe hands. He brought harmony and healing sense of recognition because a collar like that proclaimed with him, to a place that had been without a leader for a Desmond Harman as a straight down the middle, traditional while. We saw too, that, although Cathedral worship may clergyman of the Church of Ireland. Without a doubt he have not been his default mode, so to speak, his love of music should be portrayed wearing it and in choir dress. and musicality was totally at one with the fine music of the cathedral services and we saw that he was increasingly at He was a tall man who held himself upright and this also gave ease. We saw him growing into his role, I have shown him, I a clue as to his being very much a man of principle. He stood hope, modest and happy as our Dean. up for what he believed to be right. I would certainly portray him standing. My husband John was on the Cathedral Board I had Dean Harman placed on the canvas, I’d ensured the at this time too and he always said that Des listened very pose said what I believed it should say; it was now time to carefully to all arguments during a Board meeting and never address the skin tones. Des’s colour was high – he was a keen allowed himself or the Board to be deflected from the real gardener. I wanted to show this while being careful not to issue. Time and again, just when the members thought they over colour him. I did what artists can do and polite people had it all wrapped up, he would say “But Mr Chairman …”, can’t. I looked hard and long at every nook and cranny, make his carefully considered point and bring the Board deciding how I could best achieve the appropriate shade. I members back on course. started with his ear – seemed like a safe place and anyway, ears are complicated things – no two people have the same He was incorruptible, honest and true, while at the same time configuration – they’re like finger prints and it made sense to considering the views of others. Yes, I have depicted him give his ear special attention. It was clear that the ear was hot upright, but you will see too, that I have him with that – why was it hot? Was it hot in the room? Was his system inclination of the head that indicates his willingness to listen under any sort of stress? On his forehead was a sheen – again and reach out. His openness at least to consider other evidence of heat or stress. I looked into that young looking viewpoints and perspectives showed in the openness of his face and into the eyes and there, behind the twinkling glasses gaze. He had nothing to hide and he would look directly at and the gentle smile were eyes that gave signs of a system one, always kindly and often with a twinkle in his eye. This under some stress and this took me straight back to that gave one the impression he was younger than his years and I terrible December when we learnt that our safe pair of hands, for one, was taken aback when I realized I needed to whiten our modest, unassuming, conscientious dean was no longer his hair. with us. I found myself feeling the desolation of that terrible time and I had to put down my paint brush. Painting a The amusement in his eyes was underpinned by a gentle smile portrait can be a very emotional thing – one needs to relate to – an open smile. His was an unusual smile and I worked hard the subject in order to bring it to life. I aim to do that with to get it the right shape. each portrait I paint.

Once I had the upright posture, the slight idiosyncratic When one paints in oils one usually has several paintings on incline of the head, the direct gaze of the eyes, the set of the the go because each layer of paint needs to dry before the mouth and of course the clerical collar, I wanted to ensure next one can be applied, so I turned to my portrait of Dean that I had this very precise man’s dress shown as totally Salmon. I had never met that dean so this would give me time correct . Who better than John with whom to check this out? to recover my equilibrium as well as to allow the Harman John, like Desmond Harman, a stickler for accuracy, put on painting to rest for a while. Painting for me is also a his own apparel, immaculately arranged, so that I was able to prayerful process, and I knew that the answer as to how I understand not only exactly how a clerical black scarf hangs, could return to the Harman portrait would be given. As I but also to portray the way the hood should be worn just painted the calm Dean Salmon portrait, I remembered the beneath that famous clerical collar. words of Ruth Blackith, Professor Robert Blackith’s widow. A copy of my portrait of him hangs in the Zoological This is a decanal portrait, so, of course, Dean Desmond Department at Trinity. Ruth moved me deeply when she said Harman is shown wearing the emblem of his office as Dean of

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Friends’ News – Autumn 2014

“You have given Robert back to me.” Here was my answer; I with an oil painting hung alongside recent deans in the would return our Des to us, to the bereft community of the Chapter House of Christ Church Cathedral Dublin. I hope that Cathedral. I would paint him as the vigorous man we knew. as future Cathedral Board Meetings take place, the members When you see the portrait, you will judge whether I have will be aware of Desmond Harman’s presence and recall the brought him back to the Friends who wanted him honoured days when he would quietly say” But Mr Chairman…”

The Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols MONDAY 22 DECEMBER 2014, at 8p.m.

THIS IS A NO TICKET SERVICE THIS YEAR SEATING WILL BE ON A FIRST COME BASIS

Cathedral’s Annual Charity Carol Service

Tuesday 9 December 2014 at 1.15pm

Collection will go to

Peata Therapy Dogs

No tickets required Mince pies & tea will be served after service.

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Friends of Christ Church Cathedral

Ice bucket challenge

This took the world by storm, hundreds of people were happy to get a bucket/s of ice cold water thrown over them, and in return they donated money to Motor Neurone Disease. This charity has benefited to well over €1 million. Here are some of our clerical friends who took part.

The staff of the cathedral.

Revd Jack Kinkead - Curate Assistant Taney

Most Revd Dr Michael Jackson Archbishop of Dublin Revd Ken Rue – Associate Vicar Wicklow & Killiskey

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Friends’ News – Autumn 2014 Updates from the Residential Priest Vicar Rev Garth Bunting

One of the pleasures of my vocation is having the opportunity to spend time journeying with an individual or groups as we reflect on the place of God in our lives. Recently, a group of diocesan lay ministers asked me to lead them in their annual quiet day. For them, it was to be a time of gathering together to encourage one-another and to be encouraged in their ministries around the dioceses. My role was to create the space for that encouragement to happen. I am writing this at the end of September 2014. This time every year, the church is thinking about harvest thanksgiving. We give thanks to God for the blessings God bestows on us in the provision of our daily needs, we remember those for whom Lay ministers with the Revd Garth Bunting, following the Eucharist at the lay daily life is a struggle, whether that is here at home or in the ministers’ quiet day in the College of Education. developing world and we connect the harvest theme with our Over the coming months there are several opportunities for lives as Christians and the harvest of the vineyard we are space and time to receive from our Source as part of the called to serve and minister in. spirituality programme in the cathedral. It was that image of the vineyard we focussed on during our In Advent we will have two quiet evening in Christ Church quiet day together. Cathedral. The dates for the evenings are 25th November and In the Old Testament, the image of the vineyard often 9th December. Both evenings will begin at 6pm with a light portrays God’s people. In Isaiah 5, for instance, we see meal served in the cathedral crypt before moving up into the described through a poem or song how God cares for his cathedral to be led in our time together in reflection on people, the vineyard. “My beloved had a vineyard on a very Advent themes. fertile hill. He dug it and cleared it of stones, and planted it I am pleased to say that on the 25th, the Archbishop of with choice vines; he built a watch-tower in the midst of it, Dublin, the Most Revd Dr M Jackson, will lead the reflections and hewed out a wine vat in it……” (vs 1-2). In this particular and on the 9th , it will be the Bishop of Cashel, Ferns and passage the people are disobedient and fail to live in God’s Ossory, the Rt Revd M Burrows. There will be a small charge ways and so the vineyard is given over to the “briers and of €10 on both evenings and we will finish by 9.30pm. thorns”. Booking will be essential so please contact me at the cathedral Jesus takes up the image of the vineyard, to describe God’s if you would like to attend. creation. In John 5 we have recorded for us how Jesus uses the Our third annual Retreat in the City will take place from 20- vineyard to tell the disciples that God is the vine-grower, he 22 February 2015. The retreat conductor will be Br John SSF. (Jesus) is the vine and we (the people) are the branches. One Br John is an Anglican Franciscan brother and is based at of the points of the parable is to encourage us to remain Alnmouth Franciscan Friary in Northumberland. He was born connected to the vine. and raised in London. After gaining a degree in French he The source of our life and fruitfulness as Christians is Jesus. spent a couple of years on a church-planting team near Liege, In the same way that a branch that is cut off from the trunk Belgium, before training for the Baptist ministry and serving of a tree will die, so our lives as Christians will die if we do in two pastorates in England. He has been a Franciscan not remain connected to the source of our life, Jesus. brother for 13 years, and is a fan of Van Morrison. And that is what we spent our quiet day considering. The The retreat will take place in the cathedral from Friday overarching theme of the day with the lay ministers was how evening through to Sunday after lunch. The cost is €80 which they remain connected to Jesus as they fulfil their ministries includes the retreat sessions and lunch on Saturday and in parishes around the dioceses. We considered, for instance, Sunday. It is non-residential but there are some good and the place of spiritual practices in our lives that give us space reasonably priced hotels near the cathedral which you can and time to listen to the voice of Jesus. We used lectio divina book separately. (holy reading) and meditative walking as examples of two Again, please contact me if you are interesting in knowing spiritual practices that can help us to remain connected with more about Retreat in the City or the Advent quiet evenings. the vine to aid us in listening to God. Having regular space and time for spiritual practices, I As you continue your journey, may you find encouragement believe, is vital for us whatever our calling within the and nourishment from the source of our common life Christian community is. We cannot be fruitful if we do not together, Jesus our Lord. receive from the source of our life.

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Friends of Christ Church Cathedral A century ago: World War I Dr Kenneth Milne

Strange as it may seem to us nowadays, the beginning of the [Christ Church Cathedral Grammar First World War in 1914 is not referred to in either the Chapter School, which had its origins in or Board minutes of the time. Perhaps this is not surprising, 1480 when provision was made for given that few people at the time had the remotest notion that four boys ‘to sing with the choir’, the conflict would last for four years, nor that it would bring closed in 1972.] about the collapse of most European empires and terminally It is to the files of the Church of Ireland Gazette in the Library weaken the victors. of the Representative Church Body that we must turn to find However, in the report of the Board of Christ Church for 1914 (to out Church of Ireland attitudes to the outbreak of World War I. be found, printed and bound in the archives) there is much Great Britain declared war on Germany on 4 August 1914. The information about cathedral affairs at the time, including a edition of the Gazette dated 31 July carried the following brief reference to ‘the new armies’. There is a long paragraph, editorial: ‘Is it Peace?’ headed ‘Grammar School’ that runs as follows: ‘By the time when this issue is in our readers’ hands, that ‘The increased number of boys has long caused congestion, but European conflagration which students of current history sufficient accommodation has now been provided to enable all have feared for years past may have begun. Austria has classes to work in comfort, and with adequate provision for declared war against Servia (sic). Russia’s troops are seating. Three boys have entered business life during the year- mobilising on the Austrian frontier, and it is confidently two with the London and North-Western Railway Co., and one expected that she will take up arms on Servia’s behalf. We as a boy clerk in the Civil Service. read in the French press that people accept as quite natural ‘Thanks to the kindness of the Committee of the Harding the idea that France will be drawn into the conflict. Working Boys’ Home, it was possible to conduct a Gymnastic Preparations are complete for mobilisation of the French Class during the winter months, and under the careful fleet. The German fleet is concentrating in the North Sea and instruction of Mr. Gahan the boys made considerable progress the Baltic. The British fleet has not been dispersed since the in Swedish Drill and Gymnastics. A Scout Troop (12th city of King’s inspection at Spithead, and it is being kept in a state of Dublin) has been formed [some mementos are held in the instant readiness for war. archives], and it is expected that a good deal of health-giving ‘There have been so many European crises in recent years that work will be put in during the coming summer. Many of our people have come to regard them with some equanimity. But past boys have taken service in the new armies, and it is there is no doubt that the present crisis is the most dangerous hoped that a complete list may soon be available. The boys that has ever confronted us…. have doubtless been inspired by the example of their former Masters, Mr. Fitzgerald and Mr. Johnston, both of whom are ‘It is evident that, even if war does not come, a profoundly now at the front. The vacancy caused by Mr. Johnston’s anxious period of suspense when the efforts of statesmen departure has been filled by an arrangement which enables must have free scope in the attempt to meet the danger, must the School to have the services of the Second Clerical Vicar; lie ahead of us. and the benefit to the School of having Mr. Dungan on the teaching staff is already most marked.’

The Music Room as a classroom The new look Music Room.

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Friends’ News – Autumn 2014

‘…the situation in Ireland enormously handicaps the efforts A month later, the Primate of all Ireland and Archbishop of of British diplomacy to ensure peace, or, in the terrible event Armagh (John Baptist Crozier)made an appeal to members of of war, the readiness of Ministers to engage in it with a the Church of Ireland that was carried by the Gazette (4 united and confident people behind them…. September) ‘In the interests of Ireland our perplexing difficulties ought ‘The war which rages upon the continent makes the heaviest to be settled without delay.’ demand upon the manhood of the Nation that Great Britain has ever experienced… Let us be well assured of one great By the time the issue of 7 August had been published, the outstanding fact- that so far as England is concerned no more country was at war. According to the Gazette’s editorial. righteous war has ever been waged. For it is a war that has ‘At this moment the heart of every Irishman is thrilled by the been forced upon the Nation if solemn pledges were to be knowledge that North and South have declared that they will kept.’ throw in their lot with the Empire in the hour of our great During this period, Pope Pius X died. The Gazette commented (4 peril. It is satisfactory, in the midst of our anxieties, to know September 1914) that ‘members of all Christian Churches’ would that Unionist and Nationalist have merged their differences in have heard this with regret, as he was a man ‘who attracted all their anxiety to range themselves against the foe of liberty. All who came into contact with him by his urbanity of manner and honour to Mr Redmond for the public spirited speech he made his transparent goodness.’ in the House of Commons. All honour to Sir Edward Carson for his determination to place loyalty to the King first.’

My Ordination Rev Kevin Conroy

I arrived very early for the ordination. Tourists were still Webster and Norman Douglas, walking about the Cathedral, admiring the magnificent stood as my sponsors is one architecture, wondering at the history of the building. Perhaps which I will treasure. some even found a moment to pray to a God who is so present Ordination is not about the in the quietest corners, taking a well-needed respite from their individual. Vocation arises from and within community. It wanderings through the city. I needed to sneak into the was important to me that there should be representation Chapter Room before it became crowded, leave my bag, and from both the parishes from which I come and the one in seek my place of refuge. As it happens, one of my fellow which I will serve for the next two years. ordinands, Cathy Hallissey, had beaten me to it and I was glad to have an opportunity to share my nervousness. We walked I was most grateful that Revd Eugene Griffin was available to the circumference of the Cathedral, speaking in low voices, sing the Litany. Eugene and I started studies together at the partly out of respect for the others who were visiting, but Theological Institute and have become close friends over the partly for fear of somehow interrupting each other’s thoughts. years. The people of Castleknock, Mulhuddart and Clonsilla We were not long alone. The others in the group began to are lucky to have such a gifted curate with them. arrive, each with that same look, a mix of joy, excitement with a smidgen of panic. Slowly the tourists emptied the building. Of course, the laying on of hands by the Archbishop was a The choir arrived for practice and both the Dean and the most special moment. Time seemed to stand still as I Residential Priest Vicar appeared to impart a comforting word considered the years of prayer, counselling and studies which of support. The clergy were also beginning to gather. had lead up to it. And then I thought..... does the stole hang from my left or right shoulder? Why is it that I can be so At 3:00 we were summoned to the Chapter Room as it was easily distracted! time to make our Declarations. I must admit that this essential part of the day’s proceedings had a surreal quality. Thankfully the weather was fine, allowing us to process We stood before the Archbishop, Registrar and all the clergy outside and meet with family, friends, work colleagues and and solemnly pledged our allegiance. The Declarations seemed parishioners. It was the first time many of the people I almost from another era, heavy with tradition. Indeed I was invited had visited Christ Church Cathedral and they all loved grateful that the decision was made that the Ordinands the experience. They wondered at the colour and the uplifting should move to our seats before the procession. It gave me an music. opportunity to breathe deeply and relax outside of the Chapter Room before the ceremony would start. The life of a Cathedral is indeed so important in the city. It raises the spirit of the multitude that visits. Of course the Strangely, much of the ceremony itself passed in a blur experience is only possible with the work of many, some although there were moments that I hope to remember for a silently in the background. I thank the Archbishop, Dean, long time to come. Vicar and all the staff and volunteers for making my ordination to the diaconate so memorable. The moment when my new , Revd Ian Gallagher and representatives of the parishes of Wicklow & Killiskey, Vera

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Friends of Christ Church Cathedral Bikers Arrive At Christ Church Cathedral Rev Andrew McCroskery

Back in early August the Revd Andrew McCroskery from Saint Bartholomew’s Church in Dublin and the Revd Nigel Kirkpatrick from Saint Dorothea’s Church in Belfast embarked on a ten day trip to visit all thirty cathedrals of the Church of Ireland to raise funds and awareness for the work of the United Society (formely USPG). The trip began on 1st August at Saint Ann’s Cathedral in Belfast and for the next ten days Andrew and Nigel made the 3,500 km journey around Ireland visiting all of the cathedrals. At each cathedral they stopped to have a short service, praying for the cathedral and its people and its ministry within the diocese, and also praying for Swaziland and for the work of the United Society.

On 9th August at 11am, they rolled into the grounds of Christ Church Cathedral, accompanied by a few local bikers who had also come along to support them. They were joined in the cathedral by parishioners from local parishes and the cathedral community for the short service. Thankfully the weather was kind and as the sun beamed down on all those gathered they were able to get some refreshments in the cathedral grounds. After a little rest they then made their way out through Inchicore to the Naas Road to head to Kildare cathedral.

The trip was a great success, raising much needed funds for the work of the United The bikers arrive at the Cathedral Society (€11,500 and counting) and especially for their work in Swaziland, and raising awareness of the work that is done. there The United Socety is an Anglican missionary society that works in partnership with the Anglican dioceses throughout the world and here in Ireland it works mainly with Swaziland, sharing the love of God in action and seeing lives transformed. The work is often with communites that have been internationally overlooked and face great difficulties in relation to poverty, health, education and social justice issues. They work within already existing communities and with churches that are already established to support and help with the development of local skill and empowerment to make a lasting change. While the mission partners are Anglican, the United Society is ecumenical in its outlook and also works with other denominations and faith communities.

Swaziland has some of the highest HIV infection rates in the world and the population of 1.1 million is in decline. The Anglican Diocese of Swaziland is small but mighty, reaching every corner of the country, and help is given to all irrespective of faith or denomination. Many parishes run feeding stations (most people in rural areas still only practice subsistence farming), home based care for the sick and orphan care. The diocese also runs an HIV office and manages 26 schools. The United Society in Ireland funds a full-time development officer for the diocese to help work alongside Bishop Elinah in the goal to self-sufficiency. One of the major projects supported by the United Society is the Luyengo Farm project, On your bike - Maureen Reid which is an imporant teaching and educational tool for local people, a provider of employment, a place where people can buy affordable and healthy food and is also an income generator for the diocese to help further support all the other important life-giving projects throughout Swaziland.

It was very good to have the support of Christ Church Cathedral and its community and local parishioners and clegry who came on the day to make it a very special event. Both Nigel and Andrew were very grateful of the support they had on the day and for the warm welcome to the cathedral. You can see some of the photographs from the event on Facebook (www.facebook.com/bikerson.amission.9) and on Twitter (handle: @BikersOnMission) and you can also read about it on Linda Chambers’ Blog, where you can also make a donation – it’s not too late! (lindatuspg.blogspot.ie)

A typical Swazi homestead

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Friends’ News – Autumn 2014 Getting to know your Chapter Rev Canon William Deverell

Can you give me a brief history of What aspect of the Christian faith means most to you? your ministry in the Church of I am often knocked out by how up to date and practical the Ireland? Gospel is. I think the way Christianity handles forgiveness is After selling the first Apple particularly practical, especially in an increasingly “rights computers in Europe, then telephone based” culture which can often be judgemental. Modern systems and watches in Weir’s the psychology is only catching up with Jesus two thousand years Grafton Street Jewellers, I served a later by saying if you really want to be happy, be grateful curacy in Portstewart and my first (loving God) and if you want to be really happy, help someone incumbency in Sixmilecross and Carrickmore near Omagh, else (loving your neighbour). before coming to Tallaght fifteen years ago prior to the arrival of the immigrants, both Indians (nurses) and Africans. Can you tell me about your family? My wife Valerie is an Adelaide nurse in Tallaght Hospital. Our What did it mean to you on becoming a canon of the daughter has just graduated from Trinity as a dental nurse cathedral? who is also working within the parish and our son is in I was humbled and honoured. I have been fascinated with transition year. All three are a great support to me and the how cathedrals are one of the few churches with growing parish. congregations, probably because of their excellence in music amongst other things. What are your leisure interests and hobbies? My family, caravan touring along the Irish coast, history Who are the most inspirational people you have known? including Holocaust and local studies, current affairs In an age of Celebrity Culture (often fallen) Jesus is looking including business, commuting by bicycle and more attractive everyday! I have had occasion recently to canoeing(admittedly now on holidays!). reflect on the witness of the many faithful parishioners, they are inspirational.

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Friends of Christ Church Cathedral

News from the Music Department Ian Keatley

The choirs of Christ Church Cathedral performed at the 20th devoted to serving children suffering from serious illnesses Anniversary Barretstown Gala Ball at the Convention Centre including blood disorders and cancer. The girls’ choir and Dublin on Saturday 27 September. The cathedral choir Joyce Murphy recorded a song for Barretstown performed at a red carpet reception as guests arrived. Our called “Dream Baby Dream” which was launched by the cathedral girls’ choir performed, with Joyce Murphy, during President of Ireland earlier this year. If you the gala ball dinner in front of over 1000 guests including have not done so already, please download a copy of the song local celebrities, pop and rock musicians, actors and from iTunes to help us raise funds for Barretstown. On 2nd politicians. May 2014 the Girls’ Choir appeared in a high profile fund- raising concert, at Dublin’s Olympia Theatre, which was broadcast on RTÉI television.

Outreach and Education remain a primary focus for the music department in terms of development and new projects. Last year we created a new Diocesan Music Outreach Programme seeking to build strong and positive relationships with the parish churches of the diocese. Last year our cathedral choir visited Kilbride church near Bray to support their harvest festival celebrations. This year we visited St Maelruain’s Church in Tallaght to support their worship. Further developments will see the creation of new training sessions for diocesan parish church organists and choirmasters taking place at Christ Church.

Christ Church Cathedral Choir perform at a red carpet reception for the Barretstown Gala Ball, September 2014.

During the summer, our cathedral choir raised €2,154.86 for Barretstown by organising a sponsored walk in the Wicklow Mountains. We would like to thank members of our cathedral congregation who came to join us on the walk as our community continues to come together with a common sense of purpose

The partnership between Christ Church Cathedral’s Music Department and Barretstown Children’s Charity was announced in February 2014. Our cathedral girls’ choir, re-founded in January 2013, visited Barretstown, a charity

Christ Church Cathedral Choir raises money for Barretstown with a sponsored Christ Church Girls’ Choir at the Convention Centre Dublin for the walk in the Wicklow Mountains, summer 2014. 20th Anniversary Gala Ball

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Friends’ News – Autumn 2014

Our Music Summer School, this year welcomed children from local schools into the cathedral community. Participants took part in musical workshops including choral rehearsals, music theory classes, historical study and basic spiritual formation. The course culminated in a joint service with the cathedral choir which proved very engaging for some of the children who had not previously experienced cathedral worship and liturgy.

Feast of St Fin Barre Christ Church Cathedral Choir gave a world premiere performance of a new commission, Hymn to St Fin Barre, by David Bremner, on the Feast of St Fin Barre. This is a new musical setting of an Irish poem, known as The Hermit’s Song, written in the Old Irish language around the 8th century. It combines traditional Irish motifs with a minimalist musical language. Michael Dawson (above) (Bass Lay Vicar, Christ Church Cathedral Choir) played the uilleann pipes as part of the service. Participants of the Christ Church Cathedral Music Summer School 2014

Tax Relief on Donations for the benefit of the Cathedral. Brian G. Bradshaw

The rules regarding tax relief on donations by individuals to the specified rate. registered Charities have changed with effect from January 1st For example: John makes a donation to the Cathedral of €250 2013. (which is the minimum amount to qualify for a refund) in the In future the tax refund will go to the Cathedral (the Registered tax year 2013. Under the Tax Relief Scheme the Cathedral is Charity in this case), irrespective of whether the donor is deemed to have received a donation of €362.32 (i.e. €250 assessed for tax purposes under the PAYE system or as a “Self grossed up to allow for the 31%) less tax deducted of €112.32, Assessed” tax payer. and the Cathedral may qualify to receive a refund of €112.32 after the end of the tax year. The amount of the repayment for any tax year cannot exceed the amount of tax paid by the donor for that year. (If Mary only The donor must complete a CHY certificate in order that the paid €100.00 Income Tax for 2013 then the repayment is Cathedral may claim the refund and such a claim, which restricted to that amount). benefits the Cathedral by an additional 44.9%, is at no additional cost to the donor. A donation, which satisfies the criteria, is grossed up at the specified rate (presently 31%) and the approved body (the Further information is available on the Revenue website Cathedral in this case) is deemed, for the purposes of the relief, (revenue.ie). to have received the grossed up amount net of tax deducted at

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Friends of Christ Church Cathedral

Launch of new biography of former Archbishop Donald Caird Lynn Glanville, (Diocesan Communications Officer)

Welcoming everyone, Dean Dermot Dunne, said the cathedral was proud to host the launch and described Dr Caird as a man who had given huge commitment to the Church of Ireland, the dioceses and the Gospel.

Catherine McGuinness said that the book had recreated many memories for her and said that Aonghus Dwane had created a fully rounded picture of Dr Caird within his community, his Church and his family. She spoke warmly of Dr Caird and his contribution to the Church and love of the Irish language.

She described the author, who in a previous career had appeared before her in court on many occasions as a senior prosecution solicitor, as meticulous and said he had carried L to R: Mary & Mike Murphy, Caoimhe Brouwers, that through to his writing of the biography which she stated Timothy Dwane & Aonghus Dwane was “extremely well researched but also very readable” and The former Archbishop of Dublin, Donald Caird, is the subject thanks to Columba Press excellently produced. of a new biography which was launched in Christ Church Cathedral on Saturday, July 26. The launch took place in the Aonghus thanked everyone who had helped bring the context of the centenary celebrations of Cumann Gaelach na biography together and all who had helped with its launch. hEaglaise, the Irish Guild of the Church. The biography, titled He said he was particularly delighted to see so many of the Donald Caird: Church of Ireland Bishop: Gaelic Churchman: a people he had interviewed for the book present for the Life and published by Columba Press, was launched by Mrs launch. He also thanked Cumann Gaelach na hEaglaise for Justice Catherine McGuinness who described as “both their support for the book and Columba Press for publishing scholarly and accessible”. it. He thanked Nancy and Dr Caird’s family for their patience in waiting for the publication of the biography. The large crowd in attendance included Dr Caird and his wife Nancy who received a very warm welcome. He was presented Nancy Caird described the launch as being like a Christening with a copy of his biography by the author, Aonghus Dwane. which followed a very long gestation. “It’s immensely Also present was the , the Most Revd Dr readable. Aonghus has a tremendous turn of phrase,” she said. and another former Archbishop of Dublin, Dr . Dáithí Ó Maolchoille of Cumann Gaelach na hEaglaise observed that Dr Caird was the most senior member of the This biography explores Dr Caird’s career from the earliest organisation and that they were delighted to support Aonghus days. As , and Kildare, and in his endeavours. Archbishop of Dublin successively, Dr Caird enjoyed a distinguished career in the Church of Ireland. His lifelong Aonghus Dwane, is the Irish Language Officer in Trinity interests in the Irish language and ecumenism mean he is College Dublin. Originally from Cork city and a graduate in well–known in wider Irish society.

His time in office, particularly as Archbishop of Dublin in the mid–1980’s to mid–1990’s coincided with historic developments in the life of both Church and State, including the great “liberal agenda” debates on contraception, abortion and divorce in the Republic; the ordination of women to the priesthood in the Church of Ireland, and the developing peace process in Northern Ireland.

A man who had met both Peig Sayers and CS Lewis, the broad scope of Donald’s friendships and interests both North and South afforded him an unusual insight into many aspects of the Irish scene, combining leadership of the southern Protestant community with interested engagement in other streams of Irish life.

Aonghus Dwane with Bishop Donald Caird & his wife Nancy

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Friends’ News – Autumn 2014

law of UCC, he worked as a senior prosecution solicitor before moving to the Irish language sector in 2005. A contributor to various various newspapers and journals, he was director of the Celtic Revival Summer School at Christ Church linking Dublin and the Aran Islands in 2006, and has also worked with Colmcille, the Irish–Scottish Gaelic cultural agency.

The launch took place following a service of Urnaí na Nóna (Evensong in Irish). A reception was held afterwards and those present also had an opportunity to view a new exhibition in the cathedral marking notable events in Cumann Gaelach na hEaglaise’s history.

************************************************* Dean Dermot Dunne, Aonghus Dwane (author), Justice Catherine McGuinness and Daithí Ó Maolchoille

Thank You part of its centenary celebrations, and my thanks to its distinguished chairman, Dáithí Ó Maolchoille. The wonderful Aonghus Dwane exhibition of panels and printed materials covering the history of Cumann Gaelach na hEagalaise to mark its This is just a brief note to express my profound thanks and centenary, researched and created by Canon Roy Byrne and appreciation publicly through the pages of the Friends’ News the development officer of Cumann Gaelach na hEaglaise, to all those who made Saturday July 26th last such a Caroline Nolan, and with the assistance of Lesley-Anne Carey, memorable day. The Dean, the Very Rev Dermot Dunne, very formed an extremely interesting part of the proceedings and kindly facilitated the reception marking the launch of my attracted wide and well-deserved appreciation. The hard work book on Donald Caird, which was hosted by the Cathedral, and of Canon David Gillespie ensured the availability of the new the wonderful hospitality offered combined to make a very APCK leaflet on the Irish language. Former judge of the relaxed and enjoyable occasion. Ms Nuala Kavanagh, Mark Supreme Court Catherine McGuinness spoke beautifully and Hansard and the other Cathedral staff ensured that all the warmly about Donald, and the book, and her kind words left logistical arrangements were carried out seamlessly and to me very humble and grateful. It was truly wonderful to have perfection as is customary with everything they do. Mr Shane family members, many friends and colleagues from different McCoy, Ms Patricia Lowth and the rest of the team from The areas of life present, and I’m very grateful indeed to all those Columba Press ensured a professional, friendly and efficient who came along, as well as the many others who sent their sale of books. The members of the consort of the Cathedral good wishes. Finally, but crucially, my thanks to former choir sang beautifully at the service of Urnaí na Nóna, which Archbishop Donald Caird, whose presence, along with that of was commented upon by so many people present. Cumann his wife Nancy, and other close family members, made the Gaelach na hEaglaise very generously facilitated the launch as day. Míle, míle buíochas.

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Friends of Christ Church Cathedral

Christ Church Cathedral Portraits Dr Raymond Refaussé, Librarian & Archivist, The Representative Church Body Library

A portrait of hangs in the Chapter House and is institutional and the only one of a group of three (the others are Archbishop King and hint of any individuality is Archbishop Hoadley) which are all of similar size and a ring on the small finger appearance and framed in similar fashion. of his right hand.

The portrait is not signed or dated but, on the basis of a mezzo-tint by Andrew Miller in 1746, has been attributed to Francis Bindon, son of David Bindon, M.P. for Co. Clare. Little is known of Bindon’s early life but on returning to Ireland from Italy, where he studied painting and architecture, he devoted himself to portraiture and designing country houses. Among his sitters were Hugh Boulter, archbishop of Armagh; Richard Baldwin, Provost of Trinity College; and Patrick Delaney, . However, he is best remembered for his iconic portrait of Jonathan Swift which hangs in St Patrick’s deanery. Bindon ceased painting around 1758, due to failing sight, and died suddenly in 1765.

Walter Strickland, in his Dictionary of Irish Artists. concluded that although Bindon’s portraits appeared to be ‘faithful likeness’ of his sitters, they were ‘stiff and awkwardly posed, and have little artistic merit’, an assessment with which it is difficult, in the case of Charles Cobbe, to disagree.

Archbishop Charles Cobbe Charles Cobbe, was born in Winchester, schooled in Winchester College and educated in Trinity College, Oxford. After ordination he came to Ireland in 1717 as chaplain to the Lord Lieutenant, a sure path of preferment in the Church of Ireland, and was successively & Achonry and before, in 1731, being translated to Kildare where he held the deanery of Christ Church in commendam. In 1743 he became archbishop of Dublin. His entry in the Oxford Dictionary of National Biography, notes, somewhat enigmatically, that ‘Historians have disagreed in their assessment of the vigour with which he performed his ecclesiastical duties’. Cobbe died in 1765 and was buried at Donabate where he had built a country seat, Newbridge House, with which his family is still associated.

Cobbe is painted seated on a red covered chair. There appears to be some kind of a pedestal to his left on which there may be a black mortar board and the background may be an impression of the cathedral. However, the picture is distinctly murky and perhaps a good clean might reveal some background details. The archbishop is conventionally vested in white rochet with wide lawn sleeves, black chimere and bands. According to the manner of the day he wears a full wig. There is a little colour in his cheeks but his expression is devoid of animation. Altogether the portrait appears severely

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Friends’ News – Autumn 2014

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Friends of Christ Church Cathedral

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Friends’ News Christ Church Cathedral is published by The Friends of Christ Church Cathedral, The Chapter House, Christchurch Place, Dublin 8

The opinions expressed in this journal are those of the authors and need not represent the views of the Friends of Christ Church Cathedral.

The Friends of Christ Church Cathedral support the work and worship of the cathedral. Membership is open to all

Patron: Archbishop of Dublin: The Most Revd Dr Michael Jackson Chairperson: Dean of Christ Church: The Very Revd Dermot Dunne Vice-chairpersons: Residential Priest Vicar: The Revd Garth Bunting Archdeacon of Dublin: The Ven David Pierpoint Archdeacon of Glendalough: The Ven Ricky Rountree Honorary secretary: Kenneth Milne Honorary treasurer: David Bockett Honorary membership secretary: Patricia Sweetman and Eileen Kennedy Honorary editor: Lesley Rue

Committee members: Brian Bradshaw Desmond Campbell Valerie Houlden Eileen Kennedy Ruth Kinsella Don Macaulay Patricia Sweetman Terence Read David Wynne

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front cover: Portrait of Dean Des Harman, Sue Harman, (and her grandson), Olivia Bartlett (artist) with Dean Dermot Dunne. (Photo by Lynn Glanville) back cover: March lectures being held in the Cathedral.

Origination and Printing by FPC Graphics Ltd., Dublin Ph: 01 892 8009 Email: [email protected] 301147 Autumn Cover 30/10/2014 14:20 Page 4

A series of free lunch time lectures

Tuesday 4 November 2014 Cathedral Architecture Dr Michael O’Neill, Architectural Historian

Tuesday 11 November 2014 Cathedral Monuments Dr Stuart Kinsella, Christ Church Research Advisor

Tuesday 18 November 2014 Cathedral Portraits Dr Raymond Refaussé, Librarian and Archivist, RCB library

Tuesday 25 November 2014 Cathedral Liturgy Very Revd Dermot Dunne, Dean of Christ Church

Lectures begin at 1.05 pm and end at 1.35pm followed with tea, coffee and discussion, concluding at 2pm Admission is free and all are welcome

Supported by the Friends of Christ Church