Issue 61 / Summer 2020

Transforming Community, Radiating Christ

FOR I WILL RESTORE HEALTH TO YOU, AND YOUR WOUNDS I WILL HEAL, DECLARES THE LORD...” JEREMIAH 30:17 Children with

In this issue of n:vision we CHILDREN WITH ADDITIONAL NEEDS Additional Needs - welcome back familiar faces and 02 old n:vision friends to learn of their lockdown experiences and thoughts. 04 MINISTRY OF HEALING Welcome in Church? A friend of the Diocese, Bishop Tim Wambunya of Butere Diocese in Kenya, rekindled the link between his diocese and 05 BISHOP ANDREW WRITES ours in 2016. This link was originally forged in 1916 when 2 children of Bishop George Chadwick of and OUR MAD LIFE worked there as missionaries. Bishop Tim’s many friends in 06 Derry and Raphoe joined in prayer when they learnt of his The Derry and Raphoe Diocesan Board of simple. If the child has sensory issues, will support them - they will know best and it is hospitalisation due to Covid 19. Bishop Tim features on our 08 WELL I WASN’T EXPECTING THAT! Social Responsibity and SEEDS Children’s church cause a meltdown? Will service better than second-guessing. cover, pictured on his release from hospital. Ministry are working together to find sheets be printed in large print? Will there A new friend of the diocese, Bishop Hall Speers of Mahajanga, CHRISTIAN AID MEETS CRISIS Work with Sunday School leaders to make 10 new ways to support children with be somewhere to put a wheelchair, so it originally from the parish of Urney, gives n:vision a glimpse sure material is inclusive. Volunteer to be a additional needs and their families. is not seen as a hazard? These and many of life some 9,200km away, during Covid-19. Kirsty McCartney reports. more questions should be considered before one-to-one support for the child, after going 12 OTM 2020 even entering a church building (as long as through Access NI and Safeguarding Trust Whilst a number of articles in this issue deal with the effect of A few months ago I read an article about a there are no steps!) My family has first- Training. Parents should not be relied upon Covid 19 on our lives, their optimistic outlook is heartening. MAHAJANGA CALLING father who had taken his two sons, one who hand experience of taking a teenager in a to be there for every lesson - they need time Other features add to this breath of fresh air blowing through 13 is on the Autistic Spectrum, to an Evensong wheelchair to church. For the most part we to worship independently. Acknowledge our diocese. During the lockdown months we have missed service in King’s College. The father describes were lucky as our church family saw the need the family during social times and do not our shared worship in the familiar surroundings of our local COVER PERSONALITIES how, during the service, he was approached to make changes and even cut a pew so that leave them on the fringe. Take time to get churches. The good news is that we have rediscovered an 14 by an usher and asked to leave with his the person in the wheelchair formed part to know all the family. Talk to the children important truth which we have always known. All of us, lay autistic son as he was being too noisy and of the congregation and was not stranded with additional needs - not just about them people, clergy and those in Church leadership, are the real 19 BIBLE COMMENTARY disturbing other people worshipping. The in the aisle. But for every positive there was or over their heads. Possibly more important vibrant Church which continues to worship and witness 9 year old who is non-verbal makes his nearly always a negative. Like the boy in than talking is listening. When you ask a collectively through the creative and imaginative use of social CAPTION COMPETITION excitement known through shouting out Evensong, my sister was non-verbal but loved question listen to the response - if hospital media, internet and radio as well as snail mail and phone! 20 and laughing. He loves church buildings and music and let her excitement show vocally. appointments are happening what is the choral music so I am sure he was delighted to Most people accepted this but tuts could outcome? How is the new school year going? Always before us the affirming words of Bishop Andrew - TO OPEN OR NOT TO OPEN ... be there. The father left with his sons but did also be heard around the church building. People may not want you to know all details “We are a people of faith, not fear.” 21 not leave it there - he wrote a letter to the This reaction of a minority had a negative but a listening ear is always benefical. Once Our faith is in the God of restoration. Dean which was published online. The Dean impact and often leaves a feeling of being this relationship is established you can ask if HOPE We live in a broken, argumentative world and sometimes 23 issued a public apology noting King’s College disheartened and isolated. there is anything in particular for which the tries to meet the needs of all who attend, but we feel as if life breaks us. Some feel frightened, helpless family would appreciate prayer. DIOCESAN MANOEUVRES* had spectacularly failed the family on this It is not all bad news though, as we as a and without hope, but we know we can place ourselves in the 24 occasion. As a result the Dean met with the family of God can do many things to help. These are only small changes but could restorative, repairing and healing hands of God. God can take father and the two are working on different Instead of tutting if someone non-verbal make a massive difference. We are all part the broken pieces of our lives, our shattered spirits and our BOOK REVIEW ways to make the chapel and services more makes noise at the “wrong” time during the of the family of God and are all entitled damaged hearts and repair them. He is a God of restoration. He 26 accessible. Sadly this is not an isolated service, talk to the family afterwards - and to worship together. The Board of Social will sustain us with strength and encouragement to continue incident and families with children with say something to the child like, “you were Responsibilty and SEEDS Children’s ministry our journey with him. Jeremiah 30:17 “For I will restore health 59 AND FINALLY... additional needs can often be faced with really enjoying the music today”, or “it was are working together to find new ways to you, and your wounds I will heal, declares the Lord…” various challenges in everyday life. Church lovely to hear you joining in our worship.” to support children with additional needs Each day we pray afresh, Thy Kingdom come. is no exception to this. Be available to help families if needed. For and their families. A few parishes have an example if an Autistic Spectrum Disorders taken some training in Makaton (a form Rev Katie McAteer, the Editor If you have experience of working with (ASD) child has a meltdown, be there to help. of communication using words, signs and *Diocesan Manoeuvres - articles will feature those appointments or moves occurring between the last issue of n:vision and 3 weeks prior to children with additional needs, or have If there are other children with the family symbols) and it is hoped we can provide E: [email protected] issue date of current n:vision. Up-to-the-minute news of clergy and lay someone in your family with additional engage them and allow the parents time and more training for parishes in the future. If appointments, moves and other announcements may be found through needs, you will know life can be very space to deal with the meltdown if needed. there is anything we can practically do to the Diocesan Facebook page and website www.derry.anglican.org challenging, and sometimes something (Be sure to adhere to Safeguarding Trust help please do not hesitate to get in touch as simple as going to church is far from guidelines) Ask parents what you can do to by emailing [email protected]

2 N:VISION | DIOCESE OF DERRY & RAPHOE SUMMER 2020 3 Ministry of Healing Bishop (Rev Paul Lyons, Chair) Andrew

‘We are not responsible for the worry about their finances at this time. God of love, we pray for charitable Provide for them in their need. Lead your organizations, churches, and all who provide writes... circumstances we are in, but we are responsible for the way we allow Church to share in generosity and use the selfless, caring services to others. May they resources with which we have been blessed. continue to be there for others in their those circumstances to affect us; we For any that do evil and seek to exploit and time of great need. Provide, by your mighty can either allow them to get on top of gain at the expense of others, Lord Jesus, economy, the ability to receive funds and us or we can allow them to transform frustrate their efforts. maintain service to others. We pray for those us into what God wants us to be.’ living in continued social isolation. Protect Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer. Oswald Chambers them from despair and loneliness. Direct Dear friends, your church as to how we can be a friend God of compassion, we pray for the abused, How could anyone accurately describe The dedication of those at the frontline foreseeable future due to the requirements The Diocesan Ministry of Healing Committee who is near in this time of distance. Show us unloved and those who are unsafe in their what we have been living through over of medical care has been, quite simply, of social distancing and hygiene measures. have had to postpone a diocesan prayer the way of connecting and kindling greater homes. In these times of uncertainty, Lord, these last months? The world has changed astounding and must never be forgotten. But I know that with God’s help we will rise ministry training day and plans to visit community relationships with others, in hear the cry of those in misery and need and we have been changed with it. to the challenge. parishes, if a visit had been requested. Like of rescue. May you have mercy and lead these circumstances. The days ahead as we journey back to some everyone else we are not sure what we’ll be oppressors to change their ways, to turn As we slowly and tentatively move out of sense of normality will be uncertain but each The celebration of Pentecost, the gift of the permitted to do in the coming days. In some Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer. from evil. Jesus, you weep as we weep. lockdown our thoughts are with those who step, no matter how small, is important and Holy Spirit, reminds us that no matter what ways, these days are a time to wait, but also Bring your comfort & presence to the gives us hope. challenges lie ahead God is with us. We can Saviour, Teacher, and Friend, we are wrestling with grief due to Covid-19 and they can be a time to progress. many who suffer silently. God our Lord, rely not only on His presence but also His pray for ourselves. May we draw near to you those who have known added pain in their Each Sunday during lockdown I have surfed equipping power as we seek to worship Him Throughout the Bible we read about people in our fears, in our loneliness, in our boredom bereavement as a result of the necessary the internet and have been able to feel part Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer. and make Him known in our needy world. Be who have to wait. What I learn from their and in our waiting. May we praise your Name restrictions of these days. Financial hardship of services being broadcast right across encouraged and stay strong. In an uncertain experience is that waiting is best used as God of hope, we pray for our community, in gratitude for the gifts and blessings we take and uncertainty have become unwelcome the diocese and beyond. I know we have time and a distressed world, be confident in a time to pray and prepare for God’s will for the economy of our country and of the for granted. May we seek your way as revealed companions to many. Children and young appreciated these opportunities to worship the knowledge that we are not alone. in the future. As we wait for the coming world. May we place our hope in you above to us in scripture and follow in the example of people have missed classroom and friends, together even though we are apart. The and grandparents have longed for the loving months to unfold we could utilise the time all. We thank you for the small business Jesus Christ, and in the Presence of your Holy remarkable feature of this online worship “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and embrace of their grandchildren. in no better way than to pray. We have all owners, all employers and the frontline Spirit: to witness to our salvation and joy in is that many, many more people have been courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be faced new challenges during lockdown and workers who have kept going in recent times, seeing your kingdom come. engaging with church than would normally The trials of this time have been more discouraged, for the Lord your God will be we are wondering how God wants us to providing for us. May we value them as you do so. Many have sought out the reality of than matched by the kindness and love with you wherever you go” Joshua 1:9 respond. Prayer brings faith, guidance and do. Give them wisdom in decision-making in faith and worship to help them navigate their Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer. that has been so evident. Many had been hope. Below, I’ve included some prayers that the days ahead. May they have the support way through the choppy waters of lockdown. living in their own individualistic bubbles. Yours in Christ, you might want to use as you seek God’s they need and find fulfilment in their life’s The Lord bless us and watch over us; The Lockdown has shown that we need each As Christians we believe it is the most +Andrew Derry & Raphoe kingdom to come. work. As followers of your Way, may our Lord make his face to shine upon us and be other. Neighbours and strangers have reached wonderful thing in the world to be followers prayers and support be a way we can love gracious to us; The Lord look kindly upon us out to one another in acts of kindness and of Jesus Christ and, at this time, maybe more God of justice, we pray for the poor, the our business neighbours. and give us peace. Amen unemployed, the laid-off, the economically service that have been such a blessing. than ever, we are called to engage with those vulnerable and for those who constantly Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer. ‘Prayer is where the action is.’ John Wesley We have learnt new skills, not least of a who are searching for faith, hope and love. technological nature. I didn’t even know what It is becoming clear that when we return a zoom meeting was before 23rd March! to church it will feel very different for the

4 N:VISION | DIOCESE OF DERRY & RAPHOE SUMMER 2020 5 n:vision is grateful to Bishop Hall Speers and his wife Sarah for the regular updates from Mahajanga. These communiques are entitled... ‘Our Mad Life’

At the moment Sarah is not in Mahajanga embarrassment I had forgotten my crozier. communications skills. I struggle. Before Our Mad Life - news spread rapidly that Mahajanga city had but Bishop Hall has sent emails. In this In the morning (Saturday) an early and the lockdown I had arranged that we would The New Normal? its first case of covid-19. The person was one perforce dark start as we headed back to the use the school Easter holiday to assemble of a group of twenty government officials issue we read highlights of some of his church for morning prayer. However, when people for various meetings: the Mission and Social distancing demanded that our Sunday which arrived here a week ago from the capital comings and goings... we got there the startling news had come Evangelisation department, the Development morning Sung Eucharist at the cathedral be to ensure that all was being done correctly from Mahajanga that the coronavirus had department, schools, and a committee given some relief funds by the church in divided into two services: 6.30am and the here. Meanwhile life goes on and I find myself Australia. With so many people normally on The Virus arrives arrived in Madagascar via air passengers organising the 25th anniversary of the diocese usual time of 9am. Accordingly I surfaced in that strange position, that I suspect most from Paris. We sat on the verandah of in August. Since the travel regulations had the breadline how does one single out the slightly bleary eyed at 5am and found myself of you are in, constantly asking the question. Last Thursday (19th March) having stopped Erick’s house and listened to the radio news been eased we decided to meet as planned. casualties of the present crisis? Here in the in the street at dawn at 6am behind groups “What can I plan?” all international flights Madagascar was on the radio facility of a mobile phone: a So I had to get busy preparing agendas and city it is slightly easier because of the tourist of young people laughing and chatting. I celebrating the fact it was free of the corona message from the President of Madagascar, some input. From a financial point of view it trade. Our hotels and restaurants are open thought, “If only these young people were all Will Mahajanga now be cordoned off like the virus. Not being quite so upbeat I called followed by a very clear statement from the was good to have all these back to back since but no foreign tourists and little prospect making their joyful way to church”. I was duly capital and Toamasina? Is total uncertainty a meeting of the diocesan Development Cardinal Archbishop saying all RC churches some people - archdeacon, rural deans - sit of any for a long time. A young man came astounded to discover that they were indeed about fixed dates in fact the new ‘normal’? Committee at short notice fearing that such and schools must close that morning and on most of these. But it came as a shock to to see me yesterday. He thought he had a all on their way to the cathedral. I had been What hasn’t changed is people’s belief that meetings might soon be banned. We had remain so. I had already made provision for be presented with the travelling costs. Due to permanent job in a fashionable restaurant dreading all those hymns, normally nine, the bishop has access to the goose that lays some useful conversations about the way a statement concerning our diocese in this social distancing the taxi-brousses are taking used by, among others, the clients at our plus chanted psalm, Gloria, creed, etc… To the golden egg and he will dispense funds if forward and a lot of depressing feedback eventuality. I phoned and half the number of passengers they normally most expensive hotel. The staff has been my surprise, given the cathedral had a large pleaded with persistently. Pointing out that about projects waiting interminably for confirmed that our churches too must do and have doubled and trebled the fares. reduced to one chef and one waiter. This also congregation with a lower average age, the “the goose” is currently in lockdown and not signatures from various government offices. shut that Saturday night. In less than an hour Also, due to the curfew from 8 pm until 5am, exposes another problem. Few employers singing was a joy and it was good to be back providing, goes unheard and so the requests I asked the rural dean of our southern district the mayor of the town with an entourage there are no overnight buses which means pay social security to their employees and to what felt normal - except that it wasn’t flow in. We have just received relief funds from what his weekend programme was and he was out with a megaphone telling everyone that people from the far ends of the diocese so this man finds himself with a pregnant normal and extra hymns were added to cover the Barnabas Fund, which many of you will be told me he was going to a parish meeting in that all children were to be kept at home needed to have overnight accommodation wife and no source of income and no right the socially distanced communion of the familiar with, to be distributed equally between Manaratsandry on Saturday. I made a snap as schools were shut, all places of worship and extra meals en route. Travelling is also to any benefits. One is so conscious that this people. Immediately after the service I was the clergy, catechists (Lay Readers) and decision to go as this avoided a long walk at would shut down that night and everyone much slower as everyone has to get out situation is spreading around the world. besieged by people requesting that we keep evangelists which works out at just under £20 a later date, I would have someone to look was to stop shaking hands and wash their at the police check points and have their The positives. Madagascar believes it has this time even when the emergency ends. At each. For some of them this will be a huge life- after me and it would be a great opportunity hands regularly. Very efficient and very clear. temperature taken. The parishes have been a plant medicine for Covid-19 and so far the 9 o’clock service, unsurprisingly, numbers saving gift, for others not so significant. I find to know at first hand what is happening in This was repeated throughout the morning. encouraged to start projects to generate nobody here appears to have died from the were less. At the end of the service my robes myself sheltering behind the regulations when I the church in that area. I caught an early taxi- Thus sadly Madagascar has joined the rest of income so the Development meetings are virus. The organic treatment is developed were soaked through and I realised another know how different people’s circumstances are. brousse from Mahajanga in order to connect the world as we struggle with the unknown varied. A novel project has come from Albert, by a government agency from Artemisia, reason why the earlier service felt so good - A lot of my devotional reading today has been with a morning sailing to Manarantsandry. outcome of the coronavirus pandemic. the evangelist in Beseva. Among his talents a plant used in malaria treatment, and the the temperature! about discernment. One bit of advice hit home: The rural dean, the Revd Constant, met is hairdressing so he has applied to the publicity says it is to be free to residents! if your plan is absolutely clear both in the short me to go to his house for lunch, which Our Mad Life - Life Goes On Development Department for start-up Today, Thursday, the classes sitting state Yesterday all seemed good here in Mahajanga term and the long term, the chances are that involved a hike to get there complete with funds for a barber’s shop. examinations this year return to school and as we heard the sad news that Madagascar it’s yours and not God’s. We are not endowed suitcase with all the “essentials” of episcopal An Easter like no other - we all hope. I they are to be provided with water and soap had its first covid-19 death, a hospital worker with clear knowledge of the future but are life: mitre, chimere, chalice and paten, am hugely impressed by how so many We are now trying to assess the hardship and sit a metre apart. There is some debate on the east coast in Toamasina. Then in the called to take one step at a time. Thank you Lenten vestments, etc. I realised to my continue to update and advance their IT caused by the lockdown as we have been about the use of face masks (cache bouches). afternoon all felt very different when the for your love and prayers.

6 N:VISION | DIOCESE OF DERRY & RAPHOE SUMMER 2020 7 Well I wasn’t expecting that! God moves in a mysterious way his wonders to perform ... one expects the unexpected to come knocking on one’s door now and again - but not scrubs, scrubs bags, knitted doctors and and double duvets and bedding and towels In coming months we ask you to remember nurses and crochet Scrubs Bears. For those too for the refuge as we are going through our AFIA scheme - Away From It All breaks on everybody’s door at the same time! isolated in hospital away from their families them quickly due to increased hygiene - if you know of a family who have been knitted hearts are being provided in pairs precautions.” under particular duress and would welcome with a prayer. The patient / care home a treat day - please contact Elizabeth In the blink of an eye our many members tools at 8pm on Mondays to say the Grace, been encouraged to link in with DAILY resident keeps one at hand and the family With the rise in FOOD POVERTY members Fielding, in confidence, at drmu.afia@gamil. became Indoor Members - confined to wherever they may be. HOPE the free phone line(0800 804 8044) has the other - it is a means of connection have been encouraged to drop items into com for details. home, cocooning or in self-isolation - created by the Church of England which and a way of saying - “you have not been the Food Banks in their local supermarkets. freedom whipped away, and “stay home, Little things have meant a lot. Templemore contains an array of options from listening forgotten - you matter”. In Raphoe Diocese, The ladies in MU are involved On-line we have been busy on Facebook save lives” became the order of the day. Branch Leader with her Sunday School put to hymns, prayers, services to the great and Clondehorkey Branches have with their parish in making meals for the page, Mothers’ Union Derry & Raphoe, together some 20 Treat Bags for indoor and stories behind the hymns. Option 4 then forwarded dozens of hearts to vulnerable in their community. through which we have aimed to post Other members found themselves in older members in the Parish. These were University Hospital ICU Unit where they uplifting thoughts, share our MU stories, Option 8 leads you daily to Mothers’ Union If any branch or parish can donate to our the front line as nurses, teachers, carers, “safely” delivered to people’s homes with a Midday Prayers. have been much appreciated. promote health and wellbeing, support the cleaners, shop workers, food providers cheery note. In Drumachose MU members hospital projects, FWA, DWDVS or to their bereaved, family life and keep members in and others. A member recently remarked, contributed to Easter hampers, and boxes of Sewing machines, knitting needles and Hospital have been delighted local food bank provider, this practical help touch with our diocesan partners and MU “whilst life has taken on a different home-made tray bakes that were delivered on crochet hooks have been busy - our partner to receive Toiletry Packs, whilst Foyle would be very much appreciated. worldwide. The Derry & Raphoe Mothers’ dimension in ways of working and VE Day. Recipients were surprised, delighted, hospitals will be thrilled to receive the array Women’s Aid (FWA) would now Union website is back up and running at navigating through the inconvenience of the and uplifted by this thoughtful gesture. of comfort teddies, neonatal jackets, cap, welcome them, together with baby www.derry.mothersunion.ie restrictions, life for us, as key workers, has blankets, fiddle muffs, cancer drain bags, supplies, e.g. nappies, blankets retained a certain amount of normality.” Members feel very blessed by the kindness knee blankets and cots for pre-term babies etc., as they prepare for increased Our monthly newsletter The Derry & and compassion of fellow members, the that have been created. numbers arriving as lockdown Raphoe MU News - is now being shared We dreaded the thought of loneliness neighbour who has pushed a note through unwinds. Unfortunately, lockdown around branches. The main website for and have missed visits of family and the door, the weekly shopper, the letter Crafting has adapted to Covid times and has led to a four-fold increase in Mothers’ Union www.mothersunion.org neighbours and the loss of loved ones. on the mat, the welcoming nature of the members have made facemasks, the incidence of domestic abuse contains an array of activities in their Yet members have found new ways of community spirit around them. There has facemask adapters, reports and we are thankful that section “Challenging Times”. coping and supporting each other within been a bond of togetherness and a sense throughout lockdown helplines In abnormality we have created a new the unexpected and in true fashion rallied that - “God is good. It is what it is, and we have remained open. round. A Branch survey reveals that must get on with it.” normality. Yes, God does move in Branches have been busy organising phone Every crisis provides A note from Women’s mysterious and unexpected ways but the calls, creating WhatsApp groups, facetiming, opportunities. Those Domestic Violence Service hymn writer, William Cowper, also invites zooming and keeping in touch by sharing on-line have felt (DWDVS) reads, “The families us to trust and take fresh courage, “God prayers, hymns, photographs, jokes, recipes spiritually enriched we are working with at this is his own interpreter, and he will make it and thoughts. Jean Stevens, a Branch and in touch through time are financially struggling plain... The clouds you so much dread are Leader, now conducts her gentle exercise wonderful reflections much more than usual. Food big with mercy and shall break in blessings class, “Fitness for Fogeys” on You Tube. In and services online. hampers or vouchers would be on your head.” Leckpatrick and Dunnalong members down Off-line members have greatly appreciated and single

8 N:VISION | DIOCESE OF DERRY & RAPHOE SUMMER 2020 9 Coronavirus hits world’s crisis poorest...

Rich countries have Handwashing - without with conflict and humanitarian crises, can But there is hope. • In Angola, El Salvador, Gaza and struggled. Poor countries soap and water? barely handle their everyday caseloads, let Guatemala we are helping women at risk alone a pandemic. Poor countries have few, of domestic violence during lockdown. Three billion people, 40% of the world’s Working with local partners and faith will be devastated. But if any, ventilators or intensive care beds. population, do not have access to soap leaders, Christian Aid helped reduce the Christian Aid helped reduce South Sudan, for example, has no intensive • In South Africa, our local partners are and water. In sub-Saharan Africa, home to spread of the deadly Ebola virus and we care beds and only two ventilators for a campaigning to ban evictions during the spread of Ebola and 645 million people, three-quarters of the are already working to slow the spread population of 12 million. the pandemic so that shanty town we can slow the spread population have no facilities at home to of coronavirus. dwellers don’t face an even greater wash their hands with soap and water. of coronavirus too. Your Fragile social • In Afghanistan, our local partner has risk of infection. gift today will save lives Physical distancing - welfare systems given hygiene kits containing soap to Love unites, love protects, tomorrow. in a crowded slum or The governments of poor countries lack 1,400 people. the social welfare systems to help those love never fails. Even in • In Afghanistan and Bangladesh, we are Coronavirus is having a huge impact on refugee camp? who lose their jobs due to lockdown. For sharing vital health information via the darkest moments, love the rich countries of the world. Our health Physical distancing is impossible for the the newly unemployed in these countries, religious leaders. brings hope. systems are stretched and struggling. Tens one billion people who live in overcrowded there will be no government bail-out or refugee camps, slums and shanty towns. of thousands of lives have been lost and guaranteed 80% of their salaries to help • In Bangladesh and Myanmar, we are • £27/ 31 could help provide food for And you can’t isolate those with € the death toll grows with each passing ensure they are still able to feed their bringing food and soap to families facing someone in quarantine, so they don’t coronavirus symptoms if your entire day. But in the world’s poorest countries, families. Many people will have no choice hardship after losing their jobs due to have to leave their home and risk family live in one room. perhaps just three weeks behind the UK but to go to work, spreading the infection. the lockdown. spreading the virus. and Ireland, a catastrophe is unfolding. Poor people = poor health The poorest people work in jobs that are • In Myanmar, our local partners have given • £50/€57 could help pay for a community The infection has reached every one of the Many people living in extreme poverty, in insecure and cash-in-hand, leaving them soap to more than 30,000 people and toilet and handwashing block. countries in which Christian Aid works, with refugee camps, or battling drought, hunger, with just enough money to get by each distributed 2,000 surgical masks. the highest numbers of reported cases being malaria and HIV, are already in poor health day. Even a single day of lockdown would • £120/€137 could help provide areas in Brazil, India and the Dominican Republic. and lack the resilience to withstand a new cause hardship. • In the Rohingya refugee camps of Cox’s within health facilities to isolate anyone As ever, a lack of testing masks the true infection. Bazar, Bangladesh, we are setting up with symptoms. scale of the pandemic. Aid agencies are isolation areas in health facilities to treat warning that coronavirus will devastate Fragile health systems people with symptoms. There, and in Please donate today to save lives. Visit poor countries, and here’s why: The world’s poorest countries, many dealing north-east Nigeria, we are working to caid.ie/coronavirus or call 028 9064 8133 prevent the spread of fake news. () or 01 496 4070 ().

10 N:VISION | DIOCESE OF DERRY & RAPHOE SUMMER 2020 11 On The Move 2020 in the Coronavirus Age Mahajanga

Join Derry and Raphoe Youth as Bishop Speers On the Move goes Virtual

Release a pandemic of Christian love in every parish and community Calling... determined to press forward, bearing the light of Christ for all to see. Wednesday 1st July - DRY Sunday 5th July 2020 How might your parish Report support the project? All ages are welcome to participate Firstly, and most importantly, by praying. Then, when the situation allows, we will Sign up or register your interest: be inviting parishes to consider what they [email protected] might do to support our fellow Christians practically. Perhaps you could use this time to think of ideas that might raise awareness of the need and gather donations? Derry Raphoe Youth Board are busy reimagining On The Move 2020 for the What is the next step? Coronavirus age. In this ‘new normal’ let Please take time to consider if and how you us grab hold of the God-given opportunity Over the past few years, churches in our How can we help? can support this project. When lockdown before us to fulfil the Great Commission diocese have raised almost £200,000 for Financial resources in Mahajanga are lifts and we can come together again in every parish and community from the ‘Nets for Nigeria’ project and to buy almost non-existent! Our Diocesan Board perhaps you could get a few people together Wednesday 1st July - Sunday 5th July. Each something for everyone). Each evening we All tasks, challenges and activities can be cows for Butere. of Mission and Unity, in conjunction with to work out how best your parish can day will be clearly divided with morning, will WIND DOWN as we put our feet up, adapted to suit local and family needs. We may feel that the pandemic presents Bishop Speers, has identified three priorities: play its part. No doubt ideas will flow. It is afternoon and evening sessions which can enjoy pictures and videos from the day. There All activities will be within current Covid our own churches with some considerable envisaged that the project will run until the be used and enjoyed at home. On The Move may even be a movie or activity to enjoy. 19 guidelines. Rice - buying a rice field costs around challenges, but there is never a time when end of 2021, depending on circumstances. In 2020 will all be connected through our we are not called to help and support £4,000 and sustains the local economy and This will all lead up to a special On The We ask all parents and guardians to get March 2019, Bishop Hall Speers answered. Diocesan Facebook page and website. fellow Christians in other parts of the world the local parish in particular. Bishop Speers Move Sunday across the Diocese. We will involved and provide encouragement and Can you hear Mahajanga calling? who are in need of our help. As soon as has already managed to buy one field but Each day begins with WORSHIP WIND UP, also be encouraging all who take part in oversight to under 18’s. Let On The Move the situation allows, our diocese will be can see great benefit from having more. 'Mahajanga Calling' is a project a devotional time of Bible teaching and On The Move 2020 to pray for our special 2020 bring us all together as a Diocesan promoting a project to support the Church promoted by the Diocesan Board prayer to ‘wind us up’ and release us for the SEEDS online Holiday Bible Club which family. We will shortly release a simple in Mahajanga. Rectories - a decent house can be built for of Mission and Unity. day ahead! In the afternoon a variety of takes place the following week. With all consent form. An information form with around £2,500. Currently, none of the clergy challenges and tasks with several options activities taking place at home and in all tasks, challenges and activities for each has adequate accommodation. The provision will be offered each day focusing on a certain family groups it means On The Move is day will be released in advance of the week Why Mahajanga? of quality accommodation will enable more area of community concern (there will be open to all ages and all can take part. to help with preparation and prayer. On March 31st, 2019, Rev'd Hall Speers, a leaders to serve in the diocese. son of the Diocese, was ordained Bishop of Mahajanga, 6,000 miles away in the Indian Resources - The diocese plans to train Here is a timetable for the week, with the themes for each day: Ocean. He had not sought the position - in more leaders, ordained and lay, with a focus fact he had retired from active ministry - on equipping the church with evangelists. but he said 'Yes' to the call. “It just seemed Currently, though, the diocese doesn’t have Wed 1 July Thurs 2 July Fri 3 July Sat 4 July Sun 5 July such a direct call of God." Now, Bishop the resources to do this. Many young people Speers, his clergy and their parishioners and adults are confirmed each year but need our help. most can’t afford Bibles. In Mahajanga a Theme Self-Isolators Family & Friends Key Workers Community Church little can achieve a lot! Morning Worship Wind Up Worship Wind Up Worship Wind Up Worship Wind Up Worship Wind Up Afternoon Service/Tasks Service/Tasks Service/Tasks Service/Tasks Service/Tasks Where is Mahajanga? The Covid-19 virus has affected the people Evening Wind Down Wind Down Wind Down Wind Down Praise Celebration Mahajanga is on the northwest coast of the of Mahajanga, as it has affected us, adding island of Madagascar. The diocese is seven to the considerable challenges they already times the size of Wales. face. But Bishop Hall and his people are

12 N:VISION | DIOCESE OF DERRY & RAPHOE SUMMER 2020 13 n:vision asked some of our previous 'cover personalities' to share some of their thoughts and experiences of 'lockdown'.

terrible times, here and around the world. Now an unseen virus means the best we CHRISTINE EAMES can do is stay apart from others. Learning It all happened so suddenly on a national at home we were told would be for our In lockdown but children and grandchildren. It has been and international level and certainly on a personal one. One day I was at airports much more than that, as adults learn how flying to and from meetings and a few to use different ways of communicating. days later I couldn’t leave home! Meetings by Zoom, Microsoft and Skype not locked-in... have connected families and work From independent to dependent in a colleagues alike and for me they have watch their businesses and jobs in jeopardy, flash. Of course that happens to a lot of imposed a new, and probably much needed, So many people because of sudden illness or other discipline of when to speak and when to be the elderly and those alone. life-changing events and they have had quiet. Society marked 75 years since the end frightened, abused, hungry in their own the storm broke. Within a week the message to cope. Robin and I know we are very of the war in Europe and our thoughts were homes. So many missed occasions JONNY MCNEE was ‘pack up your work items, the schools are fortunate. Family have shopped for us and focused on similarities between the WW2 of sadness and of joy for young and old. shutting, dig a bunker and stay put’. We looked left messages on the doorstep and backed years and our current situation. Then, as At the beginning of lockdown I woke one Like countless others I’m sure, at the start to our politicians for initial guidance, for all the away the requisite distance, so we have seen now, people died far from their loved ones morning to hear the birds sing and soar of the year I chuckled at the endless stream good it did us. Muttered platitudes were issued family “shoppers” but it’s so very hard not and a generation of those bereaved could and I wondered why I could not fly like of social media funnies making light of about dark days ahead, but the usual tribal to run to them and hug them. Unfortunately only shed their lonely tears. them and gather together what I miss what was happening on the far side of divisions were never far away as they bickered there are so many who haven’t even had most: my Church, my family, my friends. the world. behind the scenes. The virus doesn’t care what that contact. For those of us fortunate to have a garden But my Church, my family (five of them foot you kick with. it has been a beautiful spring and early are doctors and the subject of our constant Gags about how it started; DIY masks and how We go for a walk and cross the road not to summer. For those trying to manage in prayers) and my friends have taught me we, in the organised modern world, would take And so we all sit and participate in what avoid talking to our friends and neighbours, cities and high rise flats the good weather new ways of living and of receiving God’s it in our stride if it ever came here. However, has become the most surreal version of Big but to leave a safe distance. Robin and I may well have been agonising. So many love and my dependence upon Him. there soon came a point when the sniggering Brother. It’s like a zombie film without the have spent so much of our lives trying to vulnerable - children, students, those who decreased proportionately with the increasing biting. We were all entertained (at first!) by the flutterings of our bats. The dog has been draw close to people in good days and in height of my toilet roll stockpile. Like a internet ‘look at me’ brigade who delivered a walked to within an inch of its life; the garden twisted version of the European Song Contest, barrage of amusing dances, songs and sketches is manicured and we even managed to buy countries started to deliver the Covid scores to ensure their profiles were maintained, as masonry paint in the colour we wanted - we as this unseen terror rampaged westwards they could no longer be seen out in public. partied that night! We have looked after our to our wee part of the world. We heard the But over the past month, I have found myself parents; called with friends, and kept in touch buzzwords - we must ‘flatten the curve’, ‘push greatly appreciating genuine acts of human around the world, using apps I didn’t know back the peak’ and most importantly ‘protect kindness. Those that are not self-serving, came as standard on my phone before April. the NHS’. Something monstrous, an invisible intent in hoovering up ‘likes’. I have cheered on And we have survived. We have made do. We tidal wave was about to break on these shores. Captain Tom and his million-making garden have learnt to bake, experiment, repair and Then there was the first case in the UK; then in dander. I have clapped for nurses, front line laugh at the simpler things. We have walked in ROY WALKER NI; then work sent me home. workers and the staff in my favourite pizza the woods and smelt the bluebells; paddled in place in . And my family, after outbreaks hidden streams and enjoyed the mental well- From the beginning of the global Outside of my day job, I have a great passion of cabin fever and threats to murder each being benefits to be had by just sitting down pandemic and the change to our lives The lockdown has given everyone a for military history. Those early Covid 19 days other, have evolved to cope by, quite simply, and looking at our glorious landscape. I have I’ve been so taken by verse 10 in Ps 46 chance to “re-set” - to examine ourselves were like the ‘Phoney War’ – the first 6 months just slowing down. also enjoyed sipping the occasional medicinal “Be still and know that I am God” and prioritise what really matters. For me, period at the start of WW2 when there fine malt and listening to the Divine Comedy my ministry of preaching and teaching The pace of modern life with all its demands was almost no fighting and no bombs were We have enjoyed the succession of spring in my man-cave. God’s word continues via the electronic dropped. It was a time of nervous waiting and flowers; we have cheered on the rooks in have many running this way and that, not information highway… the internet, but preparation. While others prepared by raiding ours trees; celebrated the first squawks of Each Covid death is a tragedy, and this ‘new really sure where they are going and not not at the expense of getting to know the shops of pasta, sanitiser, rice, paracetamol their chicks and later held our breath as they normal’ is going to take some getting used confident that they will get there! God more because He has graciously and every conceivable type of cleansing launched skywards on nervous wings. We to. But while society may have been in given me time to do so. Many people know about God but don’t product, including vodka, the rest of us got have marvelled at the increased number of ‘lockdown’, I hope you, like myself, have know God. Others claim to follow His the odd bit in, to at least show to our friends honey bees around the house; the brilliance used the time to re-focus. In my personal “For everything there is a season” ways, but act in disobedience to His word. that we were taking this seriously. And then of the night sky and watched the nocturnal lockdown, I am becoming increasingly free. Ecclesiastes 3:1. Use this season, Daniel 12:4 ”many will run to and fro and challenging as it is, to get to know knowledge shall be increased” but is that God more. making things better?

14 N:VISION | DIOCESE OF DERRY & RAPHOE SUMMER 2020 15 BISHOP TIM WAMBUNYA A report from Kenya Citizen TV... SARAH BRETT Bishop Tim Wambunya makes full recovery after 18 days in ICU. Even as the numbers It’s widely accepted that what we’re continue to soar, the good news is a total of 464 have recovered and discharged from My mother turned 10 years old on VE experiencing now is the biggest global hospital. One such lucky patient is Bishop Tim Wambunya who came close to death and Day. She always tells the story of how disruption since those years. And I’m having was even placed on the life support machine - a ventilator for 18 days. Bishop Wambunya she walked out onto her street in North exactly the opposite experience to my of the Anglican Church of Kenya Diocese of Butere who contracted the virus while on a London that day and thought the party mother. This is difficult because I write these trip to the United Kingdom speaks of his ordeal on You Tube. was for her. words having spoken on air for two months to people whose lives have been devastated Bishop Tim Wambunya makes full recovery after 18 days in... I’ve always loved that story! I can see it all by this pandemic. I have empathised and https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RZ-a_Sk9aYk in my mind’s eye. Just like the one about been brought to tears by their testimony, the contortionist called Alice who became but all the while safe in my own small In April the Diocese of Derry and Raphoe heard that Bishop Tim had been admitted to their lodger (my Annie took people bubble. It’s a two-bedroom bubble in hospital. Along with his wife, Gertrude, he visited Derry and Raphoe in October 2018. in at the drop of a hat). When she left she south Donegal that I’m sharing with my He is a man of deep faith who was uplifted to learn that many of his friends here, in bequeathed my mother a pair of silver tap octogenarian parents, my husband and 5 his sister diocese, were thinking of him and praying for his recovery. my parents only a few times a year, to shoes that she wore every day, to greatest year old son. By the end of this month we’ll spend more time with them than I have in effect on the roof of the air raid shelter, have celebrated 3 of our birthdays in the decades. Without lockdown, that would not which she swears sent sparks flying. bubble, using the same candles. I’m nearly have happened. out of balloons! But watching some of the VE Day events So if you’re fortunate enough that your with her in lockdown a few weeks ago, For the first time in my life I have counted elderly loved ones have stayed well through started a conversation we’d not had before. my blessings every single day, knowing this, when you do get to see them again, About the colossal upheaval the war caused. how very privileged we are to have three embrace every single second. Listen to About evacuation back to Ireland, and the generations living together - happy and every story. You might not have heard impact of that separation from parents on healthy. So what can I say that’s useful? her and her brothers. them all before. communities comply with new restrictions Just that I’ve been humbled, and have had PAUL CLARK to try to control the spread of coronavirus. the chance, after living away and seeing As a result of this challenge churches have This time last year, I thought that Brexit found new ways of keeping the faith by would be the defining event of my long providing connection and comfort through journalistic career. I was wrong! Now, I virtual services and, with some success, know better. reaching many times the numbers who would normally sit in the pews Sunday by Until December, I had never heard of Wuhan Sunday. It prompted the recently elected - a huge city with a population of over 11 Archbishop of Armagh, John McDowell, to million; and certainly not the Province of surmise that if all the people who were Hubei. My knowledge of Chinese geography watching services online decided to visit was woefully lacking… these churches, there would not be enough room! Changed times, indeed… Fast forward to the present, and, as I look invested very little in a system to stop an epidemic.” Perhaps we humans have back, it’s been a rollercoaster. Since the Covid 19 has evolved and multiplied quickly. become smug - putting too much belief IAN MCELHINNEY I have been unemployed, yes, and am middle of March, my wife has been self- This coronavirus has travelled at break-neck in our own supreme self-confidence? currently unemployable as an actor in TV isolating with our two sons. My father speed and has shaken the world economy. This has been a very trying time for and theatre. However, beyond that I have died in a hospice. He had been living with But perhaps it ought not to have been As people of faith, we need to return to many people. Those still working have been one of the lucky ones. The weather two cancers. In the last days of his life Dad such a shock after all. The founder of basics. The Bible was written, mostly, in been under pressure at the frontline, has been unbelievably good, and I have a contracted Covid 19. Though it was not the Microsoft, Bill Gates, now spends much of tough and dangerous times. God is not out or busy behind the scenes desperately garden and a house which have benefitted primary cause of death, it appeared as a his time as a global philanthropist through in space somewhere with no understanding. seeking ways to go forward once the from my having time to do work in them. secondary source on his death certificate. the Foundation he set up with his wife, God came to live among us in Jesus. He can restrictions ease. Currently, I am living with my mum, which Melinda. They are a couple of deep faith. empathise with our humanity. He invites us I am, like many, now keen to know if, Some have been unlucky to have contracted is something of a silver lining for her. So Speaking five years ago - yes, five years to approach him as a God who understands when, and how I can return to work. the virus. A few will have had to fight it these days I am providing for two families ago - Bill Gates warned that the next global and offers us mercy and grace in this time Unfortunately the resolution of these with all their might. Some will have lost and fronting UTV Live. In a sense, delivering catastrophe would not be caused by war, of uncertainty and anxiety. Let us pray for questions is still some time away. I just that fight. Some will be coping with the the news has given me some understanding but by a bug. He said, “Part of the reason one another - the wider community - hope I can stay upbeat and positive while effect of losing a loved one, a friend or of what too many people are experiencing. for this is we have invested a huge amount and a frightened world! I wait for the answers. I wish everyone, watching fearfully from the sidelines as At the time of writing, church services have in nuclear deterrents, but we’ve actually whatever they are going through, the someone struggles with the illness. All of been suspended across these islands, as faith very best. One day we will be through us will have been experiencing stress as we this and hopefully arrive at a different cope with uncertainty, fear, frustration and but positive future. economic pressure. By contrast it seems trivial to talk about my own experience. 16 N:VISION | DIOCESE OF DERRY & RAPHOE SUMMER 2020 17 Entitled to what? Bible Commentary - Martin, former Diocesan Youth Officer

Plenty has gone wrong in my life, things good things to us? Yes - the Cross has been Lord with our petitions. 1 Peter 3:12 reminds that may have you asking why would given, the Cross is enough - ‘it is finished’. us God is attentive to the prayers of the God allow such things to happen to a righteous. Let that sink in - He hears us, supposedly good person. What follows Does God give us good things like car park He listens to what we say. He cares. are my theologically uneducated thoughts spaces, or heal people of cancer etc? Well, on it all. However, they have been formed it is only because of the Cross and the Secondly, when we do good works the by my 21 years of following Christ. continuing presence of God on earth that primary reason should be to point to the good things happen, ‘every good gift is impact of God’s love on our lives. We love James 1:17 - Every good and perfect gift from above’. others because He first loved us. Matthew is from above, coming down from the 6:19 reminds us we don’t store up treasure Father of the heavenly lights, who does Should God be Glorified when such things where thieves steal it here on earth; rather not change like shifting shadows. happen? Of course - we are people who love it’s in Heaven. We shouldn’t seek earthly God, and ascribe all goodness to Him, or at rewards in lieu of our works, for what does For the Christian, God is good. There can least we should. Does this mean God chooses that say about our motivation? No, our be no variant on this. The Christian must to heal certain people over others? This one, lives should be a response to the Cross. Our Anniversary of choose to believe this in the hardest times, I’m not convinced about. Remember we are lives should be a witness to Grace, a thank Ordination (2020) and believing sometimes is a ‘grit your teeth’ not an entitled people; rather we are people offering for what has already been done. choice. I see it like this: goodness can only of Grace through faith. Of course God could Our faith will not protect us from pain or (2015) 5 years: Liz Fitzgerald, Rhys Jones, exist because of God. Without God, there is and can do whatever He wants, but if he grief or hardship. Indeed the Christian is told Chris MacBruithin, Robert Wray no goodness. When you experience anything doesn’t act the way I hoped, does that mean to rejoice in suffering as Christ suffered, to (2010) 10 years: Peter Ferguson good, it is only because of God’s Grace. His I have done something wrong? Where does expect persecution. Our God is the God of Grace allows even the most hardened non- prayer come in? (1995) 25 years: Gordon Freeman, the poor, the downtrodden, the broken. Our believer to experience goodness as a concept. wealth or popularity is no comfort when we Robert Miller, Paul Whittaker, Stewart Wright This is the power of the Cross! No God Well, first and foremost, we are sinners. 30 years: face brokenness (as we will in life). Yet in (1990) means no good, which sounds pretty So, yes we have done many things wrong. those moments we find the Lord. (1985) 35 years: Brian Russell much like Hell to me! However, we are redeemed by the blood of (1980) 40 years: George Irwin Jesus, saved by Grace. That which is good Remember the Lord longs to commune with Isaiah 41:10 reminds us God is with us, within even the non-believer, is only there (1975) 45 years: Harry Gilmore us, to hear our prayer; and it is often in those Immanuel. Christ’s work on the Cross is so because we all have something of God (1970) 50 years: Alan Tilson times we come closest to Him. How He powerful that its effects shook even the in us. We are made in His image. We are (1960) 60 years: Walter Quill responds is up to Him. He is worthy of praise foundations of time and the overspill of that undeserving of anything. However, we are because of what He has done on the Cross. work is that goodness exists that darkness recipients of the work on the Cross. Saved cannot overcome it (John 1:5). Does God give by Grace. Grace permits us to approach the

SUMMER 2020 19 Launches Caption Competition Returning to In-Church Worship Protocols Have a go at our caption competition. Entries must be received by the editor not later than 26th August.

Winning entries will be published in the next issue of n:vision... The Church of Ireland has published The Returning to In-Church Worship protocols for a return to in-church Protocols document is now available in the worship to provide guidance to parishes - Parish Resources section of the Church of in both and the Republic Ireland website: www.ireland.anglican.org/ of Ireland – in relation to the reopening parish-resources Archdeacon Huss of places of worship that have been closed due to the Covid-19 pandemic. In a joint introduction, the Archbishop of begins his bike visits Armagh, the Most Revd John McDowell, and the Archbishop of Dublin, the Most Revd Dr Michael Jackson, write: “Reopening churches for public worship is only possible if it can be done safely and by minimising the risk of spreading Covid-19. We strongly commend the implementation of these protocols.” Nine stages for reopening church buildings are set out, starting with communicating with workers and parishioners prior to opening on a specific date. The protocols Noel at sound desk for have been prepared by representatives from drive through church the House of Bishops, the Representative Body Executive Committee, and the staff of the Representative Church Body, the Church’s central trustee body.

At all times, churches must comply fully Bishop Andrew and Dean Raymond at the Derry Deanery with all relevant current legislation in their respective jurisdiction, and follow the advice of health authorities, particularly in relation to social distancing, hand hygiene, and respiratory hygiene.

Bishop Andrew will ensure that all parishes are kept informed of the reopening of church buildings for public worship in the Diocese of Derry and Raphoe.

Rev Peter Ferguson runs marathon round his parish

20 N:VISION | DIOCESE OF DERRY & RAPHOE SUMMER 2020 21 A Day in the life of a... Garden Centre Mothers’ Union Proprietor... HOPE Ian Peilow

The dictionary definition of hope is, penalised many people, especially women, like in 2020 or, indeed, the challenges we ‘a feeling of expectation and desire for a whose work history included an extended would face! What’s the vibe in the garden centre that we have enough, and that we can keep particular thing to happen’, but I prefer period of time outside the paid workplace this time of year? them in good condition. So a lot of time is the description of hope attributed to the whilst raising families or in a caring role Since becoming involved in Social Policy It’s very busy, because most people are spent watering, tidying up, and weeding. Danish philosopher and theologian Søren prior to 1992. As a result, up to 40,000 within Mothers’ Union I am constantly interested in bedding plants and shrubs, and We spend a lot of time with customers, Kierkegaard - “Hope is passion for what pensioners, the majority of them women, inspired by what we have already achieved we have our best selection this time of year. too - answering questions, giving advice, is possible.” have had their pensions reviewed, with and filled with hope for what we can So a lot of people come in for those items, and helping them find what they need. many seeing an increase in the value of achieve now and in the future. When we and then they ask for compost, fertilisers So, time is precious. In Mothers’ Union everything we do is their pension, effectively lifting them emerge from the shadow of Covid-19 it and all that they need for the plants. anchored in the hope that we are making a out of poverty. will be into a different world, and like many How does your faith shape how difference, advancing our vision ‘...of a world organisations and charities the Mothers’ to nurture a selection of plants, and to where God’s love is shown through loving, Since 2014 Mothers’ Union have been Union will have to remould itself to fit into What does your day look like? you approach your work? encourage people to come and purchase I think we’ve all got a positive contribution respectful and flourishing relationships’. involved in the 16 Days of Activism Against that world. After all, an organisation of 4 I am up at about 7 o’clock in the morning, them and plant them in their own gardens to make to society. Being in employment is This is not a vague hope, but a goal we Gender Violence campaign. Thanks to events million members active in 84 countries and try to be in the garden centre for 8 and continue to look after them and let for me one of the most important things, actively pursue by praying, campaigning, held across the twelve dioceses in Ireland around the world will still be a force to be o’clock to start watering. We can get a lot them thrive. and enabling.’ The role of Social Policy the issue of domestic violence has been reckoned with! of watering done before there are too many so that I can have enough money to keep a within Mothers’ Union is to raise awareness brought to the fore. Survivors and victims customers around. I might work until 9 or house going, to keep my family, to pay all What tips would you have for of social issues that affect families locally, have been given a voice, campaigners for Having started with a hope-filled quote I 10 o’clock at night. Occasionally I would the bills, and not to depend, necessarily, on gardeners this time of year? nationally, and internationally. When, as an justice, a platform to get their message shall finish with a couple of hope-inspired have some watering or spraying to do at the government or anybody else. Being able It’s still okay to plant summer bedding, organisation, or as individual members, we out, and many more within the Church lines from ‘You’ll Never Walk Alone’. This night, or I may have plants to move from to stand on my own two feet and having if you can get it. You can do up hanging become involved in a campaign, however and society the courage to speak up and has nothing to do with the fact that I am a growing area to a retail area. I may also enough money to give towards church and baskets and containers, and plant shrubs big or small, it is always in the hope that speak out. The practical support provided a Liverpool fan, but because it has been have some deliveries to do in the evening charities is for me an important Christian and trees in your garden. But you must with a successful outcome we can make by our members through donations of adopted as a song of hope during this crisis; which were not completed during the day. principle. I suppose I get that from my remember that it’s summer-time, and it someone’s life better, and offer them items to local women’s refuges has been ‘Walk on, Walk on, With hope in your heart, The shop is normally open from 9 o’clock to faith and the way I was brought up by can get very warm. The bedding plants and hope for a brighter future. phenomenal. Women and children arriving And you’ll never walk alone...’ 6 o’clock, but there are lots of other things my parents. hanging baskets and containers probably at a refuge with nothing have hope for that go on behind the scenes. Jean Thompson, All-Ireland Social Through my faith I believe that God has need to be watered every day if they’re in Some notable successes in recent years: a brighter future when they know that Policy Contact with responsibility created everything on this earth - the a sunny spot, or at least a good watering In January 2018, following a successful someone cared enough to give them the for Northern Ireland What are the major challenges this mountains, the sea, the sky, but also the every other day. Trees and shrubs probably campaign by several women’s groups across practical things they need to set up a new time of year? plants, animals, all the different types trees need to be watered a couple of times a Ireland, including the Mothers’ Union, home, safe from fear and harm. Trying to make sure that we can either grow all over the world. I believe it’s a privilege week. A hedge planted in the Spring will the Irish government announced pension or source all the plants that are needed, to be able to work in this field, to be able also need to be watered. reform, introducing a Home Caring Credit In 1876 when Mary Sumner held the first system. This reversed the negative impact Mothers’ Union meeting, she could have had of previous pension arrangements that had no perception of what the world would be

22 N:VISION | DIOCESE OF DERRY & RAPHOE SUMMER 2020 23 Diocesan Jacqui Armstrong Congratulations Jacqui on your appointment as provincial link to IAWN.

1. Please tell our readers a little about IAWN and what you expect new charges settle into their new career. She Rev Iain McAleavey your role to be. totally believed in us and fostered abilities Thank you. International Anglican Women’s and skills we never knew we possessed! Network (IAWN) represents the voice of 43 She nurtured creativity and under her Welcome to Derry and Raphoe Iain. million Anglican women in more than 165 encouraging leadership we were immersed in Congratulations on your appointment countries. Thinking globally and acting locally, numerous artistic, environmental, musical, women are encouraged to pray, to talk with and educational initiatives. This experience others, to advocate for a culture of justice scaffolded us for the rest of our career. as Curate-assistant of Glendermott. and peace, and to act as the hands and feet of 4. What are you passionate Christ in their communities. It is my remit to 3. How do you chill out? 1. Please tell us a little about about in ministry? highlight priorities for and from women within I like to get out into the great outdoors - to yourself, your family and your Mission. I hold a passionate belief that the Church of Ireland. IAWN have just published the garden, to the Park, to wherever greenery journey to Glendermott. mission is the normal response of the an excellent, practical, comprehensive resource grows. I generally have a craft project on the I am from Lisburn, went to school at Wallace Christian. We have something great and for parish use - Domestic Abuse & Covid-19: go and most evenings finish off by opening a High, am an only child and was a parishioner we want to share it. Workplaces, schools, How churches can respond. It sets out the music book and playing whatever is in front of St John’s Church Moira for several years, friendship groups, all places where normal challenge faced by many people suffering of me. I have been involved in choral music one of us has as part of our discipleship to where I began to discern a call to ministry. life takes place are also the places where we from an increase in domestic abuse since the since I was a tot and that is such a wonderful Jesus Christ to live a life that cares for God’s I was sent to selection and that call was do mission. Everyone is involved in mission COVID-19 lockdown. It sets out ways in which way to while away an evening. world and its creatures.” (Archbishop Welby) confirmed. I trained in CITI and then was and everyone is called to share Jesus with churches can respond with advice for victims Deacon in St Donard’s East Belfast. Few twists the world. Encouraging those around me and survivors, and a challenge to perpetrators. 7. Do you have a favourite 4. What book are you reading at 5. If you had a time machine and turns on the way, but that is mostly that. to get stuck into normal everyday mission Domestic Abuse & Covid-19: How churches can the moment and why would you charity and why? response can be downloaded at http://aco.org/ what era would you like to visit is my passion. CMSI because they support local churches recommend it? 2. How has the coronavirus media/415112/201905-da-covid-19-churches. and why? to do mission and try to make mission as I am re-reading the Archbishop of Straight back to the world of Jane Austen affected your Deacon intern year? 5. How do you chill out? pdf and further information on IAWN and the indigenous as possible. Canterbury’s Lent Book 2020: “Saying Yes to and Charles Dickens. I love the windows they Things have been very unusual. I haven’t been Being in the wild. Mountains, the sea, Anglican Communion can be found at http:// Life” by Ruth Valerio, as I have found it quite able to go to Dublin for classes and have had to iawn.anglicancommunion.org/ created onto life in the nineteenth century. reading, spending time with friends 8. If you had a time machine what a wake-up call. This book has reinforced for be on zoom. I have had very little to do in terms It fascinates me that writings in this period and coffee. era would you like to visit and why? me the interdependence between creation and of parish life, mostly telephone calls and a few 2. Please tell us about a person were the social media of their day. They led This is a toss-up between the cliché 1st the way we live our lives. In Ireland we think to a myriad of societal and legal changes, pre-recorded sermons. 6. What book are you reading at (living or dead) who has had an Century and the 1940s/1950s. I have idyllic about how we shall cope with climate change to the advent of advocacy and concern the moment and why would you influence on your life. ideas about both. as we move into the future. The reality is that on behalf of the underprivileged, laying 3. Please tell us a little about a recommend it? The principal of the school I first worked in, millions across the globe are already living foundations that we still build on today. person (living or dead) who has I re-read The Screwtape Letters by C.S. was landed with two young, shy new teachers. with the devastating reality of climate change had an influence on your life. Lewis and it was a really refreshing insight Annette left no stone unturned to help her in their lives. The book has compellingly There are so many! The one that sticks out is into the human condition and the spiritual brought home to me “the responsibility each an RAF chaplain called Hamilton Pollock. His realm of which we can be forgetful. It was ministry, and the ministry of many of the a convicting and encouraging read and I forces chaplains, have inspired me in how recommend it to anyone. I approach ministry.

24 N:VISION | DIOCESE OF DERRY & RAPHOE SUMMER 2020 25 Book Review by Ven. Robert Miller The Boy, the News for the pew-less! mole, the fox and the Horse Charlie Mackesy Raphoe, Raymochy & Clonleigh Publisher: Penguin ISBN: 9781529105100 Dean Arthur Barrett

Since the sudden and unexpected closure services have been an important way for all of caring for others has been highlighted of all our churches in March 2020, we have of us join together, although very much apart in many ways, and by many people and ‘The truth is I need pictures, they are like Take time and read this book, permit been exploring and experiencing whole new and distant, in worship. And so many people organisations. Local groups have been islands, places to get to in a sea of words.’ yourself to be moved. As the boy meets ways of being ‘Church’. Little did we realise have commented to me about how much they looking after the vulnerable, schools have This is a book that will delight you. It three new friends, you’ll be wrapping that our Service of Confirmation on Sunday have appreciated this way of being together been using their lunch grants to provide may also have you in tears, but those yourself in a warmth that will remind you 8th March would be the last service in our in heart and mind and spirit. It has been said food parcels for local families, shops tears will be as refreshing as a swim of the equivalent of settling in front of the group of parishes for some time. that the virus closed the churches, but God are doing deliveries, teachers have been in the sea on a warm Summer day. fire on a cold crisp autumn evening; of lying has opened a church in every home. And that ensuring that education contiinues, and back in the grass when the summer sun is The following Sunday we broadcast a is so true, as we now ‘do church’ in our sitting people are on the one hand staying distant, I absolutely loved this book and I know I high in the sky. It is escapism of the best service form the Cathedral on Facebook rooms and kitchens. and on the other getting closer. Now, when will return to it again and again. It’s a book kind. As Elizabeth Gilbert says ‘The world live - a new and very unusual experience we ask ‘How are you?’, we really do mean that you can dip into or read through in that I am required to inhabit is this one. But for me. I then turned 60 (I know - I can’t We also have,as part of our worship each it. How are you doing? Are you ok? one sitting. It is a book with a big heart. It the world I long to inhabit is the one that believe it myself!), and due to an underlying Sunday, a ‘Community Interview’ with people is a book for a reader of any age or ability. Charlie Mackesy has created.’ medical condition, my doctor advised me who are still working in the community, But there have been so many other Anyone who has ever had a pet will be to ‘cocoon’. I admit that it took me a little helping to look after our health, safety and challenges too. Not least in terms of finace able to identify with the themes in this while to fully realise the implications of this, well-being. We have already heard from a and fund-raising. Parishes are facing serious book. The mole, the fox and the horse all and how it would affect me. nurse, a member of An Garda Siochana, a cash flow difficulties with no regular weekly encounter the boy and one another in a retailer and others are planned. They have told income. And all fund-raising events have way that enriches them all. It is the story With the help of Nathan and Brigid, we us their stories and what life is like for them as been cancelled. Unfortunately, the Raphoe of a journey where friendship, kindness and started to record our Sunday services to they deal with the coronavirus pandemic. Cathedral Restoration Project has had to be understanding are all beautifully expressed put up on our Facebook page each Sunday. put on hold for the time being. in a series of short encounters and pictures. We then encouraged others to take part We have also been keeping in contact with by reading and leading us in prayer. It has parishioners by email, and text messaging, But we are an Easter people. We are Whilst very straightforward it does also been great to get the young people and through personal telephone calls. I am people of Hope. And we shall continue to present you with the challenge of how you involved as well. Seeing parishioners each also aware that a number of parishioners live in hope. Even when things seem very encounter others, and whether those you week has helped us to feel in some way are keeping in contact with elderly and uncertain, we live in the faith, hope and encounter in life are enriched. still connected with each other. The online vulnerable parishioners. The community spirit love of God. The pictures are as important as the words. As you open the book, you’ll see they are sketched in such a way as to allow you to fill in the details in your mind’s eye. For me, this was one of the wonderful aspects of the book. There is space for you to read yourself into the narrative and the author even Convoy, Monellan & Donaghmore encourages you to draw yourself in and Rev Canon William Long join the journey. Tel: 074 9101817

26 N:VISION | DIOCESE OF DERRY & RAPHOE SUMMER 2020 27 , Meenglass & Kilteevogue Don't forget Rev Adam Pullen you can pull Mobile 087 7547880 out my special Email: [email protected] pages from the magazine! Pastor to Producer to Pastor moved from just being a pastor to being an church online at this time. To John and A proverb comes to mind “May you live online producer! We have been streaming, Karl, my patient and willing technical team, in interesting times” “May you live in first from the Rectory, and then St John’s to those generous to share music, videos interesting times” is an English expression Church Kilteevogue on our Facebook page and technical knowledge; it is great to see Hello, my friends, that purports to be a translation of a Stranorlar, Meanglass & Kilteevogue the gifts and blessing being shared. I hope that this finds you all traditional Chinese curse. While seemingly CofI and yes, I know, Meanglass is spelt a blessing, the expression is normally used incorrectly - that’s how the dyslexic In the future we are looking forward to wonderful. I am so glad to be able to ironically; life is better in “uninteresting registered it! It has been encouraging to see returning to somewhat normal services. be with you all again. I have missed CJ News times” of peace and tranquillity than in how many have tuned in and together is has However it looks as only a few will be able you, especially during the unusual NUMBER 23 “interesting” ones, which are usually been a learning curve both technologically to attend as we all must obey vital social times that we find ourselves living A pandemic times of trouble. and, I hope, biblically. In the last few weeks distancing. Therefore we will, God willing, in today. I am sure, just like you, we have added a Dial-a-Service for those operate a hybrid service. People will be is the For me at this time, it is where two worlds who can’t access us online. attending the service in person and this is something that I have never worldwide collide, science and faith. I worked as a online together. experienced before, living spread of a microbiologist before being a minister and “Thy Kingdom Come”, May 24th to during a pandemic. disease. I am all too familiar with infection control. Pentecost Sunday, we asked people to pray We in these days are living-out God’s I have and will be putting my experience for five people they know. Alongside this we strength made perfect in our weakness. to practice in keeping us safe as we ‘open made a video of the Lord’s Prayer read by our As faithful followers of Jesus Christ we up’. Yet the path to opening up is far from parishioners, and with the help of Monty the mirror the example of Paul. He prayed We have all heard a lot of information about straightforward. horse. You’ll find it on our Facebook page to be released from his weakness and the Coronavirus strain, Covid-19 and have been http://fb.me/smkcofi. received this answer: “My grace is sufficient asked to put lots of things in place to keep Yet we do not lose hope as we are people for you, for my strength is made perfect in of Hope in God who is compassionate and I would like to take this opportunity to say weakness.” 2 Corinthians 12:7-10. ourselves and others around us safe. in control. Therefore in these times I have thank-you for all those sticking with our

Living in Virtually lockdown Stay Home connecting with others I have to admit, Donegal, Killymard, Lough Eske & Laghey Social there have been times over Sanitising/ Distancing the past few weeks when I have felt Rector: Venerable David Huss, Archdeacon of Raphoe washing hands from others very scared. Scared for me, scared Tel: 074 9721075 for my family and scared for my Email: [email protected] community. No one could really www.donegal.raphoe.anglican.org Isolate tell us how bad this situation could get because this ‘bad virus’ was The Coronavirus pandemic has had a huge forward to meeting again physically, joining something that all the scientists and impact on parish life, with face-to-face in worship and sharing the Lord’s Supper. medical professionals knew little meetings and events cancelled or postponed. The projected date for re-opening for church Here are some of the As well as Sunday services, we miss events services is 26th July, still with restrictions - measures we have in place about or even what could help it our Family Fun Day, Sunday School end of look out for updates. Despite the lockdown, to keep us physically and all go away and let us all get year service, school tours, youth events and church life goes on. We have been: emotionally safe and healthy... back to what we knew as parish social gatherings. The Mustard Seed is our normal lives. closed, with its important work in combating Worshipping Online It even stopped us from going to school and to our churches loneliness being taken forward in different It has been a blessing to see so many ways. Visiting of hospitals and nursing homes regulars and newcomers join our online and worshipping in our usual way with our church families. is suspended, and the restrictions on funerals services on Sundays at 11am, Wednesdays at Never have I ever seen this before. Bishop Andrew have been particularly hard. We are looking Continued on page 33... highlighted to us all, in one of his messages, that we must not be afraid. He said we are a people of faith not fear. Bishop Andrew was encouraging us to trust in God.

28 N:VISION | DIOCESE OF DERRY & RAPHOE CJ CHALLENGES YOU... In the Bible the word Our world is full of fear. Why shouldn’t we be afraid? We ‘fear’ is mentioned many times. Design a gift to make people smile at this time. For example, have to remember that God Over and over again, God says use paint markers or paints to decorate smooth, flat rocks, is with us no matter what to us ‘Do not be afraid’. then use fine point pens to write an encouraging phrase or fearful time we are verse. Use a craft sealer to weather-proof your creations. Place going through. these outside for people to discover and enjoy. You could also place them in your home for a family member to find, or on a neighbours doorstep! Please remember to stay safe at all times. Keep your distance from others who are not part of your close family! Use these gifts to encourage people to be brave, have What if we don’t want to be afraid faith and not to give in to fear! anymore. How can we stop being What would happen if we don’t give our Be brave, afraid? God will help us. We can’t do it fears to God? If we try to do it alone Perhaps you could think of other gift on our own. He plants his words deep with no help? Fears tend to grow and ideas to share messages with others... have faith! in our hearts. When we are scared grow if we allow them to. Sometimes his words can comfort us and help us they can get out of control. The more

through any of the difficult times we you are afraid, the less likely you are to The shield below is to symbolise God’s protection of us. In the Middle Ages, soldiers could not tell each other apart - face. We have all the grow ups in work your way out of your fear and live because they were wearing so much armour to protect themselves. It was for this reason the soldiers started painting our lives to support us too. as God wants you to. It is important to their own shields with things that were important to them. They would have included elements that would help show hand your fears over to God. people the type of person they were. They could have included a lion to show their courage, a bee would show they were hardworking, whereas if they included an eagle it would be a sign of their leadership. What would you include on your shield? I would like you to design a shield below to remind you that you do not have to be afraid. Can you think of a Bible verse to include? Keeping God’s word in our hearts will help us when we need it. You could include a cross, a heart full of trust for God, a hand to illustrate God’s helping hand for example. Make sure you include symbols that describe How can we trust God? who you are and what you are interested in. Will he help us with our fears? If we learn to trust God, God’s love for us is perfect. more than we fear what is Perfect love can help us have happening in the world around us, then we show love in return. faith and drive away any fears ‘My God is my Shield’ that we may have. We will have all that we need, and we will work through any fear we may have.

Let’s In the Bible we can see many examples of the faith When God first commanded Gideon colour! of individuals helping them to overcome situations to rescue the Israelites, Gideon was driven by fear. I think Daniel is a great role model hiding to escape his enemies. Gideon to all of us. His faith in God didn’t waver. When the constantly tested God by asking him law was issued that no one could pray to any god or to perform signs. He showed little man except the King for 30 days, Daniel prayed 3 faith. Gideon was afraid, but when he times a day to our one true God, knowing that the finally put his trust in God and obeyed, punishment was to be thrown into the middle of a the Israelites were freed from seven den of lions. Daniel was put in with the lions when years of oppression. he was caught breaking the law. Daniel did not fear man or death by the lions. He had complete faith in God. He was a man of faith not fear. (You can read There will be moments in life when we are this story in the Bible, Daniel worried or experience fear, for many different What will your shield Chapter 6) reasons and different situations, but we must have the faith to follow God in difficult times. look like I wonder... Remember, we must be a people of faith not fear. 8pm and Fridays at 1pm. We have been able Staying in Touch Resource Centre, helping households who are KEEPING IN ToUCH WITH cj... to pray, sing, learn and fellowship together In addition to contacting parishioners struggling to stay fed. We were also able to and among many highlights was having by phone, WhatsApp, email etc. we have sponsor a dinner for older people with ‘Chef Aid’ 25 of our Sunday Schools members do the published a weekly Parish Update which we and to help a number of people access grants reading on Pentecost Sunday (see photo). have endeavoured to share with everyone through Protestant Aid and other sources. Online services will continue in some form to keep us up to date and on the same page. I know that over the past days and weeks it has been even after the lockdown - see Facebook. We have been thankful to parishioners who Getting Out and About com/Donegal Group of Parishes for updates. have continued their financial giving through The Rector has embarked on a socially- difficult not being able to be as close to people as Standing Orders or through the safe hand-over distanced parish visitation by bike, touring we usually are. It has been a challenge to keep in Maintaining a Witness of envelopes. Brian and Sandra have hosted the many townlands of the four parishes and contact. I have been amazed by how everyone in our We are grateful to those who have been Zoom Bible Study groups which have been a hopefully bringing some encouragement! Diocese of Derry and Raphoe have continued to keep ringing the church bells as a tribute to front- great help to those who have taken part. This is just a taste of the many things which connections going throughout this time. There have line workers and as a gesture to show the have been going on. Let’s continue to pray churches are still active. There have also been Meeting Needs Locally that the Lord, who works for good in all been so many activities and services of which we can opportunities to go on local radio to share Louise and the Mustard Seed have got involved things, will bring blessing out of this very be a part to keep our church communities active what is going on in response to Covid-19. with the Food Bank run locally by the Family difficult time. and together. See opposite, such wonderful work!

Since lockdown we have been learning about so much at our family fun time on Facebook from Upper and Lower! We learned Kevin about Palm Sunday, Easter Day, Jesus the Drumholm, Kilbarron & Good Shepherd, Jesus the Way the Truth and the Life, Jesus’ love for us, his promise Rev Canon Brian Russell Tel. 0749734025 always to be with us, the Ascension and Email: [email protected] Pentecost and then made pictures or craft or prayers. We have been busy!

Farmer We have made new friends in lockdown and Jack meet with them on a Friday morning. Then on a Sunday we all share our work as we worship God together! Isn’t this just super, so much Inver, , Kilaghtee & creativity. It will be interesting to Bishop’s Curate: Rev Lindsey Farrell It is important that we take time to say ‘Thank You’ see what Jack and Kevin get up to Tel: 074 973 6013 to others. A big thank you to all the people who have in the future. I just love seeing all Email: [email protected] been working hard to keep us safe, cared for and your projects, which certainly make me smile. connected; the doctors and nurses, carers, schools, Even Though our Church Doors are in line with new guidance and restrictions. the technologically challenged. It has meant ministers, shop workers, delivery drivers, farmers Closed, the Love of Christ Shines Through, This present time that we now inhabit was taking time to reflect on the importance of and so many more that we each could add to the list. Strengthening Us For Today and Tomorrow. unforeseen by any of us, and many of us have family and friends as we feel their absence struggled under the heavy regulations that keenly. It has meant re-assessing how we To you all we say ‘Thank You’. Stay safe... take care... This period of lockdown has created many have been imposed. But, with every challenge interact as a church community. What challenges. We have been unable to meet comes an opportunity. We have been forced to began as an ominous void of time and We also say, ‘Thank You God! Remember for us to beat this and worship together on a Sunday morning; re-assess our home life, and how we manage distance from our brothers and sisters in Who would you like to say we have been prevented from spending our time with work and with those we live Christ has now become an opportunity to pandemic we have to stick together ‘Thank You’ to? time together; we have been separated with. For us, this has meant more family time, interact regularly in worship services, and and follow all the advice that we have from our friends and families; we have something that we have sought for quite some more frequently than normal by telephone. been given to keep ourselves and each been put out of our usual routine. Even the time. It has meant overseeing school work in other safe. We must encourage others simplest of tasks has to be thought out a new and remote way, which isn’t easy for Continued on page 34... around us to do the same. Do not be afraid, our faith in God will help us to Hello Summer! overcome any of the fears we may have to face as we work together to get back Contact me on email [email protected] to school, to our churches and all we enjoy. Keep safe, keep connected! SUMMER 2020 33 Continued from page 33... (Carrickfinn & ) & Templecrone We are no longer the same church long will it be until I can see my loved ones another, and under the headship of Jesus community. We are now stronger, swifter, again? How long until normality returns? Christ. This will take time, and we must Bishop’s Curate - Rev Liz Fitzgerald dare I say slightly technologically improved, We all have moments of darkness when the prepare ourselves for this new and turbulent Tel. 074 953 1043 Email: [email protected] but, most importantly we are more focused lament ‘How long?’ comes to our lips. But, journey. on Jesus Christ. We are more aware of his this same Psalm begins with those gentle I was overwhelmed! encouragement to keep on doing what we call on our lives. We have time to reflect on words of reassurance, ‘Truly my soul finds rest As we prepare for the re-opening of our I want to reflect on a verse from the Old have to do. The past three months have our relationship with him. We have been in God’. So, as we begin to emerge from a churches and the beginning of a new Testament, from Ezekiel 3:15. gone past much more quickly than anyone forced to contemplate our own mortality, lengthy period of lockdown, as we begin to see ‘normal’ and all the uncertainty and “I came to live among the exiles...And there, could have imagined. The good weather is a our place in this small world, the fragility family and friends again, let us never forget challenge that this brings, let us hold fast to where they were living,I sat down among blessing so to stay at home has been much of life and the promise of hope that eternal God as our one constant throughout this the words of Psalm 62, ‘Truly my soul finds them for seven days - overwhelmed.” less to endure. life brings, offered by Jesus Christ himself to time of uncertainty. God was and is and ever rest in God’. He is our anchor in times of those who make the decision to accept him shall be present in everything we do, standing trouble. He leads us beside quiet waters. He Ezekiel was overwhelmed, I have I have been asked to reflect on how we kept in as their Lord and Saviour. alongside us gently guiding and carefully sets us high upon a rock in a place of safety. been overwhelmed, we all have been touch across the parishes. I am part-time in the protecting. Even in the midst of our darkest He holds us in the palm of his hand. He is overwhelmed with the present situation parish, so I have spent lockdown in my home Many lives have been touched by the times when our soul cries out ‘how long? the our God. He is our Comforter. He is our - the uncertainty of where illness may be in Omagh. Our parishes have kept in touch arrival of this virus. Many loved ones have beaming light of his love still shines through. I want to share a photograph of a Redeemer. He is our Salvation. Thanks be to lurking, knowing we will be living “in exile” through phone calls and texts, WhatsApp, and been lost. Grief has been intensified by our magnificent sunset my son took a few God. Heavenly Father, we give you thanks with restrictions for quite a time to come, Facebook. Families have diligently looked after inability to share in the last moments of the The future at the moment is a daunting weeks ago. It is from the top of Mullaghcarn, for your many blessings given to us, not and the unease of restrictions been loosened. each other. I have emailed the parish weekly lives of those we love. The grieving process prospect. Our focus now shifts from enduring just outside Omagh, looking across the least your only Son, Jesus Christ. Sustain us The one certainty we do have, is that the with the Sunday service. I was taught how to has been stalled by the community not the restrictions of lockdown, to what lies Donegal Hills and you will see the triangular on this earthly journey by the power of your love of God is unconditional and unending record and stream. I was encouraged to engage being able to come together and show love ahead when the restraints are lifted. Job losses shape of Errigal. This keeps me connected Word. Guide us safely onto the path of your - He is not in lockdown. He will sit among with technology in a way I never did before and support in the normal way. But we are are looming, contracted hours are being cut, from Tyrone to Donegal, from home to choosing. Strengthen us to sustain those us seven days a week and be our comfort and I realised I am of a different generation, in a people of faith, and we are strengthened livelihoods are teetering on the brink and the parish that I miss so much. around us with and assurance. We are assured of his love a way I had not before. Staying connected is and sustained by a God who promises to government support is drying up. Hard times your love, and though the suffering and sacrifice of his so important. I thank all the parishioners and comfort all who mourn, and who has made lie ahead, and we must endure these hard The next service will be on 20th July - direct us toward Son Jesus Christ. Through his resurrection clergy friends, the Bishop and everyone who a commitment to be with us until the end times as steadfastly as we endured lockdown. God willing. your heavenly we are assured of his love and grace. By has phoned, messaged, and prayed for me and of the age. For all who have lost loved As a community of faith, our strength lies kingdom. This the Holy Spirit we will find comfort and my family, as I continue to do for them. ones during this crisis, whether as a result in the source of our power - the love of we ask in your of this virus or not, please be assured that Jesus Christ. He will sustain us through the name’s sake. the community weeps with you, and the challenges that lie ahead, and as brothers and Amen. loss is felt even more acutely because their sisters in Christ, we too must stand shoulder sympathy cannot be offered in the usual to shoulder with those who continue to suffer Signs of Hope! supportive and loving way. the effects of this virus whether physically, mentally or financially. When we work Dunfanaghy, Raymunterdoney & Tullaghobegley Psalm 62 asks ‘how long?’ How long do together as a body of faith we will, in time, we have to endure the challenges of this emerge from the impact of this virus stronger, Rector - Revd David Skuce time? How long will lockdown last? How better, more focused and united both with one Rural Dean East & West Rural Deanery

We certainly are living in unusual times for her teenage grandsons not being able to beach. Thankfully, everyone is keeping since the lockdown. Since I arrived here come into the house and give her a hug. fairly well. We have had a few people in in Dunfanaghy over a year ago I have The lockdown proved too much for my dog. hospital and we wish them well. Thankfully Ardara, Glencolumbkille, , Inniskeel & been told how busy the place is over the She got the opportunity when I was down at there have been no funerals. At this time Easter period and St. Patrick’s Day!!! The the hall and broke out through the boundary we need to thank God for the many people Bishop’s Curate - Rev Robert Wray town has been exceptionally quiet. Out fence at the hall. I noticed her missing and who have helped (at whatever level) in The Rectory, Lackegh, Portnoo, Co. Donegal walking the dog at about 11.00pm, two she was nowhere to be found. I got a phone the smooth running of the country and Email: [email protected] or three cars passing by is very busy. The call from the churchwarden to ask me if I had the administration of our health care. lockdown has been hard for many people. lost the dog and that she had made several Our last service was a celebration of Holy It is so unnatural not being able to mix and attempts to get into the shop nearby. Later Communion on St Patrick’s Day. Little did socialise with others - and especially family that evening I heard that Facebook had a we realise what was going to happen next picture of a dog like mine wondering on the contact. A granny told me how hard it was Continued on page 36...

34 N:VISION | DIOCESE OF DERRY & RAPHOE SUMMER 2020 35 Continued from page 35... Clondevaddock, Rossnakill, & Leatbeg and how would we continue to worship His help at this time is greatly appreciated. year. We felt that it was too risky. We hope Priest in Charge: Revd David Griscome God, corporately and in a meaningful way. I would like to thank the clergy in the area later in the year to have other fund-raising Tel: 074 9192811 My technology is not so good and with for their help and support. activities. If you have any ideas please let my limited skills, an order of service is me, or members of the Select Vestry or produced each Sunday as a hard copy for Our Lenten project, this year has gone committee know. parishioners who do not have Wi-Fi. Emails exceptionally well. We have raised almost were sent to those whose addresses we €1000, which will go to ‘Jeel-al-Amal’ There can be great uncertainty as the have. I have to thank Rev. Niall Johnston orphanage in Bethany near Jerusalem. Your phased return begins, doubt and fear. I for using Zoom and recording the service help towards this orphanage is greatly feel that this pandemic could not have so that it can go out on Facebook each appreciated. During this time of great happened at a better time. The weather Tullyaughnish, Kilmacrennan, Killygarvan & Glenalla Sunday morning. I thank Niall, and Patrick uncertainty I appreciate all those who is improving. As I write these notes sun Rev Canon Harry Gilmore who lead the worship and to our bible continue to leave the weekly envelopes at is been shining and it has got a lot great Tel. 0749151013 Email: [email protected] readers. I am greatly indebted to the Very the church and those who have set up warmer. The reading for each Sunday could Rev James Gillespie for allowing me to use payments through e-banking. not have been more reassuring and the the facilities in St. Fionan’s, and whole theme of the Easter message, which enabling me to broadcast the service to Sadly, the Select Vestry had to take the can be simply summed up in: for every the people in the area live on Facebook. decision to cancel our Summer Fare for this Good Friday, there is an Easter Day. Conwal Union with Rector: Revd David Houlton

Clondehorkey, Cashel & Mevagh Covid-19 in Letterkenny and Church Hill and the Rectory lounge has taken on more the and travel limits and social-distancing were in place, many many people lined the streets and Priest in Charge: Rev Canon George Irwin Lockdown in the Republic began just nature of a broadcasting studio - with a better before Gartan and Conwal’s planned Parish microphone, better cameras, and a dedicated lanes on the route as each hearse took Robert Tel: 028 81659531 Mob: 07444642760 Socials either side of the St Patrick’s Day computer now controlled remotely from the and Rosemary on their last earthly journeys. Email: [email protected] celebrations… and is now being eased just home of a third person while we are “on air”. For a county where everyone mourns together too late to allow the annual celebration in As I write, we are working on including more there was great heart-break and we will be In all my communication with parishioners How refreshing and inspiring it is to read and I am greatly encouraged by reports of how Gartan of the life of St Columba/Colmcille! It people in the online services. doing what we can to remember properly and over the many weeks of the lockdown hear of people using this time of lockdown to people are maintaining the discipline of was a strange feeling as we held what turned mourn together once the danger is passed. one of the things that I have found truly do many creative things. And this in addition worship on Sundays, not least by tuning out to be our last Sunday Services on Sunday Sadly, of course, some weddings and all baptisms Many people’s minds are now turning to what inspirational is the fortitude shown by people to completing - much sooner than scheduled in to the Services broadcast on BBC 1 15th March - socially distanced, with hand have had to be postponed and there have been we have learned, what we will continue, and in meeting the challenge of the Covid-19 - various routine projects around the house and RTE 1. sanitiser etc, and with young families and many other things that couldn’t go online: the what we will stop as the crisis abates. Being pandemic. We are living through tough times and garden. As for myself, I have been writing elderly people already staying away; but it was regular mid-week communions, the many social together to worship God, to think and pray and our resources are being tested to the poetry, mostly about my cherished memories From the registers a wise, if abrupt, move by a Government led events and family events that were planned, plus together, to socialise and to celebrate, are all limit, yet people show a cheerful courage of Donegal, and I look forward to sharing this Burials “Blessed are the dead who die in the by a Doctor! the various daytime and evening activities run by part of what it is to be a follower of Jesus. We and sense of hope. All of this reminds me with you in due course. Lord.” external organisations in the church and parish expect those to only slowly get back to what of the words of exhortation by St. Paul: By the next weekend the lockdown had been hall. The vestries have been very supportive: the they were as the risks subside. But what of Sunday, 5th April: Malcolm Ralph Park, “And we rejoice in the hope of the glory of Until we are all able to meet again in the way toughened, our Bishop closed the churches, secretary, treasurer and wardens have kept the the new things we have been doing? Can we Marblehill Road, Ballymore. God. Not only so, but we also rejoice in our to which we have been accustomed, please be and life changed: Palm Sunday, Holy Week, show on the road behind the scenes, and now stop online services when we are reaching sufferings, for we know that suffering produces assured that you are constantly in my prayers. Sunday, 3rd May: Brigid Myrtle (Biddy) Good Friday and Easter saw us leading at the beginning of June each parish’s vestry is many people who could not attend and those perseverance; perseverance, character; and I trust that you are making good use of the McArthur, Marblehill Road, Ballymore. “Prayers at Home” live on Facebook from about to have its second meeting on Zoom. who will need to continue to cocoon? Is there character, hope. And hope does not disappoint Parish Daily Prayer Guide. This is not just a the Rectory lounge using my 2013 vintage Even more sadly, we lost two much-loved a balance to be struck between driving around Monday, 11th May: Robert John us, because God has poured out his love into framework and aid for our devotions but also a smartphone - with many regular churchgoers, parishioners: Mr Robert Baxter on 2nd April the county to visit people in their homes Moore, Cashel. our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has valuable means of keeping us all together as a and quite a few others, tuning in! Easter and Mrs Rosemary Patterson on the 9th and calling more frequently by phone? Can given us.” (Romans 5:2-5) praying, witnessing Church community. home communions morphed seamlessly into April. Although neither was Covid related, people who are not IT savvy be helped to join pastoral phone calls, and they, along with the lockdown was a terrible torment for in online? And what about diocesan, national online services, became the new normal. family, friends and neighbours who wanted to and international meetings? mourn together properly. Robert was laid to Gradually we have expanded the number rest in Church Hill graveyard on the Saturday May God guide us all as we consider these of people we are in regular contact with by before Palm Sunday, and Rosemary in Gortlee matters prayerfully and seeking to discern phone, expanded the number of people who Cemetery on the Saturday before Easter, and His way forward into the New Normal! receive weekly sheets by post and email, although few people could be in the graveyards,

36 N:VISION | DIOCESE OF DERRY & RAPHOE SUMMER 2020 37 Taughboyne with Craigdooish, All Saints & Killea time. I thank you for helping everyone stay T is for the tomb where he lay for 3 and love which nothing can shake. Dylan together and help each other out when we whole days Rev Canon David Crooks need it most. Lord continue to walk with E is for the empty tomb, the stone was Easter time is the beginning of Spring. Tel: 074 914 0135 Mob: 00447871974658 us through COVID 19 and help us become rolled away Lambs are jumping in the fields. Farmers are Email: [email protected] stronger each day. We ask this in your R is for the risen Lord. Jesus is alive today. happy as days are getting longer. But take name. Amen Riley and Jane Jake care as the Coronavirus is getting stronger! Obviously, there is not much to report over at last, we might come back to Church, online, and especially to Bishop Forster Owen and Matthew and Andrena. because of the plague. to Sacraments and Scripture and Christian every Sunday at 4.00pm. And finally, one E is for each of us. God loves us everyone The great gift of Easter is hope. Christian hope fellowship. Those who are committed and delightful piece of good news in all this. Mr A is for a broken world, so he sent his Son which makes us have that confidence in God, Perhaps there is a Divine message in regular, would be delighted to be joined by the Sean McClafferty has completed the Lay S is for our sins that Jesus took away in his ultimate triumph and in his goodness all this - that we have gone too far in rest of you, those of you who seldom, if ever, Reader course, and is now fully trained as vandalising God’s Creation, polluting the attend, but who are entitled to and will receive a Diocesan Reader, and allowed to preach oceans and the atmosphere, drugs, endless my ministry. and lead Divine Worship in any parish in and senseless wars, sexual immorality and Derry and Raphoe, from Killowen, pornography – the list is endless. Perhaps In the meantime, as your priest and pastor, I to Glencolumbkille, from Gweedore to with all our modern technology and medical continue to pray for you, and to phone elderly Edenderry. However, Sean has kindly agreed advancements, for which thanks be to God and vulnerable parishioners from time to to work here on Sundays at 11.00am, so that the Holy Spirit, we have begun to think that time to keep in touch. I have been extremely between us there can be services in Killea or we no longer need God. Whether or not gratified to have been phoned by a number of Taughboyne and All Saints at 11.00am. Sean this is a Divine wake up call, perhaps the parishioners, asking me if I was alright. Such will be commissioned sometime soon, and Anna least we can do is to consider returning to pastoral care goes both ways.I can hardly wait no doubt, we will want to acknowledge his God, our Creator, Redeemer, Saviour and for the time when we fling open again the achievement. His is no mean achievement, Sanctifier. Perhaps our carelessness with doors of our churches, and get back to regular for he had to train under the new system, Ryan Dylan regard to holy things and church attendance Sacramental worship. I will expect to see a which is much more rigorous than the needs to be thought through. After all, massive increase in our church attendance. previous system. despite our cleverness, we are as nothing compared to Almighty God. He is Almighty, In the meantime, thank you to all who we are mortal. Perhaps when this is all have been providing worship every Sunday

Cara, Alex and Dylan Fahan Upper and Lower Adrena Riley Bishop’s Curate: Rev Judi McGaffin Tel: 07834561433

The Parishes of Fahan Upper and Lower Wednesday at 7pm and Friday Funtime at us to stay together as an ever-widening “Cherishing and connecting with all 10am. We keep connected through post and community that is the Church of God! God’s children” email and phone and Bible study and Sunday School on Zoom! The work of spreading the I pray to God that nobody gets sick and It is a difficult time for many as the Gospel has not only continued but is more stay at home and help me to keep my Maddie lockdown in its various forms continues vibrant and creative and spirit filled than distance from other people. Bella Joy and the outcomes of COVID 19 persist. ever before and more and more people have All of the events we had planned connected that I would have ever thought God, thank you for me being able to play Roberta for the rest of 2020 are now in cold possible! Since lockdown we have celebrated with my brother Alex. Ava Asha storage! However even though we so much in our worship! have been and are apart physically, we God, thank you for my house and my are very much connected spiritually. The prayers and a sample of the art work that family. Isabella We pray with hope that God will We have services on Facebook live on our online church community have done to refine us in the fire of this current Jake the fahanandbuncranachurchofireland help us to worship and connect fully speak Dear Lord, I thank you for keeping me and chaos, heal our land and that his Facebook site on Sunday at 11am, for themselves! (see below) They have helped my mum and my dad safe at this unsettling church will be revived.

38 N:VISION | DIOCESE OF DERRY & RAPHOE SUMMER 2020 39 , Greencastle, it is to meet together regularly for corporate I know many of you have been able to for the gift of the Holy Spirit. I pray that He worship, our faith is more than the time we connect with us in worship on our Facebook may encourage you; God is alongside you Donagh, Malin & spend physically together. Page @CCCMSP on Wednesdays at 7:00pm in all you face. God is present and at work Vacant and Sundays at 11:00am. We intend to through us and in us to redeem the evil of I hope you will join me in prayer for the continue this whilst the pandemic continues. this time. If the clergy can be of any help, Rural Dean Canon David Crooks Mob: 00447871974658 healing of our world. I also hope we will We are very grateful to DRIVE 105.3FM please get in touch. You all continue to be Tel: 074 914 0135 Email: [email protected] continue to use the opportunity to reach out in Derry/Londonderry who have been in our prayers and we ask you to continue beyond the walls of our church buildings and broadcasting our Sunday Service at 11:00am to remember us in your prayers. On behalf of the parishioners, I would of the Select Vestries for all your support making impressive progress in getting connect with people that they might have each week allowing us to reach many more. like to express sincere appreciation to the of the parishes and of myself. We also look round the United Dioceses. It must be hope. This is in short supply in our world; Yours in Christ, Revd Mervyn Peoples. He has, with me, forward to having Canon Stanley and Rev very frustrating for him to have to wait to whereas the Church has hope as one of our We are now in the Season of Pentecost. It is Robert+ been keeping in touch with parishioners by Shiela Johnson, and Mrs Maureen Williams continue, and eventually come amongst us foundation stones. a time when we remember and give thanks telephone. This is my duty as Rural Dean, so back again. I know that they are as much in this most northerly part of the Church I need no credit, but Revd Peoples deserves appreciated by you as they enjoy coming and of his Dioceses. I know that he is special appreciation as it is beyond his call to lead Divine Worship amongst you. looking forward to discovering for himself of duty. In this, and in many other ways, the welcome of the people of , he has been a pillar of support and a We appreciate all the services which are and the spectacular beauty of our district tower of strength. broadcast online every Sunday, and thank, in and churches. particular, Bishop Forster for his broadcasts St. Augustine’s, Londonderry I am also most grateful to all the Church every Sunday at 4.00pm. Up to the beginning Wardens and Glebes Wardens and member of the plague, our new Bishop had been Rector - Revd Nigel Cairns

‘It only took you three weeks to close We also feel very blessed to have worked the place.’ If I’ve heard that once, then with the neighbours who live close to I’ve heard it twenty times at least! The St Augustine’s Church, Department for world stage has been presented with an Communities, the Freemasons, the PSNI Rev Katie McAteer, Pastoral Director Christ Church, , incredibly surreal backdrop. And as for and various departments within our local Muff and St. Peter E [email protected] the players… well, it feels like we’re all council to have drive-through church in M 07813 885145 improvising because we certainly don’t Bishop Street Car Park. This has given us Rector: Venerable Robert Miller, know the script. The funny thing is, the the welcome opportunity to meet together script was never ours to direct in the first as people of faith in a more tangible and Mrs Angela Dobbins instance, and we give thanks that God is real way. The first drive-through service in E [email protected] Parish Administrator H 028 71352396 our refuge and strength. the inner city was, very aptly, on Pentecost E [email protected] Sunday, and Bishop Andrew was the Website: www.cccmsp.org O 028 71358925 The positive outworking’s of the drama, lockdown, our usual volunteers for keeping preacher. Over 50 cars were in the carpark Facebook Page: CCCMSP however, have included an overwhelmingly the churchyard haven’t been around, so a few with about 110 of a congregation (and Our Vision: Transforming Community, Radiating Christ. positive embrace of technology, and, of us have been engaged in some socially 1.1K views on Facebook!). Everyone was like most other churches, St Augustine’s distanced strimming and lawn mowing. very uplifted by the Bishop’s message and Our Vision Verse for 2020 is: Common Prayer that didn’t find its way into uncertain our condition is, and so to number has gone online. Facebook services, Anyone who has been walking on the walls found the gathering a real encouragement. 1 John 3 verse 18 ‘let us not love with our current edition. Although the language is our days, that we may seriously apply our zoom prayer gatherings and zoom vestry will be able to testify that the grounds are words or speech but with actions and dated the cry to God is not weakened by this: hearts to that holy and heavenly wisdom, meetings have been the order of the day, up to their usual impressive standard. The We never imagined that the liturgical in truth.’ whilst we live here, which may in the end whilst a telephone list has (temporarily) Northern Ireland Assembly roadmap for greeting, ‘If you can hear me, flash your O Almighty God, the Lord of life and death, bring us to life everlasting; through the merits taken the place of a home visiting list. easing lockdown restrictions was the curtain lights’ would make it into the Church As I write we are still in a situation of of health and sickness; Have pity upon us and mediation of Jesus Christ, thine only Son I would like to thank everyone in St. call we were waiting for. After much planning of Ireland! ‘lockdown’ in both Northern Ireland and miserable sinners, now visited with great our Lord. Amen. Augustine’s for their forbearance, for and risk assessing, the wee church has the Republic. People are still dying from sickness (and mortality). Withdraw from us this their continued prayer and (personal) opened its doors for private prayer - Tuesday the disease caused by this virus. I want to grievous affliction. Sanctify to us, we beseech One of the challenges for us as the Church encouragement, and for making the best mornings, 10.30am-12noon and Thursday ask each of you to join me in praying that thee, this thy fatherly correction. Enlarge our is that we are currently unable to meet of the situation. evenings 7pm-8pm. God will both redeem the evil of this time charity to relieve those who need our help. together physically for corporate worship and also heal and deliver us. Prayer is very Bless the remedies applied to assist them. and prayer. In March we were told to “Stop!” Just before lockdown we had the interior of important; this indeed has been one of the Give us prudence to see, and vigour to use, However, it is encouraging that we have St Augustine’s repainted. The congregation aspects of my faith that God has reminded those means which thy providence affords, continued worshipping and praying, as are yet to see the facelift for themselves, me of in this time. The following prayer for preventing and alleviating such calamities. the Church, in new ways. We have had to but I can assure everyone that the church is from the 1926 edition of the Book of And, above all, teach us to know how frail and remind ourselves that, important though is looking beautiful on the inside. During

40 N:VISION | DIOCESE OF DERRY & RAPHOE SUMMER 2020 41 Leckpatrick & Dunnalong Camus-Juxta-Mourne (Strabane) Canon Paul Whittaker: Rector and Rural Dean Rector - Rev John White Tel: 028 71880397 Our Vision… ‘Preach the Word… be shaped by the Word’. Mob: 07770691560 Email: [email protected] Tales of the unexpected… We’re now in a situation where we can attend strength, yet they store up food in the How many weeks has it been since to things we have put off: summer” Proverbs 30:25. Solomon speaks Well, what can I say that all our Clergy are shielding, isolating and vulnerable around the Our thoughts and prayers are very much Lockdown? How many weeks of social • our houses have never been cleaner … of the ant, and explains that the wonder of not saying? We have all been rocked by community. The Rector has delivered over with the Clarke, Dinsmore, Gardiner, Black, isolation? How many weeks of coming to • our gardens have never been tidier … the anthill rests in the contrast between the this new virus and how deadly it can be. 250 food packages every Thursday and Friday Godfery, McIntyre and Caldwell families. terms with the ‘New Normal’? We have • our hair has never been longer … ant’s size and its efficiency. Solomon uses Thousands of lives are being lost all over to our most vulnerable parishioners, those seen the effect of a virus that has had a the ant to illustrate the accumulated effect the world. However the acts of kindness with autistic children and families who need Believe or not there will be many massive effect on our lives. So many weeks I have found that this has given me the off steady, repeated movement in the right and care have been unbelievable. Carol and help at this time. positives outcomes of this pandemic. of not being together in worship. So many opportunity to spend more time in God’s direction. It’s the power of consistency. I go out for a walk almost every day and Relationships and friendships are weeks of having to come to terms with Word and in prayer. If we have discovered the As we contemplate the slow and steady everyone is waving and bidding the time of The Rector has also hosted a few sing-a- deepening. We are really getting to know modern technology and social media. So church is more than bricks and mortar, is He progress of ants here’s a challenge. What day to everyone. As editor of the n:vision longs on Facebook live and this has been one another and all these have stepped up many weeks of living with “virtual reality”. preparing us for a new way forward? Could is an activity or discipline you can devote Clergy notes I get to read them before very enjoyable. to a new level. We long to return to our Church services online either from home, or it be that God is getting us to recalibrate our yourself to day after day, week after week, anyone else and what is coming through churches and are indebted to those who in isolation in church. Bible studies with no priorities? What happens when this is all over? and now month after month? Some of our very strongly is that everyone is getting We began videoing services during Lent, are still returning their FWO envelopes and one present. Church services in a car park. Do we simply go back to the way things were? most significant growth can be measured on with it all in many different ways and Holy Week and every Sunday. Each week those who pay the parishes by standing Prayer meetings by Zoom! Of course, it Or, do we take the opportunity to learn the only after months or even years. Be patient. our response has been creative and we progress and do things a little better. order or direct debit. doesn’t affect everyone to the same degree, lessons and make the necessary changes? The small changes we make today, do ground breaking. We are now live streaming from the parish but it does affect us as a society. We have Do we go back or move forward? Or, do matter. Each journey of 1000 miles begins churches and on Sunday 31st May we had This continues to be a very difficult time seen what a physical virus can do. But there we continue with the “new normal” that with one step. In our parishes we have been providing our first drive-in service in Leckpatrick Parish for all of us. However, we are beginning is a far worse virus - the virus of sin. is now normal? a hot meal every Wednesday to 22 or Car Park and were able to livestream it on to see some light at the end of the tunnel God bless and stay safe. 23 vulnerable parishioners. However Facebook as well. We had between 40 and with some restrictions being lifted by the That virus has affected everyone born into Has the world not only been shaken but also we brought it to a finish after week 12 50 cars, the weather was very kind to us and Executive at Stormont. But we still need to this world for all time. We have seen what it the world? Is it not time for Jesus to be Lord because we feel people need to move on we had a fabulous worship time with a little be careful and follow the social distancing will do when unleashed. It is indiscriminate. of the Church? “Ants are features of little to a new normal. We are very grateful to bit of fun thrown in as well. Check out our advice from the medical profession. Stephen and Avril Murdock parishioners Facebook pages for the full story - Parishes of In the meantime - May the road rise up to of Dunnalong for the provision of all these Leckpatrick and Dunnalong Church of Ireland. meet you. May the wind be always at your meals for the past 11 weeks. Stephen runs back. May the sun shine warm upon your a small catering company from his home Sadly during the pandemic we have had face; the rains fall soft upon your fields and and he was well prepared for it. We are also seven deaths. Bereavement and pastoral care until we meet again, may God hold you in very grateful for the donation of some of has become that more difficult with limited the palm of His hand. Amen. Urney and Sion Mills the food, Supervalu , Mitchell attendance, social distancing, no handshakes Rector Meats Strabane and Glen Fresh Foods or hugs, not even a hand on a shoulder. The Stay at home, keep safe and God bless Strabane. During these weeks we have Rector is deeply saddened about not being each one of you. Rev Jonathan McFarland delivered well over 250 meals. able to visit Hospitals and Nursing Homes and pastor and pray for our people but that The Rector would like to thank Kaye “Sometimes in a lonely place, in the At Pentecost the disciples were waiting for the Not so. God has been at work so that we do We have been partnering Bright day will return soon. The Rector has had to Nesbitt and his wife Carol for all their presence of my God, I stand and listen. Holy Spirit. Their prayers were answered. They not have to go back to the way things were Ballymagorry Community group in the do WhatsApp and Facebook live services work and support during this lockdown. In the silence of my heart I can hear God’s burst out of their isolation and preached with before. We all now crave a new normality, a provision of food parcels and bags for those from the Rectory into the bereaved homes. will, when I listen. For I am but a servant who courage and truth about the Risen Christ. new way of living and a new depth to our is guided by my King, when I listen.” Peter said to the crowd “Repent believe in the worship of the living God. (St. Columba) name of Jesus for the forgiveness of your sins and you will receive the Holy Spirit.” And this is Let us pray that the same Holy Spirit, who Urney can mean a place of prayer or a what happened. Thousands were added to the brought about the birth of the Church, will fill community of prayer. There is evidence that Church that day. us and make us joyful and bold to bring the Urney parish has been a praying community hope of Christ to this generation. Donagheady going all the way back to the Celts. The Celtic We may be tempted to believe that our Church knew a lot about silent listening. We isolation and restricted activity during the Yours in Christ, Rev Dr Robin Stockitt need to return to that today. coronavirus pandemic is entirely negative. Jonathan Tel: 028 7139 8017 Email: [email protected]

42 N:VISION | DIOCESE OF DERRY & RAPHOE SUMMER 2020 43 with those who have no access to the Fortunately, we have had only one funeral in a community, as we need to remember Derg & Termonamongan internet. Perhaps this is an area where we our group of parishes, the late John Scott of social distancing measures when we Rector - Rev Peter Ferguson can be of assistance in our families. Do we 30 Crew Road, Crew Bridge, Castlederg was are out and about at work or doing our Tel: 028 8167 1362 have a relative whom we could help out to buried in Drumclamph Parish graveyard on shopping. Loneliness will be a problem in set them up with a mobile or iPad etc to Monday 1st June where the family observed our community during lockdown especially get them online. As it is the vast majority social distancing. We remember his family, those who are shielding so let us remember Reaching Up, Reaching In, Reaching • Daily Bible Readings can be found in the housebound / self-isolating of visits to the parish website for weekly relatives and friends in our prayers that God to keep in touch with them via the Out: for God, for Each Other, for our our Parish Magazine • #ViralKindness – helping with groceries, meditations is via mobile phone and a will comfort them in their sad loss. We hope occasional phone call. Community. • A message of hope from the Bible mail, medication to those housebound/ fixed internet connection is not necessary and pray that the lockdown will soon end, will be placed on our Facebook self isolating. for this. how soon it ends depends on all of us as Yours Sincerely, Rev Robert Keogh Given the current COVID-19 (Coronavirus) page everyday • Resources for children and young people crisis here at Derg and Killeter Parish • Sunday services will continue online will be shared through Facebook and Group, we are a people of faith and not with Word proclamation (YouTube channel: WhatsApp groups. fear, because Jesus is our hope and has Derg and Killeter Church of Ireland). • Virtual Sunday School with SEEDS defeated death for us. We are seeking lesson plans takes place each week. ways to share the love and hope we have WORSHIP • Challenges for our youth group Derg in Jesus in real ways. Here are some of • Every day a hymn of praise will be shared Valley Ducks takes place through our Edenderry & Clanabogan the areas we have prayerfully decided on our Facebook page as an anchor WhatsApp group. to instigate at this time. As the situation • We have pre-recorded hymns and songs • WhatsApp friendship groups to build Rev Canon Robert Clarke Rural Dean progresses we will review, enhance and on our churches before lockdown banter and community. Tel: 028 82245525 add as God leads us. Praise in the Valley series with musical • Rector Runs – praying for parish and Email: [email protected] contributions from parishioners and community as he goes. “God is our refuge and strength an ever- friends of the parish will be released on • Pastoral ministry continues through Greetings to you all in the midst of this This all has intruded greatly on pastoral When the road you’re trudging seems all present help in trouble. Therefore we will our YouTube channel to celebrate key telephone and modern technology. Covid-19 pandemic. This is when both visitations, baptisms, confirmations, weddings uphill. When the funds are low, and the debts not fear” Psalm 46:1 festivals in the church calendar. our resilience and our faith are very much and funerals; and our hearts go out to those are high. And you want to smile, but you • Kneel at Noon – corporate prayer for self- “Do not be anxious about anything, but put to the test. Well done all of you who whose long-term plans have been frustrated have to sigh; When care is pressing you down WORD isolators. At 12 noon each day let us stop in everything, by prayer and petition, with are sticking to the guidelines of keeping due to the situation in which we find ourselves. a bit. Rest if you must, but don’t you quit. • Word for Today Bible notes are to pray using our BCP to help. thanksgiving, present your requests to God. distance and minimising the risk of available for FREE to collect from • FWO can be maintained through And the peace of God, which transcends all spreading the coronavirus. Personally, I am grateful to the internet and to Success is failure turned inside out, our church porch 1. Standing Order, 2. FWO sit-in once a month understanding, will guard your hearts and telecommunication. Thank you for the positive The silver tint of clouds of doubt; • Word for Today - each days Bible your minds in Christ Jesus.” Steps forward are, rightly, tentative and feedback which you send me as a result of my And you never can tell how close you are - thought will be put on our Parish WITNESS Philippians 4:6&7. cautious as we progress through all of twice-weekly online reflections. As much as I It may be near when it seems so far. Facebook page • Phone a Friend – a telephone service to this and until a vaccine is found. We enjoy recording these, they come nowhere near So stick to the fight when you’re hardest hit, are extremely grateful to those science being in church and meeting face to face. It’s when things seem worse researchers who are labouring overtime to However, hopefully these days will return in That you must not quit. Anon. rapidly assist us in easing lockdown and to the not too distant future. I was amazed at enable us to resume normal living as soon how popular the parish and friends’ online quiz Courage as humanly possible. proved. Again, comments were encouraging. “The human spirit can endure a sick body, So perhaps, in time we shall have a second one. but who can bear it if the spirit is crushed?” How we all miss our normal everyday We must remain patient and supra-vigilant Proverbs 18:14 Drumclamph & Clare, Langfield Upper & Lower routine which most of us took for granted through all of these unforeseen circumstances. Rev Robert G. Keogh until mid-March. Most unreal is the fact Above all, we must maintain our faith and God Tel: 028 8167 1433 that our patterns of corporate worship have will see us through. Meanwhile, keep praying, been severely hindered. Just as frustrating keep positive and keep safe. Email: [email protected] is that we are unable to plan concretely for http://www.drumclamph.derry.anglican.org the future since we don’t know how things Perseverance are going to work out. When things go wrong, as they sometimes will. During the cultural revolution in China the because of lockdown, it has had to go online. each other. All the churches have found churches were closed. However none of us We are very fortunate that social media has that social media is reaching a much bigger would have anticipated that the churches developed to the degree it has. Here in our audience than the people who regularly would be closed here in Northern Ireland group of parishes we have set up Facebook, come to church and this is one of the in 2020 due to a virus pandemic. This was WhatsApp and iMessage groups which link positive stories of the current pandemic. I something we didn’t see coming. If we had into the parish website and this has been would estimate that I am reaching about we would have been better prepared. The very effective for meditations to be posted two thirds of the parish via social media so life of the Church is still going on. However, every week and for us to stay in touch with there is a digital divide in our community

44 N:VISION | DIOCESE OF DERRY & RAPHOE SUMMER 2020 45 Drumragh & Mountfield Ardstraw, Baronscourt, Badoney Upper Curate – Revd Sean Hanily & Lower and Greenan www.drumragh.derry.anglican.org Rector - Rev. Ivan Dinsmore Tel: 028 8166 1342

These are unprecedented times that we are coming weeks. Wouldn’t it be a wonderful thing throughout the lockdown. The stonemasons’ living in, and none of us could have envisaged if there were lots of people in our churches work was always going to be the slowest just a few short months ago where we would on the first Sunday back that not many of us and most intricate part of the job, so it be today with regards might recognise or know? Our churches may is wonderful that they have been able to , Ballynascreen & Six Towns our church services and fellowship. never look the same again! Of course, it is to the continue and this will mean faster progress fore of my mind that not everyone can access towards finishing when everything is back up Rector - Revd Rosie Diffin Email: [email protected] But even in the isolation of it all, good the online services. Whilst I have done my and running. I hope you will feel encouraged Tel: 028 7962 8823 Web: http://kilcronaghan.vpweb.co.uk things have been happening in our parishes. best to contact all those who cannot, I would by these pieces of news at this time. Know Bringing our services online has provided an appreciate it if you could let me know if there that you are in my prayers, now more than opportunity for us to reach out to the wider are any people who have been missed out – or ever. Although we are not meeting in the community in Omagh and beyond. The anybody who would simply like a phone call for church buildings, that does not mean we At the time of writing my submission the countless ways in which parishioners people at a time when they were facing enthusiasm of many new faces joining us a chat and a prayer. are not the Church. We (you and I) are the for the last issue of ‘n:vision,’ I had been continually reach out to one another through circumstances, not unlike those that we has been very encouraging to see. The tough Church. And I really feel the hand of God rector of Kilcronaghan, Ballynascreen and acts of love. Early on in the pandemic the are facing, as we move slowly out of part of this new mission will be trying to get In other news – the St Columba’s building guiding us at this time – that at such a time Six Towns, for barely a week and I had so Select Vestry carried out a leaflet drop, lockdown towards a more normal way these people along to our church services project has continued its progress, albeit as we can meet in our church buildings again, many plans in mind, for the months ahead. offering to collect prescriptions and groceries, of life. The Israelites, having been held when all of this is over. I would appreciate it at a slower rate than we had anticipated. we will be the stronger for it. God bless Full of enthusiasm, I began to organise my or phone those who are shielding. As time in captivity in Babylon, knew that their if you could pray especially for this over the The stonemasons have been working busily visiting diary, two baptisms, a wedding, went on this became a ministry that the journey towards a more normal way of confirmation classes, Lent, Holy Week whole parish have embraced. Throughout life, would be a long, slow journey. They and Harvest services etc etc… Back then, these 12 weeks many of our parishioners were feeling discouraged and uncertain, as Covid19 was just something that was out have been delivering free groceries, to the to how they would be able to cope with there, somewhere on the horizon, but not homes of those who are shielding. Alongside what lay ahead. In response the prophet yet, declared a pandemic. Never in my this, two parishioners have committed to a Isaiah encouraged them to lift their eyes wildest imaginings did I envisage that, 15 weekly delivery, of more than 50 copies, of off their circumstances, and look towards Cappagh & Lislimnaghan weeks later, we would be 12+ weeks into our weekly services, converted to CD format, the One whose sovereign power knows lockdown, with no definitive plan as to how for those who are unable to access services no limit, saying: “Behold your God”. (v9) A Rev Canon Derek Quinn we could safely move towards meeting online. I know that those who are in receipt of hymn based on this passage is a personal Tel: 028 8224 2572 together in our church buildings. each and every act of love, are very grateful, favourite of mine: Email: [email protected] and I would like to thank all those involved, TS Elliott once wrote that: ‘The true church for the ways in which they have answered the Who has held the oceans in His hands? “It was the best of times, it was the worst of 188 countries. Over 375,000 people have lost have applauded our wonderful N.H.S. and can ever fail, because it is built upon a rock.’ call of Christ who in Matthew 5:16 said: Let Who has numbered every grain of sand? times” is perhaps the most famous opening their lives at the time of writing. Life as we other key workers. The weather has been While Covid-19 has presented us with your light shine before others, that they may Kings and nations tremble at His voice line in all of English literature. These words knew it is no more - now it is about protecting incredible and the country has never looked many challenges, it is impossible to feel see your good deeds and glorify your Father All creation rises to rejoice. come from the pen of Charles Dickens in his ourselves and others through social distancing. so beautiful. Because of the reduced volume discouraged in light of the many ways, in in heaven. Behold our God seated on His throne novel ‘A Tale of Two Cities’ which he wrote in Churches and businesses have been temporarily of traffic people have been able to listen to which we have been blessed throughout Come, let us adore Him 1859. One hundred and sixty one years later, shut. Weddings have had to be postponed, plans the birdsong, and air quality has improved this time. On a personal level, I have found As we wait for that day to come when we Behold our King! Nothing can compare those words describe our experience during changed. We have been unable to visit family dramatically in many parts of the world. the creative side of my ministry being will, once more, meet together in our church Come, let us adore Him. the Coronavirus pandemic, particularly if you and friends, but we are the lucky ones for many Clergy have found new ways of ministering to challenged and stretched, as I attempt to buildings, may we continue to ‘be Christ’s reverse the order of the two phrases so that have had to cope with the loss of a loved one parishioners. God has been with us - “an ever stay in touch with parishioners through Church’ to the community in which we live, Credits: Jonathan Baird, Meghan Baird, the sentence reads “It was the worst of times, due to Covid-19. Our thoughts and prayers are present help in time of trouble” (Psalm 46 v 1). quiz’s, letters, cards, reflection booklets, and and if you would happen to find yourself Ryan Baird, and Stephen Altrogg it was the best of times”. with all who have been bereaved, as well as with of course those online service recordings. feeling discouraged, you might like to read those who are worried and anxious about their The legacy It has also been a real blessing to see Isaiah 40. Isaiah 40 was written to God’s “The worst of times” health or future employment. Truly we are living I pray that what we have been through over As we wished each other A Happy New Year in incredibly difficult and stressful times. the past three months will enable us all to at the beginning of 2020, who in their wildest put our complete trust in God, to get our dreams could possibly have imagined what “The best of times” priorities right, and to become more caring. the coming months would bring. Coronavirus Thankfully all is not negative for over the past We have but one life to live - let’s allow Jesus has spread rapidly across the world, with few months we have witnessed incredible acts to use us to make this world a better place more than six million confirmed cases in of bravery and kindness. Every Thursday we for everyone.

46 N:VISION | DIOCESE OF DERRY & RAPHOE SUMMER 2020 47 and Termoneeny St. Tida’s, Parish of , Rector - Rev. Mike Dornan NSM in Charge - Revd Brian Hassan Tel: 028 7963 2455 Email: [email protected] As someone who worked long hours as a During lockdown we in Ballyscullion have In the future I pray that some who have Like many parishes, we saw Covid 19 as as, setting people up in each group and how we are hoping to introduce some form policeman and for ten years of that service, made the most of social media. We produce watched online may want to sample real something that was in the news but couldn’t to do worship for an unknown and potentially of “drive-in church” but have discovered I was an NSM, lockdown is starting to give a full service on Sunday mornings at 11.30am church when the doors reopen. Although I imagine the impact it was going to have extended period of time. The phrase “the that without official regulations from the me cabin fever. My last four years in the on the Parish Facebook page. We obtained am a firm believer in worshipping together directly on our lives. The month before the partially sighted leading the blind” came to NI Executive, yet with the responsibility police I was also, and still am, a padre in a broadcast licence and have a library of and social media is a poor substitute, we “lockdown” was memorable as we buried mind. However, after a few phone calls and to respect Government “Guidelines” the Army Cadet Force. Add to that senior music and hymn singing by the choir and may have to consider a ‘live feed’ for the four of our senior parishioners in as many help from old friends and the diocese, I found which many or may not have elements of chaplaincy role in the Loyal Orders and congregation, so every Sunday we begin housebound and others living in different weeks, a bad run for wee parishes. On a out how set up these groups and then how flexibility built into them, together with RBL and someone who regularly sat at and end with a hymn. I use the BCP 2004 countries. Many have tuned in regularly more positive note, Desertmartin Parish was to post videos. Next, I dug out my old video public liability insurance implications, this Windsor Park for Linfield and Northern format for the Service of the Word with a and want to continue with us so we preparing to celebrate the 200th Anniversary camera. So a makeshift studio was set up the is much more complicated than it first Ireland games and a visitor to Ibrox at full preachment. Each week two different must trust the Holy Spirit will deliver the of our church building with a series of rectory to record services and reflections. Then appears. However, where there is a will, least six times a season I am not a fan parishioners are recorded reading the message of love and salvation to those who events across spring and the summer. Then the problems really started, typified by it taking there is a way, thanks to Gavin’s help in of lockdown. I really miss leading church lectionary appointed Scripture lessons and either can’t or may be frightened to come everything changed. We were not parishes up to 8 hours to upload a twenty minute video the Diocesan office. So, in addition to the services and visiting parishioners. As a everything is brilliantly put together by our back to church. that had embraced social media as part of to Facebook, which would then repeatedly good old telephone, remember those, chatty, people person I miss engaging in IT man and Diocesan Council member, John our pastoral ministry. However, in March, it fail at the 99% upload point. Very trying!!! maybe there will be some way of using conversation, whether that be at Select Junkin. It appears to be very popular. Finally, we should remember God is still was obvious that an urgent response was Apparently, it was all to do with a painfully video conferencing for meetings. However, Vestry, Orange Lodge, Windsor Park, Ibrox on His Throne and He will see us through required, as we could see the lockdown slow and flaky internet connection. It turns out many of the people who could receive the or simply in a coffee shop in the Bellaghy We have also adopted Zoom for a Bible study this crisis. He has been there during every coming, so following meetings with the that you can only upload at a fraction of the greatest benefit from this, don’t currently area. I, personally, wait for the news which takes place on alternate Wednesday plague, every pandemic, every war and Select Vestries after morning worship, it download speed and out here at the rectory, have the ability to access it. A bit of a when the Theological College will allow evenings and this is gaining popularity. Add every act of hatred. He has been with His was decided to set up not only a parish that isn’t great to start with. The solution, was “Catch 22” situation. me to commence my transition course that to phone calling, emailing and contact people offering love and support. The time Facebook page, but also parish What’s App setting up a Youtube channel which works at to stipendiary ministry after having been through my own personal Instagram account has arrived for us to, “Be not afraid,” and groups. The latter would have the combined least twice as quickly and allows the videos to We have to be realistic and come to terms accepted by the House of Bishops days and we are maintaining virtual contact. As I fully and completely put our trust in the advantages of not only “pushing out” news be posted on the What’s App groups as well, with the fact that parish life as we knew it before the lockdown. I am very grateful to live thirty miles from the parish I await the God who led the Children of Israel out of and information onto parishioner’s phones Who knew! It turned out that my old SD will not return in a recognisable form in the Bishop Andrew and Archdeacon Robert for easing of the restrictions and only essential the wilderness and accept He will lead us automatically, without the need to log into video camera was actually an advantage after near future. We could be facing limitations their support, prayers and encouragement travel has occurred due to a funeral and some out of the wilderness of the coronavirus a Facebook page, but also helped retain the all as the files are smaller than HD video ones. for many more months or even years in during this process. premises checking. crisis too. individual character of each with parish To cut a long story short, we now have a lot of some form, so it is everyone’s responsibility specific content. “new” people who are members of our virtual and opportunity to find ways to help our parishes, people from across not only the local parishes adapt and ultimately thrive in the We all had a very steep learning curve as we community but the UK and even Australia! An “new normal”. I am looking forward to struggled to become competent with our unexpected bonus in these strange times. So hearing all the creative ideas that you have “new tech”. Then addressing questions such what’s next? Well, like some other parishes to share. God Bless, Rev Mike.

“It was you who set all the

Christ Church boundaries of the earth; you Rev. Colin Welsh Rural Dean made both summer and winter.” Tel: 028 7946 8235 Email: [email protected] Psalm 74:17

48 N:VISION | DIOCESE OF DERRY & RAPHOE SUMMER 2020 49 & Killelagh , Tamlaght O’Crilly Upper & Lower

Revd Terence Kerr Rector: Rev Gary Millar Tel. 028 7964 2252 www.magheraparish.co.uk

In early Spring we learned that a virus for the entire Parish and one for the Select The Future By now we are all familiar with the phrase, of us colouring our hair blue and orange. We spoken into more lives than we normally do had evolved in Wuhan, China. Most of us Vestry. Both have been a great resource for We are organising an outdoor service at “The Church has left the building” and also created a KID KITZ Facebook page with on a Sunday and has enabled members of the thought, Asia had experienced these viral me to communicate to my Parishioners. For which we will dedicate a sign of THANK the reality that our buildings have been crafts and teaching which parents can avail of. congregation to speak to neighbours about outbreaks before and we were hopeful that those without social media, I use the simple YOU to the NHS that will remain on closed. There was always the possibility of I embraced Zoom to continue with Bible Study their faith and God. The reality is that God it could be locally contained. To be honest, tool of regularly telephoning to reassure Parish property until the end of the a pandemic spreading across the world but and learned how to live stream on Facebook is still God and he calls us to serve him in few of us could have foreseen that the them of my thoughts and prayers and twice pandemic. Social distancing will be strictly none of us could have predicted how it would using a streaming platform. During the Diocesan the ‘new norm’ that lies before us. How we disease would travel so quickly to Europe I have also written to all households. On maintained, and it will include a local affect our lives, our churches, or the world. Week of Prayer, we had a prayer meeting every do that will look different! There are many and beyond. The Covid 19 virus soon Sundays at our customary Church time, Accordion Concert Band who will be When it was announced that the buildings morning and have continue to meet for prayer questions our vestries will need to answer travelled to the UK and to our beloved my wife Carol and I go into our Parish seated 2 metres apart. would close I found myself turning to my on a Monday evening and Friday morning. I am as our buildings re-open. How will we meet Province resulting in many thousands of Church and lead a Service that includes youngest son Timothy and saying, “HELP – grateful to Timmy Dowie for helping with the safely without putting our community at deaths. We will remember Boris ordered prayers and bible readings. My reflections I intend to continue to Glorify God each how are we going to continue to be church Prayer Times. Our Thursday morning service risk? How do we continue to have an online the lockdown at precisely 17.05pm on are invariably Christ-centred, focussing and every Sunday morning until the in isolation!” Thankfully, he was more familiar continues every Thursday on Facebook. On presence and reach others? How do we love Monday 23 March 2020 resulting in on how Jesus walks with us through these Parishioners and I can meet together in our with technology than I was, and on Sunday Friday evenings we are entertained, and our and serve our communities and make Jesus unparalleled consequences that impacted unprecedented challenging days, filling us splendid Parish Churches of St. Lurach’s 22nd the KIT Group of Parishes went live and brains stretched with Timmy’s Big Quiz. We more real? How do we stop retreating to the on our families and social gatherings, that with words of Comfort and Hope. The service and Killelagh. Until then I will endeavour celebrated Mother’s Day. He also nagged at have been keen to have something each day of building? How do we make our worship more included unbelievably the closure of our is then posted on the St Lurach’s Parish to pray daily for God’s Mercy and me to ensure we followed correct procedure the week, except for Saturday, for all members accessible and welcoming? precious church buildings. Facebook page. With the apparent increase in encourage my flock to pray and grow in with the appropriate licenses for broadcasting of the congregation to participate in. For those spiritually that the lockdown has facilitated, faith, so that we may together see God’s and we stick within the law! Since the 22nd who have no internet we have distributing As someone who has been shielding for 12 The Present I am encouraged that so many people watch Holy name magnified in giving us the March we have broadcasted a service every CD’s of the service. Offline we have supported weeks, due to health reasons, I realise that For me it is truly inspirational how the vast the service, some of whom are not regular victory over this dreadful disease. Sunday with full participation with members the food bank in Maghera and have a team the uncertainty which lies before us is very majority of our Parishes reacted. In our own church attenders and are now hearing Jesus’ of the congregation doing the welcome, the of people who are available to help with food real and frightening. Society is not going to Parish I set up two WhatsApp groups one loving invite to follow Him. readings, the children’s talk, the intercessions, deliveries, picking up prescriptions etc… return to normal for a long time and how we and the creed. Bishop Andrew and Bishop live is going to be different. In the midst of all Ken Clarke have shared in our services and In a short time, we have learned to worship this we are still called to believe in a God who we look forward to Captain George Newell, and do things in a new way, and the Lord took a group of ordinary people like us, who Church Army, speaking in the coming weeks. has redeemed the situation and enabled us were filled with fear and uncertainty, and Our New Beginnings Service is broadcast on to continue the mission of the church. Our poured out his Spirit upon them at Pentecost Errigal & Desertoghill () the second Sunday of each month and our mission, our call, to fulfil the great commission and used them to transform their community Team has embraced the opportunity to do and to live out the great commandment has and world. Our God is the same yesterday, Rector - Rev. Carmen Hayes things that wouldn’t be possible in church not changed. Like our persecuted brothers and today and tomorrow and I pray that we will Tel - 02929558226 or the hall. Gillian, my wife, was quick to sisters who have been forced to worship without wait upon him, be obedient to him and be organise Zoom parties with the children buildings for years we have learned to trust God filled with his Spirit to love and serve him in Recently I read that a long-time member of sense of aloneness or isolation that they are as well: meals on wheels; shopping; collecting and young people which resulted in in both more. Through our online presence the Lord has our generation. a church named St John’s Church launched experiencing! And so, just to be able to do Church prescriptions and cutting lawns, basically, little a scathing verbal attack on its new rector and Ministry has created all sorts of challenges acts of kindness that have meant so much for his radical new ideas and changes. to be overcome, and I have to say I am ‘as proud to so many and, do you know what, it’s not “Reverend!” he exclaimed, “If God weren’t as punch’ at the way the folks from St Paul’s and exactly been Rocket Science! alive today, He’d turn in His grave for He’d Moyletra have risen to those challenges. For in be so shocked at the changes in this church!” my experience, in adversity and darkness ‘Light’ Pastoral ministry has been perhaps the most I can’t help but wonder, how that elder always shines brighter and this has certainly been difficult to recreate ‘virtually’ for there is just statesman might’ve have coped with the demonstrated by the amount of love, care and nothing like the safe and comforting arms of a changes that have been forced, not only concern that the folks here have shown to one friend when life’s been tough and in particular Rev Louise Crawford-McCafferty 40 Brone Road, Garvagh BT51 4EQ upon the church or our communities but another and in particular to those who are the when sadly a loved one has died. So, when Tel: 07890745359 Email: [email protected] over almost every aspect of our lives because most vulnerable in our church and community! this is all over as I hope one day it will be and of the Coronavirus. It has not been - and for And who would have believed that a ‘virus’ would soon, I’m sure that out of all the memories Each day brings something new. You know that June 1st is also National Penpal Lamentations 3:22-23 “The steadfast many - is still not easy! For although the vast actually help the vast majority of us to engage I’ll have, those of watching bereaved widows/ wouldn’t believe how many ‘national’ days Day? Or 4th is Old Maids Day! 6th is YoYo love of the Lord never ceases; His mercies majority of us are fairly up-beat about our in technology and social media in the way widowers not being able to give their loved there are in June. June 1st - public holiday day - diet or toy, I’m not sure which! Or never come to an end; they are new every emergence from lockdown, there are still a we have: Streaming services; Zoom meetings; ones the send-off they deserved will be the in Ireland and Father’s Day June 21st, are 8th is Best Friends Day, 22nd is Choc Eclair morning; great is your faithfulness” significant number that remain frightened WhatsApp family get togethers; and even ones that will live on in my heart, until that the better known ones, but there are so Day, and 25th is Handshake Day! - a fear that is compounded because of the granny’s on YouTube! New practically ministries is I get the opportunity to put that right! many other exciting days in June. Did you Continued on page 52...

50 N:VISION | DIOCESE OF DERRY & RAPHOE SUMMER 2020 51 Continued from page 51... Killowen (Coleraine)

There are many changes each day - the end, so I know Americans know how to Trump has yet to express any compassion Rev. Donard Collins first that hits me is almost at the end tell their government they aren’t happy or mercy towards the losses of Covid19 or Tel: 028 7034 2629 of the day when I watch the news and with things as they are. What disturbed me the loss of life that led to the protests and Email: [email protected] hear how many people have died from most today was President Trump ‘wading’ unfortunately riots. Jesus commands us to www.killowenparishcoleraine.co.uk “May we show Christ’s love + teach his Word.” Covid19 and how sad we are. I appreciate through peaceful protestors in Washington love one another; this was nothing new in our politicians at least commenting on to get a photograph of himself outside an New Testament times. “May we show Christ’s love + teach his Word.” pray together and study the book of Daniel; We offer a selection of items for you to how each number is a person, a family in Episcopalian church holding a Bible. learning about persevering for the Lord in pray for and remember: grieving, a loss from our nation, our world. This news is being discussed worldwide The Hebrew Scriptures used similar words Since the lockdown, church has been times of difficulty. Our ‘Teens Together’ and a minister in Australia hit it on the in the law - Leviticus 19: 18 “You shall not different for us at Killowen, as it is for also meet weekly on Zoom and have been • Parents, children and families as they And then news each day of changes in the head when he said, “The Bible is a book take vengeance or bear a grudge against everyone. ‘Call upon me in the day of learning how to read the Bible, as well as share in the issues of daily life USA about the protests and riots. I have that you don’t read - it reads you. As a any of your people, but you shall love your trouble - I will deliver you and you will studying the letter of • The children of our church and all who been on protests in America that have had message of divine mercy, it exposes our neighbour as yourself: I am the Lord.” honour me’ (Psalm 50:15) Our Sunday 1 Peter. can influence them for good more than 15,000 people in attendance need for that mercy. The Bible holds up a This is an ancient commandment that needs services have moved online, and thanks • Each Sunday’s ‘Children’s corner’ and it was peaceful from beginning to mirror to human nature and human society.” to be lived out today as much as ever. Amen to a great team, we have been able to The Rector mentioned in our recent message to children and parents increase the quality and usefulness of newsletter that he had met with a lady at our • Our weekly Teens and Connect Bible these videos week after week; distributing local Spar who was most anxious – Why? She study and prayer times on Zoom them on CDs to those who do not have hesitated, but said that this was her first time • All who share in our Sunday and internet access. We also have our mid- out in 11 weeks. Small sure steps - and she Wednesday online devotions week ‘Bible Time’ available online, giving overcame this one very well! • 10:30am Sunday mornings in church – Camus-Juxta-Bann () us the opportunity to support our existing open for private prayer Bible-Study groups in the Parish and reach Since Sunday 24th May, Killowen Church has • Those who give of their time in Rector: Rev Paul Lyons out to others who wish to spend time taken its own small sure step - of being open preparing our devotions and teaching www.camus-juxta-bann.org studying the book of Proverbs and consider on Sundays 10:30-11:00am (in keeping with • Our Personal / CD and Website questions arising from the passage. Anyone government guidelines) for private prayer. We outreach to parishioners and friends is welcome to access this by searching for are grateful to all our parishioners for their • Loved ones and friends who are being ‘Killowen Parish’ on YouTube or going to understanding and patience, especially as cared for at home or in hospital ‘With great power the apostles continued fine! Initially, people shared with me that glory! God’s keeps his promises! Signs were www.killowenparishcoleraine.co.uk. it is hard to discern as to when things shall • Any who are facing uncertainty about to testify to the resurrection of the Lord they missed going on holiday, visiting their put onto the church door and noticeboard progress. We trust that the Lord will bless work, school, health or finances Jesus. And God’s grace was so powerfully favourite restaurant, shopping, organisations on 17th March informing people that church We are thankful that God has given us and keep his people, as a witness to Jesus, • Staff in Hospitals, Care homes and the at work in them all.’ Acts 4v33 and sport. However, after a while the worship and ministries were cancelled these opportunities to continue spreading at all times. Community in their daily work importance of these things started to fade due to the Coronavirus. At the bottom of His word and build each other up in our • Those who are bereaved – to be What have we learnt during lockdown? away and the blessings of good health, faithful the page a bible verse (Psalm 46v1) was faith. With so much focus on our physical We have learned a lot during lockdown, and assured of Christ - as their peace The suddenness of the change the friends and community support have become added, ‘God is our refuge and strength, a health in recent times it is vital that our as we have now opened our church for private coronavirus brought to everyday life more meaningful and important. very present help in times of need.’ During spiritual health and Christian values are prayer we continue to trust in the Lord with Weekly Worship / Children’s Corner / surprised everyone. During the early part of lockdown many people have told me of how not ignored. Our Sunday school continues all our hearts, and lean not on our own Midweek Bible Times the year we heard about the spread of the We’ve become grateful for frontline workers. they have found this promise to be true. online due to the fantastic work of our understanding. We have seen more people Please go to our Parish Church Website virus in other parts of the world. Very few The 10 weeks of Thursday night applauding God has continued to meet all their needs. Youth and Family worker, with the help of connect with the church through our Sunday at ‘www.killowenparishcoleraine.co.uk’ (including myself) had any real idea about kept reminding us of the sacrifices many others (visit our website at The Children’s services, and have welcomed new faces at what impact it would have. Initially, I could people in the local community have been We’ve been reminded the Church is the Corner). Our young adults ‘Connect’ group our teens group. God is still in control, and we see that people were in shock and fear. This making. We all hope that when the current people and not the building. As a church, meet twice weekly on Zoom, enabling are encouraged by the Lord’s faithfulness and reminds me that in life there will always restrictions are lifted we’ll continue to what we have missed the most is being them to stay in contact with each other, provision to us. be surprises, many are good, some are not. appreciate all those who serve our daily needs. together. Yet, as I’ve spoken to many people On our final Sunday, 15th March, before on the telephone I’ve been encouraged by lockdown we heard about some of the great Adversity can also bring opportunity. When how church members have contacted others people of faith in the bible (Noah, David, we last met to worship in St Mary’s I didn’t to offer support and help. Everyone is saying Daniel), who faced difficult challenges and think I would be embarking on a new way of the same thing; I hope it will not be long how they responded to these times with communicating in the following weeks. Sunday until we can see each other again. What faith and perseverance. It has been a joy to online Facebook messages have become the a comfort it is to experience the caring see many church people’s faith shine during ‘new normal’. Thank you to those who helped support of our brothers and sisters in Christ. these days. with the technology advice! Along with regular Drumachose, worship songs and hymns being posted, there As for the future, we’ll continue to learn There were many things we thought we are now more people being reached than on more about God’s faithfulness as events Rev Canon Sam McVeigh Mobile: 0788 976 9412 couldn’t live without yet we’ve managed a regular Sunday in the past! To God be the unfold… Tel: 028 7776 2680 Email: [email protected]

52 N:VISION | DIOCESE OF DERRY & RAPHOE SUMMER 2020 53 , Dunboe Balteagh, Carrick, Tamlaghtard and Aghanloo and Fermoyle Vacant Rector - Rev Chris MacBruithin Rural Dean Canon Harold Given Tel. 02877762743 E. [email protected] If you have to be in lockdown, Castleock a trail around Christ Church and St Paul’s parishioners who’ve supported these wider & Dunboe is a pretty good place to of Pentecost rocks painted with scenes and community efforts to care for one another. be. Thanks be to God for this fantastic images from Acts 2. MU have been active via There’s much to thank God for. Social weather! Before lockdown, Rev. Chris was phone and mailings, and each week Charlene media have redeemed themselves for lots on-hand for socially distanced chat and records a favourite hymn to inspire us. of us, we can enjoy beautiful beach and prayer as ‘Beach Pastor’. Unfortunately as forest walks on our doorstep, and God has & restrictions came into force, that became It was hugely disappointing to have to cancel put good friends and neighbours around impossible but when things are lifted it our much anticipated Flower Festival. We will us. We remember too those for whom Rev Mark Loney might become more of a regular thing. come back bigger and brighter next year, DV. lockdown has been particularly difficult, Tel: 028 7774 1226 Email: [email protected] Over the weekend the Festival should have especially the Bradley and Simpson families Mob: 07720 321 283 www.dungivenbovevaghparishes.com Each Sunday at 10am, we gather online to been on, some of our parishioners flooded who’ve had to say goodbye to loved ones worship. The Simpson family ring the bells, Facebook with pictures of flowers that they’d in such unusual circumstances. ‘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 a lovely touch of normality when one day grown, as well as made of lego, and floral art bleeds into the next for many of us. During displayed in windows around the two villages. We’re about to enter ‘Ordinary Time’ in Holy Week, we had a series on Faith and We have a great working relationship with the Church year. Of course, there’s nothing Art, and we have since started a ‘Pilgrim’ Castlerock Community Association and ordinary about these times! But then, group on Zoom where we study the Bible the Community Volunteers. We there isn’t really such a thing as ‘ordinary’ and dig deeper into our faith. Kids’ Club has appreciate the flowers, food parcels, practical for God’s Pentecost people - He can do been able to take part in Messy Church for help with groceries and prescriptions, and anything and we can expect great things! Pentecost on YouTube, and leaders created the ice creams on hot days. Thanks to all , Cumber Lower, Banagher and Learmount Rector: Rev David Slater Tel: 028 7133 8214

Tamlaghtfinlagan & Myroe Rev Canon Harold Given Rural Dean Tel: 028 7776 2743 Faughanvale Email: [email protected] Rector: Rev Canon Paul Hoey Email: [email protected] Tel: 028 7181 2462 www.faughanvale.derry.anglican.org Lockdown. For me it meant social I did two memorial services on line. I learnt They are the shop assistants, the bin Mob: 00447712873322 isolation followed by social distancing. to speak to a camera to record my Sunday men, the person who delivers your food A learning curve commenced. I saw my sermon, sorry that should read, musings. etc. But over and above all this, many family on a small screen and watched my discovered their faith. Judging from the We’ve been asked to write about what developments, and sharing stories hope invite members of the congregation to first grandchild grow on a daily picture My Wednesday thought was less stressful; it number of people who read the numerous we’ve been doing since lockdown and in the church or local community. We record the readings, prayers or other parts and little video clip which my daughter was written, no ad libbing. I got thrown off Christian thoughts which went up on what our hopes are for the future. continue to publish our Sunday News of the service at home. Two members of faithfully sent us. I spoke to parishioners Facebook twice if not three times - surely a various platforms and who took part in the sheet which people appreciate getting. Our the church have taken turns, week about, on the telephone. I got more calls done in record - then accepted. Now I am learning services, week of prayer etc. God has used What we’ve been doing Facebook page has been very busy! to provide video kids talks which are a day than visits in a week or two. But, not by my mistakes. So apologies to all I have this virus to awaken many people to the Answer = “the same as before”! It’s how recommended long term, as I like to see possibly offended. I am ignorant of the priorities of life. we’ve been doing it that is different. 2. Pastoral Care - supporting people via the whites of their eyes. etiquette involved. I have learnt a great deal. telephone, email or Zoom and, most My son and son-in-law are doctors. Both So I am grateful to so many of my 1. Communication - We’ve tried to keep importantly, in prayer. Funerals, thankfully not many and none are working in Belfast hospitals. We learnt a colleagues for their online ministries and in contact with parishioners, sending with the virus, but the rules had to be lot about stress. In all of this I believe we all to my parishioners and friends for their information either by email or posting 3. Worship - We decided to make our Sunday obeyed, as best we could. Again, definitely learnt that the important people in society support and encouragement. It has been out paper copies of material designed Service available on YouTube because it not recommended. Heartbreaking! are not the people many in society thought. good, but I look forward to “normal” times. to keep people up to date with would allow a degree of participation. We

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54 N:VISION | DIOCESE OF DERRY & RAPHOE SUMMER 2020 55 Continued from page 55... on Facebook in aid of the NHS. There was On Friday 29th May the parish hosted an Pantry Project is ongoing and if you would

a tremendous response from parishioners, online Gospel Concert in aid of the All Saints’ like to donate please drop your donations of definitely one of the highlights, enjoyed 5. Fellowship - Although we can’t be What are my hopes are for the future? the local community and throughout the Clooney Church Extension Fund. Through food etc off at the All Saints’ Church porch by adults as much as by children. As far as together physically, we seen one another 1. That we will remember to prioritise world. We had people tuning in from as online donations and donations received on Mondays between 10am and 12 noon. we can tell, around 5 times the number each week in the “virtual parish” at the the things we have discovered are truly far away as Australia, America, Canada and at the Church porch, the concert has raised As this pandemic continues, we will of people who would normally attend end of our broadcast services, where we important, especially God. New Zealand. The total raised from the two over £4000 to date. Thank you once again to continue to update our programmes Sunday worship watch these services, share photos of parishioners engaging in concerts for the NHS was £7880.09. We everyone who gave generously and and outreach as we follow Jesus’ great which makes the time it takes to prepare various activities. Our Zoom Quiz is great 2. That the Church will be able to connect would like to sincerely thank all those who all the artists who took part. command and hold on to His great promise. them worthwhile, though we remember fun, and we’re trying a Virtual Soup Lunch! with a much wider range of people by generously donated to this very worthy that worship is for God as well as people. using the learning it has gained by having cause and thank all the artists for taking Pantry Project 19 Therefore go and make disciples of all 6. Service - At a time like this churches to do things differently. part. There is another concert coming up at Another programme the parish is engaged in nations, baptizing them in the name of the 4. Discipleship - We’ve sent different prayer can become self-absorbed, so we’ve the end of June; why not tune in? Find all during this pandemic is the Pantry Project. Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, resources to help adults and children keep encouraged people to volunteer to 3. That somehow we can find a way to details on our Facebook Page. Parishioners donate tins of soup, beans, peas, 20 and teaching them to obey everything I rooted in their faith through this time. In support others, and raised funds for the better equalise our society and our world rice, cereal, potatoes etc which are then have commanded you. And surely I am with our Zoom Bible Study we help each other Bishop’s Appeal and Leprosy Mission for so that financial reward depends less on Gospel Concert in aid of distributed to families in the local community you always, to the very end of the age.” to relate the Sunday readings to what’s people in much worse circumstances power and more on value. the Church Extension Fund struggling to cope at this difficult time. The Matthew 28:19-20 going on around us. than our own.

Clooney Glendermott Rector - Revd David McBeth & New Buildings Email: [email protected] Curate - Revd Rhys Jones Rector - Rev. Robert Boyd Tel: 028 7134 3001

Coronavirus (COVID-19) is impacting all we have been extremely encouraged by to do weekly online services through zoom of us-both as individuals and communities. the numbers who have tuned in and the to the patients in their rooms. I recall ending my last notes saying we way we ‘do’ Church may be different, but the The puppets were joined in their homes The very fabric of everyday life has changed positive comments which they have left on Holiday Bible Club were travelling through Lent towards the eternal message of God’s saving work remains with some very enthusiastic friends, there before us; these are unprecedented times. the page. Our May Family Service was very During Easter, under normal conditions, celebrations of Easter Day. I did not think the same. We have had to cancel many events were lamps swaying alone, dogs barking the Who among us could have imagined that popular among parishioners. We included a we would run an Easter Holiday Bible we would be celebrating it via Facebook during this time and my heart goes out to answers, you name it we had it. Thank you churches, factories, airports, retail shops, video with parishioners speaking from their Club in the All Saints Centre. This year service! How things have changed in such those many brides and grooms and no doubt to our Sunday School teachers, children, the community centres and the like ever being family homes and children reading lessons, was no exception, despite the pandemic a short time. Parishioners are now able to mothers of the bride, who had put so much puppet team and volunteers for making it shut down? Many people, especially those singing and saying prayers. If you haven’t Louise; our Sunday School Superintendent fast forward the service, cut the sermon off effort into organising the big day. I have had such a special event in strange times. who are elderly living on their own and tuned in to All Saints’ Clooney Facebook produced an online Virtual Easter Holiday and pick and choose when and where to to rearrange 7 weddings already during this those who are sick, feel a sense of isolation Page, I encourage you to do so. You can sit Bible Club which was to run for three days. watch Sunday worship. Some have been able period and looks like a few more will have to The big news in Glendermott is the that compounds fear. And many of us, even back and enjoy all our services. However, it proved so successful with the to watch the service in their PJ’s. It will be do likewise. 2021 is going to be a joyful year in announcement of a new Curate coming if we’re not on our own or sick are equally children and many adults Louise decided interesting to see how they turn up at church the parish, God willing. There have been some hopefully in September. The Rev Iain worried about our own health, our families Telephone and Magazine Ministry to run the programme for five days. on the first Sunday back. sad events as well as I have conducted funerals McAleavey is presently serving as Intern and what the future holds. In the midst of Telephone and magazine communications Louise is currently working on producing with small numbers of immediate family around Deacon in St. Donard’s Belfast. We look all this, we are challenged to find new and have proven to be vital forms of ministries a virtual Summer Holiday Bible Club Covid 19 will be remembered as the time the graveside. Those who have been bereaved forward to welcoming Iain to the parish and exciting ways to communicate the message in keeping parishioners connected. The called, ‘Into the unknown’ based on a very when Rectors became multi-media stars by the loss of a loved one have not had the his ministry among us. Please continue to of salvation found only in Jesus Christ and to rector, curate, pastoral care team and well-known movie sequel about being or failures. We look forward to the Bishop opportunity of being comforted by their wider pray for him as he makes this important reach out and help our brothers and sisters parishioners have been constantly ringing cold..... I think it’s going to be brilliant and awarding “Diocesan Oscar’s” to the clergy social contacts. We continue to pray for each of step in his life. Hopefully we will be able in Christ. This is something which we at All members of the parish to ask about their a very fitting message for the times we when this is all over. There have been some you and ask the God of Comfort to enfold you to meet again in familiar surroundings in Saints’ Clooney strive to do and will continue physical, mental, financial and spiritual are in! I’m excited! You can tune in to the steep learning curves over the past 11 weeks in his loving, comforting arms and bring you the near future, but if not don’t forget to to do during this pandemic through: well-being. The parish magazine keeps Virtual Summer Holiday Bible Club on our or so. But isn’t it great how the Church can peace. This year for our Children’s Day service tune in to our Facebook page on a Sunday parishioners, who often feel isolated and Facebook Page. We will be updating all the adapt so quickly? Many have complained the Rector was cut off air, and puppets, children morning (Glendermott and Newbuildings Church Services vulnerable, updated on what is happening information about it shortly. that the Church is slow to move with the and Sunday school teachers took over the Church of Ireland) at 11am and I don’t Since the pandemic started, we at All Saints’ in the parish. times. I think on this occasion we had no service. What a wonderful job they did as we really mind if you are in your PJ’s or not! Clooney have been broadcasting services Country and Gospel Concerts for the choice but move and move quickly. The thought about Jesus being the light of the world. on Facebook. While it takes a considerable Foyle Hospice Ministry NHS During the pandemic the parish amount of time to produce these services, During the pandemic the Chaplains continue hosted two Country and Gospel Concerts

56 N:VISION | DIOCESE OF DERRY & RAPHOE SUMMER 2020 57 Templemore, Derry Cathedral Dean Raymond Stewart The Rev Canon John Merrick PAUL MCFADDEN Tel: 028 7126 2746 Pastoral Assistant DIOCESAN PRESS OFFICER Email: [email protected]

Christmas Tree Festival To The Reverend Canon Walter Quill who ‘Tell your Father all your troubles; don’t The Christmas Tree Festival planned for was ordained on 26th June 1960 and who pretend that they’re not real, Bring to Him December 2020 has, unfortunately, had to will celebrate the 60th anniversary of his your inner secrets, tell Him how you really be postponed until next year. ordination this month. During this time of feel. Place your prayers upon the altar, leave lockdown it is not unreasonable to find that them at the Cross of love. For your Father up Chapter News we will cope better on some days than on in heaven hears you from His home above’. We offer our congratulations to The others. In order to prevent negative thoughts Venerable Robert Miller and The Reverend and feelings from building up inside me ‘Peace, Shalom, is what I offer when your Canon Paul Whittaker, both of whom were and to look after my mental health I have cross is hard to bear, It’s my way of saying ordained in 1995 and who will celebrate recently returned to an activity that I clearly, ‘O my child, I really care’. Do not feel the 25th anniversary of their ordination enjoyed some years ago - writing poetry. alone or worthless, you mean all the world to this month. To The Very Reverend Raymond me, Trust in me and in my Father, and our love Stewart and The Reverend Canon Sam Here is one entitled ‘Do not worry’. will set you free’. McVeigh, both of whom were ordained priest in Saint John’s Church, Killowen ‘Do not let your hearts be troubled’, Jesus tells ‘‘Though these days through which you’re Parish, Coleraine on the Feast day of Saint us in Saint John, ‘Trust in God my heavenly passing will remain for some time yet Columba 9th June 1980 by The Right Father and in me, His only Son. Cast your cares Don’t despair about your journey, keep on Reverend , Bishop of Down and upon my Father, see His loving, smiling face, smiling, do not fret. Even though you cannot And finally... Dromore, and who will celebrate the 40th He will take away your worries, such is His see me, I am not so far away. And I’ll walk anniversary of their ordination this month. amazing grace’. along beside you to protect you every day’.

He once courted publicity by promising Floyd’s death at the knee of a Minneapolis voices to the growing clamour for change. to build a wall to keep Mexicans and police officer. It was hard to imagine things other Latinos out of his country. As this getting much worse for the first citizen We, on this side of the Atlantic, have often year’s Feast of Pentecost approached, but, if the Trump presidency has taught us viewed racism as ‘an American problem’, however, President Donald Trump found anything, it is to expect the unexpected. but it’s our problem, too. Recent research himself ensconced in the White House on Coronavirus deaths highlights the with a newly-strengthened security His walk across Lafayette Square, on the disproportionate impact the virus has had fence and a wall of riot police separating Monday evening after Pentecost Day, on black and minority ethnic communities; him from thousands of anti-racism for a photo opportunity outside the fire- and black and brown communities on both “...that his line will continue forever and protesters. damaged St John’s Episcopal Church, earned sides of the Atlantic are regularly found at the President scathing headlines. Around the wrong end of social deprivation and The New York Times reported that Secret twenty clergy and thousands of anti-racism unemployment charts. We’d have to be his throne endure before me like the sun;” Service agents - nervous for his safety - demonstrators were manhandled off the blind to miss it. had “abruptly rushed the president to the streets by riot police to facilitate the stunt. underground bunker used in the past during President Trump posed briefly in front of President Trump got one thing right on his terrorist attacks”. The President disputed the boarded up ‘Church of the Presidents’ - publicity stunt outside St John’s Church Psalm 89:36 the newspaper’s version of what happened holding aloft a Bible - before retreating to - the link between the Bible and politics. but the hashtag “#bunkerboy” became the White House again. As the Archbishop of Canterbury said two a trending term on Twitter. It was an years ago, Jesus was “never party-political. ignominious position for the ‘leader of In the half century since Dr Martin Luther No wing of politics - left or right - can claim the Free World’ to find himself in. King’s assassination, the United States has God as being on its side. But Jesus was elected its first black president, and there highly political.” God expects those who President Trump - who wears both are many show business and sporting role claim to act in his name to be the same, his Christianity and his law and order models for young blacks to emulate. But Archbishop Welby said: “That means action credentials on his sleeve - got to the Oval racism is still deeply entrenched in American - and words.” Office partly through his ability to read the society. The Archbishop of Canterbury public mood. It was a faculty which seems and the Pope have been among the many to have deserted him in the wake of George religious leaders who have added their

58 N:VISION | DIOCESE OF DERRY & RAPHOE SUMMER 2020 59 Diocesan Communications Team. Disclaimer: Views expressedinn:visionmaynotbe thoseoftheChurchIreland, theEditor, orthe (depending onGovernment andDiocesan guidelinesatthetime) Magazines willbeavailableforcollection onFriday 25September THE DEADLINEISNON-NEGOTIABLE Assistant editor:[email protected] Parish notesmustbewiththeassistant editornolaterthan12noonon Wednesday 2September2020. Editor: [email protected]/o The DiocesanCentre, LondonStreet, BT486RQ Londonderry must bewiththeeditornolaterthan12noonon Articles Wednesday 26 August 2020. n:vision Magazine, DiocesanCentre, 24LondonStreet, LondonderryBT486RQ

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