Holywood community at worship
The Sanctus Boscus Reconciliation Group welcomed over 140 representatives from churches in Holywood and surrounding area to their Taizé Service on the last Sunday in January. As worshippers approached St Colmcille's church building they were able to view, at ground level, the new mosaic design depicting a dove of peace which, incidentially, is similar to the symbol used by the Reconciliation Group. The interior of St Colmcille's with its circular altar lit by tea-lights created an intimate setting for the Taizé form of worship which is based on prayer, reflection and praise. Father Aidan Kerr welcomed everyone in the spirit of unity, with prayers and readings by Brenda Blaney, Pauline Graham, Roberta Price and Brian Stafford along with wonderful singing in both Latin and English led by the St Colmcille's Folk Group. Also present was a group of young volunteers from the Taizé Community in France who were visiting Ireland to promote their Pilgrimage of Trust on Earth planned for Dublin and Belfast in April of this year.
Following the service, the congregation continued their fellowship over supper thus promoting the aim of the Sanctus Boscus Reconciliation Group to promote contact between local churches and the community through dialogue.
Due to the generosity of the congregation, the retiring collection amounted to £390 and will go towards the work of the Holywood Youth Trust to help provide facilities for young people in the town.