Archdeacon gets close to the problem
Archdeacon John Scott chose the 20th anniversary of his coming to Seapatrick Parish to launch the appeal for his latest challenge; to see the church spire repaired in one year. He is pictured getting close to the problem with Mr Dawson Stelfox of Everest fame, now a leading NI Conservation Architect, and his associate Mrs Joanne Curran.
For some time now the familiar lean on the parish spire has been giving cause for concern and health and safety issues demand professional attention. Preliminary investigation last autumn has led to the requirement for a major scheme to refurbish and secure the spire for future generations. In January Consarc Design Group were appointed as architects to oversee the project.
Taking inspiration from the Old Testament prophet Nehemiah who returned from exile and rebuilt the walls of Jerusalem in 52 days the Reverend Scott hopes to complete his project in 52 weeks (1 year).
His challenge to his congregation and the wider community of Banbridge, all of which see the landmark spire as part of the heritage of the town, is to have the spire down, up and paid for in one year. With Heritage Funding already applied for to cover part of the cost, Rev. Scott has set a target of £200,000 to be raised equally by way of donation and special fund-raising events - all in one year.
As an incentive to all and for posterity three time capsules are to be placed inside the refurbished spire. Each will contain an alphabetical list of donors. One will record gifts of £100 the second, gifts of £500 and the third, gifts of £1000 respectively. A Contributor's Book will also be kept for reference purposes.
Archdeacon Scott who will reach his retirement within the next two years sees this as his last big challenge and hopes all the people of Banbridge will be inspired to aspire to his challenge.
For further details and information of future Fund Raising Events please see the parish website at www.seapatrickparish.com.