St Mark’s hosts Ards Deanery Confirmation Service
Last Sunday was an extra special evening at St Mark's, Newtownards, when Bishop Harold confirmed 43 candidates from the parishes in the Ards Deanery.
The evening began with a "meet & greet" between the Bishop, candidates and their families in the Parish Centre before the obligatory photographs were taken. Thanks are due to the ladies from St Mark’s who served refreshments for the guests.
Prior to the beginning of the service on 13th March, Bishop Harold had a word with the candidates concluding in prayer before they were led to their seats. The church itself was exceptionally well filled with family, friends and genuine supporters of the candidates.
After the Rector, Canon Ken Smyth, welcomed everyone, the procession of choir, clergy and Bishop entered following the Processional Cross, carried by one of the young people from St Mark’s, Daniel Young.
The singing was led by St Mark’s Choir whilst the worship group came from Movilla Abbey. Parishioners from different churches read the scripture readings and Revd Gill Withers sang a beautiful solo, making this truly a deanery Service.
All of the Candidates dealt with the significance of the important occasion with great dignity and when the Bishop announced The Peace after the formality of the confirmations, they went to their families to share The Peace in a lovely, informal manner.
When the service concluded, it seemed that everyone packed into the Parish Centre with excitement for the dessert supper, complete with chocolate fountains. Again, thanks must go to the parents and parishioners of St Mark’s who organised serving these refreshments.
All in all, this was certainly a confirmation service to remember, and it wasn’t without its hard work and dedication behind the scenes, particularly from Andrew Brannigan (technical support and advisor).
Well done to all the candidates from the Ards Deanery. Let’s keep them all in our prayers as they continue their journey of faith.