A parish outing with a difference
In the spirit of their boat–going saint, the rector and 40 parishioners of St Columba’s Knock, recently crossed the North Channel to fellowship with the congregation of St Thomas’, Rathlin.
The parish outing was blessed with a calm day for the ferry journey from Ballycastle, a picnic and some exploration of the island. But first on the agenda was morning worship at the parish church.
Knock Parishioner, Linda Wilson, writes…
“There was a wonderful sense of fellowship and friendship as we worshipped together in the service of Holy Communion. The Celebrant and Preacher was our Rector, Revd John Auchmuty.
During his sermon he reminded us that different congregations within the Church of Ireland have in common a faith which sustains them in everything they do and in coming together offer each other great support. He said, “It was a great joy and delight to have been given the opportunity by both the Priest in Charge and the Bishop of Connor to conduct this Sunday morning service in St. Thomas’ Church on the day of our Parish Outing to Rathlin Island. This beautifully restored church was clearly identifiable to us all from the ferry as we made our way over to the island from Ballycastle. I am most grateful to the Churchwarden, Julie–Ann McMullan for her very generous welcome and for all her assistance. It is a great privilege to begin our Parish Outing by sharing in this service with you.”
Linda continues, “After the service, as the congregation mingled, there was the opportunity to learn more about the church and the island from the residents. Members of St Thomas’ church were delighted to have a full church and expressed their great appreciation for our presence at the service.”
Priest in Charge, Revd Patrick Barton commented:
“I am delighted that the Rector and people of St Columba’s Knock have come up with this innovative idea to come and share in worship with the parishioners of St. Thomas Rathlin Island. I believe our small congregation were encouraged by this gesture of solidarity and that both congregations will be enriched by the experience. May the people of St. Columba’s be the first of many to come and experience this peaceful holy place.”
A picnic lunch and some exploration of the island finished off a great outing. “As a group we had been able to develop friendships within our own parish whilst offering support to the islanders. A joyful and successful day for everyone,” concluded Linda.
For more information on how you might follow in the footsteps of the group from St Columba’s, please contact the Priest in charge:
Revd Patrick Barton
Tel: 02820768155
Email:
patribart@aol.com