Diocesan News
'Recession Busters' Churches / Orange Order Initiative
Diocese of Clogher (Church of Ireland), Enniskillen Methodists, Revd David Cupples and County Fermanagh Grand Orange Lodge
RECESSION BUSTERS
L to R: Dean Kenneth Hall, Revd David Cupples, Robert Dane, Bishop Michael Jackson, Norman Johnston, Revd Sam McGuffin, Stuart Brooker, Mark Kenyon, Glenn Moore
'Recession Busters', a series of five information evenings, will take place over the next two months in locations covering every part of County Fermanagh. In these difficult economic times the new initiative is being taken to provide individuals with a means of accessing helpful information.
The effects of the current recession are being felt right across our community. The pressures it brings are often felt very personally. This is as true in Fermanagh as anywhere else and no-one is immune. 'Recession Busters' is designed to serve every member of our local community. It has been organized by the Church of Ireland diocese of Clogher, Enniskillen Methodists, Revd David Cupples (Minister of Enniskillen Presbyterian Church) and County Fermanagh Grand Orange Lodge.
The inspiration for the information evenings arose from a recognition that everyone is feeling the challenge of recession in some shape or form. The desire is to do something that is not only helpful but also hopeful for every part of the local community.
Bishop Michael Jackson said, 'In these difficult economic times what we often need most is simple practical information and signposting to where we can get help and advice. That is what these evenings are designed to be about.'
The format of each evening is very simple and informal. Each event begins at 7.30pm with tea and refreshments available throughout the evening. Most of the evening will be given over to opportunities for informal discussion and visiting stands. A guest speaker will speak for 15 minutes on a particular theme. Admission is free and everyone is warmly welcome.
The first 'Recession Busters' evening takes place at 7.30pm on 10th February in Darling Street Methodist Church Hall, Enniskillen. At this event Basil O'Malley, who is very involved with Christians Against Poverty, will talk about meeting the challenges of debt.
Revd Sam McGuffin said, 'We have planned these evenings to be informal and welcoming. A wide range of organizations will have stands and advisers present who will be delighted to meet anyone who wishes to have an informal discussion.'
A wide range of oragnisations will have stands and advisers present from the Social Security Agency, Citizens Advice Bureau, Fermanagh Enterprise, Rural Community Network, The Samaritans, Fermanagh Rural Community Initiative , Care for the Family and Volunteer Now will be present. A number of other organizations have also indicated their interest.
Stuart Brooker is Deputy Grand Master of County Fermanagh Grand Orange Lodge. He said 'we are all part of this community and want the very best for it and for all of our neighbours.' He continued, 'We are delighted to be part of this initiative and warmly invite every part of our community to come along'.
Recession Busters will take place on the following dates:
Dealing with Debt - 10th Feb: Enniskillen Methodist Church Hall
Speaker: Basil O'Malley (Former General Manager of Northern Bank and now involved in Christians Against Poverty)
The Possibilities of Self-Employment - 24th February: Irvinestown Church of Ireland Hall
Speaker: John Treacy (Fermanagh Enterprise)
Doing Something for Others - 14th March: Derrygonnelly Orange Hall
Speaker: Canon David McClay (Rector of Willowfield Parish in Belfast)
The Challenges of Unemployment - 28th March: Lisnaskea High School
Speaker: Margaret Lee (Managing Director of The Cresco Trust)
Volunteering for Good - 5th April: Fermanagh District Orange Hall, Brendrum, Enniskillen
Speaker: Wendy Osborne (Managing Director of Volunteer)
For further details contact Earl Storey (Topstorey Communications) Tel 07752841802