Diocesan News08 Feb 16

CCCMSP Group of Parishes Celebrates New–look Parish Centre

A former rector and a veteran civil rights activist were among members of the public who joined clergy and worshippers from the Christ Church, Culmore, Muff and St Peter’s Group of Parishes on Saturday afternoon for the Celebration and Dedication of their recently refurbished parish centre on Londonderry’s Culmore Road.

More than £100,000 was raised over the past nine months to finance the work, which brings the centre up to the necessary health and safety standards. Among the improvements are a new kitchen, toilets, heating system and internal doors, and new flooring has been laid throughout. The building has also been painted inside and out, and has had new insulation fitted. The money for the refurbishment was raised through donations from parishioners and groups who use the centre, and the parishes got funding from the Garfield Weston Foundation and Awards for All.

Former rector Rev Matt Moore and his wife Audrey – who left 10 years ago and now live in Tennessee, in the United States – were there to hear the current incumbent, Archdeacon Robert Miller, tell worshippers that the project didn’t mean the parishes’ work had ended. With 2016 having been designated a Year of Opportunity in the Diocese, Archdeacon Miller said the new–look centre would allow them to reach out in mission and friendship to the whole community in the city.

The Rector thanked those who had helped raise funds for the improvements, as well as those who had carried out the work.

Veteran civil rights activist Ivan Cooper, who is a parishioner of St Peter’s, was among those who visited the centre and attended the Service. Also present were local SDLP Councillor Angela Dobbins and members of the North West’s business community (including some who had worked on the refurbishment project).

Throughout the afternoon, existing user groups provided information about classes and activities in the parish centre, and young members of the McLaughlin–Leppard School of Irish Dance provided entertainment.

The Parish Centre is available for weekly classes or one–off events. Please contact the Parish Administrator for more information on 7135 8925.