Diocesan News31 May 16

120th Anniversary of St. Columba’s Parish Church, Knock

The 120th Anniversary of St. Columba’s Parish Church, Knock, in East Belfast will be celebrated at the Patronal Festival on Sunday 5th June.

10.30am – Patronal Festival Eucharist and Dedication of the recently refurbished West End of the Church which now includes a Welcome Area and Tea Point. This work is facilitating renewed growth and community outreach. The Preacher will be Archbishop Robin Eames. Following the service the updated edition of the book ‘A House Not Made With Hands’ will be launched which details the history and development of the parish throughout the past 120 years.

7.00pm – Choral Evensong where the preacher will be the Rt. Revd Dr. Gordon McMullan (former Curate and Rector of the parish) and the prayers will be led by Archdeacon Gregor McCamley (former Rector of the parish).

The Rector of St. Columba’s, Knock, the Revd John Auchmuty, says: “This will be a significant weekend in the life of our parish as we celebrate the 120th anniversary of St. Columba’s Knock in both word and song. It will be a unique opportunity to give thanks to God for all that has been achieved through the hard work and generosity of so many people in past years whilst also seeking God’s guidance in the years ahead.

“During the Patronal Festival Eucharist Archbishop Robin Eames will dedicate new stained glass in the Rose Window depicting the resurrection and the newly refurbished West End of our church which now has facilitates to offer additional support to those who attend St. Columba’s and for community outreach.

“At Choral Evensong I look forward to welcoming two of my predecessors Bishop Gordon McMullan and Archdeacon Gregor McCamley along with members of the community.”