• 01 August 2014

Rectors turn up the revs for charity

Two Church of Ireland clergymen have stepped out of their pulpits and revved up the horsepower for a 10 day charity bike run around Ireland.

The Revd Nigel Kirkpatrick, rector of Gilnahirk in Down diocese, and the Revd Andrew McCroskery, have donned both helmets and dog collars to set out on an epic ride to every cathedral in the Church of Ireland in aid of the work of the United Society (formerly USPG).

Bishop Harold was among a group of well–wishers which included Sammy Wilson MLA, who gathered to see them off from St Anne’s Cathedral this morning, 1 August.

From now until 10 August, Nigel and Andrew, rector of St Bartholomew’s and Christ Church Leeson Park in Dublin, will bike it to all 30 Church of Ireland cathedrals, from Lisburn to Limerick and from Clogher to Cork!

At each cathedral, Nigel and Andrew will join or lead a short service with prayers for the United Society and particularly their work in Swaziland.

A Service of Holy Communion launched the bikers’ epic journey and Andrew and Nigel are encouraging other motorcycling enthusiasts to join them, even for a short distance, along the route and make a donation to the United Society as they do so.

Their 1500 mile ride zig–zags across the whole island and concludes back at St Anne’s Cathedral in Belfast at 3.30pm on Sunday August 10.

Nigel explained why the two rectors felt inspired to organise this innovative fundraising challenge for the United Society.  

“We’re both passionate about motorcycling and also about the work of the United Society among the people of Swaziland, one of the poorest countries in the world with the highest rate of HIV infection per capita. 

“In this 300th anniversary year of the United Society, we felt that riding motorbikes across the country, visiting every cathedral would be a novel way to honour their work, highlight the very crucial projects in Swaziland and raise some money. 

“An added bonus is that we will be drawing attention to ancient ecclesiastical places in Ireland that many people will not have heard of.  Plus we get to ride motorbikes for ten days!”

How can I give? 

Donations can be sent to Linda Chambers, Egan House, St Michan’s Church, Church Street, Dublin 7, or through the donate button on Linda’s United Society blog: lindaatuspg.blogspot.ie

Bikers Group
Bikers Group