Christ Church Kilkeel celebrates 200 years of ‘Sure Foundations’
The foundation stone for Christ Church, on Newry Street, Kilkeel, was laid 200 years ago in 1815. On Sunday 28 June the parish celebrated these ‘Sure Foundations’ and 200 years of ministry with a special day of worship and events.
Sunday began with a short service of Holy Communion at Carginagh before a celebration in Christ Church attended by clergy and parishioners past and present.
The rector, Revd Ken McGrath, led the worship assisted by Kilkeel Silver Band and the church choir. The choir welcomed former members into their ranks and sang an anthem, ‘Praise Him, Praise Him’.
The parish was delighted to welcome 3 former rectors and their wives to the service – Bishop James Mehaffey, who gave the blessing, Archdeacon David McClay who led the prayers and Revd Henry Pedlow.
Parishioner, Mr Richard Sproule, gave the Old Testament reading and 83 year old Mr Willie Shields, who has spent a lifetime in Christ Church Kilkeel, reflected (with some humour) on the tenure of past rectors.
Two former parishioners, now ordained, also took part – Revd Isaac Hanna gave the New Testament reading and Revd William Orr gave the address. Revd Orr was preaching only yards from the choir vestry where he had given his life to Christ in 1994. Speaking from Philippians 3 and Revelation 2 he urged us as individuals to stay strong in the faith and as a parish to keep looking ahead and press on into the future for the glory of God.
Well over 300 people stayed on after the morning service for a BBQ lunch served in the sun and a chance to catch up with old friends. Tea, coffee and celebration cake went down a treat in the hall whilst the children were entertained by a puppet show upstairs in the lounge.
How do you convey 200 years of parish life? With a dedicated team led by parishioner Mrs Margaret McBride, and lots of folk willing to share their photos, cuttings and memorabilia. ‘Exhibition 200’ – remembering 200 years of Christ Church Kilkeel in words and pictures – was a huge attraction and will be open each evening from 7–9pm for the next week.
Mrs McBride also compiled a Christ Church history book which is still available for a suggested donation of £5.00 with all profits going to ‘Inspired Hope Uganda’.
The church remained open throughout the afternoon so that parishioners and visitors alike could follow a ‘history trail’ round the building and discover the stories behind the various plaques and furnishings.
“We have had a wonderful day together, thanks to a massive team effort from the Christ Church family. I am indebted to so many people for their help and to those who made the journey to share in our celebrations. I believe that, under God, we have an exciting future together as we continue to build upon the sure foundation which is Jesus Christ.”
Photo top right L– R: Mr Willie Shields, Bishop James Mehaffey, Revd Ken McGrath and Revd Willie Orr.
Also pictured, Kilkeel Silver Band and Exhibition 200.