Diocese of Down & Dromore

St John’s Drumgath, Church Square, Rathfriland
Drumgooland Parish Church, Castlewellan Road, Ballyward
St. John, Hilltown
St. John, Drumballyroney,

About

Drumgath congregation meets in the Parish church of St. John in Church Square Rathfriland – a small market town in the Mourne Country. The people enjoy the benefits of small town life and the spirit of support/cooperation with the other churches in the town. While largely quite traditional in worship the congregation are prepared to share a with modern worship too. This is evident in their open welcome to visitors and new members. They particularly enjoy the child centred ministry of the family service (3rd Sunday). Drumgooland congregation is positive and affirming to visitors and new members. It is properly rural and enjoys a traditional approach to worship. The family service (3rd Sunday) differs from that and the focus, then, is most definitely on the children. The gradual influx of families to new housing in recent years has gently increased our numbers. Emphasis on children and youth through Brownies/Guides/ rainbows, Scouts/cubs/beavers, Sunday School, Youth (flame)and Funzone our Youth Club means that the children and young people are well catered for.

Directions

Drumgath Parish Church is in Church Square near the top of the Hill in Rathfriland – exit the A1 near Banbridge signposted for Rathfriland. After about 10 miles, approach Rathfriland steep hill (Dromore Street), enter Church Square and the church is at the far end of the square beyond the Market House.

Drumgooland Parish Church is more often called Ballyward Church. It is situated on the A50 Banbridge to Castlewellan Road at the junction with Station Road. From Banbridge, pass through Katesbridge and Moneyslane, the church is on the left at a bend.