Memorable services of baptism and confirmation on the shores of Strangford Lough
Bishop Harold joined worshippers from the Parish of Killinchy, Kilmood and Tullynakill for two special and sunshine–bathed services on the shores of Strangford Lough on Sunday 24 June.
At 9.30 am, two adults were baptised in the Lough and at 11.00 am, 21 candidates, including some from Comber Parish, were confirmed at Nendrum Ancient Monastic Site.
The morning began in the beautiful setting of Robin and Lorna Glendinning’s home where the garden runs down to the water. The rector, Revd Dr Stanley Gamble (wisely wearing a wetsuit under his surplice and having checked for jellyfish first) baptised Deborah and Judith in the Lough in a moving service attended by a small group of family and supporters. Bishop Harold gave the reading and shared some words about baptism.
After a welcome breakfast with the Glendinnings, the group made their way to Nendrum.
It was a real family occasion with children clambering over the ruins of the round tower and many staying afterwards for a picnic.
As the Benedictine monks left the site in the 12th Century, this was probably the first confirmation service there in 800 years!
Photo gallery of the baptisms in Strangford Lough.
Photo gallery of the confirmation service at Nendrum.
