Anniversary celebrations in Donaghcloney
On Sunday morning 28 September 2025, parishioners and friends gathered in St Patrick’s, Donaghcloney, to celebrate 45 years of worship in the current building and the completion of its reordering.
Bishop David preached a very challenging sermon based on Radical Generosity for the sake of the Gospel, using Paul’s farewell to the Ephesian Elders as his text.
In the evening the Revd Ian Linton, rector of Rathfriland and Ballyward, preached at a guest service. As the congregation celebrated a return to the church after weeks of worshipping in the hall, Ian challenged them to encourage others to follow the example of the Prodigal Son and ‘Return to the Father’.
Commenting on the weekend the rector, Revd Mark Lennox, said: “It was a truly joyous occasion, and I am so thankful to God for the time, talents, and dedication of those who worked so hard over the past number of weeks refurbishing the church. I pray that over the many years to come many people will come through the doors and encounter the Risen Lord Jesus in a real and personal way.”
With thanks to Revd Mark Lennox
Pictured above L-R: Cathie Hylands, Revd Matthew Gaw, Revd Mark Lennox, Bishop David McClay, Margaret Holland, Nathan Hylands and Hilary McClay.