Harvest Home Mission brings renewal in the shadow of the Mournes
The parishes of Maghera, Kilmegan and St Donard’s recently held a ten-day Harvest Home Mission as part of the diocese's Speak Jesus initiative. The programme blended traditional harvest thanksgiving with vibrant outreach — including patronal festivals, a community quiz, a variety concert, and healing services.
Bishop David was the main speaker, with Canon Myrtle Morrison and Capt George Newell assisting.
The mission concluded with the 200th anniversary celebration of Maghera Church, marking two centuries of worship on the historic site founded by St Donard in the fifth century.
Throughout the ten days, a sense of expectation and renewal filled the congregations. Worship was marked by joy and authenticity, with several people responding to the gospel message and many others finding comfort and hope in prayer. New conversations have already led to fresh initiatives and ministries emerging within the parishes and the wider community.
Reflecting on the experience, the Revd Capt Isaac Hanna said:
“This mission has reminded us that the harvest is not only in the fields but in the lives of people. We’ve seen faith deepened, hope rekindled, and new seeds of ministry sown. God has been faithful to these parishes for generations, and it feels as though He is doing something fresh among us once again.”
