Holy Trinity Church, Dromore

PARISH DATES:

MONDAYS 7:00pm C.L.B.

TUESDAYS 6:30pm G.F.S.

8.30pm Bible study

WEDNESDAYS 10:00am SCHOOLS R.E. PROGRAMME.

2^nd WEDNESDAY : VESTRY

3^rd WEDNEDSAY : MOTHER’S UNION

Spring has sprung!

Spring into Life is still underway at the time of writing these notes. While it will take many months to assess the impact of what was billed as ‘nine days which might change your life’, already individuals are telling of the impact this time of united church witness and outreach is having on their lives. Although dozens of people have responded to the invitation to commit their life to Christ, the lists of names are all individuals who are sensing the presence of God who seems to be working in many ways. Some are feeling refreshed in their love of God, others have been crying, others have been avoiding the issue of commitment. Whatever God is doing in the lives of many of our people, for me, as someone who has grown up in the Church of Ireland, sat through one or two weeks of mission and been working for what seems to be a long time in God’s vineyard, it is undeniably very exciting and at times a little unexpected to see so many individuals wanting their life to change and be lived for God - O me of little, faith. Thankfully Roger Murphy has been the antithesis of hype. He has been clear in his message, coupled with great compassion and sensitivity to the people to whom he has been speaking. Paul Woodman from Southampton provided street theatre for most of the week and Rev’d. Paul Hoey gave us wisdom and support throughout the days. I have also been amazed by the amount of support we have received from all across the local counties. There have been visiting groups, visitors from many churches and none. One of the most powerful voices we heard came from those invited to speak personally about how they came to faith in Christ. Paul Hoey invited many visitors from a myriad of backgrounds to tell at times very moving and heartening stories of Christian life. Thank you.

The core reason for these days, besides Christ’s command for us to do so, is that we as the three local ministers believe that we need to take seriously Jesus’ command to live one another as a witness to Him. Meeting for prayer all week at 7.30am was not one of my better ideas, but it has had a powerful impact on our three congregations. Knowing other Christians by more than sight, sharing in their joys and concerns is a broadening experience. It has helped earth locally the covenant we share with the Methodist church. Many of our people have grown in confidence in using their talents and gifts for God. A special thank you to the mission Steering group and to those who hosted the team and provided their hospitality.

The months and years ahead in Dromore will I believe have been shaped by these nine days. God has very powerfully yet gently reminded us that these are His churches, we are His people and the future is in His keeping. Our prayers must centre upon all who have taken steps of faith, that the church family will support and encourage them, that the pattern of our church life would change to meet their needs also, and that we look ahead to further and sustained growth and Christian servanthood.

Looking ahead.

Holy Baptism. Sunday 5^th June at 11.30am

Staying alive- Tuesdays 24^th, 31^st May, 7^th, 14^th June in Holy Trinity.

A 4 week course for those who made a Christian commitment and would like some help in growing closer to God.

TC Hammond theological lectures

With Peter Jensen, Archbishop of Sydney. 11am-3.30pm. Cost £10

Wednesday 8^th June, 28 Bachelor’s Walk, Dublin.

If you need a lift contact Kyle Hanlon

Parish Steak BBQ Friday 10^th June in Holy Trinity.

Children’s Day, Sunday 19^th June at 11.30am

Annual raising of the union flag. Thursday 26^th June at 8.30am

Orange anniversary service. Sunday 26^th June at 3pm

Proposed visit to Chile in July 2006

PSA 06 (Project South America)

Joyce Clingan has been appointed by the J1 Diocesan Youth Council to lead a team of young people and adults to San Pedro church in Vina Del Mar in Chile, for 4 weeks in July 06, for a programme of outreach through street theatre, mime, teaching and perhaps some practical work. Perhaps this trip is for you, to help you in your Christian life and to allow others in a Diocesan to benefit from your gifts, talents and fellowship.

We hope that the team will be made up of 16 individuals over 18 years+ and 4/6 individuals aged 30yrs+

Application forms have been sent to all Rectors and details are also in this month’s magazine.

Cost approx. £1250. Two training and preparation weekends have been planned for all successful applicants. There is the possibility that Spanish classes will be offered locally for any wanting to brush up on their holiday Spanish!

You may find useful the daily prayers on page 138 of the BCP.

On pages 145 and 450 you will find some useful prayers which we have been using in Church and during pastoral visits.

Continue to pray for:

- for those in hospital or in nursing care, those who grieve the loss of a loved one.

Our children and young people, the house bound and the aged.

The life of the Parish, especially those who are new Christians.

Thank you to those who are keeping our facilities in such good order.

Do take your turn please and sign the rotas.