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DAscension Day Service in Portora Royal School Chapel
Ascension Day Service in Portora Royal School Chapel
In the diocese of Clogher there is a long-standing tradition of holding a
Service of Confirmation for adults in the Chapel of Portora Royal School on
Ascension Day. It is both a neutral space and an ‘upper room’ for
those seeking to be confirmed. This year members of Dromore, Errigal Portclare
and Magheracross Parishes were confirmed, accompanied by members of their families,
friends and their clergy. In his sermon the Bishop of Clogher, the Rt Revd
Dr Michael Jackson, drew the attention of those present to the convention in
the early church that throughout the Season of Easter Christians stood to pray.
He continued: ‘So, I suggest that at least for this service on this evening
we follow the example of the earliest Christians and stand when we pray. It
is an expression not of our pride but of our confidence in belonging to God
when we stand before God. It is also an expression of our readiness to do at
any point or time what God might ask us to do. The Master has called us friends
and not slaves but he still wants to work with us.’ The bishop also said: ‘This
Ascension is not primarily about the disciples’ loss but it is about
the eruption of the kingdom of God. Ten years after the peace, we in Northern
Ireland need to grasp this perspective if we are ever going to make a contribution
for good as Christian people of confidence.’
The service was facilitated by the School Chaplain, the Reverend Glenn West
and Mrs Angel Nawn was organist. All present subsequently enjoyed refreshments
in the Dining Hall.