After what seemed like a flash since the last Armagh and South Tyrone event, namely the Missionary Rally in October; December beckoned the annual Carol service in Hill Street Presbyterian Church, Lurgan.  Holding true to the values of Christian Endeavour (C.E.) the whole congregation took part in some form with only a rare few escaping unscathed!  Members from Dungannon, Hill Street, Clonaneese, Tandragee and 1^st Portadown were represented at the service all combining to create an evening of carols, bible readings and music in a beautifully decorated hall. 

We were welcomed to the festive service by our Union President, Dr. Evan Sharkey, who introduced to us the first carol of the evening: Love came down at Christmas;   immediately focusing on the real meaning of Christmas, this was further emphasised during Rev. Alan Thompson’s prayer (Dungannon Presbyterian) as he reminded us of the ‘Word made flesh’.

The first musical item of the evening was from David Patterson of Hill Street Young People’s C.E. (Y.P.C.E.), who played the acoustic guitar and sang a beautiful piece entitled ‘More than a Child.’  Mark Williamson from Clonaneese Y.P.C.E. read the well known passage from Isaiah 9: 6-7.  Reiterating the words from this prophesy the congregation sang the chorus: For unto us a Child is born.

To prove C.E. is not solely for young people 1^st Pordown Seniors consisting of ladies and one very plucky man sang Silent night and lulled us with the piece Long Ago.  Lynsey Allen (Hill Street Y.P.C.E.) read from Isaiah 40: 9-11, which speaks of God’s greatness, but also His love to those in His fold. 

An instrumental Silent night and When a child is born, featuring the guitar and piano were played by Allison and Lisa from Clonaneese Y.P.C.E.  Followed by a reading taken from Matthew 1: 18-23 read by Trevor McDaniel, bringing us back to the dream Joseph had from God, where Joseph was instructed to name the child Jesus: “for he will save his people from their sins.”

Both Senior and Young People’s C.E. were merged together in a talented display from Grandmother and Grandson, Beth and Gareth respectively (Hill Street) playing the Calypso carol on guitar and piano; a hands flying piano duet march and finally Come and join the celebration on the piano with audience participation.  Husband and wife, Brian and Ruth from Tandragee Methodist sang a lovely piece: Redeeming love.

Lizanne McKee from Clonaneese seniors read Luke 2: 8-14, which gives an account of the angels delivering the good news to the shepherds.  This was followed by the carol: While shepherds watched their flocks by night.  Continuing the theme of the announcement to the shepherds, Hill Street seniors sang ‘Sing ye Angels.’

Matthew 2:1-10 was read by John Crozier of 1^st Portadown Seniors telling the story of the wise men.  Hill Street Y.P.C.E. and guitar group played/sang ‘Born in the Night’ and we were treated to a piano melody of various carols.  Hazel McCready (1^st Portadown seniors) read from Luke 2:15 -20.  This was followed by Clonaneese Y.P/Y.A.C.E. choir, who sang Beautiful star and Light of the world.  The final bible reading of the evening was Revelation 5: 11-14 read by Helen Coote (Hill Street Junior C.E. leader).

Two trumpeters Elizabeth and Victoria (Hill Street) made their instruments sing to Away in a manager and Hark the herald.

To wrap up the carol service Rev Andrew Falkner delivered the epilogue based on Luke 2.  He explained that the nativity is not another fairy tale to add more delight and spectacle to Christmas, but something that actual happened.  Unlike fairy tales it does not begin with ‘Once upon a time’, rather with the phrase ‘Today in the city of David…- real time.  In fact, at that point it had been over 400 years since God has spoken so clearly!  God had news, which was really exciting!  A Saviour had been born!  Rev Falkner explained that it wasn’t about the baby, it was about the rescue and the whole bible points to it.  He then continued to explain that if God sent a rescuer it must mean that you need rescued.  The part in the passage “He is Christ the Lord” means God was not sending someone else, He was going Himself!  Indeed Christ is not a surname, but rather a title meaning the anointed one or King. The question is: Is Jesus your King?  In his prayer he encouraged us to crown Jesus again as Lord of our lives.

The congregation sang Hark the herald angels sing while the offering was taken up for the Irish C.E. Union project and Rosemary McDaniel closed in prayer, but not without first reminding us about the Irish C.E. convention on the 16^th- 17^th September in Dungannon Presbyterian.

When Emma Veal was installed as President of the Ballymena and Coleraine Union, history was made, for this was the first time in the Union that a father and daughter had both been President. Her father, Mr. Bertie Kidd had been President some years previously. Husbands and wives have held the post before but never a father and daughter.

The Installation took place in Buckna Presbyterian Church hall when Mr. Ken McGall handed over the reins to Emma.

Juniors and Leaders, who attended, had a most enjoyable time as they pitted their skills against one another at the table quiz.

Following the annual Irish C.E. Convention in Fivemiletown the Missionary Rally provides an opportunity for those who are keen to learn more about this year’s missionary project.

The interested guests met in Dungannon Presbyterian Church hall and were welcomed by Rev. Thompson, who acted as chairperson.  Our first hymn ‘Lord of the Years,’ reminded us of God’s continual faithfulness and guidance.  George Richardson opened our meeting in prayer followed by the hymn: ‘We’ve a Story to Tell to the Nations’.  Rosemary McDaniel informed us of upcoming events, the closest being Christmas! This is heralded by the annual Carol Service in Hillstreet Presbyterian Church, Lurgan on 13^th December.

Hannah Williamson read Matthew 28:16-20, popularly known as the Great Commission, which speaks of Jesus’ exhortation to His disciples to tell others the Good News.  This linked well with the song ‘Hear the Call of the Kingdom’ sang by Clonaneese Young Peoples/ Young Adults C.E.  The choir also sang ‘Mighty to Save.’  It was noticed that their singing was greatly enhanced by their debut choir member Rev. Thompson!

To introduce us to the Missionary Project: ‘Promoting C.E. in the South of Ireland,’ Paul Nesbitt told us of his involvement in C.E. and its importance in raising up future leaders of the church.  He emphasised that C.E. is a Christian society, which is a training ground at the heart.  As well as encouraging young Christians to grow in their faith C.E. provides an opportunity to get involved in meetings, building confidence at public speaking, reading the bible and so much more.  Unfortunately, the South of Ireland has missed out on this fantastic training ground as they have only two societies which are based in Dublin.  Now it is up to us, who have been so privileged to encourage this work in the South.   

So how can we be involved?  We can be involved by:

v     Praying

v     Giving

v     Going

After reading the Great Commission (Matthew 28:16-20) from the Message Bible we sang our last hymn ‘Ireland for Christ’ and the collection was lifted.  Our meeting was closed in prayer.

East Antrim Christian Endeavour Union, which is comprised of CE Societies within the Boroughs of Newtownabbey, Carrickfergus and Larne, has just elected June Jones as its new President.  She takes over from Gillian Ferguson, the new Irish CE President.  June, a leader in Ballyhenry Presbyterian Junior Society for 32 years, has served on the East Antrim Executive for 30 years and most recently as Corresponding Secretary.  Married to Victor, they have one son, Mark, a qualified Medical doctor who later trained for the Presbyterian Ministry and is currently serving in Roseyards Presbyterian Church, Ballymoney. Mark’s wife, Eileen is a GP.  June, who has been a District Nurse for 35 years, is a very keen gardener and enjoys scrapbooking. Topics for the latter have included her visits to the Chelsea Flower Show and to Prince Edward Island – the setting for L.M. Montgomery’s, “Anne books”.

Her Installation Service, which took place in Ballyhenry Presbyterian Church, was conducted by the Minister, the Revd. Niall Lockhart who extended a very warm welcome to all present. Most of the Societies within the Union were represented.  June has chosen as her Presidential theme, “Looking to Jesus” and based on Hebrews chapter 12 verse 2, “Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the Cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God”; this was the theme of the Service too.

The Prayers were led by Pearl Warnock and Gerald Pink from Ballyhenry while Chain Prayer, one of the characteristics of Christian Endeavour, was led by Christopher Nesbitt, Glengormley Methodist, Abigail Park, Magheramorne Presbyterian, Jack Kirkpatrick, Kilbride Presbyterian and Lee Henry, Carrickfergus Methodist.  Anne Acheson, Ballyhenry was lector.  Praise times were led by Ballyhenry Juniors and also by Carnmoney Juniors.

The children listened with rapt attention as the new President’s son, The Revd. Dr Mark Jones told them the story of Jesus calming the storm.  We have to face the storms of life – maybe a problem at school – when these things happen, we must remember that Jesus is with us and we must look to him for He is here to help us.

The Revd Niall Lockhart based his address on Matthew chapter 4 verses 18-22 – the account of Jesus calling the first disciples.  The disciples were CALLED BY JESUS.  Mr. Lockhart continued, “Whether we are a child or a grownup, if we are called by Jesus, He will give us the words. June, you have been called by Jesus and He will give you the words”.  The disciples were CALLED TO FOLLOW.  As the disciples were called by Jesus, He gave them work to do.  The disciples were CALLING OTHERS. The farmer sews the seeds and patiently waits for the growth. The congregation was given a word of encouragement as they were reminded that when they had sown seeds in young lives, they too like the farmer must be patient and trust that in God’s time that the seed will grow.  He can bring a harvest in these young lives.  We must always keep, “Looking to Jesus”.

As the Service concluded, Katie and Jenny from Ballyhenry presented June with a beautiful bouquet of flowers and everyone enjoyed further fellowship over refreshments.

ONE GOD, ONE PEOPLE, ONE MESSAGE, UNITED IN ONE MISSION

“One God, One Family” was the theme for the 96th Irish National Christian Endeavour Convention, hosted by the Enniskillen Union, and held on Friday 17th and Saturday 18th September in Fivemiletown Methodist Church.

The Revd. Paul Ritchie from Richhill Methodist Church based his addresses on Acts 4: 1-22 “One God, one people, one message, one mission” and on Acts 4:23-37 “One people united in mission”

In his first address, Mr. Ritchie spoke of the opposition faced by the early believers and urged us to be inspired as we saw how they responded with faithfulness and bravery.  He hoped that we would be challenged by the conviction and the courage of the apostles Peter and John and, like them, feel a compulsion and be compelled to step out in mission.  How may we be compelled? J. John has written, “You and I need to walk in intimacy with God, our hearts ablaze with the love of Christ.  Then we will find that evangelism happens as a by-product – an overflow of our burning hearts”.

He has also written, “a missionary is not someone who crosses the sea; a missionary is someone who sees the Cross”.  We ought to look at the Cross and be people of conviction.  Jesus would not have died there if there had been any other way for people to be reconciled to God.  Quoting 2 Cor 5 verse 21, Mr Ritchie  said, “’God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God’  This message is fantastically different from what any other religion teaches.  We believe our message is exclusive in the fact that there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved; but we are inclusive in seeking to share this good news with all people”.  If we are to have the courage to share this good news, we need to pray.  Mr. Ritchie concluded by challenging us to be compelled by a burning heart, filled with a burning desire to share the good news.

His concluding address on Saturday, based on Acts 4: 23-37 considered, “One people, united in mission”- being part of a cause greater than ourselves.  The early Church was encountering opposition, we too can encounter opposition, for in an increasingly secular society which trumpts tolerance, our message is seen as narrow minded or even bigoted. Like the early christians we should be one people together in prayer  and one people in heart and mind – united in the cause of the Gospel.  On Friday evening the church was packed while on Saturday evening, the overflow congregation had to be accommodated in the adjoining church hall. 

Mr. Paul Nesbitt, outgoing Irish Union President, conducted the opening service of the Convention.  Carole Dillon, Convention Chairperson extended a very warm welcome to everyone present and in particular to Mr. Stuart MacDonald, Secretary of the Christian Endeavour Union of Great Britain and Ireland and to his wife, Avis, English CE Union President.  Knockninney YPCE, current holders of the Enniskillen Union Drama Shield, presented a very appropriate Drama entitled, “Everyone Welcome”.                   

Carole commended the Personal Membership Scheme to all present. The scheme offers the opportunity to have direct contact with the Irish CE Union, to be kept informed of all current CE activities and to support the CE Movement prayerfully and financially – all of which is so essential today.  Anyone who wishes may become a Personal Member by making an annual donation of at least £10 to, “The Irish Christian Endeavour Union”. The Irish Union Personal Membership Convenor is the Revd. Stephen Carson and further details may be obtained either from him or from CE Headquarters.

Chain Prayer, one of the characteristics of CE, was led by members of Lisbellaw YPCE.  Irish Union Missionary Convenor, Sandra Stokes, presented a substantial cheque, the proceeds of the past year’s Missionary Project, to two representatives of the Lo-debar Trust, a small missionary organization founded in 1998, based in N.Ireland and sharing God’s love in Siberia.  The Missionary Project for 2010-2011 is, “Christian Endeavour Ireland”.

Alison Foster, from Enniskillen YAs and Ashley Morrison, from Lisbellaw YPs were the lectors on Friday and Saturday respectively.  A time of prayer was held, on both evenings, immediately preceding the Convention services.

Delegates gathered for coffee at 10.15 am on Saturday, followed by worship, before splitting up for seminars.  The YPs discussed, “Relationships” while the Revd. David Sweeney, Minister of the host Church, addressed the Seniors.

There was something for everyone on Saturday afternoon.                

Seniors/Comrades were deeply moved by the Revd. Ian Fleck’s account of his missionary trip to Burkina Faso; YPs/YAs had great fun, in spite of rather inclement weather conditions, at their Photo  Frenzy, while the Juniors enjoyed the clown and puppets and learned that no matter what anyone is like, we are important to God and can be used in His Service. 

The Convention Competition entries on display were most impressive, with the winning entrants receiving their prizes at the Junior Rally. 

Westbourne Presbyterian Juniors from Belfast won the George Mann Shield awarded annually for efficiency; Clonaneese Presbyterian Juniors being runners up.

As is the custom, the Annual Business Meeting took place just before evening dinner on Saturday. Speaking of dinner, the Lisbellaw Methodist ladies excelled themselves as they catered all day Saturday; no mean feat! 

It was learned at the Business Meeting that another new Society is being formed – a YP in Fivemiletown.

Outgoing Irish Union President, Paul Nesbitt conducted the earlier part of the Saturday evening Service before installing his successor, Gillian Ferguson, outgoing East Antrim Union President and a Leader in Carrickfergus Methodist Juniors.  Gillian introduced her Presidential theme, “Amazing Love, Amazing Lord”.

Irish Union Secretary, Mr. Robert Tinney, extended thanks not only to Paul for all that he had done during his year of Office but also to Fivemiletown Methodist Church for the use of their premises.

Enniskillen Union packed Enniskillen Presbyterian Church to hold their annual C.E Celebration Service on Friday 7^th May 2010. The Worship was lead by Heidi and some of the young people from the Y.P.C.E.s.   As tradition the Role Call took place and it was wonderful to hear the Juniors singing and reading scripture.  Avril Graham the current Union President shared with us her theme ‘Body Building’ and how we should love one another as part of God’s family.  We wish Avril every God’s blessing as she undertakes her second year in the Presidential role and visits local C.E. Societies throughout the year. 

This year’s Challenge Shield competition was for every Society to produce a banner on the theme ‘One God, One Family’ which will be on display at the 96^th Irish C.E Convention.  The Convention will be held in Fivemiletown Methodist Church on 17^th – 18^th September 2010. 

Avril Graham, Union President, presented the awards for the evening with the Junior Challenge Shield going to Lisbellaw Junior C.E and the Young People’s Challenge Shield to Pettigo Y.P.C.E.  The Ruth Sowden cup was presented to Andrea Cathcart from Lisbellaw C.E who had been the best overall Endeavourer this year. The Drama Competition Shield this year was awarded to Knockinniy Y.P.C.E for their excellent drama.

We would like to thank the speakers for the evening, Rev Mark Liddicoat and Rev Stephen Foster who encouraged all C.E members to live their lives for God..  Thank you to everyone who attended and took part in the Service.

     HIGH STANDARD AT IRISH CE TALENT CONTEST FINALS

The finals of the Irish Christian Endeavour Union’s Annual Talent Contest have been held in First Antrim Presbyterian Church. Organised by Mrs. Rosemary Carson, Irish Junior Work Convenor, the talent displayed by all of the children was of a very high standard.           The event was honoured with a visit from Mr. Paul Nesbitt, Irish CE Union President.

Results were as follows:

Class 1 – Solo 8 years and under – 1^st Abigail Park, Magheramorne Presbyterian, Larne.                                                                                     Class 2 – Solo 9 & 10 years – 1^st Jessica Baird, Kilbride Presbyterian; 2^nd Megan Gammon, First Antrim Presbyterian; 3^rd Lucy Caldwell, Glengormley Methodist.                                                                                             Class 3 – Solo 11, 12 & 13 years – 1at Amy Shearer, Hillhall Presbyterian; 2^nd  [tie] Samantha Elliott, Carnmoney Presbyterian and Josh Milligan, Kilbride Presbyterian; 3^rd Matthew Gage, Carnmoney Presbyterian.                                                                              Class 4 – Verse Speaking 8 years and under – 1^st Sarah Kane, Dunluce Presbyterian; 2^nd Samuel Edwards, Shore Road City Mission, Belfast; 3^rd [tie] Sara Fullerton, Sydenham Methodist and Jenny Anderson, Kilbride Presbyterian.                                                                           Class 5 – Verse Speaking 9 and 10 years – 1^st Jack McCullough, Dunluce Presbyterian; 2^nd Katie Ramage, Dunluce Presbyterian; 3^rd Charlotte Anderson, Kilbride Presbyterian.                                   Class 6 – Verse Speaking 11, 12 and 13 years – 1^st Dylan Sloan, Shore Road City Mission, Belfast; 2^nd Hannah Fullerton, Sydenham Methodist.                                                                                                                                Class 7 - Bible Reading 8 years and under – 1^st Christopher Nesbitt, Glengormley Methodist; 2nd [tie] Keevagh Gregory, Magheramorne Presbyterian and Faith Thompson, Ballynure Presbyterian; 3^rd [tie] Anna Ramage, Dunluce Presbyterian; Sara Fullerton, Sydenham Methodist and Rachel Patterson, Hillhall, Presbyterian.                                                                                                        Class 8 – Bible Reading 9 and 10 years – 1^st Megan Gammon, First Antrim Presbyterian; 2^nd Rhona Anderson, First Carrickfergus Presbyterian; 3^rd [tie] Amy Caldwell, Glengormley Methodist and Jack McCullough, Dunluce Presbyterian.                                                                    Class 9 - Bible Reading 11, 12 and 13 years – 1^st Laura Gray, Sydenham Methodist; 2^nd [tie] Joshua Crothers, Carrickfergus Methodist and Josh Milligan, Kilbride Presbyterian; 3^rd Kristie Dunlop, Joanmount Methodist.                                                             Class 10 – Piano Solo 9 years and under – 1^st Abigail Park, Magheramorne Presbyterian; 2^nd Stephen Gammon, First Antrim Presbyterian.                                                                                                      Class 11 – Piano Solo 10 and 11 years – 1^st Joshua Boyd, First Carrickfergus Presbyterian; 2^nd Stacey Owens, Second Donegore Presbyterian.                                                                                                Class     13 – Instrumental Solo [String] – 1^st Lesley-Anne Tosh, Second Donegore Presbyterian; 2^nd Sarah Higginson, Magheramorene Presbyterian; 3^rd Hannah Fullerton, Sydenham Methodist.           Class 14 – Instrumental Solo [Wind] – 1^st Amy Caldwell, Glengormley Methodist.                                                                                      Class 16 – Recorder Solo – 1^st Kristie Dunlop, Joanmount Methodist. Class 17 – Duet 10 years and under – 1^st Hannah Robinson and Sophie Craig, Magheramorne Presbyterian; 2^nd Emily Atkinson and Faith Nelson, Joanmount Methodist; 3^rd [tie] Abigail Park and Jon Ramsay, Magheramorne Presbyterian and Rachael Currie and Georgia Elliott, Joanmount Methodist.                                                                     Class 18 – Duet 13 years and under – 1^st Amy Gillanders and Jayne Bassett, Carnmoney Presbyterian.                                                                          Class 19 – Singing Group – 1^st Magheramorne Presbyterian; 2^nd  [tie] Second Donegore Presbyterian and Kilbride Presbyterian.                    Class 20 – Choir – 1^st Glengormley Methodist; 2nd [tie] Magheramorne Presbyterian and Joanmount Methodist.                             Class 21 – Drama- 1^st, Joanmount Methodist; 2^nd Carnmoney Presbyterian.

The Seniors and Comrades Spring Rally was held in Ravenhill Presbyterian Church on Saturday, 27th March, 2010 at 3.00p.m.

An attendance of over fifty was very encouraging to our Convener, Mrs. Barbara Lowry, who had put such a lot of work into the success of the afternoon.  Barbara chaired the meeting and those taking part were Mr. Leslie Scott, who opened in prayer, Mrs. Janie Ferguson, who read from the Scriptures, Mrs. Olive Gardiner who recited a very moving poem entitled "The Three Trees", and the group "Called of God" sang some beautiful pieces.

The guest speaker was Mrs. Barbara Porter representing "Open Doors".  Barbara first of all gave a short word of testimony and then told us about her work with "Open Doors" and how there are four pillars of the ministry - 1.Leadership Training, 2.Bible Delivery, 3.Community Development, 4. Presence Ministry. 

She explained how history records great persecutions but persecution is still happening today.  We then had a video presentation showing the suffering of the Christians in North Korea.  Many Christians belong to hidden fellowships but often they are caught and thrown into prison where they are tortured and starved and many are never seen again.  In spite of all this the wonderful news is that the hidden church is growing. This was a very disturbing video and we all felt very concerned for the Christians of North Korea and very guilty at our own easy Christian life and the feeble excuses we make for not attending church, prayer meetings, etc.

 However, Barbara told us what we could do to help these people.  1.  We should pray for the conversion of the Korean Leader.  2. Pray for two minutes every day for the work of "Open Doors".

 3. Give. 4. Write a letter or card to someone in Korea (through "Open Doors") and 5. "Go "if at all possible with Bibles or support someone who could go.

Jesus said in Matthew 16 v.18"I will build my church and the gates of hell will not overcome it."

This wonderful afternoon ended with a lovely afternoon tea provided by the ladies and a substantial donation was given to the work of "Open Doors".

Janie Ferguson

On Saturday 14^th April the 1984 CE Convention Choir had a brilliant night’s craic in the Killyhevlin Hotel Enniskillen, catching up on the last 26 years.

The Hotel laid on a lovely BBQ meal followed by dessert and coffee/tea and then the fun started.

Olive Rowe our choir leader, who had organised the evening, tested our failing memories with a quiz on the 1984 Convention which did prove that some of us remembered a lot more than others. Diane Porter our pianist at the Convention played some of the pieces and we got up in true choir form, and joined in(with Olive conducting) reminding us that we did have some good times practising in 1983-84 and the men can still surprise us with their tenor and bass voices

Many thanks again to Olive for all her hard work in getting us together, no mean feat!!!!

T - talks

H - hole (not black hole)

E - excitement 

L - Lisburn Pool

I - ideas with craft

G - games

H - humour

T - team points for memory verses 
 

F - fantastic singing

A - assault course

C - climbing wall

T - tuckshop and great food

O - oh dear Rosie Mary

R - room tidiness- or not!

Y - Why don’t you let others know? 

The above words describe something of the fun, sharing, friendships at Junior C.E camp in Crawfordsburn. 

A total of 41 Juniors and 13 adults enjoyed an action packed week at the Scout Centre. 

Our theme for the week was “the light factory” where we heard stories of people whose lives have been changed by the light of the world.

We had the a-z of activities ranting from an assault course to the zoo (for once it was a dry day). 

Thanks to all who supported us in prayer for safety and for the Juniors and leaders to be challenged in their lives to “shine for God”.

New President

Portadown Presbyterian church hall was packed to capacity for Armagh and South Tyrone Christian Endeavour Union’s Presidential Rally. 

Mr Des Buchanan handed over the Presidential chain to Dr Evan Sharkey, a leader in Clonaneese Young Adults CE.  Evan’s fiancée from Canada was able to be present for the occasion. 

Members of the Clonaneese Young People and Young Adults choir sang during the service.  Gareth Hutchinson from Hill Street, Lurgan, played a piano solo. 

The guest speaker was Mr Paul Nesbitt, Irish CE President.  Supper was served by 1^st Portadown Senior CE who hosted the evening.

“I WISH IT WAS CHRISTMAS” AT DUNDRUM METHODIST IN DUBLIN

 We have just finished our autumn term with a beautiful nativity play and party.  The play is called " I wish it was Christmas" and involved all the children.  This year we had help from a Trinity Drama student (Hazel and former junior CE member) for the first 2 rehearsals and she was great at involving the children in the whole production.  Our CE children were brilliant at adapting and suggesting ideas of how best to do the play.  Jayne Duff kindly came back to help finish off the production.  Our Juniors worked well together and were very good at learning their lines.  The story line was very short but focused on the need to combat poverty in simple ways and reminded everyone through the nativity of why we celebrate Christmas.  The children brought parcels for distribution to our homeless in Dublin.  Parents were invited to contribute to the Lo-Debar charity.  Santa came with presents followed by a party with a Christmas light display, thanks to our friend Stephen Stroughaire who is gifted at doing Christmas decorating.  A great way to end our year.

“Trust Him, love Him, serve Him”, urges Methodist President at East Antrim Union’s C.E. Rally

What a wonderful sight – Greenisland Methodist Church, near Belfast, was packed for the installation of Gillian Ferguson, a leader from Carrickfergus Methodist Junior Christian Endeavour Society, as President of East Antrim C.E. Union.

Gillian who is the Irish C.E. Union’s Recording Secretary, had previously served as Young People’s Convenor for the Enniskillen C.E. Union, had contributed much to the success of the last Irish C.E. Convention hosted by the Union and had been a Leader in Letterbreen C.E. 

Family and friends had travelled long distances and Gillian was honoured to have the All Ireland President of C.E., Mrs. Carole Dillon accompanied by her husband, present.

The Service was opened as Local Minister, the Revd. Stephen Sheerin welcomed everyone, together with the special Speaker, the Revd Aian Ferguson, President of the Methodist Church in Ireland, Gillian’s father.

Outgoing President, Mrs. Anne Acheson also extended a very warm welcome to everyone including the Irish Union C.E. President.

Installing her successor in the Presidency, Mrs. Acheson said that she had enjoyed her time in office and hoped that Gillian would find it as fulfilling as she had done.

A young member of Carrickfergus Methodist Junior Society then presented a gift to the new President.

Gillian Ferguson’s first act as President was to thank everyone for coming and introduce her Presidential theme, based on Matthew chapter 5 verse14, “Light of the World” – incidentally very apt for someone who has a longstanding fascination and great love for lighthouses.

She explained, with the help of several verses of Scripture, that Jesus is the Light of the World and posed the question, “Whether a young person or an adult – how bright does your light shine”?

One of the more traditional aspects of any C.E. Rally is the Roll Call with someone, from every Society present, responding by reading a Bible verse, singing or performing a piece of drama. The vast majority of Societies within the Union were represented.

Mrs Carole Dillon, All Ireland C.E. President and East Antrim C.E. Union’s Prayer Convenor Mrs. Janice Walker led the Prayers of Intercession.

Before commencing his Address, the President of the Methodist Church in Ireland, the Revd, Aian Ferguson thanked everyone for coming and extended greetings and good wishes to Gillian and hoped that she would have as good a year in her Presidency as he had in his.

He based his Address on a Lesson from Matthew chapter 28 verses 16-20.

“Are you having a special dinner tomorrow” asked Mr. Ferguson? “Tomorrow is a very special day in the Christian Church. It is Ascension Thursday. We celebrate Christ’s birth. Why do we not celebrate His return to the Father? He showed us what God is like. He was perfectly obedient. He died that we might be forgiven. He rose again that we might have life – eternal life.

The Risen Jesus said, ‘All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me’. Jesus is Lord and King of creation. He is the King who came and died but evil and death could not conquer Him. He is the King of Kings. There is no one greater, stronger or better so we should trust Him and surrender to Him”.

Referring to Holman Hunt’s picture of, Jesus the Light of the World, Mr. Ferguson said that the Lord Jesus knocks at the door of all our lives and continued, “Are we going to have Jesus as Saviour and Lord. All need to turn to Him, trust Him and surrender to Him.

One day Jesus will come back. It is our task to go and tell others about Him and make disciples, showing people our care and compassion”.

Mr. Ferguson, mentioning numerous commands of Jesus from Matthew’s Gospel, stressed that it was imperative that we not only obey them but also teach them to others.

In conclusion, quoting Jesus’  words, ‘And surely I will be with you to the end of the age’, he said that Jesus would be there to help us just as He was in his own experience.

HYPER HIPPOS WIN TOP SOCIETY QUIZ

Sandy Street/Downshire Road Presbyterian Junior C.E. Society, Newry hosted the Irish Finals of the Christian Endeavour Union’s Annual  Top Society Quiz.

There were eight rounds of questions ranging from Bible Knowledge, General Knowledge, C.E History, C.E. Personalities and a Picture Round.

Minnie Tinney, Caroline Edgar, Gwen Carson, Rosemary Carson and Tim Gunning set the questions.  Caroline Edgar and the Irish Christian Endeavour Union President, Mrs. Carole Dillon marked the answers and kept the score.

The standard was high, the competition was keen but most importantly, all the competitors thoroughly enjoyed themselves.

FIRST ANTRIM PRESBYTERIAN HOSTS TALENT CONTEST

The Irish Christian Endeavour Union’s Junior Talent Contest has been held in First Antrim Presbyterian Church.

Children representing the Ballymena and Coleraine, Belfast and East Antrim C.E. Unions took part.

The adjudicators included Paul Thompson who was responsible for Vocal Music; George Hewitt, Instrumental, Music and Mrs Olive Gardner, Bible Reading and Verse Speaking. Their job was not an easy one, it was hard to make choices as there was such a talented group of young people competing.        

Mrs. Gardiner graciously presented a Challenge Cup in memory of her late husband, Fred, a loyal and faithful supporter of the Christian Endeavour Movement throughout his long life. 

Mrs. Carole Dillon, Irish C.E. Union President, presented the Cups and Certificates to the winners. These included: -

CLASS 1- SOLO 8 YEARS & UNDER - 1^st D’Arcy Connor, Glengormley Methodist.

CLASS 2 - SOLO 9 &10 YEARS – 1^ST James McCullough, Dunluce Presbyterian; 2^nd Lydia Hull, Shore Road City Mission; 3^rd Rachel Cooke, First Antrim Presbyterian. 

CLASS 3 - SOLO 11, 12 & 13 YEARS – 1^st Amy Shearer, Hillhall Presbyterian; 2^nd Lauren Finlay, First Carrickfergus Presbyterian; 3^rd Kirstie Dunlop, Joanmount Methodist.

CLASS 4 - VERSE SPEAKING 8 YEARS & UNDER – 1^st Jack McCullough, Dunluce Presbyterian; 2^nd Daniel Steele, do; 3rd Emma Hull, Shore Road City Mission.

CLASS 5 – VERSE SPEAKING 9 & 10 YEARS - 1st Megan Gammon, First Antrim Presbyterian; 2^nd James McCullough, Dunluce Presbyterian; 3^rd Hannah Fullerton, Sydenham Methodist.

CLASS 6 – VERSE SPEAKING 11, 12 & 13 YEARS – 1^st Dylan Sloan, Shore Road City Mission; 2^nd Toni Storey, Westbourne Presbyterian.

CLASS 7 – BIBLE READING 8 YEARS & UNDER – 1^st Faith Nelson, Joanmount Methodist; 2^nd Rachel Currie, do; 3^rd Jack McCullough, Dunluce Presbyterian.

CLASS 8 – BIBLE READING 9 & 10 YEARS – 1^st Amy Caldwell, Glengormley Methodist; 2^nd James McCullough, Dunluce Presbyterian; 3^rd Hannah Fullerton, Sydenham Methodist.

CLASS 9 - BIBLE READING 11, 12 &13 YEARS - 1^st Kirstie Dunlop, Joanmount Methodist; 2^nd Lauren Finlay, First Carrickfergus Presbyterian; 3^rd Laura Brooks, First Antrim Presbyterian.

CLASS 10 – PIANO SOLO 9 YEARS & UNDER – 1^st Megan Gammon, First Antrim Presbyterian.

CLASS 11 - PIANO SOLO 10 & 11 YEARS – 1^st Joshua Boyd, First Carrickfergus Presbyterian.        

CLASS 12 - PIANO SOLO 12 & 13 YEARS – 1^st Nikita McMullan, Joanmount Methodist; 2^nd Toni Storey, Westbourne Presbyterian.

CLASS 13 – INSTRUMENTAL SOLO [STRING] – 1^st Emma Jefferson, First Carrickfergus Presbyterian; 2^nd Laura Finlay, do; 3^rd Hannah Fullerton, Sydenham Methodist.

CLASS14 – INSTRUMENTAL SOLO [WIND] – 1^st Joshua Boyd, First Carrickfergus Presbyterian; 2^nd Lynsey Kerr, Hillhall Presbyterian. 3^rd Christopher Hogg, First Carrickfergus Presbyterian.

CLASS 15 – RECORDER SOLO 11YEARS & UNDER – 1^st Holly Blair, Joanmount Methodist. 

CLASS 16 – RECORDER SOLO 13 YEARS & UNDER - 1st Nikita McMullan, Joanmount Methodist; 2^nd Kristie Dunlop, do.  

CLASS 17 – DUET 10 YEARS & UNDER – 1^st Hannah Robinson & Sophie Craig, Magheramorne Presbyterian; 2^nd Abigail Park & Jon Ramsey, do.

CLASS 18 – DUET 13 YEARS & UNDER – 1^st Sarah Doherty & Emma Jefferson, First Carrickfergus Presbyterian; 2^nd Mark Ramsay & Abigail Adamson, Magheramorne Presbyterian

CLASS 19 – SINGING GROUP – 1^st Magheramorne Presbyterian; 2^nd Joanmount Methodist; 3^{rd [tie]} First Antrim Presbyterian and Magheramorne Presbyterian.

CLASS 20 – CHOIR – 1^st Magheramorne Presbyterian; 2^nd First Antrim Presbyterian. 

CLASS 21 – DRAMA - 1st Joanmount Methodist.

On Saturday 28^th March 2009 Enniskillen Union headed to Dundonald Ice Bowl.  After a fun bus journey we arrived at Dundonald to enjoy ice- skating, ten-pin bowling and even some of us braved the cold and went Crazy Golfing.  To round the night off no trip to Belfast is complete with out a trip to Mc Donalds before we headed back on are way to Fermanagh!  Thanks to Avril and Mark are Y.P Convenors for organising a very enjoyable night.

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Buckna Presbyterian Church has had a long association with Christian Endeavour. When Rev. Tom Cuming arrived as minister of our congregation in 1971, one of his first actions was to start a YPCE society. In the following years as the original members moved on, they joined the Adult Fellowship, which in 1980 changed its name to the Senior CE.

Recently the name of our society has changed again to the CE Fellowship to better reflect the ages of our members.  We meet once a fortnight between the months of September and Easter, with usually 25-30 members.  The age of our members ranges from twenties to senior citizens. There is a great sense of friendship, fellowship and fun in our meetings, in which most of the members take an active part; indeed membership of CE has given confidence to some to take on other roles in our congregation and beyond. Our meetings are largely conducted by ourselves and several are willing to take on speaking on various topics. This year we are using the book “In the Grip of Grace” by Max Lucado as a basis for our topics, and in recent years we have looked at the “Purpose Driven Life” and Selwyn Hughes’ “Seven Laws of Spiritual Success.” Missionaries come to speak to us as well throughout the year, and we support the CE Missionary project with a special collection.

The CE Fellowship is also involved in visiting the local nursing home and also a Fold where one of our ladies is a supervisor. At Christmas we have a dinner, always popular with the men. In February we have the annual CE Service. The year ends with an outing and a meal when other people from the congregation join with us.  Our society may be small in number but we more than make up for that in our fellowship together as we seek to live “For Christ and the Church.”

On a warm sunny evening, her family and friends joined Christian Endeavourers from throughout East Antrim, in Ballyhenry Presbyterian Church, just north of Belfast, to see Anne Acheson installed as President of East Antrim Christian Endeavour Union. They came from Lisburn, North Down and as far away as Fermanagh.

She extended a very warm welcome to everyone, as did Ballyhenry’s new minister, the Revd. Niall Lockhart who led in prayer.

The Act of Installation was performed by outgoing President, Jayne Wright from Kilbride Presbyterian Church who had approached her own term of office with fear and trepidation but, for her, it had been a tremendous year and one of great blessing.

Jayne spoke of what a wonderful person Anne is, a “can do” person with a heart of love for young people and a real heart of love for her Heavenly Father, the Lord Jesus.

The new President’s theme, “He is still working on me” is so appropriate as the 94th Irish National Christian Endeavour Convention, hosted by East Antrim C.E. Union later in the year – 19th-20th September in the nearby Carnmoney Presbyterian Church – has as its theme, “Work in Progress”.

Jamie and Cameron Owens, Jenny Cole, Chloe and Emma Robinson and Naomi Knox from Ballyhenry Junior C.E. led the Praise Time with such joyous expression. They also helped with stewarding.

Erin McBride, from Kilbride Presbyterian Juniors, demonstrated that she was worthy of her success at the recent All Ireland Talent Contest when she recited, “Where is Jesus”?

It was through the visiting speaker, Miss Mary Henderson, that Anne, when she was 18, had been introduced to C.E. and it was through it that she met her husband, John, at a C.E. camp in Portora Royal School, Enniskillen.

Anne spoke of Mary’s involvement with the C.E. Movement having been President of the East Antrim Union, the Irish Union and the British Union together with being Irish National Junior Convenor.

As a token of thankfulness to Almighty God for the part C.E. had played in her life for the past 25 years, Mary made a surprise presentation of a shield to Anne to be used, at her discretion, in competition amongst Juniors.

The short Address was based on Nehemiah 2: 1-8.

Nehemiah was sad that the walls of Jerusalem lay in ruins so he left a secure position in the government of Persia to return to his home to rebuild the walls. God had given him a building project – this desire to rebuild the walls.

He encountered opposition but he prayed and trusted God and worked on.

As Christians, God wants to build our lives.

God is still working on us to make us what we should be for him.

We must daily pray and read the Bible.

Mary concluded by saying, “when we have Jesus in our lives, He does not give up, He is the greatest builder I know. When I turn to God as my builder, He will not let me down”.

Ballyhenry Praise Group and Laura Patterson were responsible for the music of the Service.

Further fellowship was enjoyed over a wonderful supper in the adjoining hall.