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Dublin and Glendalough
Diocesan Church Music Committee
LIVING WORSHIP 2012
A course in liturgy, music and worship
Saturday mornings, 10 – 12.30pm
14, 21, 28 January, 4 February
Mageough House Hall, Cowper Road, Rathmines
(beside Cowper tram stop)
14 Jan: Dean Tom Gordon
Why Christians Worship
21 Jan: John Harper
Former Director-General, RSCM
Whither Church Music?
28 Jan: Canon Gerald Field
Liturgy, music and the arts
4 Feb: Jonathan Rea
Director of New Irish Arts, Belfast
The role of the music group leader
More on www.churchmusicdublin.org
Course Fee: €90. Booking: 087 668 3998
SCHOLARSHIPS
The Incorporated Society for Promoting
Protestant Schools in Ireland
74 Upper Leeson St., Dublin 4
offers valuable
HIBERNIAN MARINE SOCIETY
and
FOUNDATION SCHOLRSHIPS
to boys and girls
Completed entry forms must be
received before 31st January 2012
For details apply to the Headmaster
Bandon Grammar School
Dundalk Grammar School
Kilkenny College
Sligo Grammar School
IN AID OF TRUST
A social & health service
for people who are homeless
IN THE CRYPT OF
CHRIST CHURCH CATHEDRAL, DUBLIN
FRIDAY 10 February 2012
7.30 PM
€30 PER TABLE OF 4
REFRESHMENTS & RAFFLE ON NIGHT
2 CHURCH REVIEW

CHURCH REVIEW
ISSN 0790-0384
Church Review is published monthly and
usually available by the first Sunday.
Please order your copy from your Parish
by annual sub scription. €40 for 2012 AD.
POSTAL SUBSCRIPTIONS/CIRCULATION
Copies by post are available from:
Charlotte O’Brien, ‘Mountview’,
The Paddock, Enniskerry, Co. Wicklow.
E: charlotte@churchreview.ie
T: 086 026 5522.
The cost is the subscription and
appropriate postage.
COPY DEADLINE
All editorial material MUST be with the
Editor by 15th of the preceeding month,
no matter what day of the week. Material
should be sent by Email or Word
attachment.
VIEWS EXPRESSED
Views expressed in the Church Review are
those of the contributor and are not
necessarily those of the Editor or Church
Review Committee.
EDITOR
The Revd. Nigel Waugh,
The Rectory, Delgany,
Greystones, Co. Wicklow.
T: 01-287 4515.
T: 086 1028888.
E: editor@churchreview.ie
EDITORIAL ASSISTANT
Noeleen Hogan
ADVERTISING
Advertising details and prices are available
by emailing adverts@churchreview.ie or by
phoning Charlotte O’Brien on 086 026
5522. Copy should be sent to
adverts@churchreview.ie or by post to
Charlotte O’Brien, ‘Mountview’,
The Paddock, Enniskerry, Co. Wicklow by
15th of the month.
CHIEF REPORTER
Lynn Glanville,
T: 087 2356472
E: dco@dublin.anglican.org
Single copies are available from:
• The National Bible Society of Ireland,
Dawson Street.
• The Resource Centre, Holy Trinity
Church, Rathmines.
PRINTING
Church Review is Printed in Ireland by
DCG Publications Ireland
T: 048-90551811. F: 048-90551812.
E: admin@dcgpublications.com
CHURCH OF IRELAND UNITED DIOCESES
OF DUBLIN AND GLENDALOUGH
The Most Reverend Michael Jackson,
Archbishop of Dublin and Bishop of Glendalough,
Primate of Ireland and Metropolitan.
Archbishop’s Letter
JANUARY 2012
A New Year gives us the opportunity to grapple with two things which, by and large,
are not the easiest of soul-mates. The two things to which I refer are realism and
idealism. Often people make New Year Resolutions which, like Lenten Abstinences, fall
at the first hurdle, like an unfortunate steed at a Seasonal Steeplechase. It is surely far
better not to set yourself up to fail and, instead, to build up piece by piece, and perhaps
over a period of time, a number of things which you can do and which will give you a
greater and stronger sense of self-worth. Too often and too instinctively Christianity
goes in the opposite direction and gives the clear impression that a sense of
unworthiness is what we should be cultivating and that anyone who advocates this
approach is doing everyone else a good turn. This is a deep and a dangerous mistake and,
sadly, quite a lot of the responsibility for it can be laid at the feet of St Paul whose
glorious conversion we celebrate later in this month of January annually. Is it any
wonder, therefore, that we set ourselves up to fail with too high-flown and ridiculously
idealistic New Year Resolutions?
Keeping it simple is not always attractive nor is it always as simple as it sounds. I say
this because it requires of us that we be willing always to go back to the beginning, back
to first principles and, if necessary, to start all over again. The style of our society and
the pace of contemporary expectation seem to militate against such
humility. Failure is something we tend to hide. Celebrities
somehow seem to manage it much better than the rest of us –
they just blast and bluster on most of the time. Humility still
carries with it a sense of being weak at the knees, soft at the
centre and not able to cope or to keep up. Again, this is a deep
and a dangerous mistake. It is a pity because humility is part of
realism. It is a quality which we need to connect us to other
people and to keep us connected. Without such connections,
it is so much more difficult to keep our New Year Resolutions
or to contemplate our Lenten Abstinences. Idealism gives us
the sense that we have to do all of these things alone and on
our own. In my experience, sadly, this often does not
work very well. Sharing the load and the burden can
and does share the eventual happiness and that
is a much better place to be. Suffering and
joy need to grapple to connect in the living
hope of Christianity.
The early days of January can be long
and dark. However, a new light is already
playing over the landscape, even if it still
looks rather like the old light. The
daylight hours will lengthen. Even if the
new Resolutions have gone out with
the bin by the end of the month, there
will be many more opportunities to
make fresh and realistic Resolutions
during the rest of the year.
Inez and Camilla join me in wishing
each of you a very Happy 2012.
† Michael
COVER STORY:
Noelene Scott and Gladys
Williamson lead the Delgany Parish
Thursday Club – an outing group for
senior members of the parish. Here
they are pictured with Peter Harrison
at the Club’s Christmas Dinner. Such
groups provide a valuable social
network in many parishes.
CHUrCH revIew 3

A DECADE IN WHICH ANARCHY WAS LOOSED
UPON THE WORLD, A TERRIBLE BEAUTY WAS BORN
Patrick Comerford
As we begin a new year, and look
forward to the next 12 months, we
should also be aware that we are facing
into a decade of anniversaries, when we
will be faced with the commemorations
of events a centenary ago, recalling the
tumultuous events between 1912 and
1922 that shaped not only Irish identity
but also shaped the map of Europe.
It is the decade that was marked by the
demise of Chinese imperial dynasties, World
War I, the Armenian Genocide, the Gallipoli
landings, the Battle of the Somme, the Russian
Revolution, the Balfour Declaration, the defeat
of Germany, the fall of the Hapsburgs, the
creation of the Weimar Republic and the Soviet
Union, the first non-stop transatlantic flight, the
collapse of the Ottoman Empire, the winning of
women’s voting rights, and the rise of
Communism and Fascism.
But it was the decade too that brought us
the modern zipper, stainless steel, and the popup
toaster. It was a decade that saw the
publication of Einstein’s theory of relativity, the
first US feature film, the debut of Charlie
Chaplin, the publication of Thomas Mann’s
Death in Venice, DH Lawrence’s Sons and
Lovers and Women in Love and TS Eliot’s The
Waste Land.
For Irish people, this was the decade that saw
the death of Bram Stoker, the author of
Dracula, who was born into a Dublin Church of
Ireland family. It was a decade that saw the
publication of James Joyce’s Dubliners, Portrait
of the Artist as a Young Man, and Ulysses, and of
Pygmalion by George Bernard Shaw. And it was
a decade too that was marked by the sinking of
the Titanic and the Lusitania.
‘The centre cannot hold’
The world was so changed and transformed
WB Yeats could open his poem The Second
Coming with these lines about Europe in the
aftermath of World War I:
Turning and turning in the widening gyre
The falcon cannot hear the falconer;
Things fall apart; the centre cannot hold;
Mere anarchy is loosed upon the world,
The blood-dimmed tide is loosed, and everywhere
The ceremony of innocence is drowned;
The best lack all conviction, while the worst
Are full of passionate intensity.
Towards the end of that decade, the Church
of Ireland was living with the consequences of a
half century of disestablishment. But the Church
was more concerned with social political
upheaval on this island, and the way we were
tearing ourselves apart as a people. Irish identity
was changed violently over that ten-year period,
so that the lines by Yeats about the leaders of
the Easter Rising in 1916 could be applied to the
whole island and the whole population:
All changed, changed utterly:
A terrible beauty is born.
It was a decade that saw the reconstruction
of Irish identity through the creation of myths
that by-passed the facts, even as the main
actors in those myths were still alive.
Language and identity
It is forgotten that modern Irish nationalism
had its incubation and gestation in the revival of
the Irish language – a revival in which the main
players included Dr Douglas Hyde, the son of a
4 CHUrCH revIew
Looking down the Liffey towards Liberty
Hall… would the key players in the
events 100 years ago recognise the
Ireland of today?
Dublin Castle… the seat of Government
until 1922.
Left: The Abbey Theatre contributed to
the cultural expressions of Irish
nationalism. Right: Jim Larkin… “The
great appear great because we are on
our knees: Let us rise.”
James Connolly was born in Scotland
and married a member of the Church of
Ireland.
Church of Ireland rector, and Dr Eleanor Hull
in hymns such as Be thou my vision (643).
The artistic expressions of the new
nationalism were found in the Abbey Theatre,
founded by Lady Gregory, WB Yeats and
George Russell (AE), the poetry of Yeats and
the plays of Sean O’Casey – all members of the
Church of Ireland.
Since 1916, the leaders of the Easter Rising in
Dublin have been transformed into either
working class heroes or the personifications of
what it is to be Green, Gaelic, Catholic and
The Rotunda in Dublin… a venue for
many of the political meetings and
heated debates on all sides in the
decade between 1912 and 1922.
Charles Stewart Parnell, founder of the
Irish Parliamentary Party, influenced a
later generation of nationalists.
Irish. But the myths that have been created by
those who have a blinkered vision of what it is
to be Irish betray the truths of history.
Who remembers today that Pádraig Pearse
was born Patrick Henry Pearse, the son of a
Birmingham Unitarian who had come to Dublin
from England as part of the Victorian arts-andcrafts
movement? There are other myths
surrounding Pearse, including one that he was
“President of the Provisional Government,” a
post that may have been held instead by
Thomas Clarke. There is no manuscript version
of the 1916 Proclamation, but on all printed
versions, the leaders’ names are not printed in
alphabetical order, so that Pearse’s name is
listed fourth, after Thomas Clarke, Sean Mac
Diarmada and Thomas MacDonagh.
Ironically, Clarke was not born in Ireland but
in an army barracks on the Isle of Wight in
England, where his father was a soldier in the
British army. Thomas MacDonagh had a middle
class education in Rockwell College, Co
Tipperary, and was a lecturer in English in UCD.
In 1912, he married Muriel Gifford, a member
of a well-known Church of Ireland family in
Dublin. Éamonn Ceannt, an accountant, was
born Edward Thomas Kent, the son of an officer
in the Royal Irish Constabulary.

Photographs by Patrick Comerford
From left: Sean O’Casey, the playwright of the left, was born into the Church of Ireland; The General Post Office in Dublin… but
the Easter Rising is not the only important anniversary to remember; The Garden of Remembrance treats the 1916 leaders as
martyrs… but their backgrounds were diverse; Dr Kathleen Lynn took command of the rebel position in City Hall; The Mansion
House in Dublin, where the First Dáil held most of its meetings.
The War Memorial Park in Islandbridge, Dublin, recalls the Irish dead of two world wars.
Much of O’Connell Street, Dublin, was
destroyed during the 1916 Rising.
James Connolly was born in Edinburgh, and
spoke with a Scottish accent all his life. After
joining the British Army at the age of 14, he spent
seven years with the army in Ireland. In 1890, he
married Lillie Reynolds, a member of the Church
of Ireland, who was born in Co Wicklow.
Joseph Mary Plunkett was the son of Count
George Noble Plunkett, and his distant cousin, Sir
Horace Curzon Plunkett, was a prominent lay
member of the Church of Ireland and a Home
Rule MP. The poet was born into a privileged
family in Fitzwilliam Square, then an affluent
suburb of Dublin, and was educated by the Jesuits
at Belvedere and Stonyhurst, a public school in
Lancashire. Hours before his execution, he
married Grace Gifford, who, like her sister Muriel
MacDonagh, had been born into a prosperous
Dublin Church of Ireland family.
In other words, two of the seven signatories
were not born in Ireland, one was the son of an
Englishman, one had served in the British army,
one was the son of an RIC officer, one was born
in a British army barracks, one was a titled
aristocrat, and at least three married women
who were born into the Church of Ireland.
These backgrounds were similar to those of
many prominent figures on the Republican side
in 1916. For example, Liam Mellows, later
executed in 1922 at the height of the Civil War,
was born William Joseph Mellows in an army
barracks in Manchester, and his father was born
in a British army barracks in India.
It should be remembered too in the coming
years that while the 1916 Rising was being
planned, Arthur Griffith’s Sinn Féin still favoured
establishing a form of dual monarchy linking
Ireland and Britain, similar to the dual monarchy
in the Austro-Hungarian Empire, and that Sinn
Féin did not take part in the 1916 Rising.
Voices for the oppressed
Many of the women who took prominent
roles in the Rising were members of the
The Four Courts… burned in the
clashes of the Civil War in 1922.
Church of Ireland: Countess Markievicz, the
suffragette and a leader of the Irish Citizens’
Army, was born Constance Georgine Gore-
Booth in Buckingham Gate, London, the
daughter of Sir Henry Gore-Booth of Lissadell
House, Co Sligo. She and her younger sister, Eva
Gore-Booth, were childhood friends of Yeats,
who frequently visited their home and
described them in one poem as “two girls in silk
kimonos, both beautiful, one a gazelle.”
Dr Kathleen Lynn, a founding member of the
Irish Citizen’s Army too, took command of the
rebel garrison in City Hall in Easter Week 1916.
She remained a pious member of the Church of
Ireland until her death in 1955.
Alongside James Connolly, Jim Larkin
Countess Markievicz and Kathleen Lynn, the
founding members of the Irish Citizens’ Army in
1913, included Captain Jack White, a
Presbyterian from Broughshane, Co Antrim, and
the son of Sir George Stuart White.
Indeed, the first informal meeting to form the
Irish Citizens’ Army was held in Trinity College
Dublin in the rooms of the Revd Robert
Malcolm Gwynn. He was a communicant at St
Bartholomew’s until his death in 1962, and is
buried in Whitechurch Churchyard in Co
Dublin. One of his brothers, Brian Gwynn, was
the father-in-law of the late Archbishop George
Simms. Through their mother, the Gwynns were
grandsons of William Smith O’Brien, the exiled
1848 revolutionary whose statue in O’Connell
Street is close to the GPO and the statue of
Jim Larkin.
In a letter of protest during the Dublin
lockout, George Russell (AE) accused the
employers of “refusing to consider any solution
except that fixed by their pride” and he accused
them of seeking “in cold anger to starve onethird
of this city, to break the manhood of the
The Luas in Abbey Street… have we
moved on is shaping a modern Irish
identity?
men by the sight of the suffering of their wives
and the hunger of their children.”
A year after the Dublin lockout, members of
the Church of Ireland were among the most
prominent organisers of the Howth gunrunning.
Erskine Childers, a cousin of the
Bartons of Glendalough House, sailed into
Howth on the Asgard and landed 2,500 guns.
The organisers included his wife Molly Childers,
Sir Roger Casement, Alice Stopford Green and
Mary Spring Rice – all Church of Ireland
parishioners, as were many of those waiting for
them on the pier, including Countess
Markievicz, Douglas Hyde and Darrell Figgis.
Written in or written out?
The myths that have accumulated over the
past century have written members of the
Church of Ireland, their consciences and their
role out of the shared history of this island.
In these coming years, we must remember
that more Irish soldiers – Catholic and
Protestant – died at the Gallipoli landings in
1915 or at the Somme in 1916 than died in the
Easter Rising. Nor should we forget that more
than 400,000 people on this island, including
five bishops of the Church of Ireland, signed the
Ulster Covenant, and in doing so were led by
Sir Edward Carson, who was born in Harcourt
Street, Dublin.
In 1922, after many Protestants were forced
to leave their homes because of threats and
some had been murdered in Co Cork, a
delegation of southern members of the
General Synod met Michael Collins and WT
Cosgrave, and asked whether the government
of the new Free State was “desirous of
retaining” the Protestant community. The new
government readily gave the assurances sought.
Over the next ten years, it is important that
one single event should not dominate all the
other centenaries and the memory of what has
made the Ireland we know today. We should
remember Ulster Covenant, the lockouts,
Gallipoli, the Somme, the men who rallied to
Redmond’s call, and the poetry of Tom Kettle.
Nor should we forget the diversity of
contributions made by members of the Church
of Ireland in those ten years.
Canon Patrick Comerford is Lecturer in
Anglicanism and Liturgy, the Church of
Ireland Theological Institute.
http://revpatrickcomerford.blogspot.com
CHUrCH revIew 5

From the desk(s) of 3Rock Youth…
as reported by Susie Keane
Family Services in St. Andrews, Malahide
and St. Johns, Tullow
We could say that in one day we spanned
nearly the length of our diocese but that would
be stretching it. Instead, we got close; we were
invited by Tom Tate, Youth Officer in St. Andrews
Church and Rev. Norman Gamble to
participate in their family service. Greg was
asked to give the message and I filled the parish
in on what 3Rock Youth was up to and to thank
them for having Aisling Glover, our intern do
her placement there. The day was beautiful and
the sunlight spilled into the gorgeous church.
Greg spoke about those days “when everything
changes” in our own lives and very evidently
shown by the coming of Jesus, a moment that
truly changed everything.
After tea and chats with parishioners we
made our way south side to Rev. John Tanner,
who packed his church with families, the Girls
brigade and scouts. Ferg Breen came and led
the church in contemporary worship songs as
Greg spoke. It was lovely to be welcomed into
the church body full of families and for them to
engage with what 3Rock Youth strive to do
along side them.
When can we visit your church?
Essential at Christ Church Cathedral
I think there's always a feeling of anxiety and
apprehension when one of the biggest youth
events in your calendar doesn't go ahead the
year before because we've all been snowed in;
and all you have been doing in the week leading
up to Essential this year is praying that the
weather remains at a suitable temperature and
climate in order for it to go ahead! It did go
ahead and Christ Church Cathedral filled with
teenagers from around the United Diocese.
Archbishop Jackson speaking at Essential.
The Fire Guys at Essential, Christ Church Cathedral.
6 CHUrCH revIew
Ferg Breen & Luke Sweetman lead music at Essential.
After the awesome “Fire Guys” fire
performance, just over 450 people seated
themselves around the stage, which took pride
of place again in the center. As the Cathedral
lights went down 6 individual candles were lit as
each person with a candle said confidently that
'Nothing Separates us from the Love of God'.
The Discovery Gospel Choir then got the
Cathedrals hips moving and filled the room
with joyous song, along side the DJing skills of
Sam Stott and the brilliant music of Ferg Breen
& Luke Sweetman all mixed by the excellent
engineering of Paul Donnan. Greg enthralled us
all with curiosity as he spoke about the Prodigal
Son while being restrained in a strait jacket
(yes, you heard right!), which was covered with
the words 'LOST'. He then went on to talk
about one of the most important and beautiful
actions that can happen to anyone...to embrace
and to be embraced. Greg then shook off the
strait jacket to illustrate that we don't have to
Essential.
Greg Speaking at Essential.
live lost and wrapped up in ourselves and that
the Father embraces us, like the Prodigal Son
on his return home. That God’s desire is to
embrace us and lavish grace on our lives. To
respond to this wonderful talk, we like to do an
offering to the community gathered. Greg
challenged us all to rise up if we wanted to “be
the embrace” to others, and with that hundreds
in the Cathedral rose to their feet and we all
spread out to offer them orange wristbands
with the words 'Embrace' on them as a
reminder that they are not only embraced but
need to remember to embrace others. The
evening was closed by the MC (Susie Keane)
introducing Archbishop Jackson for the final
word and blessing, encouraging us to be with
God and do for others. Everyone then
furthered the event by filling the crypt for
tea/coffee and Christmas treats sponsored and
hosted by Urban Soul.
We would love to thank Dean Dunne and his
brilliant Staff at Christ Church Cathedral for
being so patient and allowing us to work
alongside them within such a beautiful space. To
the volunteer team that gave up their time and
energy to help us selflessly over the day,
THANK YOU.
Thank you again for your continued prayers
and support as we endeavour to see Jesus
active in the lives of this generation.
Greg Fromholz,
United Diocesan Youth Officer
Upcoming Dates
Watch this space for soon to be announced
dates for Confirmation Days, Family Sports
Days and Transition Year Schools Days.
Or visit at www.3rock.net and download the
3Rock Youth App.

The perception that HIV is “the other
person’s problem” still prevails in Ireland,
the Archbishop of Dublin was told at a
recent visit to Open Heart House in the
city. The Most Revd Dr Michael Jackson
was given a guided tour of the centre,
which caters for over 1,500 people living
with HIV and AIDS. He met staff,
volunteers and members of the facility.
The Open Heart Centre was established in
1997 and started with just 18 members. Now
almost 2,000 members from all walks of life
use the facilities at the former Christian
Brothers building. The centre, which aims to
empower and enhance the lives of people living
with AIDS and HIV is run on a low budget with
few full time staff. Most people working at
Open Heart are volunteers whether in the
busy dining room where 18,000 meals a year
are served or in the therapy rooms where
qualified therapists offer massage, acupuncture
among others free of charge.
The centre also houses a fully equipped gym,
library, meditation and quiet rooms, a clothes
exchange and a space in which members can
hang out and play pool and chat. A youth
service was established this year and staff also
carry out prison visits, hospital visits and street
outreach services – they go anywhere their
members might need support.
“Everyone is equal here,” explained Paula
Gilmore, CEO of Open Heart. “The centre has
an ethos of warm, welcome acceptance.” She
said the profile of their members has changed
over the past decade. Initially people coming to
them would have been actively using drugs or
members of the gay community. Now a lot of
younger women are coming in.
With an average age of between 25 and 35,
Open Heart’s members are younger than their
N E W S
Everyone is Equal at Open Heart House
L-R Volunteer Coordinator Anne Hederman, CEO Paula Gilmore, board member
representing Church of Ireland Celia Dunne, Most Revd Dr Michael Jackson and
Regional Development Manager James O’Connor.
It’s a Dog’s Life
at the Pepper
Cannister
Murray and Clive get along famously. Murray, a young
Dublin man, feeds and lavishes attention on Clive, a Golden
Doodle. In return Clive, a highly trained assistance dog, has
transformed Murray’s life. The pair attended the annual
service of thanksgiving for the Irish Guide Dogs for the
Blind Association in St Stephen’s Church on Mount Street
Crescent in Dublin recently. Those in attendance were told
of the invaluable work of the Irish Guide Dogs for the
Blind Association by Murray’s mum, Fiona Whooley. There
was only the odd yelp or jingling of collars by way of
interruption from the many guide dogs and assistance dogs
in the congregation who were welcomed by the vicar, Revd
David Gillespie.
Mrs Whooley explained that Murray was diagnosed as
having autism at the age of two. When he went outside he was out of his comfort zone and
could display some very difficult behaviour. “The problem with autism is that people can’t
verbalise their fears so they act out instead,” she said. “Murray looked like any other child so
people would blame us.” They had been living abroad but moved back to Ireland six years ago.
One day she read an article about assistance dogs and immediately applied for one. That was
when Clive entered their lives.
“Nobody knows how having an assistance dog works for a child with autism. But it does.
We went from having a child who didn’t like going out to having one who was happy to go
out. We have an older daughter who likes to play football and we couldn’t go to the local
football field to watch her play. Now, not only can we go to the local football field but we can
go to Croke Park. We are keen Dub supporters and we go there every year,’ Mrs Whooley
said. She added that before Clive joined the family, a certain airline had said Murray was not fit
to fly because he got so upset. Last year, with Clive on board, Murray flew to New York to
meet a kind American woman who had contacted Murray through his Facebook page.
The key to giving children with autism a chance of leading an independent life is early
intervention, Mrs Whooley stated. But she said there were 200 children on the waiting list for
an assistance dog and the Guide Dogs Association can only train 45 dogs each year so a child
could be waiting four years for their dog. She urged people to continue to support the
association and remember the phenomenal difference assistance and guide dogs make to their
owners’ lives.
counterparts in the Boston Living Centre, on
which the Dublin centre is modelled. “I
attribute the younger age here to the lack of
education. Younger people are also more
sexually expressive,” Paula told the Archbishop.
“The area not being addressed is the young
heterosexual community,” she added.
While HIV and AIDS were hardly out of the
headlines in the late 1980s and early 1990s, the
illness has fallen off the radar in recent years.
Open Heart’s regional development manager,
James O’Connor, says it is now coming back
into focus but “HIV is still the other person’s
problem, the other person’s disease. No one
thinks it would happen to them”. As members
of Open Heart come from as far away as
Portlaoise, he is working towards establishing a
centre in the midlands.
Archbishop Jackson said one of the most
important things about Open Heart was its
simplicity. “Built on that simplicity is a sense of
membership and community which enables
everyone who comes through the door feel a
sense of welcome and belonging. The level of
support and sensitivity that is offered by the staff
is extremely impressive and the contribution
that Open Heart makes to the whole of our
society is something we should honour and
respect,” he commented. He encouraged people
to visit the website www.openhearthouse.ie.
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CHUrCH revIew 7

Parish Readers Bring Gifts
to the Diocese
Eight new Parish Readers from all over the
United Diocese have been commissioned. The
new readers were commissioned recently in St
John the Baptist Church in Clontarf by the
Archbishop, the Most Revd Dr Michael Jackson.
They bring to their new positions a variety of
gifts and come from different traditions. Some
now plan to continue on their journey to
become Diocesan Readers.
After two years’ of study and preparation,
Gillian Dean from St George and St Thomas;
Alan French of Glenageary; James Kilbey of St
Patrick’s Cathedral Group of Parishes; Jon Kirby
of Donoughmore, Donard and Dunlavin; David
O’Halloran from Crumlin and Chapelizod,
Victoria O. Osigbade-Oso from Tallaght, Shona
Rusk of Crumlin and Chapelizod and Brendan
Sheahan from Celbridge and Straffan with
Newcastle-Lyons were all made Parish Readers.
Dr Jackson welcomed the candidates and
those who had travelled to support them from
all over Dublin and Wicklow. He praised the
BISHOPS’ APPEAL
great work the eight had put into their
preparations and commended them to prayer.
The service was devised and led by the eight
candidates in conjunction with the director of
Lay Ministries, Revd John Tanner and his
assistant, Uta Raab. In her sermon, Ms Raab said
it was fitting that the service should have taken
place in Clontarf where another member of the
trainee group, Mark Atchinson, was already an
established Parish Reader.
She outlined the role of a Parish Reader. She
explained that they could lead Morning and
Evening Prayer services and Services of the
Word as well as many parts in a Holy
Communion service. They do not have licence
to preach but they can read their rector’s
sermons or deliver their own if approved by
their rector. “Parish Readers are not meant to
robe, despite the different customs that I know
exist around our United Diocese. The office of
Parish Reader is therefore in the main a
liturgical one, and intended to enrich the vital
Eight new Parish Readers from the United Diocese of Dublin and Glendalough –
Gillian Dean, Alan French, James Kolbe, Jon Kirby, David O’Halloran, Victoria
Osigbade-Oso, Shona Rusk and Brendan Sheahan. They are pictured with the
Archbishop of Dublin, Dr Michael Jackson, Rev John Tanner and Uta Raab.
The response to the Horn of Africa appeal within the Church of Ireland has seen a
substantial sum of money released to Christian Aid and their partners working on the ground
in Somalia, Kenya and Ethiopia. Over €92,000 and £32,500 has been raised in parishes around
the country to combat the devastating effects of the drought. It has been noted that this is
approximately two thirds of the amount released by the Irish Government to Christian Aid.
To date, nearly 14 million people have been affected by the failed rains in the region. Entire river
beds have dried up, and many communities have been displaced in their search for water. The
provision of emergency water tanks and boreholes has enabled families to feed their livestock,
which in turn has provided them with milk for their children, who are battling malnutrition.
A community member in Northern Kenya, Botu Utani, commented that the provision of a
water point has kept them alive: ‘Without the water… most of us would have died, especially
the pregnant women and feeding mothers. Even our camels are dying. And when the animals
collapse, we as people also collapse. We are so grateful for the water. We can drink the water
and cook with it. But we haven't washed for weeks.’
Uta Raab preaches at the
commissioning of new Parish Readers at
St. John the Baptist Church in Clontarf.
component of worship in a parish, in an active,
leading role,” she said.
Referring to the readings, Ms Raab said both
New Testament passages spoke about acts of
ministry and discipleship. She said ministry and
discipleship had already been evidenced in the
lives of the eight men and women before they
embarked on their training. They had lived out
their faith by carrying out important ministries
that do not receive official recognition serving as
church wardens, readers of lessons, Sunday Club
leaders, Diocesan Synods people and more.
“These eight people before you represent
not only a variety of skills and gifts, but also
different traditions within our Church.
Furthermore, considering that both the Isaiah
text and the passage from Acts refer to other
nations or nationalities, and that, to my
knowledge, at least two of our eight candidates
aren’t Irish, you can imagine that it pleases me
greatly that one does not even have to be Irish
to train for lay ministry within the Church of
Ireland,” she commented.
“By a lucky coincidence of the calendar, we are
able to celebrate the Parish Reader
commissioning of Alan, Brendan, David, Gillian,
Jimmy, Jon, Shona and Victoria on this eve of
Advent, the start of a new Church Year, which ties
in beautifully with the beginning of a new stage
for each of them in their ministry,” she stated.
8 CHUrCH revIew

N E W S
SCÉALA
NA nGAEL
TRÍ SHEIRBHÍS GHAEILGE a bheidh
againn an mhí seo agus iad go léir in
ArdTeampall Críost (Christ Church
Cathedral) i lár na cathrach. (1) Seirbhís
Éacúimineach (i gcomhar le Pobal an Aifrinn)
Dé hAoine, 20 Eanáir, ar a hocht ac chlog
tráthnóna. Is é an tAth. Alan Mac Eochagáin a
thabharfas an seanmóin agus beidh daltaí
Ghaelscoil na Cille ó Chill Dheagláin, Co. Na
Mí inár dteannta. (2) An Chomaoineach Naofa
ar a cúig a chlog tráthnóna an 22 Eanáir
(Ceathrú Domhnach). (3) An Eocairist um Am
Lóin (Lunchtime Eucharist) ar 12.45 an 23
Eanáir (Ceathrú Luan).
DEA-RÚIN DON BHLIAIN ÚIR: Sonas
oraibh sa Bhliain Úir! Bkeidh sibh níos sona fós,
mar a mheasaim, má dhéanann sibh trí cinn de
dhea-rúin: (a) am breise a chaitheamh le hurnaí;
(b) tuilleadh staidéir a dhéanamh ar an mBíobla
– i nGaeilge, i mBéarla nó i do rogha teanga; (c)
iarracht níos láidre a dhéanamh chun an méid a
fhoghlaimíonn tú ó do chuid staidéir ar an
Scrioptúr a chur i bhfeidhm i do shaol laethúil
– rud a thugann ar ais chun na hurnaí sinn, mar
beidh gá agat le bheith ag guí má tá tú le neart
a fháil ó Dhia lena thoil a chur i ngníomh.
STAIDÉAR AR AN mBÍOBLA –
SEANFHOCAIL NA GAEILGE: Is dócha nach
bhfuil teanga san Eoraip gan rian fágtha ag an
mBíobla uirthi – go háirithe sna seanfhocail
agus i gcora cainte traidisiúnta eile. Mar
shampla, nuair a dhiúltaigh muintir Nasair
(Nazareth) glacadh le teagasc Íosa, dúirt Sé: “Ní
ghlactar le fáidh ar bith ina thír dhúchais féin.”
(Lúcás/Luke 4:24). Nach é sin is bun lenár
seanfhocal Gaeilge féin: “Ní bhíonn meas ar an
bhfáidh ina dhúiche féin.”? Agus ní gá duit ach
féachaint ar an gcuntas faoin mbean a dtángthas
aniar aduaidh uirthi san adhaltranas (Eoin/John
8:2-11) leis an seanfhocal Gaeilge sin a
thuiscint: “An té atá saor, caitheadh sé cloch.”
COMÓRTAS NA BLIANA ÚIRE 2012:
Críochnaigh an véarsa seo ón Tiomna Nua
Gaeilge: “Mar níor tháinig Mac an duine le
seirbhís a fháil...” Éarlais Leabhar (book token)
ar €10 (deich n-euro) don chéad fhreagra
ceart as an mála. Freagraí (faoi 31 Eanáir) chuig:
COMÓRTAS NA BLIANA ÚIRE 2012, 23
Cúirt Bhrabazon, 2 Br. Gilford, Baile Átha
Cliath 4.
BÍGÍ AG GUÍ don MheánOirthear – go
háirithe faoin mbaol mórchogaidh agus faoi
shaoirse creidimh do Chríostaithe. Agus guígí
d’Éirinn freisin!
BEANNACHT DÉ ORAIBH GO LÉIR SAN
ATHBHLIAIN!
R. SEATHRÚN MAC ÉIN
History journal includes paper by CITI lecturer
Canon Patrick Comerford of the Church of
Ireland Theological Institute is one of the
principal contributors to the latest edition of the
Journal of the Wexford Historical Society. The
2011-2012 edition (Number 23) is edited by Ms
Celestine Rafferty and was launched in the
Greenacres Art Gallery in Wexford by Professor
Kevin Whelan of the Keough Naughton Notre
Dame Centre, Dublin.
Canon Comerford’s paper, ‘James Comerford
(1817-1902): rediscovering a Wexford-born
Victorian stuccodore’s art,’ is the first paper in
the Journal, and looks at the work and career of
his great-grandfather, James Comerford who
began his career working with the architects
Richard Pierce, AWN Pugin and JJ McCarthy on
their Wexford churches.
After Pugin’s death, he moved from Wexford
to Dublin, where his artistic and architectural
work included the now-demolished ‘Irish
House’ on the corner of Wintetavern Street
and Wood Quay, below Christ Church
Cathedral, and the Oarsman, a public house still
standing in Ringsend.
Canon Comerford is Lecturer in Anglicanism
and Liturgy in CITI. His paper is illustrated with
photographs telling the life story of this
Wexford-born artist and trade unionist, who
began his life as a stuccordore and ended his
career as an architect and civil servant.
“I’m just the editor,” Ms Rafferty said at the
launch. “The real kudos should go to the 13
contributors: without them there wouldn’t be
a journal.”
The other contributors to the Journal
include Mr Bernard Browne, who writes on
Canon Patrick Comerford with Bernard
Browne of Mill Quarter, Old Ross, at the
launch of the Journal of the Wexford
Historical Society (Photograph: Barbara
Comerford).
Lorenzo Dow (1777-1834), an American
Methodist preacher in Wexford, Mr David Ian
Hamilton, who traces the story of the Sutton
family of Longraigue; and Mrs Eithne Scallan,
who has written a short biography of Dr
George Hadden (1882-1973), the Methodist
missionary and founder of the Wexford
Historical Society.
The attendance at launch included Alderman
Joe Ryan, former Mayor of Wexford, and Mr
Jarlath Glynn, President of the Wexford
Historical Society.
CITI Advent Carol Service
At the Church of Ireland Theologival Institute Advent Carol Service in Saint
Nahi's Church, Dundrum (from left): the Revd Dr Maurice Elliott, Director of
CITI, the Right Revd Samuel Poyntz, retured Bishop of Connor, the Revd Berne
Daly, former Lecturer in the Church of Ireland Theological College and a former
curate in the parish, and Canon Patrick Comerford, lecturer in Anglicanism and
Liturgy, CITI, who led the service.
CHUrCH revIew 9

Education Key to Nation’s Recovery
Teaching Graduates Told
Education is one of the key drivers to getting
Ireland back on its feet, the president of the
INTO, Noreen Flynn, has stated. Speaking at the
graduation ceremony for the B.Ed class of 2011
at the Church of Ireland College of Education,
Ms Flynn told the newly qualified teachers: “We
have dealt with recession before and we will
deal with it today. We will fight to preserve the
standard of education”.
Ms Flynn was presenting the Vere Foster
Medal for excellence to graduate Amanda
Sullivan. Outlining the life of Vere Foster, who
was the first president of the Irish National
Teachers Organisation, she said he made a
remarkable contribution to several areas in
Irish Society, particularly mass education. He
supported over 2,000 schools from his own
personal resources; his copybooks became the
standard method of practicing handwriting in
schools; and he was convinced that improving
the lot of teachers was the only way of
improving education.
She said that had she been speaking at a
graduation ceremony four years ago at a time
of plenty, she would have contrasted the day of
Vere Foster with the present day. “But as we’re
all aware over the last four years all of these
certainties have come tumbling down. Poverty
is on the rise. Emigration is on the rise
particularly among young people… One of the
key drivers to get this country out of the
situation in which we find ourselves will be
education,” she stated. Ms Flynn said Amanda
Sullivan was a very worthy recipient of the Vere
Foster medal having achieved the highest
overall marks with 13 first class honours out of
18 subject areas.
The Governors’ Prize for contribution to the
life of the college was awarded to Jean Louise
McCarthy. Presenting the award, chair of the
board of governors, Archbishop Michael
Jackson, talked about what it meant to be a
teacher. He said it sounded simple – teachers
were in charge of the welfare and the
flourishing of the children in their trust. “The
children are with you for a major part of their
day and that is a responsibility… You have a
tremendous opportunity to shape the lives of
children,” he said adding that “the welfare of the
child lies at the heart of your commitment”.
The Carlisle and Blake Award was presented
to Stacey McNutt by Dr Harold Hislop, the
chief inspector at the Department of Education
and Skills. In his key note speech, he addressed
the theme ‘Discovery consists of looking at the
same thing as everyone else and seeing
something different’. In the Dublin of 200 years
ago mass education was non-existent..
“Education for all seemed like an impossible
dream,” he stated. A group of Dublin
businessmen gathered together in the Liberties
to look at these challenges and they looked at
them in a different way, Dr Hislop said. The
Kildare Place Society, as the men were known,
pioneered all the key features of a national
education system.
INTO president, Noreen Flynn, addresses
the B.Ed. graduates of 2011 at the
Church of Ireland College of Education.
“The gentleman of the society would never
have spoken of a child’s right to education –
that language was not in their discourse – but
that right was what they established,” Dr
Hislop stated. “Excellence of teaching and
learning were at the heart of what they did.
This excellence of teaching has been
maintained and fostered for 200 years this
year. You, the graduates of 2011, can be proud.
The creativity of the Kildare Place Founders
has served this country well. Their ability to
look at something differently was the key to
their ability to change the world. Irish
education is facing challenges and we need
people to looking differently at the challenges
and challenge the assumptions,” he said.
Archbishop Michael Jackson presents
Jean Louise McCarthy with the
Governors' Prize for contribution to the
life of the College at the Church of
Ireland College of Education B.Ed
graduation 2011.
Hats off the the B.Ed class of 2011 at the Church of Ireland College of Education.
Dr Hislop issued a challenge to the graduates
of 2011. He urged them to maintain a sense of
discovery and imagination in the young people
they taught. “Make sure you look at them and
say ‘why not’… When you are asking ‘why not’
you will really being doing your job to enrich
the lives of your students,” he concluded.
College of Education principal, Dr Anne
Lodge, congratulated all 29 graduates and told
them she, the staff and the governors were all
proud of them. She acknowledged that the B.Ed
was a demanding programme but said it had to
be because “teaching isn’t just a job, it’s a
vocation”. She observed that the nation was
entering very difficult times which would make
teachers’ jobs harder. But she said the graduates
gave hope for the future of the country.
10 CHUrCH revIew

AROUND THE PARISHES...
BOOTERSTOWN, CARYSFORT
AND MOUNT MERRION
The Rev. Gillian Wharton. Tel: 01-2887118. Mobile: 087-2300767
Email: booterstown@dublin.anglican.org
The Rev. Suzanne Harris. Tel: 087-9354869
Email: curate.booterstown@dublin.anglican.org
Diocesan Lay Reader: Ms Uta Raab
Parish Office: St. Thomas’ Rectory, Foster Avenue, Mount Merrion, Co. Dublin.
Tel: 2835873. Mon-Fri 9.00-12.00
Email: mountmerrion@dublin.anglican.org
Review Distribution: St. Philip & St. James: Yvonne Laycock
St. Thomas: Denis Beare
Parish Website: www.booterstown.dublin.anglican.org
Services for January
See the parish website at www.booterstown.dublin.anglican.org or
collect a schedule of all the services from either of our churches.
In Harmony – Unexpected Songs
We had a wonderful concert on Friday 2nd December 2011 in aid of
St Philip and St James’ Church Roof. In Harmony, under the baton of
John Harris and accompanied by Derek Verso and our own Charles
Pearson, gave us wonderful singing, great story-telling through the songs
and a little fancy footwork!! Barbara Harris was the M.C. and gave us
a little background to the various musicals as well as being the
organiser of the choir. During the interval, we had non-alcoholic mulled
wine and minced pies and thank you to those who looked after the
catering. Thank you too to those who stewarded, helped with the
raffle, and who supported the concert. Over €2,200 was raised which
means another bit of the roof is paid for! Thank you particularly to In
Harmony for all the work that they put into giving such an entertaining
and professional performance.
Parish Women’s Fellowship Lunch
Thank you to all who cooked, baked and made a wonderful lunch for
some of our older parishioners on Tuesday 6th December 2011. As usual,
it was delicious. Thank you too to Santa and his helper, who managed to
find time in their busy schedule to drop in with gifts for everyone.
Vi’s Coffee Morning
Thank you to all who supported Vi’s Coffee Morning in aid of St Philip
and St James’ Church Roof, and particular thanks to Vi who opened her
home to us. A sum of just over €1,000 was raised.
Family Fun Evening at St Thomas’
On Friday 20th January 2012, at 8pm, we are having a Family Fun
Evening with a Beetle Drive and Supper. As well as a prize for the
highest score, there will be prizes for the most attractive beetles!!! This
is not a fundraiser but just an opportunity for parishioners of all ages
to come together from both of our parishes and beyond. €5 per adult.
€3 per child. €15 for a family for 2 adults and any number of bona
fide(!) children!
1940’s Dance
On Friday 10th February 2012, at 8pm, we are going to kick up our
heels and bop the night away in the Carysfort Hall of Booterstown
Parish Centre, 1940’s style. Mark O’Callaghan and friends are providing
the music and it promises to be a great night. So, brush up on your
Lindy-hop and away we go!
Churches Together – Justice Issues – Ecumenical Lenten
Study Project
The positive response to the Ecumenical Lenten Study Project over
the past two years, has led the Rev. Denis Campbell from St. Andrew’s
Presbyterian Church, Monsignor Seamus Conway from the Church of
the Assumption and the Rev. Gillian Wharton, to organising another
such project for 2012.
This year, we are looking at issues of Justice, such as homelessness,
mental health care and the health service, marginalisation of the most
vulnerable, etc. Given how Jesus cared for those who were struggling
and the outcasts of society, can we as Christians, sit back and allow
these issues to go unnoticed, unvoiced and unchanged?
Again there will be four evenings and they sessions will take place in
the Stillorgan Park Hotel. The four evenings are: Thursday 8th March
2012, Thursday 15th March 2012, Thursday 22nd March 2012 and
Thursday 29th March 2012.
Again, in this Lenten Study Programme, there will be a variety of
speakers from differing backgrounds.
All are very welcome to these talks.
The details will be on the parish website www.booterstown.org and
will be available from the Parish Office as they come to hand.
PJT1 Youth Club
PJT1 (4th, 5th or 6th Classes) re-opened following a year-long gap, in
September 2011.
This term, we have had a Games Night including very enthusiastic
uni-hoc(!), a messy Halloween Party, a DVD night, Singstar and Table
Tennis interspersed with making pizza and edible top hats, and a trip
ice-skating followed by McDonalds’.
We meet 20.00-21.30, usually in the Carysfort Hall in St Philip and St
James’ Parish Centre, but this can sometimes change.
We are also exploring re-starting PJT2 which would be for
parishioners and their friends who are 1st, 2nd and 3rd Years
(Secondary School). If you would be interested, please contact Gillian
by 10th January 2012. If there is a feasible number of people
interested, then we will look at having PJT2 in 2012.
We next meet at the Family Fun Evening in the Monk Gibbon Hall on
Friday 20th January 2012 at 8pm, and on Friday 3rd February 2012, we
meet in Carysfort Hall of Booterstown Parish Centre.
Christian Meditation Group
The Wednesday evening Christian Meditation Group continues on a
Wednesday night in the Canon Osborne Barr Room of Booterstown
Parish Centre at 8pm. But now, in addition to this, a Tuesday afternoon
group will commence on Tuesday 10th January 2012 at 3.30pm and is
being led by Irene Reid. For further information, please contact
Andreas at 087-672943 or Irene on 087-2755423.
Holy Baptism
Erin Lough, the daughter of Monoosh (née Davis) and Scott Lough
was baptised in St Philip and St James’ Church on Advent Sunday, 27th
November 2011 at the United Family Service. Erin lives in Glasgow, and
she, and her Mum and Dad came to Dublin for her special day, joining
with family from Limerick, Cork and Dublin, and the parishioners of
Booterstown and Mount Merrion to welcome her into the family of
God. Her godparents are Caroline Wharton and Enda Kelleher. We
wish Erin every blessing as she journeys through life.
A Happy Christmas and New Year to you!
BRAY
The Revd. Baden Stanley. Mobile: (087) 948 4407
Youth Pastor: Kirsty Lynch
Parish Office: (01) 286 2968. Email: christchurchbray@gmail.com
Review Distributor: Mr. Mulligan. Tel: 2863511
8.30 am: Holy Communion
11.00 am: 1st and 3rd Sunday – Holy Communion;
2nd Sunday – Morning Prayer; 4th Sunday – Family Service;
5th Sunday – Healing Service
From the Rectory – Let there be light!
A man sits, alone, engulfed by the darkness. He is shivering, not so
much because of the cold, though it is cold, but because of the fear. It
is so dark; not even a glimmer of light seems to permeate his dark
world. And with the darkness comes fear, and fear provokes
imagination. He imagines every rustle, every scratch, every whisper as
monstrous. The floor he sits upon is damp and cold and he hunches up
his knees to rest his head upon, but sleep escapes him. In the distance
there is a recurring noise, a swish-hisshh that echoes faintly, but it is the
nearer noises that frighten him most.
As he cautiously extends his hand onto the floor in front of him, he
feels warm soft fur slip away from his fingertips. He jumps. Rats. He
hates them. Tears start to slide silently down his face as he hardly dares
breathe. “O God!” he whispers. “Help me.” Once more he extends
his hand, this time he reaches the stone floor and his fingers touch a
long cylinder – it is hard and damp, and yet his heart leaps. Could it be?
He quickly pulls the thing to him, finding its end, nothing! the other end,
yes! There is the wick! He holds the candle in front of him as an ancient
28 CHURCH REVIEW

warrior might hold his sword, and yet there is no comfort there. His
hand returns to the floor greedily searching for more, and soon he
holds in his hand a single match; he strikes it off the stone. His eyes
hurt with the sudden surge of light. In that instant he glimpses the long
corridor in which he is sitting. Carefully he introduces the match to the
candle; a stronger light emerges, just in time, as the match spits and dies.
Again he holds the candle aloft. This time he sees for the first time the
ground around him. A small mouse dashes away. Larger eyes loom in
the distance, but for now the light is enough. He has sat so long he
cannot yet move and so he moves his candle around and identifies the
sources of the noises that captured him earlier - the open vent where
the breeze blew a sapling against the wall; the bars that rattled in the
grate in the floor when the gurgling water rushed by underneath.
In the distance he hears again the ‘swish-hisshh’ but the light of the
candle doesn’t quite reach its source. “Another candle” he mutters “would
give me light enough to see beyond the shadow” And there it is, on the
floor in front of him, strong and firm. His hands introduce the two candles
and the flaming light spreads… to a huddled shape, sitting on the stone
floor, shoulders shaking as tears fall silently down a face, past a nose that
threatens to drip until a swish-hisshh draws the mucus back up. The man
scrambles to his knees and with both candles held before him he
approaches the huddled shape. “Friend.” he calls, “Don’t be afraid anymore!
You’re not alone! See, there is light enough here for two!” The tear stained
face of a young man looks up in amazement at the approaching light. “O
sir.” he says, “Thank God you’ve come. The dark and the noise near drove
me made. Tell me, can you hear a noise down there for I’m afeared I can
hear a terrible beast come yonder?” And there, in the distance, beyond the
shadow, they hear faintly a swish-hisshh. The first man smiles, holds out his
hand to the young man. “Come my friend; take hold of that candle that is
on the floor in front of you. Introduce it to mine, we have work to do!
Happy New Year,
Baden.
Thank you
So much thanks to everyone who worked so hard over our Christmas
celebrations - to our Flower Team, Choirs, decorators, readers, catering
team and all who joined us in preparation for and celebration of
Christmas. Thanks especially to Frances and Sheelagh Harte who
organized the beautiful Classics by Candlelight Concert with the help of a
great support team and to Joe Whitten and George Wilkin, and again their
team, who raised over €800 from the Christmas Tree sale for charities.
Congratulations
To Rachel Alexandra and Rose who were christened on Sunday, 20th
November; to Harry Brown who was christened on Sunday, 27th
November; to Noel and Roma Brasil whose marriage was blessed on
Thursday, 1st December.
Our Sympathy
We express our heartfelt sympathy and sorrow to the family of baby
Jamie McCarthy, to his parents Brian and Jeni and his older brother,
Daniel, in this time of deep loss.
Dates for your Diary
Sunday, 1st January – 8.30am Holy Communion 1; 11.00am Holy
Communion 2.
Sunday, 8th January – 8.30am Holy Communion 2; 11.00am Morning
Prayer.
Sunday, 15th January – 8.30am Holy Communion 1; 11.00am Holy
Communion 2.
Wednesday, 18th January – 8.00pm Select Vestry meeting.
Sunday 22nd January – 8.30am Holy Communion 2; 11.00am Family
Service.
Tuesday, 24th January – Saturday, 28th January – One Act Drama
Festival at the Mermaid Theatre.
Sunday 29th January – 8.30am Holy Communion 2; 11.00am Christingle
Service.
Mothers’ Union Notes
Members and friends enjoyed our annual Christmas Dinner n Sunday,
11th December; good food, good chat and great singing of Carols. Gifts
donated by members for Nursing Home residents will be distributed
before Christmas. Thank you to Helen, Hilary and Nicola who have
finished their time on the Committee. We welcome Ann Mulligan as
our new Enrolling Member and Esther and June to the Committee.
Wishing a very happy Christmas to all and hoping to see you on Monday,
9th January 2012 for the first meeting of the year, weather permitting.
CASTLEKNOCK AND MULHUDDART
WITH CLONSILLA
Rev Paul Houston. Tel: 8200040
Curate: Rev. Victor Fitzpatrick. Tel: 8212218
Reader: Stella Obe. Tel: 087 2237402
Parish Website: www.castleknock.dublin.anglican.org
Parish Office: Jennifer McGrath (Mon- Fri 9.30am-1pm - 8200040).
Email: castleknockparishoffice2@eircom.net
Review Distribution: Beatrice Richards (8382590).
Castleknock National School: Principal Mrs Sandra Moloney (8202611).
Sunday Services in January
Castleknock: 8.30am, 11.30am. Clonsilla: 10.00am
Mulhuddart: 3rd Sunday of the Month Night Prayer 8pm.
Wednesdays
Castleknock Parish Centre: 10.30a.m. HC followed by coffee.
The Journey
My Dear Parishioners,
In all the great religions, the idea of pilgrimage has played an
important part. Alongside it, there has often been this idea of the
Spiritual journey.
Both of these ideas meet, it seems to me in the journey of the Wise
Men and the manger at Bethlehem, which is celebrated on the Feast
of the Epiphany (6th January). All this was the subject of one of the
best known poems of T.S. Eliot, which he published as a kind of
‘pamphlet of Christmas’
At the beginning very appropriately for this time of year – with these
five lines:-
A Cold coming we had of it,
Just the worst time of the year
For a journey, and such a long journey;
The ways deep and the weather sharp,
The very dead of winter.
What many people did not notice, was that those first five lines had
quotation marks around them, unaltered form a seventeen century
sermon of Lancelot Andrewes. It had in fact been preached on
Christmas Day 1622, before the court of King James, when Andrewes
was Dean of Westminster Abbey. There is no doubt that Eliot thought
that these words were amongst the finest in the English language, not
only of that time but any time. It greatly affected him personally.
The journey of the magi is a poem about the painful necessity of
rebirth for us all – which is itself a journey from Death to life. Eliot felt
this deeply. It was a journey Eliot felt he had made himself.
In this New year of 2012, perhaps those first five lines of Eliot’s poem
may serve to remind us of that spiritual journey we all have to make –
which is often quite painful – though ‘Journey’s end in lovers’ meeting ,
every wise mans’ son doth know’.
Can I take this opportunity to wish you and your families a Very
Happy and Peaceful New Year!
Yours sincerely,
Rev. Paul Houston
Christmas Fair
We would like to thank all those who worked so hard for the fair
which grossed over €14,000.00. Particularly we would like to thank
Evelyn Pender and Ada Lawson for heading up the Christmas fair
committee. The weather remained fine this year. Thanks you to all who
contributed and supported this event.
P.H.
Left: The Cake stall at this years Christmas Fair. Right: Christmas Fair Co-ordinators
visiting Santa - Evelyn Pender & Ada Lawson.
CHURCH REVIEW 29

AROUND THE PARISHES...
Castleknock & Clonsilla Mothers Union carol singing in Blanchardstown Hospital.
Castleknock National School & Black Santa
Christmastime was a very busy time as always for the staff and
students of Castleknock National School, with their Carol Service,
school plays and the constant demands of the curriculum. However,
that didn't stand in the way of the school's outreach to the less
fortunate in our society. Despite already having given so much time and
energy to filling many hampers of food, and buying presents for the St
Vincent de Paul appeal, the staff and students once again rose to the
challenge and made a huge contribution to the 'Black Santa' charity sit
out at St Ann's, Dawson Street. On Monday, 19th December, the boys
and girls of 6th Class along with Miss Kidney, Mrs. Moloney and Rev.
Victor, braved the cold and bad weather and sang on the steps of St
Ann's Church during the hectic lunchtime period. A very, very big thank
you to all the other members of staff, the students, and their parents
who helped make the day such a success. Also a very warm thank you
to the many parishioners who came along to support us, especially
those who popped along to Fixx Coffee Shop to keep us supplied with
warm drinks!
Rev. Victor Fitzpatrick
Tiny Tots
Would like to thank you all for the great donations of Toys for the
Parish Sale, we had lots of fun on the day. Tiny Tots will be back after
the Christmas break in the Parish Center on Friday January 13th.
Happy New Year to you all. Roz
Girls Brigade Notes
Our Explorers finished up with their Christmas Party on the 10th
December and the Juniors, Seniors & Brigaders had their usual “Sausage
Night” on the 14th Dec. Well done to Grace Lynch who came 1st in the
Girls Brigade Feis and to Jordan Ozatlar who was Highly Commended.
They were in the 6 years and under category.
Ros Garrett
From the Registers – Holy Baptism
4th December: Zach Bobby Simpson Gorey & Alex Jade Oliver, St.
Brigid’s. Our best wishes go to all their parents and Godparents.
“Let the children come to me.”
CLONDALKIN & RATHCOOLE
Rector: Rev Alan Rufli. Tel: 087 9972401
Email: clondalkin.rathcoole@gmail.com
Readers: Mrs Sylvia Armstrong, Mr Bill King and Mrs Barbara O’Callaghan.
Services: Sunday – St John’s 8.30 am. H.C. and 11.15; Rathcoole 10 am
Wednesday – St John’s 11 am. Holy Communion
Advent Services
The Advent service in St John's had a twist to it. During the service
members of the National School handed out trays, oranges, tape,
candles and marshmallows on sticks which, on the instruction of the
Rector, we assembled into a Christingle. Sadly no Blue Peter badges
were awarded to those who succeeded in making one.
The services on the 4th took the form of a Blue Christmas Service
with Holy Communion. During the services we remembered those
who are no longer with us and who we will miss this Christmas.
Parishioners who wished had the opportunity of taking home a
Remembrance Candle.
Mothers’ Union
The Annual Branch Dinner will be held on Monday 9th January in the
Red Cow Hotel. Members should contact Barbara for details.
The “Little Grey Cells challenge” which should have taken place at
our December meeting unfortunately didn't happen because so few
members turned up, Those that did enjoyed Ann's mince pies.
The Annual Carol singing at Cherry Orchard Hospital in December.
We were joined by Alan & Barbara Melbourne and also by the Rector.
Twenty Two shoe boxes were filling and passed on to the Darndale
Crèche Project.
The February meeting will have as our guest speaker, Sylvia Graham,
the Diocesan Overseas Rep who will talk to us about Overseas
Projects. This will be followed by a Bring & Buy Sale in aid of Overseas
Relief Fund on Tuesday 14th at 7.30 in 80 Castleview Road. Please give
this event your support by coming along.
Remembrance Sunday
The sum of €180 was sent to the Earl Haig Fund being the proceeds
of the sale of poppies in November.
Thanks
Each year at this time we thank those who work behind the scenes
to make the Parish tick, the people who decorate our churches each
week and on special occasions with flowers, those who keep our
churches and Parish Hall looking well inside and out, those who run our
Parish organisations and those who read the lessons Sunday by Sunday.
If you would like to become involved in any of the above please talk to
the Rector/Church Wardens. Sadly there is no longer tea/coffee
provided after the service in St John's and offers of help to reintroduce
this would be much appreciated. Contact the Church Wardens.
And Finally
Just in case your New Year's resolutions involve dieting here is some
words of help:
Did you hear about the gourmet who avoids unfashionable
restaurants because he doesn't want to gain weight in the wrong places?
Is it true that a number of jokes about dieting can be referred to as
‘a binge of jokes’?
A funny thing with a diet, the second day of a diet is always easier
than the first. By the second day you're off it. Jackie Gleason
Do you call a person who has abandoned their diet a desserter?
Never go back for seconds... get it all the first time.
A great way to lose weight is to eat while you are naked and standing
in front of a mirror. Restaurants will always throw you out before you
can eat too much.
After listening to some bedtime stories, Alex, a little boy, said to his
father, 'Snow White was poisoned by an apple, Jack found a giant on a
beanstalk, and just look what happened to Alice when she ate the
mushroom. And you wonder why I won't eat fruit and vegetables.'
'My tummy is so big I'm embarrassed by it,' commented Will.
'Have you tried to diet?'
'Yes, but whatever colour I use, it still sticks out.'
Happy New Year to all no matter what shape you are.
CRINKEN CHURCH
Rev Canon Trevor Stevenson. Tel: 01 2820150
Email: trevor@fieldsoflife.com
Lay Reader: Stephen Gardiner
Youth Worker: Neil Douglas. Mob: 087 6465281
Email: Neil@crinken.com
Website www.crinken.com
Dear Friends
At our recent Church weekend away our theme was connections.
We looked at how we need to be connected to Jesus, to each other
and to the community. The passage we majored on was from John
chapter fifteen where Jesus states “I am the true Vine”. The words
remain and fruit kept coming up several times in the chapter. As we
begin a New Year let us keep verse five of John chapter fifteen foremost
in our minds in everything we do throughout this year of 2012. Jesus
says, “I am the vine, you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I
in him, he will bear much fruit. Apart from me you can do nothing.”
A very happy and blessed 2012 to all our readers.
Trevor Stevenson
30 CHURCH REVIEW

Church Weekend Away
On Friday evening November 25th the outside of Avoca Manor was
like a bustling holiday camp as the Crinken family ascended the long
winding driveway up to the house for our church weekend away. It was
with much excitement and anticipation that one hundred and thirty
brothers and sisters of all ages, 8 to 80 and even younger (and older!),
arrived at the manor for a weekend of relaxation, fellowship, praise and
family fun. Scripture Union’s Avoca Manor had recently undergone a
significant refurbishment with wonderful new facilities and
accommodation. Children and young families played games as some
relaxed in the manor over tea and coffee. The first evening ended with
Trevor Stevenson leading an inspiring and entertaining “on the couch”
interview with fellow church members David and Pamela Wilson of
Agape. Crinken youth and children’s leaders Neil and Chloe had
extensive programmes for the younger members of our church family.
Saturday we had some wonderful teaching, and explored our church’s
future mission and purpose. Over the weekend children played in many
of the outdoor adventure attractions while some folk went for various
walks exploring the extensive grounds, visited Avoca hand weavers and
generally enjoyed a relaxed time socialising. There was a lovely sense
of connection across the generations. The children, the young, the not
as young but thought they were, and the young at heart, made all
manner of wonderful newspaper hats for Saturday’s dinner. After the
delicious meal more all age games followed. The sense of relaxed
togetherness and church family was a blessing. Trevor undertook
another “on the couch” interview with newly engaged Crinken couple,
“Jonathan and Chloe”. The evening finished with a screening of the
challenging but inspiring movie “58” which calls Christians to fight
against global poverty and injustice. A late night tea and coffee chat by
the fire was enjoyed before the house retired for the night.
On Sunday morning with great sadness and love for the Stevenson
family we heard the news that our dear sister Elsie Stevenson had
passed away during the night in hospital with her family by her side, but
also with joy in the knowledge that she had gone on ahead to be with
her Lord and Saviour. In life Elsie had “walked the walk” and radiated
the love of our Saviour. As David Wilson preached later that morning
in Avoca Manor on “Fruit of the Vine”, and the children of our church
family read the scriptures, one could not but help feeling, here IS the
fruit of a life lived faithfully in Christ, it was a palpable living testimony.
The church weekend had been a blessing, a time of fellowship and
friendship, of fun, praise, learning and thanksgiving. Thank you to all the
wonderful volunteers who organised a memorable weekend. “And now
these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is
love.” 1 Cor 13:13.
Church Weekend away.
Elsie Stevenson – In gratitude
At least one definition of loss is defined as “the state of being deprived
of or of being without something that one has had: the loss of old friends”.
As usual words appear to be a clumsy vehicle in attempting to
express that sense of loss we experienced at the passing of Elsie on
27th November. She was the longest serving member of Crinken and
very much the heartbeat of the congregation. Her welcoming
disposition was legendary and many a fine Sunday lunch did this scribe
and many others enjoy at her dinner table. Involved as she was in
Bowls, Young @ Heart and many other activities in Crinken her legacy
is not primarily one of duty but of faith.
Her belief in a living Saviour was strong, unequivocal and undiluted by
the transitory fashion of the day. She was forthright in her beliefs and
age and sickness did not deter this enthusiasm as many Blackrock Clinic
staff members can testify.
And indeed it is that knowledge of her faith that will bring so much
comfort to her sons David and Trevor (our rector) and daughter
(Rosalind) and their families. This loss is not without pain and her
children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren remain in our prayers.
We miss Elsie; we miss her hugs, her warmth, her love. We are
grateful for her life, for her example and for the knowledge that she is
now rejoicing with her maker whom she loved so much and honoured
with her life.
Young@Heart
Saturday 3 December, around 30 of our Young@Heart group and
friends gathered in the hall for our annual Christmas dinner with all the
trimmings! It was a great opportunity to catch with friends and judging
by the conversation level there was plenty to talk about! The evening
ended with music and singing from Scott Slate along with Kate Buggy &
Ray Eakins.
Sincere thanks to all those who made the evening possible.
Congratulations
Congratulations and best wishes go to Kieron and Esther on the
birth of a Jonah Samuel, Saturday 26 November, a baby brother for Finn.
Congratulations also go to Bas & Glynis on becoming Grandparents for
the first time, and to Eddie & Marjorie on becoming Great
Grandparents following the birth of Sam to Heidi and Omar. We
celebrate the birth of new life with these our friends.
CRUMLIN AND CHAPELIZOD
Rev Adrienne Galligan. Tel: 405 9708.
Email: AdrienneGalligan@gmail.com
Reader: Mrs. Joan Condell
Review: Mr. R. L. Noblett (Crumlin). Tel: 496 8657
Mrs. A. West (Chapelizod). Tel: 626 7699
Services: St. Mary’s Sunday 10am. St. Laurence’s Sunday 11.30am.
A note from the Rector and Select Vestries
We thank God for the many expressions of generosity that
parishioners made over the Christmas as hampers, shoe boxes, knitted
items and carol singing voices were made available to relieve some of
the needs that people had in the wider community. Given the reality
of belt tightening that many face now, the response to appeals locally
was tremendous and we thank all who donated/contributed to the
parish efforts. Time and again recipients expressed their deep gratitude
which it is only right to pass on to all who were involved. As most of
the donations were anonymous and it is not possible to thank everyone
personally, we hope by acknowledging them through the Review notes
that all will be assured everything donated was channelled in the right
direction. We hope your new year has started off well and pray you
know much blessing in 2012.
Joy's birthday celebrations with some
choir members.
A Busy December
Yes there was THE BIG
BIRTHDAY on 25th Dec but there
was also a very significant one in St
Mary’s as our Organist, Joy Elliott,
shared her big day with us. Another
opportunity for after church coffee
and cake!! And who better to give us
the right note on which to sing
‘Happy Birthday’?
Our Parish Readers, David O’Halloran and Shona Rusk, were
commissioned too at a special service in Clontarf Parish and have since
David and Shona and Lee with St Laurence’s Parishioners.
CHURCH REVIEW 31

AROUND THE PARISHES...
shared in the leading of services. At
their inaugural service in St
Laurence’s, parishioners joined with
them in marking the occasion. A
week previously in Christ Church
Cathedral, Lee MacCurtain was
presented with her 3rd year
certificate in Organ Music where
Lee attained a Distinction. Our
team goes from strength to
Mothers’ Union at crafts.
strength thank God!
Another ‘hands on’ event was the Mothers’ Union Christmas Craft
afternoon. The theme for the crafts was introduced by Karen
Mawhinney, the invited craftsperson, with the words sung:
‘What can I give him, poor as I am?
If I were a shepherd, I would bring a lamb.
If I were a wise man, I would do my part;
Yet what I can I give him, give my heart.’
And so we decorated Christmas tree hearts and also ‘made’ pine
trees that produced sweets!!!
We look forward to starting back with all the clubs soon, ever
thankful that the weather this year made it possible for all activities to
run right up to the end of their winter schedules. Long may it last.
DALKEY
The Reverend Canon Ben Neill
Parish Office: Dermot Deverell 284 5941 (Tues – Thurs 10am-2pm)
Parish Web Address: www.dalkey.dublin.anglican.org
Email:dalkeyparish@gmail.com
Review Distribution: Dr. Sam Clarke. Tel: 272 2399
Looking forward…
A Year of Time
As we look into 2012 we look at a block of time: 12 months, 52
weeks, 365 days, 8,760 hours, 525,600 minutes, 31,536,000 seconds.
And all is a gift from God. We have done nothing to deserve it or earn
it. Like the air we breathe, time comes to us as a part of life. It is given
equally to each person: rich and poor, strong and weak. There is no way
to slow it down, turn it off, or adjust it. And you cannot bring back time.
Yesterday is lost forever and tomorrow is uncertain. We can waste
time, worry over it, spend it on ourselves, or we can invest it in the
kingdom of God.
Epiphany Celebration
We have been invited to join with our friends in the Church of the
Assumption at 7pm on 6th January for an Ecumenical Service of praise,
thanksgiving and commitment.
Week of Prayer for Christian Unity
Our annual Ecumenical Service in connection with the Week of
Prayer for Christian Unity will be held in St. Patrick’s Church on
Thursday 19th January at 7.30pm. Our special guest and preacher will
be the Most Reverend Diarmuid Martin, Roman Catholic Archbishop of
Dublin. We also look forward to welcoming our neighbours and friends
from the Church of the Assumption to this Service at which we will
pray for greater unity and renewal in the Church of Christ.
AML Concert
The Vogler String Quartet (Germany) with Michael Collins – Clarinet
(England) will perform in St. Patrick’s Church on Tuesday 24th January
at 8pm. Tickets €20 are available from Dalkey News or Parish Office.
Killiney
We extend our prayerful good wishes to the Rev. Niall Sloane on his
appointment to the Incumbency of Holy Trinity, Killiney.
Looking back…
Beetle Drive
On Saturday 19th November, 19 tables of all ages took part in a
gruelling contest in the Northover Hall. To see the hall full with
parishioners and visitors of all age-groups was fantastic. Many thanks to
Gary Jermyn, our Chief Beetle, for making this such a memorable
event – a night definitely to be repeated.
Christingle Service & Christmas Gifts
Our annual Christingle Service took place in mid December. It was
well attended and very uplifting. Our young people brought gifts which
were given to children in Miss Carr’s Home.
Christmas Worship
Much thought and effort goes into preparing suitable music for our
Christmas worship and we are especially grateful to Ken Shellard and
the choir for their energy, enthusiasm and expertise. Grateful thanks
are also due to those who decorated the church for our celebration.
Christmas Fair
The annual Wednesday Club Christmas Fair was held in the
Northover Hall at the beginning of December. It was well supported
and raised an increased amount on the previous year. It was also very
successful from a social and recreational point of view.
St. Patrick’s Dramatic Society
The recent production of Same Old Moon by Geraldine Aron at the
Pavilion Theatre, Dun Laoghaire, was another outstanding success. Well
done to all concerned! If you would like more information about the
activities of this friendly and talented group you might like to visit their
website on www.stpatsdramsoc.com
St Patrick’s National School
The new Board of Management is as follows: Rev. Canon Ben Neill
(Chairman), Mr. Robert Maharry, Ms. Dawn Galbraith, Mr. Philip Salter,
Ms. Dara McClatchie, Mr. Ian Mangan, Ms. Caitriona Kelly, Mr. Brian Evans.
We were pleased to welcome Mrs. Rhoda Tutty to the school as
substitute teacher of junior and senior infants during Mrs. Jennifer
Kirwan’s maternity leave.
Great credit is due to Mr Philip Salter and the whole school
community for another happy and fruitful year.
You can check out more information about our parish school on
www.stpatricksnsdalkey.ie
Powerful Words
Words, however colourful, however powerful, are nothing if they are
not words that encourage, uplift, heal and restore."
Robert H. Schuller
DONNYBROOK AND IRISHTOWN
Rector: Rev. Canon Ted Ardis. Tel: 2692090. Mobile 087 4196071.
Email donnybrook@dublin.anglican.org
Readers: Miss Joyce Phair (diocesan),
Mrs Hilary Ardis (diocesan reader / lay minister).
Review: Miss V. Darling, Donnybrook, Mr Pat St Leger, Irishtown.
C. of I. Gazette: Mr Ken James, Donnybrook, Mrs Ethel St Leger, Irishtown.
Sunday Services: St Mary’s Donnybrook 10am;
St Matthew’s Irishtown 11.15am.
Thank you to those who decorated the churches for Christmas, who
read at Carol Services, who provided welcome and refreshments.
Carols in the Street in aid of the Dublin Simon Community
Thank you to all those who took part and to those who contributed.
At the time of writing (with two days remaining), €6,600 have been raised.
The baptism of brothers Toby Britnell and of Oscar Felix Britnell
took place in St Matthew’s on Sunday 20th November. Our
congratulations and prayer for their parents Erica and Tim Britnell and
godparents: (Catherine Scott - godmother of both -, Steve Tam and
Rosetta Beaugendre godparents of Toby, Chris Adams and Hazel Jacob
godparents of Oscar), for grandparents and all the family. May these
new Christians be blessed more and more by our loving Lord.
Thank you to Terry O’Malley for preaching on behalf of SAFE in St
Matthew’s at their Missionary Gift Day on Sunday 27th November.
On Sunday 29th January there is a joint service for the two churches
at 11am in St Matthew’s where our guests will be Rev. Trevor Johnston,
Ross Mungavin and Richard Balmer from Crosslinks.
The Friendship Hour
It was lovely to have Orla Tighe visit us on 6th December to talk
about the work of Barnardo’s. She gave us a passionate view of this
tremendous work started by Dr Barnardo in the 1800’s – he was born
in Dame Street and educated in St Patrick’s Cathedral School. Dr
32 CHURCH REVIEW

Barnardo went to England to train as a doctor with a view to working
in China but saw such a great need in England that he opened homes
for children there instead.
In 1962 the first home was opened in Ireland and that work is now
being entirely funded here.
Orla told us of 90,000 children in poverty, neglect and isolation in
need of care. Barnardo’s seek to provide children with a hot breakfast
before they go to school, and also a hot dinner, at the 42 project
centres throughout the country. These projects cater for children 0-18
yrs. They have 6 shops, 410 staff and 257 volunteers The projects also
focus on the educational and emotional well-being of the children, as
well as a bereavement counselling service.
Twenty-six million yearly is required to run the work, with funding
from the state, businesses and the public in various ways.”
DRUMCONDRA, NORTH STRAND
AND ST. BARNABAS
Rector: The Revd Roy H Byrne. Telephone: 01 8372505.
Assistant priest: The Revd Canon Aisling Shine. Telephone: 01 8201797.
Parish emergency mobile: 086 346 7920.
e-mail: drumcondra@dublin.anglican.org
Services: Drumcondra 10:00 Sunday and 10:15 Friday
North Strand 11:30 Sunday and 10:30 Wednesday
Girls Brigade and Boys Brigade
The enrolment ceremony took place on Sunday 20 November when
a large number of members from both organisations came to make
their commitment to service promises. We wish both the Boys Brigade
and Girls Brigade continued success in their respective ministries to
young people.
Table Quiz
The fund raising committee held a most enjoyable table quiz in
North Strand hall on Friday 25 November. Alas it was very poorly
supported but was thoroughly enjoyed by those who attended.
Carol Service
Members of the choir and congregation of North Strand were
delighted to attend and take part in the ecumenical carol service held
in the lovely surroundings of St Agatha’s church, North William Street
on Sunday 11 December.
New Year
We wish all our parishioners and readers a very happy New Year.
DUN LAOGHAIRE
The Rev. Canon Victor G. Stacey. Tel: 2809537.
Review: Mrs. Stella Henderson. Tel: 2807168.
Services: Sunday 9am and 10.30am; Thursday 11.30am.
Holy Baptism
Milo and Luke, twin sons of Stephen and Deirdre Swift were baptised
on Sunday 18th December, in the presence of family and friends. We
wish them well in the years ahead.
Maritime Museum hosted a concert by Firhouse choir on Friday
16th.December. Funds raised were given to the ongoing work of
restoration. We look forward to the re-opening of the museum in the
new year.
Lifeboat casualties from 1895 were remembered on Christmas eve
along with the continuing work of all who volunteer for this essential
service.
Thanks to all who helped create a festive atmosphere for the
Christmas season.
The Rural Deanery dinner for serving Clergy members will take
place on Friday 6th.January.
A Parish Lunch will be provided on Sunday 15th.January following
morning worship.
Church Unity Week will be marked by the four churches of the
town on Sunday 22nd January. This is merely an extension of our
ecumenical activities as we meet regularly in connection with civic
occasions in the borough.
Sympathy is expressed to Tim Rooney and his family on the death
of his mother in Sligo.
The Ill
Our thoughts are with all who are ill in hospital, nursing homes or at
home at this festive time.
GLENAGEARY
Rector: The Rev. Gary Dowd. Tel: 2801616. Email: garydowd@eircom.net
Curate Assistant: The Rev. Paul Arbuthnot. Tel: 2805478.
Email: paul.arbuthnot@gmail.com
Youth Worker: Ms Tanya Chapple. Tel: 086 3994852.
Parish Centre Co-ordinator and bookings: Cynthia Gray. Tel: 087 9637008.
Review Secretary: Mrs Deborah Burke. Tel: 2855486.
Sunday Services: 8.15 a.m., 10.30 a.m., and 7.00 p.m.
Website: www.glenageary.dublin.anglican.org
Holy Baptism
20th November: Ronan Franck Deasy, son of Lizzie and Niall, Barnhill
Road, Dalkey.
11th December: Kate Rebecca Peirce, daughter of Judith and Michael,
Myrtle Park, Dun Laoghaire.
We welcome Ronan and Kate into the family of the church.
Funeral
Gwen Robertson died after a long illness in the care of St Joseph’s
Centre, Shankill. Her funeral service took place in St Paul’s on Saturday
10th December followed by cremation at Mt Jerome. We extend our
sympathy to her husband Fred, sons Ken and Stuart, daughter Joy and
to her extended family, relatives and friends.
Mother’s Union
Our parish branch met for their Annual Advent service, followed by
seasonal refreshments, at the Rectory on Thursday 8th December. This
was an occasion tinged with sadness following the decision taken at
their recent annual general meeting to close the branch at the end of
2011. There a number of reasons for this, chiefly the failure to attract
new, younger members and an inability to find people willing to take on
the various posts of responsibility. This marks the end of an era in the
life of this parish, a branch of the Mother’s Union having been
established here in 1903. There will be a dinner in January and a
liturgical closing of the branch at the main morning service on Sunday
12th February.
Christingle
Our worship and wedges service for December took the form of a
Christingle Service. It had been some time since these decorated
oranges had been seen in St Paul’s and there was a marvellous response
in terms of numbers present. It was very moving to see such a large
circle of lit Christingles around the church. Somehow, the sausages and
wedges tasted even better afterwards in the parish centre.
Presents for the National Children’s Hospital
In a break with tradition we had our gift day early this year so that
the hospital could have the donated toys before Christmas thereby
enabling these to be given to children in their care over the festive
season. We had our tree up by 11th December to receive the presents
and we had a great response. The following day several black sacks of
toys were delivered to the hospital.
Essential
Many of those recently confirmed in St Paul’s attended the Essential
Service in Christchurch Cathedral on Friday 2nd December. For most
of us this was our first experience of this Christmas event with a twist.
Well done to all concerned. Our young people are now expecting
bright lights, flat screens and video clips every week! As an extra treat,
especially for the Rector and Curate-assistant, we stopped off at
McDonald’s on the way home, for a salad of course!
Lecture series
In January there will be a series of three lectures exploring aspects
of the history and heritage of the Church of Ireland. These lectures will
take place in the Parish Centre of St Paul’s.
CHURCH REVIEW 33

Bevd Bill Heney (Chaplain) and Mrs Joan Heney at the reception following the
Mageough Chapel Carol Service.
Jack Boothman, a Past President of the GAA joins with Caleb Powell, a Past
President of the IRFU at the King’s Hospital Charter Day. Both are past pupils
of KH (actually both were in the same class).
Jean Mitchell, Pauline Folkes, Revd Jane Walker, Revd Trish Bancroft & Jenny Folkes
all from All Saints, Alton welcoming The Revd. Paul Barlow to St. John the Evangelist.
Councillor Paddy McCartan, Lucinda Creighton TD, and Alyson Gavin, St. John’s
at the institution of The Revd Paul Barlow as Chaplain in St. John the
Evangelist, Sandymount.
Alyson Gavin and John Brownlee following the institution of The Revd Paul Barlow
as Chaplain in St. John the Evangelist, Sandymount.
Welcoming The Rev. Paul Barlow to St. John the Evangelist are Ann & Don Cazzini
from St Bartholomew’s with Maureen Chamney & Seb Stevenson of St John’s.
62 CHURCH REVIEW

Dodie Walsh and family at the service of dedication of a stained glass window
in memory of Brian Walsh at Rathfarnham Parish Church.
Ann Bourke, Des Campbell Jean Campbell at Christ Church Cathedral Auction launch.
Athy Boys’ Brigade following their enrolment service on 13th November.
Thelma Mansfield, Very Revd Dermot Dunne, Donal Robinson-Ryan, Most Revd
Michael Jackson at Christ Church Cathedral Auction launch.
Some members of Discovery family with the Archbishop.
Misses Tania and Victoria Campbell with Mrs Jean Campbell enjoying the Auction
launch at Christ Church Cathedral.
Officiating ministers at the Discovery Thanksgiving Service.
CHURCH REVIEW 63

Eco-Congregation ministers, environmentalist Gavin Harte and conductor of
Wesley College Choir Helen Doyle at the ecumenical prayer service for
climate change in Balally.
Karen Duffy with Basil after the annual service of thanksgiving for the Irish Guide
Dogs for the Blind Association at St Stephen’s Church on Mount Street Crescent.
Gillian Armstrong of the Religious Society of Friends; Mgr Dermot Lane, president
of the Mater Dei Institute and Parish Priest of Balally; Robert Cochrane, Methodist
representative; Sir Catherine Brennan, chairperson of Eco-Congregation;
environmentalist Gavin Harte; Helen Shiel, Methodist representative; Rev Lorrain
Kennedy-Ritchie, Minister of Clontarf Scotts Presbyterians; and Fiona Murdoch,
communications officer of Eco-Congregation Ireland.
Clare Stassen and Tycho and Irish Therapy Dog attending the annual service of
thanksgiving for the Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind Association at St Stephen’s
Church on Mount Street Crescent.
Fr Paul Barlow with Vicar’s Warden, Ann Cuffe and People’s Church Warden,
Sebastien Stevenson, at St John’s Sandymount.
Very Revd Dermot Dunne and members of Peata with their dogs following the
blessing of the dogs at the Christ Church Cathedral Charity Carol Service in aid
of Peata – providing a petherapy service to caring institutions in Dublin.
Marie Staup and Killian Farrell, substitute organist, at the celebration following
the introduction of Fr Paul Barlow as Chaplain to St John’s Sandymount.
64 CHURCH REVIEW

Members of the JAM and TOAST Clubs at their Carol Service in All Saints’ Raheny.
Pupils of Finglas Parochial School sing at the service of blessing for their new extension.
Unity Gospel Choir perform at Essential 2011 in Christ Church Cathedral.
Above: The B.Ed
graduates of 2011 at the
Church of Ireland
College of Education.
Right: Dr Harold Hislop,
Chief Inspector at the
Department of
Education and Skills,
presenting the Carlisle
and Blake Award to
Stacey McNutt at the
2011 B.Ed graduation at
the Church of Ireland
College of Education.
Clergy and some Choir members at the Christmas Carol of the Church of South
India (Malayalam) Diocese of Dublin and Glendalough.
CHURCH REVIEW 65

AROUND THE PARISHES...
L-R: Stephen Newel (Architect), Mark Orr (Contractor), Rector, Elizabeth Rountree, Richard
Bird (Project Co-ordinator) at the handing over of keys at Powerscourt New Rectory.
Gospel Eucharist
The first Gospel Eucharist of the New Year will take place in
Powerscourt Church on Sunday 2nd January at 11.30am.
Archbishop
We send our very best wishes to Archbishop and Mrs Neill as the
Archbishop celebrates the 25th anniversary of his consecration as a
bishop on 25th in the Cathedral. This will also be the occasion for the
diocese as a whole to mark his impending retirement at the end of the
month and to say thank you to him and Mrs Neill for eight wonderful
years in our United Dioceses.
Lyric FM Concert in Powerscourt Church
On February 3rd 2011, Lyric FM will host a
concert in Powerscourt Church at 7pm. The
programme will consist of music by Ina Boyle, who
lived all her life at Bushy Park, Enniskerry. Ina was a
prolific composer, writing music for operas, ballets,
quartets, song cycles, and choral works. She wrote
a symphony called “Glencree” and one of her
hymns, is titled “Enniskerry.” Her work has been neglected in recent
times, but she was once well respected in musical circles, and not just
in Ireland. In the Carnegie Collection of British Music, set up in 1917 to
encourage young musicians, she is the only female composer
represented. It will be excellent to be able to hear her music again.
RATHDRUM & DERRALOSSARY
WITH GLENEALY
Canon John McCullagh. Tel: 0404-43814
Email: rathdrum@glendalough.anglican.org
The Fifteenth of the Month
This day strikes horror into those who scribe parochial notes
sending us scrabbling for information, names and even an apposite
word. Imagine however our weary editor who must toil to get the
Review out by the beginning of the following month in the midst of his
parochial duties. Thinking of the balancing act he must undertake in the
midst of this festive season reminds us how much we owe to the Rev
Nigel Waugh and his staff. So many thanks for the patient editorial hand
and even the heavenly forbearance when we stray across the deadline.
Another wonder is that despite the budget the price remains the
same for 2012 so encourage your neighbours to get their own copy and
not await the arrival of your well thumbed second or third hand Review.
Chaplains
With a number of parishioners and a family member in hospital
recently it is wonderful to hear expressions of appreciation for the
encouraging support and spiritual comfort given by our hospital
chaplains. As the vast majority have parochial duties as well their
assiduous care to the patients is all the more remarkable. It is important
to stress that frequently they will only be aware of a patient’s presence if
they are told by a family member or the rector or if the patient makes a
personal request as hospitals are increasingly bound by data restrictions.
Holy Baptism
Anakin and Saskia the children of Suki Stuart and Laurent Mellet
were baptised in St John’s on the Sunday next before Advent. May the
Holy Spirit be stirred up in them and we wish them well on their move
to France.
Sympathy
Robert Naidoo was a regularly visitor to St Saviour’s when on
holidays with his in-laws the Griffin family. His death in England is
mourned by his wife Sue and their family as well as by Charlotte Griffin
and Sue’s siblings. We pray they will feel the comfort of the promise of
a joyful re-union in the heavenly places.
Our sympathy is also extended to Dick Mahon and Margaret
Armstrong and their families on the sudden death of their brother Hugh.
Hugh’s funeral took place in Preban where the rector assisted Canon
Heaney. We continue to uphold Hugh’s daughter Sarah in our prayers.
Confirmation
The first meeting of the confirmation group for 2012 will take place
in Kilbride Church in the Arklow group on Friday 27 January at 6.30pm.
Mindful of the Archbishop’s encouragement to involve parents the clergy
are devising an inclusive programme for candidates and parents including
a service for parents and godparents to pass on the light of Christ,
symbolised by the baptismal candle, to the candidates themselves.
Advent carols
As these notes are written the various Christmas services are in
planning. Already there has been a very well attended Advent Carol
service followed by wonderful refreshments in Laragh. The rector is
torn between his duty to sample and praise all the baking and the good
manners of not talking to parishioners and visitors with a mouthful of
delicious cream sponge but then Advent is a penitential season. The
“Blue Christmas” service in Glenealy is a quiet and reflective time and
the lighting of candles to commemorate loss has become a significant
and moving moment. The lady who normally presides at the organ is
temporarily hors de combat and we are grateful to Paddy Mulligan, Jean
Woolmington and Florence Binons who have played at some services.
We wish Ruth a speedy recovery as John’s nursing abilities are limited.
Concert
St Cecilia’s Singers under the guiding hands of Sandra Ganley again
opened the Christmas season by their concert in Glenealy Church.
Their poignant dedication of the concert to the memory Ruth
McDaniels was wonderfully thoughtful. The Church as always was
beautifully decorated and the option of non-alcoholic mulled wine to
accompany the mince pies was availed by many. Hilary Bradshaw’s
recipe for the wine is to be recommended: perhaps the first item for a
future book of helpful hints and tasty recipes.
WICKLOW AND KILLISKEY
Rector: Canon John Clarke. Tel: 0404 67132.
Associate Vicar: The Revd. Ken Rue. Parish Phone: 087 2766590.
Review Distributors: Mrs. Frances Douglas. Tel: 0404 67137 (Wicklow).
Mrs. Vera Webster. Tel: 0404 40299 (Killiskey).
The Year of the Volunteer
The year passed was designated as the Year of the Volunteer. Rightly,
it was intended to highlight the vital need for volunteers in every aspect
of community life and to express appreciation for those who give their
time, talents and hard work in a variety of valuable ways. I would like
to pay tribute to the very many people in the Parish who have given of
themselves in church based activities during this last year and who, as a
result, have enriched the lives of others. Some – but not all – will be
mentioned in notes below.
“The Hub”
On 8th December, Ashford Gift and Book Shop was opened in “The
Hub”, our new parish centre in Ashford Village. It is being managed by a
team of volunteers, headed up by Sandra Hart as Shop Manager. Stocks
include books and CDs from Scripture Union and Veritas, greeting cards,
craftwork and gift items. The shop will order any books, which are not
66 CHURCH REVIEW

Above: Inside the
new Christian Book
Shop in Ashford.
Right: Outside the
new Christian Book
Shop in Ashford.
currently stocked, on request. The shop is situated between Jim Hanley
Farm Machinery and McDonnell Properties. Please do call in whenever
you are in the area as your support would be most welcome!
We are grateful for the hard work put in by our new Parochial
Administrator, Sandra Fitzpatrick. She was particularly busy laying out
the carol and other services for Advent and Christmas.
The meeting room at the Hub is proving to be an asset as it provides
a focus for people to gather and share, either formally or informally. It is
also being used for private meetings with the Rector and Associate Vicar.
Youth Club
At the time of writing, four youth club evenings have taken place. The
most recent was a highly enjoyable night of bowling and pizza in the
Diamond Bowl, Wicklow. Forty-two enthusiastic young people were
present. On other evenings, the club has used the excellent facilities
available at Rathmore Holiday Village, for which we thank Belinda Cullen.
We are grateful for the wholehearted support being given by Heather,
Jean, Audrey and Dave. Any other volunteer offers? – Contact Iain.
A Youth-led service is planned to take place in Wicklow Church on
Sunday 15th January at 10.00am. We expect that it will be lively,
especially if the music will be supplied by “The Worship Warriors”!
Children’s Choirs
The Children’s Choir sang for the first time in Killiskey on 11
December. After only four weeks of practice, they performed brilliantly.
Thanks are due to Felisity Cullen-Molloy and Neville Cox for getting
the choir up and running and for achieving a high standard in such a
short space of time.
Thank you to Selina Lennox who has been training a choir of Glebe
School children. They will be singing at the Community Service of
Music and Readings for Christmas in Wicklow.
Church 21
Plans are being made for two further meetings in January and
February with our Church 21 facilitator, the Revd. Paul Hoey. The
steering group is currently drafting an identity statement for circulation
and feedback, based on contributions made at the last Church 21
meeting. We are also revising our communication policy using email,
Twitter and Facebook.
We wish every blessing and safe journeying to the Church 21
chairman, Canon Peter Norton, as he heads for New Zealand and sets
sail for the Antarctic in January. We look forward to hearing stories of
his adventures when he returns in February.
Service of Light in Wicklow Church
The guest speaker at the Advent Service of Lighton 27th November
was Bishop Jered Kalimba, Bishop of Shyogwe Diocese, Rwanda. He
gave a challenging address on the topic of peace and reconciliation
based on his experiences during the genocide and its aftermath. The
Unity Gospel choir sang a number of pieces at this service, which were
greatly appreciated.
The choir also presented a concert on Friday, 9th December in aid
of the County Wicklow Playbus Project. This Project is a new initiative
for the County: a double decker bus that has been refurbished from
head to toe and offers pre-school aged children play opportunities
across County Wicklow.
Baptisms in Wicklow
On 4th December, our gospel reading centred on John the Baptist.
So it was appropriate that John, the Rector baptised four children that
morning: Ariel Rose Smith, Jason Henry John Dale, Sadie Peggy Mac
Iver and Stanley Hall Hudson Cox. It was a lovely family occasion with
a full Church as we welcomed these children into the fellowship of
Christ’s Church.
Girls’ Brigade Enrolment
Another full church greeted the Girls’ Brigade as they marched in for
their enrolment service on 11th December. The girls delighted us with
their singing and whole-hearted involvement. The Company has almost
seventy members and is a great credit to the Captain and leaders. We
wish the leaders and girls every blessing in their various activities.
Various Christmas carol services are planned for late December
including Carols by Candlelight organised by East Glendalough School
and the Children’s Service organised by the Glebe School.
Killiskey Church
It was wonderful to join with the parents, godparents and family of
Samuel Somerset Morrell Butler on his baptismal day on Sunday, 11th
December. We pray that God will bless his life and help him to grow in
the Christian faith.
A carol service was held in the evening of 11th December. It followed
the traditional format of nine carols and lessons, with some special
pieces sung beautifully by the Unity Gospel Choir. We were delighted
to welcome Father Kevin Rowan of Ashford and Glenealy parishes who
read a lesson. After the service, mince pies and non-alcoholic mulled
wine were served. Thanks are due to Lesley Rue, Bernadette Glover,
Stephanie McDonald and Janet Herman for organising this.
Nuns’ Cross National School was busy practicing and performing
during December. We look forward to the Nativity play on 18th
December and a Christmas concert on Wednesday, 21st December.
Thank you boys and girls (and teachers)! The festivities have been
slightly dampened by the news that the school Principal, Stephanie
McDonald, has announced her retirement with effect from the end of
February 2012. Stephanie has been a wonderful principal during the last
18 years. More will be said, but we will miss her!
New Service Times in Killiskey
On 1st January, we begin an experimental period with new times for
services – 9am Holy Communion on the 1st and 3rd Sundays and 11am
each week for the main service.
Bereavement
We were saddened to learn of the untimely death of the well-known
local businessman, Seán Flood. He and his family are held in highesteem
throughout the town of Wicklow. We extend our deepest
sympathy to his family and especially to Joan and Gary Morton.
Week of Prayer for Christian Unity
The 2012 Week of prayer service will be held in Wicklow church,
probably at 7.00pm. We look forward to further participation by the
Unity Gospel Choir and to joining with our friends from the Methodist,
Roman Catholic and other Churches.
A very happy and blessed New Year to all!
CHURCH REVIEW 67

WILSON’S HOSPITAL SCHOOL
CO-EDUCATIONAL BOARDING AND DAY SECONDARY SCHOOL
Under the patronage of Archbishops and Bishops of the Church of Ireland
Celebrating 250 years
1761-2011
www.whs.ie
Convenient yet rural location set on
200 acres, just off M4/N4, less than 10
minutes west of Mullingar.
One and a quarter hours from Dublin
400 pupils (250 Boarders) ensuring
happy, caring, wholesome and tranquil
environment
Pastoral care, school nurses and doctor, 24
hour supervision including active night time
care – on duty staff – Wilson’s never sleeps
Bedrooms containing 3 or 4 beds
School Chaplain, Sunday night Chapel
service, Morning Assembly
Award winning Choir
Lifelong friendships established
Five day teaching week – extensive
weekend recreational programme for
pupils remaining at weekends
Outstanding academic record (A1s in 12
Leaving Certificate subjects in 2010)
Choice of 20 subjects to Leaving
Certificate level
Staff supervise all study. Strong emphasis
on career guidance. Academic focus
Wide range of recreational activities, team
and individual sports, indoor and outdoor
Seven day boarding fee: €7767
(level of maximum grant)
Extensive programme of grants, bursaries
and scholarships
For further information and prospectus, please contact
The Headmaster, Mr Adrian G Oughton B.A., HDip. Ed.,D.E.M.
Gunda Marl, Head Girl 2010 / 2011,Wilson’s Hospital School
MULTYFARNHAM, CO. WESTMEATH
TEL: 044 - 9371115 FAX: 044 - 9371563 EMAIL: WILSONSH@WHS.IE
Educating Girls for over 100 years
Founded in 1866, Alexandra College is a school for girls and has a long
tradition of high academic achievement, a unique ethos and an international
reputation. We have vast experience in caring for overseas students in our
home-from-home boarding department.
Greatly increased number of bursaries and grants
in addition to scholarships now available.
Principal: Barbara Ennis
Facilities include:
Junior school from aged 4/5 years
Senior School with full boarding
Excellent academic standard
Wide choice of team and individual sports
Inspirational drama and music departments
Leading edge IT resources
LUAS trams serving College gate and minibus connection to DART trains
For information/prospectus, please contact: info@alexandracollege.eu
Alexandra College, Milltown, Dublin 6 | Tel: (01) 4977571 | Website: www.alexandracollege.eu