This is where I served as Curate Assistant ... the Parish of Bangor Abbey in north Down. It was about that time that people began to dream of a new parish centre to improve the facilities. There were two old halls, both in great need of refurbishment.
Today a new phase has started - the old halls have been modernised and made energy efficient and accessible ... and a new annexe has been added to provide an attractive meeting space, a number of small rooms and offices and an enclosed courtyard garden. It is magnificent!
A welcoming entrance.
Lady Sylvia addressed the crowd after lunch.
Aprons made for the opening!
Many friends gathered from the current parish and those who have moved away to other places.
Bishop Harold dedicated the building.
The Rector, Canon Ronnie Nesbitt ....
Three former curates Ian, Jerome and Elizabeth! Why didn't the photographer notice that my scarf needed to be adjusted!
Lots of smiles, laughter and greetings.
The floral displays were a treat ... this one is perhaps my favourite.
And, against the sun, the Abbey looked magnificent. Worship on this site for over 1500 years ... what a witness!
Now thank we all our god,
with hearts and hands and voices,
who wondrous things hath done,
in whom his world rejoices;
who from our mother's arms
hath blessed us on our way
with countless gifts of love,
and still is ours today.
Church Hymnal number 361
Martin Rinkart (1586-1649)
2 comments:
The new facility looks really lovely!
Well put together - all except your scarf!!!
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