St. John's - Church of Ireland Parish of Killyleagh

St. John's

Parish of Killyleagh

Dear Friends - Spring 2003

Christian greetings.

When we switch on the TV or radio these days it is dominated by the war with Iraq. We need to pray to God to bring peace and not war and more significantly that politicians and all the decision-makers may understand the heart of God on the matter - "God is our refuge and strength, an ever present help in trouble" (Psalm 46:1).

On a different subject, each one of us needs to explore our part in helping the Church to grow and be equipped for transforming society.

During November 2002 all the Churches in the Diocese took part in the Parish triennial census and it focused on attendance at main morning and evening services. The exercise to gather such information is very important not only for the sake of statistics and research, but it can implicitly highlight the place that numerical growth has in Church work. How can each one be enthused to make an effort to attract people in and as people be welcome and friendship within the body of Christ they (all of us) are then sent out as God's witnesses in the community and in the market place.

In addition to the Down and Dromore census, I have come across some statistics about why people come to Church -

1% come because Church members (this figure can vary considerably) visited them.

2% come because of special Church programmes (eg a children's holiday club).

3% come because of a special need.

3% come because of Sunday School.

6% come because of publicity (NB this is a high figure).

8% come because of a personal contact with the Minister or Church staff.

77% come because they were invited by Christian friends or relatives.

In short, the Good News has always been spread through existing relationships. Friendship therefore is the key to bringing people to Church and in the hope that they might meet Christ Himself.

This kind of exercise should not be taken as an optional extra but as the sacred duty of every believer - God gives us a heart for people around us. Let us use the opportunities to invite our families and friends to Church, to Alpha courses, Agape and other social events which bring the community together. Take an interest in people's lives - invite them to join the Prayer group, Bible study, or other groups. As we get involved in these and other events we can help each other to learn about God and deepen our friendships.

A Community Alpha will take place in the autumn and is open to everyone irrespective of Church connections. It is organised and led by laity from different Churches in Killyleagh.

Finally, we look forward to Pentecost Sunday on the 8th June, when some of our young people will be confirmed. Please remember them in your prayers, as well as Bishop Edward Darling who will lead the service and preach. It will be a delight to welcome Bishop and Mrs Patricia Darling.

Yours sincerely in Christ Jesus

Jerome Munyangaju