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A special series of European Heritage Open Days have been announced for Saturday 11th and Sunday 12th September which will celebrate architectural heritage throughout Northern Ireland. Members of the general public will have the opportunity to step inside a wide variety of buildings over the two day period, including no less than five Presbyterian churches.
Of particular architectural note is Sinclair Seamen's Presbyterian Church situated just off Corporation Street in Belfast. Since 1856 the church has been a familiar landmark in the 'docks' area of Belfast and in latter days has been easily recognised by motorists journeying over the new M3 fly over.
The real architectural significance of Sinclair Seamen's however, is as much inside than out. Designed by Lanyon, the church was constructed in an unusual 'L' shape - nobody knows why, only Lanyon himself! In 1902 an interior refurbishment gave the church a unique nautical flavour which saw the installation of a pulpit resembling the prow of a ship. The nautical theme is still very much in evidence today with scale models of famous local vessels positioned around the church, a steering wheel from a liner and old naval flags adorning the walls. The Sunday evening service begins at 7pm with six traditional chimes from the bell and church goers can expect to have their offering taken up in collection boxes shaped as lifeboats. Rev Tom Greer has been ministering to the congregation of Sinclair Seamen's for just over a year, he comments:
"Obviously a church building is primarily a place where Christians meet to share fellowship, but for generations of Belfast people Sinclair Seamen's has been a significant land mark. Apart from Samson and Goliath, the two shipyard cranes, our building has been one of the first points seafarers recognise as they port in Belfast. We hope that the public will take advantage of the European Heritage Open Days and visit Sinclair Seamen's Presbyterian Church in large numbers."
Issued by Martin McNeely, Presbyterian Information Services. Info@PresbyterianIreland.org
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