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Presbyterian Moderator Dr Trevor Morrow visits the historic congregation of Loughaghery near Lisburn, this Sunday 26th November 2000, as they celebrate their 250th Anniversary. The Moderator will bring greetings from the General Assembly and dedicate new church furnishings including a new amplification and sound system, shelving for hymn books, notice board and pulpit light. The special service, which begins at 11 am will conclude with a congregational lunch.
This Sunday marks the culmination of Loughaghery's year long 250th celebration. During last Spring, the church had a new organ installed at a service conducted by Rev John McCaughan. In May however, the congregation did not need the new instrument, as they held a special 1750 style service. This witnessed over sixty members dressing up in 18th Century clothing and singing unaccompanied Psalms. The minister, Rev David McConaghey was drawn to that unique service in a carriage pulled by two Welsh Cobs and the praise was led by a 'precentor', Dr Hugh McCullough from Shaftesbury Square Reformed Presbyterian Church, Belfast.
In September a Country Fayre raised £8000 which went directly to the new car park extension fund and in the same month two former Moderator's, Dr Andrew Rogers and Dr Godfrey Brown held harvest services at Loughaghery. The congregation have also been mindful to focus on the future and organised a Youth Fellowship weekend featuring dynamic teaching from Rev Steve Stockman, Dean of Derryvolgie Hall, QUB and local minister Rev William Henry from Maze Presbyterian Church.
Throughout the year Loughaghery have been raising money for two special anniversary projects. One based in Ireland, will help the construction of a new church manse in Moville, County Donegal and a new building for the congregation of Waterford. The other in Lima, Peru, is a special Bible Society Scripture Breakfast scheme to help give Bibles and support to 'street children.'
A photographic chronicle of the year's activities along with previous historical features has been compiled by congregational members Ivan McAuley and Trevor Bolton.
Rev David McConaghy has been minister of Loughaghery for 28 years. He comments: "It has been a very special year for this church and we are very thankful to God for all the achievements of the past. We especially welcome Dr Morrow on Sunday and look forward to what he has to say about our faith for the future."
Photography can be arranged by contacting Rev McConaghy on 9263 8520
Issued by Martin McNeely, Presbyterian Information Services. Info@PresbyterianIreland.org
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