This Saturday, 24 April at 3.00pm Presbyterian Moderator Dr Ivan McKay will officially open one of the largest congregational building projects for over a century in the Presbyterian Church. The ceremony will take place at Carnmoney Presbyterian Church (258 Carnmoney Road, Newtownabbey) where a new £1.5m sanctuary has been built on a site that has been used for Christian worship since 1657.
'Some years ago extensive wet rot was discovered in the present church building,' explains Carnmoney's minister Rev John Dickinson. 'The choice was either to completely renovate the existing building or to demolish and rebuild and after much discussion the congregation decided on the rebuilding option.'
Designed by Kennedy, Fitzgerald and Associates and built by Reynolds and Bennett, construction began just over one year ago on the church which will seat 750 people and provide a contemporary setting for worship in the 21st century. The vestibule from the old building has been retained as well as the existing hall accommodation.
With a membership of 1200 families Carnmoney is the biggest congregation within the Presbyterian General Assembly and members are excited at the prospect of a new chapter in the life of the congregation. 'With all the planning and construction behind us there is a tremendous sense of anticipation within the congregation as we look forward to the opportunities that the new buildings will give us in our worship, work and witness here in Carnmoney.' said Mr Dickinson.
After the opening on Saturday afternoon, festivities continue into the evening at 7.30pm with a concert of inspirational music performed by Ballyclare Male Choir, Festival Brass and Karen Marsden. On Sunday, morning worship at 11.00am will be conducted by Rev John Dickinson and at 6.00pm there will be a united service with members of other local churches and the speaker will be Dr William Crawley. To round off the weekend celebrations, popular Irish-born singer Andy Flannagan will be the guest at a concert beginning at 8.45pm.
Issued by Stephen Lynas, Presbyterian Information Services. Info@PresbyterianIreland.org
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