Carlow was well represented at special service
Celebrating Christian Unity Week at Christchurch Cathedral recently (back l/r) Paula Slattery, former Ambassador, Justin Scannell cathaoirleach Cumann Gaelach na hEaglaise, Rev'd Canon Ian Coulter celebrant, Giollamuire Ó Murchú An Coiste Tréadach, ArdDeoise Caitlicigh BhÁC, Rev'd Canon Helen Oxley preacher, An Canónach Pádraig Ó Baoill celebrant, Dáithí Ó Maolchoille, Cisteoir, Cumann Gaelach na hEaglaise and Andrew Shorten Cumann Gaelach na hEaglaise. (Front l/r) Dr Rita Kelly, development officer Cumann Gaelach na hEaglaise, Lord Mayor of Dublin Emma Blain, Mary McAleese former President and soprano Celine Byrne
THERE was a strong representation from Co Carlow at a special event in Christchurch Cathedral, Dublin recently as the congregation came together to celebrate Christian Unity Week.
The service also celebrated 1,700 years since the formulation of the Nicene Creed. The Nicene Creed is part of the profession of faith required of those undertaking important functions within the Orthodox, Catholic and Lutheran churches.
The interdenominational service was organised by Cumann Gaelach na hEaglaise (Irish Guild of the Church of Ireland) and An Coiste Tréadach (pastoral committee) of the Catholic Archdiocese of Dublin.
Among those in attendance was Rev Canon Helen Oxley, who lives in Tullow and preached in Irish at the service. Carlow native, music composer and a former music inspector with the Department of Education Oliver Hynes was also in attendance, along with Dr Rita Kelly, who lives in Maganey. Rita is a well-known poet, writer, educator and currently development officer with Cumann Gaelach na hEaglaise.
The service was all in Irish with Rev Canon Ian Coulter and Canon Pádraig Ó Baoill as celebrants and Rev Canon Oxley as preacher.
Dublin Lord Mayor Emma Blain read a lesson in Irish while soprano Celine Byrne sang a number of hymns in Irish and Latin, accompanied by organist Ronan Murray.
Cumann Gaelach na hEaglaise has collaborated with An Coiste Tréadach for many years, and both groupings were delighted to come together for this yearly service in Irish.
Also among the congregation this year was former President Mary McAleese, who speaks wonderful Irish and stayed for refreshments in the crypt of Christchurch.
