29.09.2014
Newcastle and Newtownmountkennedy Parish Centre to be a Place Where Gospel is Lived Out
Parishioners of Newcastle and Newtownmountkennedy gathered in huge numbers on Saturday afternoon (September 27) for the official opening and dedication of their new parish centre.
Built on the site of the former rectory, the impressive parish centre will be used by the community for generations to come. The Rector, the Revd William Bennett said he hoped that the building would be a place were people could come and feel welcome, accepted and loved.
“This is not just a building. If it was I would be very sad. But I think we’re looking to the future, not only our own generation but for generations to come. This will be a building where people will come and feel welcome, loved and accepted. Where people will feel that the Gospel is lived out. It’s really exciting to see the building today but it will be more exciting to see it being used,” he stated.
The ribbon was cut by the Mayor of Newcastle, Pat Carey, who congratulated the committee on the lovely new building.
The driving force of the project was Mervyn Garrett, chairman of the building committee. He paid tribute to his committee, the members of which combined all the expertise needed to bring the new parish centre to fruition. He also praised the architects and contractors who worked on its construction.
Mr Garrett reserved special mention for the Rector who he said was devoted to the parish, sometimes to the detriment of his health. In response Mr Bennett said it had been a privilege and an honour to be part of the group which had undertaken the work which they got on with themselves.
In dedicating the building, Archbishop Michael Jackson said it was a great pleasure to join in the celebration of a new phase in the life of the parish. He noted that the work had been lovingly executed and praised those who believed in and saw the project through.
Photo captions:
Top – Mervyn Garrett, chairman of the building committee at the official opening and dedication of Newcastle and Newtownmountkennedy Parish Centre.
Bottom – Newcastle and Newtownmountkennedy Parish Centre.