Big Hymn Sings
Clogher Diocese "Big Hymn Sing"
Clogher Diocesan Mothers’ Union held a Big Hymn Sing in St Macartin’s Cathedral ENNISKILLEN. Everyone was welcomed by Very Revd Kenny Hall, Dean of Clogher.
Mrs Heather Ellis, MU Diocesan President introduced the event and all were entertained to an evening of wonderful musical items. Donagh choir, conducted by Ethne McCord, and accompanied by Gerard Toal sang four pieces. We were also entertained by Lynnea Hardy, Judith Anderson & Ellen Bloomfield, Jane McKinley, and Revd William Jeffrey. The Clogher Diocesan Mothers’ Union Trustees also sang two items, accompanied by Diane Simpson. Mrs June Butler. All Ireland MU President read the lesson.
Revd Dr Edwin Aiken (Curate at St Macartin’s) and Valerie McMorris (Faith & Policy) led the prayers. Revd. Rebecca Guildea gave an insight into a grant which she obtained from ‘Mums in May’ for the Sunday School children in the parishes of Garrison, Slavin, Belleek & Kiltyclogher. Bishop Ian Ellis gave a very interesting and appropriate reflection. The organist for all of the hymns and for some of the singers was Glenn Moore.
Heather Ellis expressed thanks to all who contributed to the evening.
All Ireland Mothers’ Union launched their triennial fundraising initiative for Mums in May 2024 with a wonderful “Big Hymn Sing” service in St. Canice’s Cathedral, Kilkenny on Saturday 2nd March. A large congregation from all over Ireland gathered to sing ten of their favourite hymns, which were chosen by members in every Diocese. The congregation joined in gusto with the singing of : “To God be the glory!”, “Dear Lord and Father of mankind”, “How deep the Father’s love for us”, “Guide me, O thou great Jehovah”, “Amazing grace”, “What a friend we have in Jesus”, “Blessed assurance”, “Be thou my vision”, “Lord, for the years your love has kept and guided” and finally that rousing hymn “O Lord my God! When I in awesome wonder”.
The lesson was read by Mrs June Butler, All Ireland President of Mothers’ Union, and other members of the Trustee Board who participated in the service were, Iris Suitor, Patsy Devoy, Debbie Davidson, Clare Stewart, Kay Clarke, Sophia Dillon and Margaret Jacob. The Cathedral Choir sang Psalm19 and a Choral piece, “If ye love me” by Thomas Talis.
Mothers’ Union is very grateful to The Very Revd. Stephen Farrell for all his help and assistance in facilitating the use of St. Canice’s Cathedral for this service. Our thanks to the Cathedral staff, to Dr Harry Meehan, Director of Music, and to members of the Cathedral Choir for leading the singing. We also express our appreciation to The Right Revd. Adrian Wilkinson for his address. Of course, no Mothers’ Union event would be complete without hospitality and we are very grateful to Kilkenny Mothers’ Union branch for coordinating a cup of tea after the service.