Holy Ground – Common Ground
‘Redemption – A Celtic Passion’
In a search for common ground between Christians of different traditions there is a lot to be said for looking at the hymns of the Church.
Popular hymns in Protestant worship include a number by Roman Catholic writers – ( O come all ye faithful – Crown Him with many crowns – Praise to the Holiest in the height – and more!).
These hymns have enriched the devotions of Protestant Christians for generations.
Hymns – even of Lutheran origin- were being used in Roman Catholic worship in Germany by the 18th. Century, and Fr Fredrick Faber acknowledged the influence of John Newton and Charles Wesley on his own compositions for Catholics.
Since the 1970’s there has been an even greater inter-sharing of new songs of praise.
So the Holy Ground of hymns has been a Common Ground for fellowship and worship: what the New Testament calls Koinonia.
The supreme example of this kind of sharing is found in the Easter theme of the Passion and Triumph of Jesus Christ in his crucifixion and resurrection. This is the core and common ground of the Gospel for all Christians.
These two examples of holy ground and common ground are brought together in a special worship event promoted by Ormeau Churches Together and the Ballynafeigh Clergy Fellowship in Newtownbreda (St John’s) Presbyterian Church on Friday 15th. April at 8.00 p.m.
Hymns loved by Presbyterians, Church of Ireland, Methodists and other evangelical churches, as well as Roman Catholics will be woven together to celebrate the Passion and Resurrection of Jesus Christ. The hymns have been arranged for Irish instruments by Francis McPeake. His band will accompany a choir of singers and lead all who come to share in singing. Some well known tunes will be used in addition to those specially composed for the event.
Irish instrumental laments will convey something of the Passion and the joyful news of the Resurrection will be reflected in the music of first class musicians. Some songs will also be sung in Gaelic from lesser known sources of Roman Catholic worship.
Scripture readings and special lighting will be used to communicate the theme.
This will be popular, and seating is limited to 500. Look out for following publicity and details.
Tickets: - by donation.
It is suggested that not less than £10.00 – (£5.00 unwaged or family groups) – is donated per ticket. For ticket information, contact Matilde on 0783 786 8876
(Supported by Belfast City Council Good Relations Unit)
