Church of the Resurrection marks a half century

Wednesday October 5th 2016

The Church of the Resurrection at Queen’s University.

On October 14, the Church of the Resurrection at Queen’s University will mark 50 years since its dedication in 1966.

Built as a student chapel close to the centre of the booming university campus, the ‘Church of the Res’ quickly became a thriving hub of worship and outreach. When it opened, it was adjacent to the Church of Ireland Centre, where the then chaplain, the Rev Cecil Kerr, led a group of around 15 students living in community. Today, 50 students now make up the Church of Ireland & Methodist Chaplaincy – and the Church of the Resurrection remains the beating heart of its mission on campus.

On Friday October 14 at 7.30pm, the church will host a service of thanksgiving to mark this anniversary, as an opportunity for friends and former students to join together in celebration of half a century of ministry.

The current chaplain, the Rev Barry Forde, said: “This is a wonderful chance to join together with so many people who have been involved in the life and worship of the chapel since it opened in the 1960s. We’re really looking forward to seeing as many people as possible come back through the doors on Elmwood Avenue to give thanks, and to see how this place continues to be such a strategic point of outreach into the community and students of Belfast.”

There will be a reception with tea and coffee afterwards, giving people the opportunity to catch up and share their memories of the church.

Barry said: “We are also hoping to find people who might have photographs and other memories hidden away, and celebrate some of the things God has done in and through this place over the years. I’d definitely encourage people to get in contact if they think they have particular items of interest.”

To help with catering, anyone thinking of coming along is asked to get in touch, either by telephoning the chaplaincy office on 028 9066 7754, or emailing Mr Peter Huey at friends@thehubbelfast.org

More information is available on the chaplaincy’s website: www.thehubbelfast.org