A gift of beauty and remembrance at St Nicholas’, Carrickfergus

Tuesday March 10th 2026

Uel’s daughters Janet, Jenifer, Rev Dr Chris St John, Uel’s wife Jean, and grandson Sam at the dedication in St Nicholas’, Carrickfergus.

On Sunday March 8, the parish of St Nicholas, Carrickfergus, gathered in thanksgiving for a special act of generosity and devotion – the dedication of new chalice veils, burses, gospel markers, and pulpit falls, presented to the glory of God and in loving memory of Samuel Stewart.

The occasion was marked by reverence, gratitude, and a deep sense of continuity with the generations who have worshipped in this place before.

Each piece had been carefully crafted to complement the beauty of the church’s worship, enhancing the dignity of the liturgy and drawing the congregation’s hearts and minds towards the mystery of God’s presence.

The chalice veils and burses were created by Jean Gascoigne, a former contestant on BBC’s Great British Sewing Bee. The gospel markers, placed within the lectionary, guide the proclamation of the Word, while the pulpit falls adorn the place from which the Scriptures are preached. These were also designed by Jean.

Though small in size, each of these items plays a significant role in the offering of worship, reminding us that even the simplest details can be acts of devotion.

The Stewart family with Chalice veils, burses, Gospel markers and pulpit falls gifted to St Nicholas in memory of Uel Stewart.

During the dedication, the Rev Dr St John spoke movingly of Samuel Stewart, whose life and faith had left a lasting impression on the parish. Samuel was remembered not only for his faithful attendance and quiet service, but also for his warmth, humour, and willingness to help wherever needed.

The rector said: “These gifts will serve as a visible reminder of Samuel’s love for this church and his Lord. Each time they are used, we will be reminded of his faith and the hope we share in Christ.”

The prayers of dedication were followed by the blessing of each item, accompanied by the singing of Uel’s favourite hymn Will Your Anchor Hold. The congregation joined in a prayer of thanksgiving, offering the gifts to God’s glory and praying that they might inspire deeper reverence in worship for years to come.

Rev Dr St John said: “In dedicating these gifts, St Nicholas’ has not only enriched its worship but also strengthened the bonds of memory and faith that unite the parish. The beauty of the new veils, burses, markers, and falls will serve as a quiet yet constant testimony to the truth that in Christ, love and remembrance endure beyond the passing of years. The church would like to thank Jean Stewart and her family members for this special gift in remembrance of Uel.”