Dear parishioners and friends,

We are almost at the end of the month and I am glad to report that I have kept up the challenge I set myself to walk at least 5km every day in January in aid of charity. I am very grateful to those who joined me in this challenge and walked a similar distance each day or set their own target but still got out and about to take some daily exercise. Well done.

Also I am very glad to report that at the time of writing the GoFundMe page (Douglas Union with Frankfield 5Km Challenge) has raised €3482 and I know that over €1000 has also been sent directly to the parish in support of this fundraiser. Many people have been very generous, and for this I am grateful. I will keep the page open for another 10 days or so people can still donate. All the money raised will be divided equally in three ways between (1) Douglas Union with Frankfield, (2) local Cork charities such as Penny Dinners and Cork Simon, as well as (3) the Church of Ireland Bishops’ Appeal for overseas aid and development. Thank you for your interest and support. When we close up this fundraiser, this day fortnight I will share with you the full total raised and the amounts distributed to these good causes. 

Today I will be going out for my usual walk. I know the weather is not going to be very good this weekend, but if you can, why not get out and about? Even if you are not a regular walker, why not go on a family ramble within a 5km radius of your home and sponsor yourself €1 per km and donate it. If you do it today or tomorrow, you too will have been a small part of this parish activity in January. 

This week the Revd Hazel Minion also writes…

Dear Adrian, Congratulations on your January Challenge – some people have seen you walking around the parish and some of us have found hand-delivered things in our letter boxes. And congratulations to all the others who have reached their target. I was inspired to join in, but set a more modest aim of 100km in the month, nothing to those who are fit.  A good start with 10k in the first three days, but sadly I’ve now FAILED! Between frost, snow and other events, I would need to complete a couple of half marathons to finish by 31st…   

But I am not giving up! Wish me God Speed! 

Finally, this Sunday we are observing one of the important festivals of the church. We recall the Presentation of Jesus in the Temple as an infant. It is also known as Candlemas, when we take one last look back at Christmas before focusing on Lent, Holy Week and Easter. We have prepared a very special service involving a number of parishioners and I hope you find it uplifting and encouraging. You will find the link to it on our Parish YouTube Channel here:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZDmEQt2VvcJI9ErW29vxPA/videos

The Eucharist (Candlemas 2021)

It will be available to view from 7pm this evening. A copy of the Order of Service is also attached for your convenience. 

Take care, enjoy your exercise and God bless,

Adrian

—

Archdeacon of Cork, Cloyne and Ross.

The Rectory,
Carrigaline Road,

Douglas,
Cork.

T12 A2RC