On Saturday 7th May 2011 there was a significant Inter-Church Gathering in Dromantine Retreat and Conference Centre near Newry, Co. Down.        Over 200 people from different denominations gathered in the beautiful grounds of Dromantine on Saturday afternoon.     Following on last year’s theme of “Companions on the Journey – celebrating 100 years of ecumenical pilgrimage” the theme for this year was “Bearers of hope - as we journey together.”   



In his opening and welcoming remarks, Fr. Des Corrigan, SMA, said Dromantine extends a warm ecumenical welcome to people from all denominations.  It is beautiful and safe space where all can come to reflect, pray, share, discuss and hopefully deepen our relationship with God and with one another.    We hope that will foster greater understanding and respect as we continue on our journey together.   

It began with an Opening Reflection which was led by Sr. Mary Connellan and Rev Patricia McBride.  Through prayer, scripture, song and symbols this helped participants to focus on the theme of Hope.

Rt. Rev.  Harold Miller, Bishop of Down and Dromore, then gave a very inspiring and challenging talk in which he shared where he has seen and experienced signs of hope in our world and society, including here in Northern Ireland.  By giving very relevant examples he emphasised that;
1    One person can transform a situation - and that we are never too young, too old or too middle-aged to be that person.
2    That the most difficult situation can be the seedbed of hope and pointed to the Chilean miners as an example of that.
3    This place can become a sign of hope.   

Referring to our involvement in inter-church activities, he said that, rather than endless discussing and analysing we should “Just do it.”  His talk was followed by sharing in small groups, which was very animated.  This sharing continued over afternoon tea.  



The second session was led by Rev Ruth Patterson, Director of Restoration Ministries.    

Using characters from Scripture, images and experiences, Ruth explored what it means to be a Bearer of Hope in to-day’s world.  Jeremiah was the reluctant prophet who pleaded, “O Sovereign Lord, I can’t speak for you!  I am too young.”  Yet he went on to respond to God’s call and become a great prophet of hope in a world that was falling apart.  While he was in prison in Jerusalem which was about to be captured by the Babylonian army, he bought a field – in the sure hope of better days ahead and as a public witness of that hope.

When the two disciples on the road to Emmaus were sad and downcast because their hopes and dreams had been shattered, Christ came and opened their hearts and restored their hope and joy.  Paul and Silas were in a grim situation in prison in a foreign land and they found hope in the middle of the night.   

As well as her words, Ruth’s enthusiasm and passion inspired and challenged us to be witnesses of Hope in a world so much in need of it.  After her talk there was a very meaningful closing liturgy which was conducted  by people from the four bigger Christian churches.  

Beautiful, reflective music was provided at various times during the day by four local musicians, led by Rev. Patricia McBride.  Fr. Damian Bresnahan, SMA thanked all who came and those who planned and contributed to make the day so successful and uplifting.     

In the evaluations of the day similar words and sentiments were repeated by many of the participants.  Words like;  ‘inspiring,’ ‘uplifting,’ ‘hope filled,’ ‘wonderful experience,’ ‘delighted to be part of this,’ ‘good to come together to pray and reflect,’  ‘thanks for providing such a blessed experience,’ ‘hope we can have more days like this,’ ‘thanks. I would like to come again.’

For the original article, as well as more photographs of the event please visit http://www.dromantineconference.com/  

    

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