All Saints News
Church of Ireland (Anglican) newsletter for Raheny , April - May 2013
A very fond farewell and heartfelt
best wishes to Jim and Valerie on
their Retirement
Above all, keep loving one another earnestly,
since love covers a multitude of sins. Show
hospitality to one another without grumbling.
As each has received a gift, use it to serve one
another, as good stewards of God's varied
grace. (1 Peter 4: 8-10)
Email: [email protected]
All Saints News,
April - May 2013
1
Web: www.raheny.dublin.anglican.org
Car Boot Sales
The Raheny Car Boot Sales will take place again in All Saints’ this
year, in aid of the Memorial Garden. We would be delighted of
helpers, either with parking or with teas and coffees. Please contact
John Storey on 086-9585008. For dates, see
www.rahenycarboot.com.
Jim’s Farewell Service on 28th April
Jim’s farewell services will take place in St John’s Church on 21st
April and in All Saints’ Church at 10am on 28th April. Following each
of these services, there will be an informal Reception in the Hall.
All welcome!
Parish Barbeque: a date for your diary …
A Parish BBQ will take place from 4pm on Saturday 11th May to
thank all Parishioners for all your support of the Church Roof Restoration Fund over the last few years. This promises to be a fun evening for all the family! Tickets cost €5 for adults and €2 for children.
Songs of Praise Service
takes place on Sunday 12th
May at 10am. Come along and enjoy all your favourite hymns!
Strawberry Fair on 6th July 2013
Don’t forget to put the date in your diary! We will be
looking for donations and volunteers in next issue!
Contact person is John Storey on 086-9585008.
All Saints News,
April - May 2013
2
Letter from the Editor …
Needless to say, the April-May edition of the All Saints’ News that had been planned was
scrapped in favour of this special issue, when we heard Jim’s news of his retirement at the
end of April. In the wake of Jim’s announcement, which closely follows Valerie’s own retirement from her busy job, this ASN has been prepared with both sadness and joy. Sadness to say goodbye to Jim and Valerie, as they embark on a new phase of their lives and
enter retirement, which will undoubtedly be very active. Joy that they blessed the lives of
the families, the young and the old, and the wider communities of St John’s and All Saints’
for the last 21 years, and joy that we can take this opportunity to thank them and let them
know how much they mean to us.
So, rather than our usual smorgasbord of items, we dedicate this issue to our wonderful
Rev. James T. Carroll, Jim, and to his fabulous, supportive and elegant wife Valerie. You
have both blessed our lives so much, through your ministry and your love, and will I know
you will continue to do so, even as we will miss you.
You leave the parish much enriched, with so many long-standing parishioners and so
many new families with small children, and growing all the time. I have to acknowledge
that, as a very recent “newcomer” to the parish, I (and indeed my then small, and now
expanded brood!) felt so welcomed by Jim and Valerie, and by everybody in the parish
that is surely a credit to Jim’s leadership and kindness and to his firm believe that we all
have our own ministry, and we all ARE the church. The love that we show each other is
Jesus’ presence in the world.
So, this special edition of the All Saints’ News includes fond memories of Jim and Valerie,
Jim’s All Saints’ career in numbers (the hatches, matches and dispatches!), and very special interviews with both Jim and Valerie. Thanks you for all your memories, which perfectly encapsulate this modest gentleman with the beautiful copperplate script, with his
wonderful wife who did so much more behind the scenes than many people realise!
At his institution as Rector of Raheny and Coolock, Jim chose Hymn 517: Servant Song,
which starts ‘Brother, Sister let me serve you, let me be as Christ to you’, which perfectly
sums up his grace and modesty. Jim, not our servant, but our friend, please accept the
very best wishes of all the parishioners of St John’s and All Saints’ parishes, and all the
children in Springdale National School. We wish you the best of times, long walks, good
health and happy times in your retirement.
Peace and Joy (as Jim often signs off his emails!) ,
All Saints News,
Andrea
April - May 2013
3
Dear Friends,
It is time to say ‘farewell’, as we move to the sunny
South East, after an amazing twenty one years in the
parishes of Raheny with Coolock. I feel I have grown
enormously and closer to Jesus after all my varied
experiences.
Thank you for welcoming and nurturing Valerie daily, since our never to
be forgotten sunshine wedding day in August 1995!
I was asked recently what my most significant moment was over the
years. There have been many special blessings. I often think of
Christmas Eve 2010, when we were preparing to enjoy Carols from St.
Patrick’s Cathedral. There was a gentle ring on the hall door. Three
year old Alexander with his Dad had come, in the snow, to wish his JAM
Club leader Valerie a Happy Christmas! He sat up on the settee and
warmed his toes at a blazing fire! The next year he came with his sisters Charlotte and Gabrielle. Unfortunately, I was laid low last Christmas and we missed his call!
As the posters say ‘Sincere Thanks’ for the
amazing memories we take with us.
We will be invoking the Holy Spirit on the elected
nominators – Brian Davison and Craig McMullen
from All Saints’ and Linda Basdeo-Pringle and
Robert Adams from St. John’s - as they choose
a new Rector, along with the Archbishop’s group,
to grace these parishes.
With Jesus’ love at Eastertide and always,
Valerie and Jim
Editor’s Note: Our usual ‘From the Archives’, ‘A Parishioner Reflects’, crossword/
puzzle page, ‘Eco Eye’, and other regular columns will not appear until the next issue.
There are no Parish Notices. Report on Easter General Vestry will be in the next issue.
Parish
website:Allwww.raheny.dublin.anglican.org
Saints News,
April - May 2013
4
Some Saints to Remember ...
You may remember that we remarked on the life and
times of St Brigid’s Day, and her feast day on 1st February in the Flourishing article in our last issue of ASN.
Below is a prayer of St Brigid, dating to the 5th century:
Arise today. Through a mighty strength:
God’s power to guide me,
God’s might to uphold me,
God’s eyes to watch over me,
God’ s ear to hear me,
God’s word to give me speech,
God’s hand to guard me,
God’s way to lie before me,
God’s shield to shelter me,
God’s host to secure me.
St Joseph with the Infant Jesus
by Guido Reni
St Patrick’s Day must be the most famous Saint’s day
and religious and celebratory holiday in Ireland and for
the Irish diaspora. However, you may not know that St
Joseph’s Day comes soon after, on 19th March. It is a
feast in the provinces of the Anglican Communion, and a
feast or festival in the Lutheran Church and Roman Catholic church. Saint Joseph's Day is the Patronal Feast day
for Poland as well as for Canada, and a feast day for carpenters. It is also Father's Day in some Catholic countries,
mainly Spain, Portugal, and Italy. The Feast of St Mark
on 25th April is a city holiday in Venice, where St. Mark
is the patron saint.
Another Saints day, and an unusual one in being another
woman (who are far rarer than men!), is St Joan of Arc,
who is honoured in the Catholic and Protectant
churches on 30th May (the day she died, aged about 19).
In her short but eventful life, the “Maid of Orleans”, born
in 1412, was born a peasant girl in what is now eastern
A Miniature of St Joan of Arc,
France. Claiming divine guidance, she led the French
painted shortly after her death
army to several important victories during the Hundred
(artist unknown)
Years' War, which paved the way for the coronation of
Charles VII of France. She was captured by the Burgundians,
transferred to the English in exchange for money, put on trial and
was burned at the stake. She is one of the French national saints,
and the patron saint of military personnel, prisoners, soldiers and
martyrs.
Andrea Lazenby Simpson
All Saints News,
April - May 2013
5
Proposed Memorial Garden
Some months ago I proposed to the Select Vestry, that it might be appropriate for All Saints to establish a memorial garden. A quiet reflective place, where one could go to pray and remember loved ones, especially those whose ashes repose in the columbarium.
At this stage it only an idea. There has been no decision taken regarding location or scale of this garden.
I would hope that later in the year I would be in a position to present
some concrete proposals to the Select Vestry. In this regard, if anyone
has any suggestions to offer, I am open to ideas. For example, should
we model it on the lovely garden in St Mary’s Howth, or perhaps have a
sensory garden, or simply a few seats in an area with a small stone centre piece. If anyone has any ideas to share, please feel free to contact
me.
The Select Vestry has agreed that I can fundraise for this project, and
to this end the car boot sales will recommence this summer.
John Storey, March 2013
Thank
You
Special Thanks to
Adams Pharmacy
Sponsor of our Grand
Prize of two nights away
in Donegal
Local businesses who supported the
raffle at our Strawberry Fair 2012
Our Gratitude goes to:
•Supervalu
•Doc Morris Pharmacy
•April Flowers
•The Mint Cottage
•Haven Interiors
•Chic Boutique
•Paper Pieces
•Realtime Distributions
•Slender Health & Beauty
Remember to support them all year long!
6
All Saints News,
April - May 2013
EASTER ACTIVITIES FOR KIDS
The Easter holidays are upon us, so here are some ideas to fill your time and
get the most from these holidays, before the Summer term begins and don’t
forget, these could also be popular summer-time activities!!
Irish National Stud and Japanese Gardens, near Kildare town
Situated just off the M7, enjoy the Japanese Gardens, established in 1906 and the
recent St Fiachra’s Garden. Take the tour of the Stud and Horse Museum. Something for everyone! There is a café, and also picnic tables. Tickets: Adult: €11.50;
Child: €6.50. Booking on www.irishnationalstud.ie.
Wicklow Gaol, Wicklow town
The tour, by an actor playing a former jailer, takes about 1.5 hours. Open Monday
- Sunday, 10.30am – 4.30pm, with coffee shop. Not accessible for prams or
wheelchairs. Family ticket costs €19.00.Booking available online. Easter Egg Hunt
on Easter Sunday and Easter Monday. See www.wicklowshistoricgaol.com.
GAA Museum, Croke Park, Clonliffe Road
Open Monday - Saturday 09:30 - 17:00; Sunday 12:00 - 17:00. Easter Egg trail on
Easter Sunday and Monday. Advance booking advisable on www.crokepark.ie/
GAA-Museum. Tour includes all areas and access to museum, and takes about
1.5 hours.
Ardgillan Castle Demesne, Skerries (signposted from M1)
194 acres of rolling grassland, with formal gardens; an adventure playground with
the best view in Ireland (towards the Irish Sea); a coffee shop and a historic Castle, with tours available. There are good cycling routes and picnic tables. Easter
Egg Hunt on Easter Sunday (small fee). See www.ardgillancastle.ie.
The Butlers Chocolate Experience run 2 different tours in their Clonshaugh factory. Cost is €7-€12 for either adults or children, and infants are free. The more
expensive tour involves decorating a chocolate figure to bring home, and takes 1.5
hours (see review in Thursday Club’s piece below). www.butlerschocolates.com
National Maritime Museum, Dun Laoghaire (www.mariner.com)
An excellent day out, especially if you take the DART to the museum, in a restored
church near the Marine Hotel. Stop by The Metals playground on the way. Museum is self-guided, and has various exhibits, many of which are “touch friendly”.
Staff are volunteers and are very helpful. Open 11am-5pm daily. Family ticket
costs €10.00.
Newbridge Demesne, Donabate (off M1, before Donabate)
Again, tours available around historic house within parkland with adventure playground. There is also a petting zoo with various farm animals and birds, and a picnic area. Admissions apply - playground free. Easter egg hunts take place—see
www.newbridgehouseandfarm.com
for details,. April - May 2013
All Saints News,
7
8
All Saints News,
April - May 2013
Raheny with Coolock Mothers’ Union
We had the pleasure of welcoming two of our young parishioners to
our meetings in January and February.
Thank you to Andrea Lazenby Simpson who gave us a terrific talk,
with slides, on some of the paintings in the National Gallery. As well
as pointing out minute details in the paintings Andrea also gave us information on the artists.
Emma Banks came to us in February with a talk on meditation - she
had us very relaxed at the end of the evening and gave us good advise
on how to deal with stresses and strains of everyday living. Thank you
Emma.
On Monday 4th March 40 members and friends enjoyed a delicious
lunch in Clontarf Golf Club. We were delighted to be joined by Jim
and Valerie. They will both be sorely missed by our Branch. Jim has
been a great supporter of the Mother’s Union over the years, never
missing an opportunity to promote our organisation and its work
throughout the world. We wish them a happy and long retirement.
One of our members Kay Beckett passed away recently. Kay was a
valued member of our Branch over the years and we express our sympathy to her family. We also send condolences to our member Ena
Stringer on the passing of her husband Bill.
At our meeting on Monday 7th April we will be discussing the future of
our Branch - all ideas welcome.
On Monday 13th May we will be hosting the North Dublin Area Service.
Dorothy Carroll
All Saints News,
April - May 2013
9
Parish Stewardship (Envelopes) 2012
The Parish recorder acknowledges receipt of the following
amounts through the Christian Stewardship envelope scheme during 2012. There are considerable tax advantages to the Parish in
subscribing your collection through the envelope scheme and anyone wishing to join should contact the Parish Recorder, Carole
Frawley at 8465020.
1
4
€106.00
€636.00
35
36
€561.00
€765.00
67
68
€110.00
1,700.00
5
6
7
8
9
11
12
14
15
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
34
€20.00
€246.50
€487.97
€288.00
€265.00
€265.00
€54.00
€360.00
€159.00
€168.30
€810.00
€194.00
€750.00
€727.00
€520.00
€40.00
€265.00
€370.00
€371.00
€265.00
€985.00
€530.00
1,590.00
€220.00
€120.00
1,325.00
37
38
39
40
41
42
43
44
45
46
49
50
51
52
53
54
55
56
57
58
59
60
62
63
64
66
€530.00
€199.85
€914.00
€529.00
€530.00
€750.00
€260.00
€512.00
€250.00
€147.10
€260.00
€530.00
€340.00
€159.91
€260.00
€624.00
€14.45
€216.00
€800.00
€160.00
€269.00
€100.00
€355.00
€50.00
€14.27
€520.00
69
70
71
72
73
75
76
77
78
79
81
82
83
84
85
86
88
89
93
94
95
100
€530.00
€260.00
€390.00
€1,060.00
€315.00
€265.00
€309.00
€250.00
€85.03
€75.00
€460.00
€420.00
€90.00
€27.82
€46.00
€20.00
€6.00
€230.00
€390.00
€615.00
€165.00
11.93
TOTAL
10
All Saints News,
April - May 2013
€30,589.13
The JAM (Jesus and Me) Club
It is usual at this me of the year to plan a sponsored walk for our charity, which this year, as you
know, is Focus Ireland. Sponsorship cards will be
available shortly for the children and we look forward to your generous support. The walk will take
place around Raheny on Sunday 12h May 2013.
This will be followed by a coffee morning in the
hall, also in aid of Focus Ireland.
A cheque will be presented to Ms. Joyce Loughnan, Chief Execuve of FI,
at the Family Service on Sunday, 26th May 2013.
One of my greatest joys on a Sunday morning over almost 8 years has
been to see the children of the JAM Club come and share. Another joy is
to have some of those children now as leaders and junior leaders.
We are blessed to have so many children and young people in our Parish
Family and to help nuture them, along with so many others, in their spiritual path, has been a real privilege.
The JAM Club has an amazing leadership team, and I sincerely thank past
and present leaders for their tremendous love and commitment as without you it would not happen !
There is no denying I will miss you all but look forward to keeping in
touch through the ASN and other means of communicaon.
With my love, thanks and many blessings,
Valerie
Valerie Carroll
JAM Club Coordinator
All Saints News,
April - May 2013
11
WORLD DAY OF PRAYER SERVICE
Psalms 29:2 Ascribe to the Lord the glory due his name;
worship the Lord in the splendour of holiness.
Each year we celebrate the World Day of Prayer on the first Friday
in March. This year the service was prepared by the Christian Women of France and based on the 25th chapter of St. Matthew’s gospel
“I was a stranger and you welcomed me”. Joining our parishioners
from All Saints’ and St. John’s were our brothers and sisters from
Our Lady Mother of Divine Grace.
We were also delighted to have a group of children from our Parish
School, Springdale, to dramatise the gospel reading - many thanks to
their teacher, Ms. Carol Jackson, for preparing them so well.
Thank you to Mrs Irene Hoysted for speaking at the service and for
bringing the Word to life.
Thank you also to Mrs. Sylvia Ayling for playing the organ and to all
who read so beautifully. Following the service everyone was treated
to afternoon tea in the hall, and many thanks to the Mothers’ Union
for preparing such a beautiful spread.
Valerie Carroll
Psalms 95:6 Oh come, let us worship and bow
down; let us kneel before the Lord, our Maker!
◊
◊
◊
◊
HOUSE PLANTS—TOP TIPS FOR THE SUMMER
Increase watering intervals.
Liquid feed all indoor plants every six weeks.
If you have indoor fruit trees, water every ten
days or until dry. They benefit greatly from being fertilised. The key ingredients are zinc, iron
and manganese.
Pot bound plants should be potted on to bigger
size pots, with free draining soil mixed with
ground seaweed.
12
All Saints News,
April - May 2013
Top Gardening Tips for April/ May
By Andrea Lazenby Simpson
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Regular mowing of the lawn is important from now on. Also, lawns
can be looking scalded and burned, so scarifying and moving with a
bagger is recommended (the bag will collect scarified grass).
If there is frost damage on plants, it should be pruned or severely cut
back.
Plants in pots should be lightly pruned and a well balanced feed applied every six weeks.
As the weather warms up, perennials will start growing. To control
slugs, use beer traps, crushed shells or grit. A cauon: Slug pellets are
effecve on slugs, but they may also poison birds that eat the pellets
or the slugs.
Hard surfaces will benefit from hand weeding, cleaning with power
washers, and the raking of gravel areas to remove debris and moss
from the winter.
Prepare beds for summer flowers: dig in FYM and ground seaweed.
Clip winter flowering Heathers before new growth begins.
Now is the me to plant summer-flowering bulbs. Recommended
bulbs are:
- Nerine
- Amaryllis Belladonna
- Lilium Star Gazer
- Lilium Pink Perfecon
- Lilium Regal
(the Lilies will produce a lovely scent on warm evenings)
In the Green House, plant flowering tubers (dahlias and begonias), for planng out in May.
Sow summer bedding now.
Sow tender vegetable seed now and, once germinated, start to
liquid feed before planng out in mid May.
Start your herb seeds.
All Saints News,
April - May 2013
13
The Preacher’s Book …
… 21 Years of Marginal Notes
The Preacher’s Book kept in the vestry carries a record of the names of
the clergy taking services, the attendance, number of communicants, amount of
offerings and who preached the sermon. (It does not tell the length of the sermon!)
For many people the most interesting column is the one headed “observations”.
This is where you find the details of marriages, baptisms, funerals and special
days. We also find notes on visitors, events and even the weather.
When Jim Carroll was installed on Friday, 20th March 1992 the book records an
attendance of 322 (where did they fit them all?) including Archbishop Caird and
Reverend Gordon Linney, Maurice Stewart, John Paterson, Gillian Wharton, David Rea and Bruce Pierce. A collection of IR£389.43 was taken up (“a lot of money in those days”!)
Gillian Wharton and Bruce Pierce were curates in the parish as were Lionel
Mackey and Neal O’Raw at a later stage. Neal who is currently a pastor in Killala
recorded his final service in Raheny with a note of “Raheny – a nicer bunch of
people you’d never meet!” While the training of curates must have placed a burden on Jim the loss of a full time curate for Raheny and Coolock placed an increased responsibility on the rector.
There are frequent appearance by the Rev. T.F. (sometimes Frank or Proinsias)
Blennerhasset who had retired as rector of Howth and whose assistance was
welcomed. His absence for a period (due to illness) is followed on 27 August
1996 with “Canon Blennerhasset resumes ministry. Deo Gratias”. He was frequently recorded as taking Wednesday morning or Sunday evening services although in high summer his note reads “non satis” when there was no congregation.
The first appearance of a donkey on Palm Sunday comes in 1995. Later that
year on 13 September we have! “Church flood lighting installation” and then on
10 October “floodlights damaged”. There is no record of how the damage was
repaired but on All Saints Day Archbishop +Donald of Dublin is recorded as dedicating the floodlights.
Weather was not always ‘clement’! On 24 November 1996 it was “very wet”, on
Wednesday 11 April 1999 it was “snow! inches!”, while on 16 December 2001 it
was “cold!” A rector hoping for a white Christmas on 25 December 2004 noted “a
flaking of snow”. In more recent times during late 2010 we find 28 November
“snowing”, 1 December “snowing” and 23 December “snow”.
The Preachers’ Book provides its own evidence of major events. In late 2009
All Saints
News, recording
April - May
2013 in the vestry after
there are a14
number of ballpoint
entries
flooding
storms while the fountain pen copperplate entries in what the Department of Education used describe as “good quality black ink” are obliterated by water damage.
The next few years have many entries of events related to Roof Restoration
Fund. We have the Bible Reading Marathons, Classical and, Third Day Chorale.
Welsh Choir Concerts, Christmas tree and lights, ringing of bell after restoration,
presence of film crew (BBC filming Ripper Street).
The major entries in the observations column record the funerals, the marriages
and the baptisms. All the major events in the lives of the parish community are
recorded. Many of the names will be well known to members of the parish. Some
will not.
And there is so much more: A Sunday morning RTE broadcast service, Gillian
Wharton’s final service and later Martha Waller’s first, Springdale carols and end
of year services (1993 ‘25p for collection received late’), Margaret Lamb’s Organ
Fellowship, Valerie leading Women’s World Day of Prayer in 1996, on St Patrick’s Day 1998 the service taken by Séamas Ó Cearbhaill, (some years earlier
Gillian Wharton is recorded as taking the service “as Gaeilge agus as Béarla”) in
December 1999 “The Spirit of Christmas” by Jack Simpson, the dedication of the
refurbished stained glass windows by a daughter of the parish Rev. Andrea Wills
and so much more.
Recent months show a very active parish. The second Bible Reading Marathon
followed by parish confirmation and 125th anniversary of founding of Mothers’
Union, followed shortly thereafter
by the
presentation
of a2013
beech tree15
to the
All Saints
News,
April - May
Church of Our Lady of Divine Grace to mark their Golden Jubilee and most recently the World Day of Prayer for all the local churches.
And on top of all of these we have 21 years, over 1,000 weeks of Sunday and
midweek services, Advent and Lent, Christmas Easter, Pentecost and ‘Ordinary
Time’, the happy days and sad ones, the days when the sun beamed from the
sky, the bright dawns over Dublin Bay as well as the storms and snow recorded in
the book. We will, in due course, have a new rector and there will be more services and more events. We will, however, cherish the happy memories of the
twenty one years Jim Carroll has served this parish. And if you leaf through the
Preacher’s Book you will also in future times miss the neat copperplate handwriting of someone who was properly taught to form his letters on Vere Foster copybooks using the red and blue lines.
A Fond Memory of Jim …
On the 20th of March 1992, All Saints’ Raheny was the venue of
the service of institution of our newly-appointed Rector for the parishes of Raheny and Coolock. Just prior to that, I made it my business to find out something about this man who was coming to our
parishes, with such an impressive CV; educated at Belcamp College, Oblate Seminaries
in Dublin at Kilkenny, St Deniols in Wales and the Church of Ireland Theological College, he is also a graduate of Pittsburgh University and was formerly Chaplain in the
University of Arizona.
So, it was with a certain amount of trepidation that I telephoned Jim, in February 1992,
to arrange to see him. He graciously invited me to come and meet him at the Curate’s
house in St Patrick’s Cathedral group of parishes, situated on the South Circular Road,
Dolphin’s Barn.
First impressions are often memorable, and I recall with fondness how I was received
with great warmth and friendliness. Far from my expectation of an autocratic academic
in the style of a 20th-centry Pharisee or Scribe, I discovered very quickly that here was
a man who was motivated by the life of Jesus Christ, experienced and lived.
I had anticipated a meeting, lasting about 10 minutes, but was somewhat taken aback
when Jim produced dinner (by his own fair hand) - I do not remember whether there
were three or four courses, but never mind the quantity, it was the quality that counted.
After a fruitful Ministry, and 21 years on, it is nearing the time when Jim and Valerie
will leave Raheny and Coolock, opening the way for a new Pastor to minister among
us. Jim and Valerie, you will leave us with many joyful memories, and you will carry
with you the remembrance of the joys and heartbreak of the flocks that you have shepherded during your time of pastoring here. As you vacate the parishes, be assured that
you will bring with you to Wexford the love and good wishes of us all.
Wishing you both good health and happiness, and God’s richest blessings, in your new
phase of life together.
David C. Rea, Diocesan Lay Minister
16
All Saints News,
April - May 2013
Our Jim …
When the concept of putting a few
words together about how one man can
interact so meaningfully with people of all ages
was first mooted, the task seemed daunting.
However when I sat down to think about it, and
discussed the task with my family it suddenly
became incredibly easy. As a family we have 3
generations that are actively involved in the parish and are in regularly in contact with Jim, our
Rector and our Friend.
My Mum Sylvia when asked for her thoughts about Jim said that there are a number of aspects of his ministry that she has grown to love:
•
His uncanny ability to remember names and to be able to preach without reference
to notes is amazing. This is a quality that makes everyone who receives a mention
feel particularly special.
•
His great belief in LOVE and the way that he has blossomed since Valerie has come
into his life. She has brought him out from behind the protective glass shield and
made him a man of the peoples as well as our priest.
•
The fact that he has slowed down the pace of our services to give time for reflection
has brought greater meaning to our worship.
My daughter Emma, or Emma Sylvia as Jim will always addresses her, has a special bond
with Jim ,especially through sport. He never fails to ask her about whether she had a Hockey Match on Saturday, and if so did she win and not just that did she score. This is just the
latest manifestation of the bond between them, a bond that commenced the day he baptised
her. It is not a bond that is unique to her, but one that exists with every child he meets, and
it is delightful to see how he interacts the JAM Club and the pupils of Springdale School at
their level.
As for myself I have so many meaningful moments I could write about but there is one
striking moment that meant so much to me and my family that I will relate to you. On the
day of Rachel’s Confirmation we invited Jim and Valerie to join with us to celebrate this
great event in Rachel’s life. It was a special occasion and Mark took the opportunity to say
a few words to mark (pardon the pun) the event, as did Rachel’s God Father. Jim then
asked to be allowed to say a few words, and what resonates with me is the fact that he expressed how honoured he felt to be part of our family celebration.
Jim and Valerie - Your departure from our Parish will leave a big void in our parish. We
have grown to love you both and we will miss you, but, God speed you on your journey
into retirement which we hope will be long, healthy and happy.
All Saints
News, Families
April - May 2013
Lynn Skelton, On behalf of the Skelton
/ Bolger
17
Jim: Your Parish Life
Above left: Your first Christening in the parish - with baby Beth Hayden, in December
1992. (With thanks to the Hayden family for
this photo.)
Above right: Receiving award for winning the Diocesan Awards for Best
Church Newsletter, for the second year in a row (May 2003). Photographed
with Peter Orford, Samuel Lamb and Archbishop Eames. (With thanks to
Sam Lamb for this photo.)
Below left: PalmSunday, 2004 at the Village Green “Bethphage”, with David
C. Ray. (With thanks to Peter Orford for this photo.)
Below right: Smiling, even as you are being soaked (in aid of Parish funds!),
Strawberry Fair, 2011. (With thanks to Peter Orford for this photo.)
18
All Saints News,
April - May 2013
in Photos!!
Clockwise from top left:
1. Jim and Sen. Fergal Quinn promoting
the Bible Reading Marathon in 2011;
2. Seamus Puirseil, Roger Stirling, Eileen
Dunne, Brian Leonard and Jim at the
same event in 2012.
3. The Roof Restoration Committee
(Roger Stirling is absent from photo) in
March 2013, following successful conclusion to committee’s activities. (images 1
and 3 thanks to P. Orford)
4. At the Parish Picnic in Malahide Castle
in 2012. (image thanks to V. Carroll)
5. Jim with the members of Springdale NS
Green Team, including Mrs K. Hogan.
6. Jim holding up the order of service at
the opening of the new Springdale NS
building (Oct. 2010), with the school’s oak
leaf emblem. (images 5 and 6 thanks to D.
Vincent)
All Saints News,
April - May 2013
19
Some fond memories of Jim and Valerie ...
In 1995, after a Wednesday morning service, Jim asked me to be Church
warden for the next year. I was always more of a background person but
walking home afterwards, I felt like I was walking on air. Jim actually
believed I would be able to perform all the duties of Church warden.
In the next year, with George Jackson, we attended every Sunday service.
I also attended every wedding and funeral service, sometimes helped by
my close and kind friend Jean Wildgust. During that year Jim and Valerie
became engaged and in August married. We also had a live TV broadcast
of our Sunday service in the RTE studios which was very daunting but also very exciting.
It was a wonderful year in my life. I got to know so many more members of
the parish and felt I was doing a really worthwhile job. Jim really inspired
me and I thank him so very much. He has been a wonderful rector and
friend over the years and he will be sorely missed. Have a happy, healthy
and peaceful retirement Jim and Valerie. You both deserve it.
With very best wishes, Jacky Doak.
************************************************************
I grew up in Raheny and I was always
encouraged by my Mum to get involved
in the parish which I did. When Jim
arrived I had not really been a regular
attender, but Jim in his inimitable style
had a way of drawing you into the parish and making you feel so welcome.
When our first child arrived I remembering Jim welcoming myself and Declan with Clara from the altar, Jim has a lovely way of making you feel
special, and as our family grew and Darragh and Cianna arrived we felt
more welcomed and an integral part of the wonderful parish Raheny was
and still is today.
Jim christened each of our children and encouraged them with Valerie
to get involved in the Sunday service by reading and doing the prayers.
The readings our children have done over the years have been fantastic
20
All Saints News,
April - May 2013
While helping in the Jam club it has been a pleasure to work as part of
Valerie’s team. She has done tremendous work to grow our Jam club to
what it is today and she should be immensely proud of this achievement.
Farewell to Jim & Val, thank you both for your core Christian values
which I will always try to keep in my heart. Debbie O’Flaherty
-------------------------My earliest memories of rector Jim was standing up on the altar being encouraged to get involved and answer question. There is no wrong answer
with Jim he takes everyone opinion on board. I wish him the very best and
I will never forget him.
Darragh O'Flaherty
------------------------When I think of Jim, I think of his ‘healing
hands’ and how they helped me on more
than one occasion. I will miss him, but wish
him and Valerie God’s blessing for the future.
Sylvia Vincent
∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞
I was honoured to serve on the Board of
Management of Springdale N.S. for many years. Jim was Chairperson. During
this time the school was rebuilt. Jim conducted every meeting with grace and humility. Many mornings as I drive to work I pass Jim as he walks up to the school,
in all weathers, often in sandals!! to take assembly. It is a nice start to my day.
Linda Vincent-Hayden
-------------------------When I was a young boy my Dad taught me how to shake hands firmly. Jim always compliments me on my handshake. Whenever we speak I always come
away feeling good about myself. Thank you Jim……
Luke Hayden (22)
∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞
My earliest memory of Jim is his visits to our morning assemblies in Springdale
N.S. We were always glad to see him coming through the door with a big warm
smile on his face. A more recent memory was last October, when he rang me up
to sing Happy Birthday to me on the morning of my birthday. Jim and I have belonged to the parish for about the same length of time. I was the first child he baptised, something he doesn’t hesitate to mention to the congregation whenever I’m
there !! We will all miss you Jim and look back on your time here with fond memories……
Beth Hayden (20)
Please see photo of Beth and Jim, dating to December 1992, on page 18
All Saints News,
April - May 2013
21
Our Rector’s Churchwarden, Jenny, who has
done such a wonderful job of welcoming all to
Sunday morning services and assisting Jim every week, recounts an early memory of Jim …
My first memory of Jim is from my very first visit to All
Saints’ Church. We were in the process of moving nearby
and I was staying in my mother-in-law’s house. On Sunday
morning I arrived at the beautiful church with my two eldest children and received a wonderful welcome at the front
door from the parishioners. We sat in the front row and it wasn’t long before Jim came
and introduced himself to us, enquiring about where we were from and warmly welcoming
us into the parish. I settled in for a nice, comfortable service when out of the blue (to me!)
Jim started talking about me and the kids from the pulpit! While it definitely surprised
me, there was something extremely touching about his openness and sincerity and I truly
felt that he had been listening to me and cared about these new little sheep joining the
flock. Later on, as I mingled with the mothers in JAM club, Debbie O’Flaherty said to me
with great love and affection, ‘Bet you were surprised back there! That’s Jim!’. How
right she was. That IS Jim. He lets us know how much he, and the Lord, sees us, hears us
and loves each one of us. I feel so lucky to have spent the time I have in his presence.
Jenny Wilson O’Raghallaigh
22
All Saints News,
April - May 2013
A Special Interview with … Rev. Jim Carroll
Our editor, Andrea, had the pleasure
of interviewing Jim, before his upcoming retirement, and asking him
about his vocation, his time in Raheny, and even his favourite film!
Andrea (A): Jim, Thank you for being so welcoming when we first came
along to the parish, I do realise that
I’m only a “newcomer” in Raheny.
Now, I believe there are connections
between Guinness and your family,
tell me about them …
Jim (J): Yes, my Dad and my Mum’s
Dad worked in Guinness and his Dad
worked in Guinness. We lived on the Naas Road in Inchicore. I was born in the Rotunda,
and I went to school in Clondalkin. I really enjoyed that, I had a great favourite in one of the
Nuns, Sister Bernadette, and she really loved me, and I sensed that.
A: Was there any particular person or event that inspired you to take a vocation?
Well, I grew up in Inchicore, and there is a famous [big] church there, and I was an altar boy
there and I loved that, so that’s where it probably began. But then when I moved on, and I
saw that there were clergy married with families, I began to question “Why can’t I minister
from a family?”, so eventually, pursuing that, I transitioned to the Church of Ireland and
then I met Valerie and married.
A: And you have travelled far and wide – you spent some time in Liverpool (my home
from home, incidentally!), and in America? Tell me about that.
Yes, Liverpool was my first official assignment [Jim’s first parish was Norris Green, in
north-west Liverpool, which is a large area of Council housing that was and is still is very
disadvantaged]. I was 25 years old.
A: Is that scary, walking into a new parish, in a new place in a new city?
It is, and then having to visit, and especially on a Friday evening, we were supposed to go
around and collect money for the Parish. One or two of the older guys (Priests) would be out
and back long before me – they would go out at 4 o’clock and would be back by 7pm, and I
wouldn’t come back until after 10! And they would have more money than I had!
I didn’t like that aspect, but I loved the people and I lived a year there. Then I moved to
Rock ferry in Birkenhead for 3 years [Rock Ferry is a town, really a suburb of Liverpool, on
the Wirral, facing the city – accessible by the iconic ferry]. I really loved that! I made great
friends there, and I was also a Chaplain in the school – Rock Ferry Convent. I was 25, and
the 6th formers were 18, so that was great fun! And I kept in touch, and still do, with several
of the students over the years. While I lived in Rock Ferry, I became great friends with Dr
Derek Morton – he stayed with us. The reason he stayed with us was that each of us had a
telephone beside the bed, which was unusual in those days. The changes now!
Saints Centre
News, nearApril
- May 2013
23
And then I moved from there to aAll
Retreat
Crewe.
A: That must be a different sort of a role in Ministry?
It is yes, it was more reflective and we did a lot of teen’s retreats. I particularly remember
that there was a girls’ school in London called Marymount International School, and they
used to come up at the start of the year in September/October. The staff used to find that
if the girls came, bus loads used to come up, it made a big impact on the life of the
school. And we used to go down to the school for the Christmas Eucharist and the end-of
year graduations in June.
It is interesting that Oliver Mc Quillan [who is performing the Dr Luther Play on Palm
Sunday] – his sister was associated with that order [Religious of the Sacred Heart of
Mary], and she was based just north of New York in Tarrytown.
A: And were you in America yourself?
Yes I was, I spent some time in Pittsburg – I was studying a Masters in Spirituality in
Pittsburg and then I went to Arizona. All the time, I had in the back of my mind that I
was going to leave the Order, because I felt that I should be ministering out of a family
community. Ministry was first and foremost in my mind, and that was the case when it
came to any relationships that I had. It’s great that I have Valerie, she appreciates that
Ministry is important to me.
A: And she does her own Ministry, along with a full-time job!
Oh yes, certainly. And now she’s enjoying her retirement.
A: When were you ordained as a Deacon and where was your first ministry?
I am celebrating the 50th year of my ordination as a Deacon this year, on the feast of St
Mark. In the Roman Catholic church, the Deaconate isn’t so important, whereas in the
Church of Ireland, they place greater emphasis on the Deaconate, so that’s what I will be
celebrating on 25th April [which is just before Jim’s last service before his retirement].
And later on, in December 1964, I was ordained priest, and then in the Summer of 1965, I
went to Liverpool, and before that, I did a summer supply in a place called Cronton, near
Widnes [between Liverpool and Manchester].
There was an elderly couple who lived in the house beside the Rectory called the Farrells.
He was a builder and he used take me for a drive at night in his big car out onto the M6,
because they were building the M6 at that time ! I think Owen Farrell [English Rugby
player] is his grandson. The family were big into Rugby League in Widnes.
And then I went to a place called Padgate, and Dorothy and Malcolm Banks’ house was
divided by the boundary wall of the Rectory in the parish that I worked in. That was
1965, and they were only a young married couple at that time. So there was a bond between us, and I could feel that bond with Malcolm, right through until he died.
A: You were destined to be here, Jim, in a roundabout way.
Furthermore, my mother’s brother, Tom Knox, lived across the road from All Saints’
Church, on the Howth Road. In the 1950’s, we used to visit and it was like going to the
country, with the old Manhattan bar. My Aunt used to give us ice-cold milk and some
cake that she got in a local shop, a sponge cream cake with jam, and we were always told
that it was a mortal sin to go into that Church opposite – this magnificent building!
A: Did you ever look in?!
And then to come back
No – I never
I just
admiredApril
the -architecture.
Allbut
Saints
News,
May 2013
24did [he smiles],
years later to minister, to serve the people, and be loved by the people, it’s great.
A: Do you remember when you first came to Raheny? It must have been a very busy
time!
When I first came to Raheny, the thing I found difficult was living in that big house on
my own!
A: Yes, I realise that you had lived a long time in a community lifestyle.
Except for the 2 years I lived in Valerie’s parish, I wasn’t used to living on my own. I
found that lonely.
A: Jim, I think you’re really a people person!
But I can equally be on my own and enjoy my own company. I get up every morning, and
I am happy to jog on the beach and be on my own. I like that too. I’m between extrovert
and introvert according to the Myers Briggs Test!
A: Are there any particular aspects of your vocation that you feel are particularly rewarding?
I love Springdale – the 6th class were sharing their thoughts around the theme of family
today. I enjoy weddings, christenings, and in a strange way, I also enjoy funerals. I find it
rewarding being able to share people’s grief and support them and be with them.
A: Do you have any special memories from your time in Ministry?
I would say the happiest moment was when Alexander [Marnane] knocked at the hall
door on Christmas Eve in the snow to see Valerie. He came in with his Dad, and he sat up
on the sofa in front of a blazing fire, with the feet out, and he drank his drink and looked
at Valerie. And he came back the next year, with you.
A: That’s right! [we hadn’t long moved to the parish]
LEFT:
This looks like Jim
walking up the red
carpet to receive
an Oscar!! It is, in
fact, Jim at a
much more special event—the
opening of the
new Springdale
National School in
October 2010.
Image with thanks
to Deryck Vincent.
All Saints News,
April - May 2013
25
A: Do you have any regrets from your time in Ministry?
Not so much a regret, but I feel that when I came here first, I spent too much time in
Beaumont, because there were people there from all over the country, and it was a busy
job.
A: Yes, in addition to 2 parishes to run!
If I was starting again, I would say – have a Chaplain in Beaumont, and let the Rector of
Raheny and Coolock be the Rector.
A: You have been very involved in Church 21 – can you tell me a little more about that
initiative?
The most important thing is just putting the scripture into practice. The Minister is not
just the Ministry - the children have a Ministry, and the teens have a Ministry – you have
a Ministry, and we’re all in this together, and in some way, the priest is meant to empower all of that, and encourage all of that. That’s why to welcome everyone is important,
because you all bring phenomenal gifts, and we encourage you to use them. The young
and the old; Bring them all in and help them acknowledge their giftedness, and use those
gifts for others.
That is what Church 21 is all about. We’re moving to the future, and the Church is not
meant to be a hierarchy – we’re all in this together. Church 21 is to get back to simplicity
about Jesus’ message and involve everybody. Developing a relationship with Jesus is
key as Pope Francis said on Thursday at his first Eucharist with the Cardinals.
A: If you weren’t a priest, is there any other profession or vocation you might have
pursued?
I was interested in being a doctor, and I enjoyed hospital chaplaincy, particularly having
ministered in the States in the Good Samaritan Medical Centre in Arizona and in Scotsdale Memorial Hospital. Then, more recently, I was Chaplain in Beaumont Hospital. That
was a wonderful experience – I was Chaplain for 13 years, until Desiree came in 2005. I
met people from all over the country. So I had the combination of working in a hospital
and ministering as a priest. You learn from every encounter. If you try to be in tune with
people, again you get tremendous love and you find that you’re getting more than you’re
giving!
A: When did you and Valerie marry and when did she take over as JAM Club leader?
We married in August in 1995 in the old church of St. Audoen in Cornmarket. It was a
beautiful day, and my Mum, my brother Norman and my four sisters were there. At first,
it was strange to introduce Valerie as my wife! She’s such a great support. She founded
the JAM Club in 2005.
A: OK, I know you have a very busy work life – can you give us an idea of a “day in the
life of” yourself?
Today, I have a meeting, but I do try and limit meetings. I don’t really like mobile
phones, as I find you have more freedom without them. Prayer obviously would be very
important. I go for a walk or jog on the beach in the mornings, and then I come home and
have a bowl of porridge and honey. Valerie and I often go for a walk together. Then, off
to the school for assembly – I love that, and the staff are fantastic, and Stella is a great
leader. She has her finger on all the pulses [he clicks his fingers]! She empowers the chil-
26
All Saints News,
April - May 2013
dren, and they love her.
I go to the hospital, and the Hospice. In the afternoon I often visit people. I do a little bit
of writing for the All Saints’ News and the Church Review. I prefer not to be pressurised, but to have an experience and to write about that, as people identify with human
experience.
A: I firmly believe that with a sense of humour and patience you’ll go a long way!!
What do you feel are the most important qualities for any future Rector of the parishes of Raheny and Coolock, and is there any advice you would pass on to them?
Yes, a sense of humour, and being positive – people don’t want to hear about all the bad
things in the world. Also, don’t take yourself too seriously! Know that you’re only part
of it – it’s not “my” parish, but “our” parish.
A: And a few quick-fire questions! …
Are you superstitious? No, not at all – you have to trust Jesus to bless you, I think superstition can be associated with the sinister, but Dublin is full of superstition.
If you had a limitless choice (of food items!!), what would be your favourite dinner?
Sunday lunch with Valerie. I love Valerie’s home cooking. I enjoy services, and I love
to come home hungry after services, for lunch, especially in the winter when the fire
would be lit. Lamb chops with three vegetables and creamed and roast potatoes !
A: Delicious!
Do you have a favourite film? (what is it?) I don’t go to the cinema much, but The
Mission. It has famous music and South American scenery associated with it. I also remember going to see John Huston’s The Dead (Joyce’s book) in America. I remember
seeing it with Alice, who was a Nun, and who was a great support to me when I lived
there. She visited us in the Rectory, and Valerie sensed an aura around her in our home!
Do you have a favourite song/ piece of music? I love Choral Evensong from Christchurch or St Patrick’s Cathedral. I listen to that on the radio. I love classical music, and
particularly plain chant. I was in Glenstal Abbey last Summer, and it was lovely to hear
the monks singing plain chant.
My favourite musical piece is Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring. When Valerie and I were
preparing to marry, we heard that piece everywhere.
If you ever have time to relax, what do you like to do in your spare time? Reading,
walking, jogging, and working with wood. I’d chat with God, and I’d be in tune with
him, even as I drive. I often speak with God after meetings such as this. All the people in
the parish of both All Saints’ and St John’s are beautiful, and leaving is going to be a
great grief.
A: And for us too, Jim.
THANK YOU, JIM!!
All Saints News,
April - May 2013
27
Confirmation
Thirteen of our young people from All Saints’ and St. John’s will
confirm their relaonship with Jesus on Sunday 14th April 2013
at 11.00 a.m. in St. John The Evangelist Church, Seafield Road,
Clontarf. Please keep Kae Agar, Louise Boardman, Laura
Creevey, Fionn Delaney, Martha Delaney, John Devine, Glen
Francis, Adam Hawkins, James Hogan, Thomas Long, Conaill
McNeill, Andrew Moss, and Robert Reid in your prayers.
Lynn Adams
COFFEE MORNINGS
For the last few months we have been holding a coffee morning
every Sunday after church and I feel it has been very well received. It is a good chance for parishioners to come together and
have a chat after Sunday-morning service.
I would really like to continue holding these coffee mornings and
have a great number of very willing volunteers to help on a rota
basis.
In order to keep the momentum going and I would love to recruit
some more people to go on this rota. This is not a very onerous
task and the more people we have the easier it will be.
If you would like to help out, please contact me and I
would be delighted to put you on the rota.
Many thanks,
Debbie O’Flaherty
0861049682
28
8333010
All Saints News,
April - May 2013
NOTICE RE: Church Review & Church Gazette
Thank you to all who continue to support the above by taking copies.
Special thanks to all who have paid for same and as the Parish must
now pay the Publishers I would ask the remaining people to let me
have payment as soon as possible.
The annual cost for the Review is €40 and Gazette €45.
Many Thanks,
Charlie Craig ([email protected] or 086-8291588)
Raising the Roof!
.
We are pleased to
announce the
launch of the All
Saints’ Church
Community
Cookbook!!
Hot off the press!
The book will be
available after services and in local
shops. This fine publication has been
made possible thanks
to the super bakers,
cooks, chutney and
jam-makers in the
parish. All funds will
go to the Memorial
Garden fund.
All Saints News,
April - May 2013
29
Our Journey With Jim ...
It took folks a while to get used to the new guy. When he shook your
hand you knew it had been shook and he looked you firmly in the eye and
called you Brother.
Jim Carroll caused people to become acve in parish life. His great skill
was to be able to do so quietly, almost unnoced, like a puppet-master unseen
backstage. If anyone had reservaons about what might happen to the parish
when Jim arrived, let them look at it now. Look what he's leaving behind.
My first official encounter with Jim was when Paula and I asked him in
1992 to join in celebrang our wedding, which was held in her home parish. Jim
wasn't going to just turn up on the day and pose for photographs. He invited us
to the Rectory for breakfast at an ungodly 8 a.m. one Saturday and put us
through some formal quesoning aimed at tesng our commitment and resolve.
We might not have chosen to do this; it certainly wasn't the path of least resistance, but with Jim – smiling, gentle-voiced Jim – resistance was fule. His
way turned out, of course, to be the right way. We were enriched by the process.
The day before our wedding Jim called to the house when I was composing my speech. He advised me that whatever I said should "come from in here,"
gently punching his heart. Elaboraon wasn't Jim's thing, but he didn't need to
say more.
Whilst I’d flown to pastures new, our family remained acve in All
Saints' and my parents and sisters were fond of Jim and of Valerie when she became part of his life and the life of the parish. Our next significant engagement
with him came when he ministered so fantascally to my father during his –
Malcolm’s – illness and passing. The night my father was working his death, Jim
called to the house; I hadn't seen him for several years, but that meant nothing.
Sll the firm look in the eye. "Brother."
It was the first me I’d witnessed this side of a priest's work first-hand.
The best way I can think to put it is that Jim came to prepare my father for a
journey: to make sure his spiritual suitcase was properly packed, that the
transport would be on schedule and that they’d be ready for him at the other
end. I’ll never forget the energy – a real electrical charge – Jim generated in the
room, nor the deep personal effort he expended in making sure Dad would be in
heaven much more than the proverbial half-hour before the Devil knew he was
dead.
Jim visited again while I was preparing a speech for the funeral; he
looked me in the eye again and pointed and said, "From the heart, Brother."
30
All Saints News,
April - May 2013
When I delivered that speech in the church on All Saints’ Day Jim was siMng
beside me, out of sight of most of the congregaon, and I remember his reassuring touch on my arm at about the midway point. Unseen, crucial: the puppet-master.
A happier occasion, and my next encounter with Reverend Jim, was
the wedding of my sister Emma and Charles Ryan, again in the fabulous surroundings of All Saints' Raheny, of which Jim is so rightly proud. In his own
charismac way, Jim parcipated and celebrated with us like one of the family, and no one leO that house of God in any doubt as to what had occurred
there and why. There was another speech, also from my heart. In it I said of
Jim, "I have yet to meet anyone who is so genuinely and profoundly absorbed
in his vocaon."
For the latest of his Banks family events, Jim was on hand for the
bapsm of Aimée Rose Ryan. As always, Jim made the occasion holy, spiritual, and paid great aQenon to involving the whole family so that it was a day
to remember. There were no speeches.
What I admire most about Jim is his sincerity, and the authencity of
his work. His deep-rooted faith and his desire to share, in myriad ways, his
love of Jesus with everyone he meets, have touched so many, and have
shaped All Saints' into the vibrant parish it is.
The King James Bible, in John 1:47, reads "Jesus saw Nathaniel coming to him, and saith of him, Behold an Israelite indeed, in whom is no guile!" I
was reminded of it when I was asked to write this appreciaon. Taking a leaf
from Jim’s book, I don't need to elaborate.
It is a privilege to have shared even a small part of Jim’s twenty-two
year journey and it only remains to say – from the heart, Brother – Thank
you. Best wishes to Jim and Valerie in their rerement.
Neil Banks
LEFT: Image of Jim and Valerie at the opening of the new
Springdale National School
building.
Image with thanks to Deryck
Vincent.
All Saints News,
April - May 2013
31
Service Schedule for April
Sunday 7th April
09.00 hrs Holy Communion 1
10.00 hrs Holy Communion 1
Wednesday 10th April
10.00 hrs Holy Communion 2
Sunday 14th April
09.00 hrs Holy Communion 2
10.00 hrs Holy Communion 2
11.00 hrs Parish Confirmation Service at Clontarf Parish Church
19.00 hrs
Wholeness and Healing
Wednesday 17th April
10.00 hrs Holy Communion 2
Sunday 21st April
09.00 hrs Holy Communion 2
10.00 hrs Holy Communion 2
Wednesday 24th April
10.00 hrs Holy Communion 2
Sunday 28th April
09.00 hrs Holy Communion 2
10.00 hrs Family Eucharist
32
All Saints News,
April - May 2013
Service Schedule for May
Wednesday 1st May
10.00 hrs Morning Prayer
Sunday 5th May
09.00 hrs Holy Communion 1
10.00 hrs Holy Communion 1
Wednesday 8th May
10.00 hrs Morning Prayer
Saturday 11th May: Parish Barbeque at 5pm
Sunday 12th May
09.00 hrs Holy Communion 2
10.00 hrs Holy Communion 2 - Songs of Praise Service
19.00 hrs Wholeness and Healing
Wednesday 15th May
10.00 hrs Morning Prayer
Sunday 19th May
09.00 hrs Holy Communion 2
10.00 hrs Holy Communion 2
Wednesday 22nd May
10.00 hrs Morning Prayer
Sunday 26th May
09.00 hrs Holy Communion 2
10.00 hrs Family Eucharist
All Saints News,
April - May 2013
33
Valerie: Your Parish Life in Photos!!
Clockwise from
above:
1 & 2. Strawberry Fairs
in 2011 and 2012
3. Christmas JAM Club
Nativity, 2012.
4. Presentation of JAM
Club cheque to Guide
Dogs for the Blind,
2011.
5. Presentation of JAM
Club cheque to Huntington’s Disease Association of Ireland, 2012.
(Images thanks to D. Vincent and P. Orford)
Typically, in the JAM Club photos, Valerie is standing behind the children
All Saints
- May
2013
34 but allowing
- always there,
themNews,
to take April
centre
stage!
A Special Interview with …
Valerie Carroll
For this special issue, Fred is not interviewing a
parishioner, but our very special JAM Club leader, and Jim’s wife, Valerie.
Fred (F): OK, it’s the 12th March, and I am sitting here
talking to Valerie. Good afternoon, Valerie!
Valerie (V): Good afternoon, Fred!
F: Thanks very much for inviting me into your home.
V: You are very welcome.
F: Now, were you born on the northside or southside?
V: Southside.
F: Southside, ok. Any brothers or sisters?
V: No.
F: And where did you go to school?
V: Primary school I went to St. Catherine’s in Donore Avenue, and then I
went to Diocesan Secondary School for girls.
F: OK. When you left the Diocesan School, did you go to work immediately?
V: No, I went to Ross Secretarial College for one year, and was very fortunate. I did my exams in June of that year and went to work in September. I
went into Brown Brothers, in Lower Abbey Street.
F: What were they?
V: They were wholesalers and electrical distributors - that type of thing. I
was assistant to the cashier, and a shorthand typist.
F: Grand. How long did you stay in Browns, Valerie?
V: About 6 months, and then I went to work in Irish Biscuits. I was there for
seven years.
F: Sorry, was Irish Biscuits Jacobs or Bolands?
V: They had just merged, and it was Jacobs in Bishop Street, that’s where I
was working. I was in the delivery office, and I was one of about 20 people
taken on at the time, and we all went into the Delivery Office—everyone
started there as part of their training, and then you went to other departments form there.
F: Where did you go after working in Jacobs?
V: I went from there to the Cantrell and Cochrane group in Ballyfermot, and
I was there for 4 years, and I subsequently went to work in Aughinish Alumina.
F: And what were they? All Saints News,
April - May 2013
35
V: They were an alumina extracting plant.
F: Extracting alumina from what?
V: They extracted alumina from bauxite ore. Alumina is the raw material
for aluminium, which is exported around the world.
F: And from there, Valerie, where did you go?
V: From there, I went to the REHAB group, and I have just retired from
there after 281/2 years’ service.
F: Did you enjoy yourself there?
V: I did, yes. It was very different to the other places where I had worked.
F: OK Valerie, you have been connected with the Girls’ Brigade for
years, what company?
V: The 16th Company, St Luke’s. I started as soon as I could walk. My
Aunt was the Captain there, and my Mum used to help her out.
So, I suppose I was born into the company, and I remained there until
1997, when I retired. I grew up through the Company, through various
ranks and I was Captain for the last 11 years.
F: Your maiden name was Quill?
V: That’s right.
F: Any relation to the shops named Quill around the country?
V: Not that I’m aware of.
F: Now, you met Jim where?
V: In St Catherine’s & St James’ Church - we were introduced and shook
hands over a pew on 8th December 1989.
F: OK, and you were engaged when?
V: 12th May 1995.
F: Grand, and married on 9th August 1995. Jim was the clergyman
in that parish, was he?
V: He was, yes. He came to the parish to spend his 2-year curacy.
F: OK. So you were married where?
V: In St. Audeon’s, Cornmarket.
F: And then you moved to this parish?
V: No, Jim moved here in 1991, and then we married in 1995.
F: OK, but you knew him well before you moved in here?
V: Yes!
F: Jim has been here for 21 years, and now he’s retiring -isn’t that
correct?
V: That’s correct.
F: And you’re moving to ...?
V: Ferns in Wexford.
F: I wish you both all the best there. Thanks for everything you have
done. The number one most important thing you have done for us
was form the JAM [Jesus and Me] Club. And how long ago was
All Saints News,
April - May 2013
36
that?
V: 8 years. A huge success, and the kids love it!
F: Long may it continue. And thank you very much for the interview.
Now it’s photo time!
An Tribute to Valerie, from the JAM Club ...
And they brought young children to him, that he should touch
them: and his disciples rebuked those that brought them. But
when Jesus saw it, he was much displeased, and said unto
them, Suffer the little children to come unto me, and forbid
them not: for of such is the kingdom of God. Verily I say unto
you, Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a
little child, he shall not enter therein . And he took them up in
his arms, put his hands upon them, and blessed them.( Mark
10:13-16)
Through the ten years I've been living and participating in All Saints Parish, it has been clear to me that this is a parish that cherishes, celebrates
and nourishes its children. Initially the evidence of this can be seen Sunday after Sunday in the way that Jim welcomes the children to the altar
before blessing them and sending them out to JAM club.
Then I had children of my own and discovered a truth that was less obvious to observe yet equally vital. Quietly, with determination, commitment,
organisation and a great deal of loving kindness Valerie is behind the
scenes organising the JAM club weekly. She is, in essence, both the
heart and mind of the JAM club. She has gently and persuasively built a
dedicated team to lead JAM club week after week.
This enthusiastic team which Valerie nurtures co-ordinates and supports
is just part of the legacy that she will leave when she departs next month.
Valerie applies the same encouragement and persistent persuasion to
draw the many families and children into the JAM club. As a result we
have a large, vibrant and diverse group of children who participate
wholeheartedly in the life of our parish.
The strength of any community lies at least in part in how that community
nurtures and develops the children who will become the next generation
of volunteers, adults and parents. Valerie has provided a model of care
and leadership that will be both her legacy and her challenge to the JAM
club team she leaves behind. We will miss Valerie enormously. We wish
her happiness in her new home and we aspire to continue the work she
has been doing to the standard she has set.
Carol Conway (on behalf of the JAM club)
All Saints News,
April - May 2013
37
Now Jim, you must understand, that this is entirely tongue-incheek, as you have all the virtues and none of the vices of the oft
-berated Vicar eloquently described below by John Betjeman!
(and, we never blame you for anything!!)
Blame the Vicar
Written by John Betjeman
When things go wrong it's rather tame
To find we are ourselves to blame,
It gets the trouble over quicker
To go and blame things on the Vicar.
The Vicar, after all, is paid
To keep us bright and undismayed.
The Vicar is more virtuous too
Than lay folks such as me and you.
He never swears, he never drinks,
He never should say what he thinks.
And when we're rude he should be meek
And always turn the other cheek.
He should be neat and nicely dressed
With polished shoes and trousers pressed,
For we look up to him as higher
Than anyone, except the Squire.
Dear people who have read so far,
I know how really kind you are,
I hope that you are always seeing
Your Vicar as a human being,
Making allowances when he
His collar is the wrong way round,
Does things with which you don’t agree.
And that is why he's simply bound
But there are lots of people who
To be the sort of person who
Are not so kind to him as you.
Has nothing very much to do
But take the blame for what goes wrong So in conclusions you shall hear
About a parish somewhat near,
And sing in tune at Evensong.
Perhaps your own or maybe not,
For what's a Vicar really for
And of the Vicars that it got.
Except to cheer us up? What's more,
One parson came and people said,
He shouldn't ever, ever tell
“Alas! Our former Vicar’s dead!
If there is such a place as Hell,
And this new man is far more ‘Low’
For if there is it's certain he
Than dear old Reverend so-and-so,
Will go to it as well as we.
And far too earnest in his preaching,
The Vicar should be all pretence
We do not really like his teaching,
And never, never give offence.
He seems to think we’re simply fools
To preach on Sunday is his task
Who’ve never been to Sunday Schools.”
And lend his mower when we ask
That Vicar left and by and by
And organize our village fêtes
A new one came, “He’s much too ‘High’,”
And sing at Christmas with the waits
The people said, “too like a saint,
And in his car to give us lifts
His incense makes our Mavis faint.”
And when we quarrel, heal the rifts.
So now he’s left and they’re alone
To keep his family alive
Without a Vicar of their own.
He should industriously strive
The living’s been amalgamated
In that enormous house he gets,
Saints
News,
April -one
Maynext
2013 door they’ve always hated.
38 always payAll
With
And he should
his
debts,
For he has quite six pounds a week,
A Tribute to Jim …
from Springdale
National School
“Where’s Jim??” That’s the question I
have become used to hearing after assembly if Jim happens to be away and
it’s a clear indication of how much a
part of school life Jim is.
Jim with the sixth class of 2012-13
in the school hallway
From the moment he arrived, Jim made
it very clear that the children of the parishes were a priority for him. His
attendance at our thrice weekly assemblies is very important to all in the
school community and he makes time for a word with as many people as possible. His memory for names is legendary and he makes a real effort to ensure
that he knows the names of all the children in the school, so that he can address personal comment to them by name when they participate in leading
the school assembly. He is amused by the occasional lively “handful” (while
understanding the challenge that can be posed) but is equally quick to spot an
anxious little face and to enquire after the welfare of a troubled looking
child.
From the start Jim’s appearance was a source of great interest for the children. They love the fact that he too has a pair of “indoor shoes” in school
and that he changes into them each morning just like they have to do. In
fact his footwear has often given cause for comment. I remember the first
time that he arrived into school in sandals … the children took the best part
of a term to stop staring at his feet each morning! I was in the process of
reading The BFG to my class that Spring and the BFG describes his own toes
as “bumplehammers”. I could hear the same word being whispered excitedly
when Jim arrived next morning! In recent weeks, Jim arrived to school with a
shaving cut (which he was unaware of). The children were so concerned that
assembly almost had to be postponed for the day to allow a visit to A & E! He
assured everyone that he was fine, but further assurances were required
from teachers during the day and many couldn’t wait for our next assembly
so that they could check for themselves.
Jim’s love of sport is also something that endears him to staff and pupils
All Saints News,
April - May 2013
39
alike. He can discuss the merits of favourite teams with the rugby and soccer
fans after assembly and talks knowledgeably about recent games. He also uses
sport as a force for inclusion. When he discovered that one of our newly arrived pupils was a huge fan of Munster, and of Ian Keatley in particular, he
arranged for Ian to visit school assembly and to present the delighted youngster with one of his most prized shirts.
Conservation and green energy are other great passions of Jim’s and he has a
great interest in the school’s Green Committee. We are delighted that news of
our impending Green Flag arrived in time for Jim to enjoy it. He also has a
great interest in our school garden and it has not been unknown for him to arrive to school in a tracksuit to help with the cutting of the grass. The number
of volunteer grass collectors doubles when he’s around as the children love to
spend time just chatting to him.
The welcome at the Rectory has always been warm and friendly for members
of the school community, whether for interviews, meetings or sports days.
When news of Jim’s retirement broke, one of the first questions I was asked
was “where will we have our sports if we don’t have Jim’s garden?” He has
joined us there for so many events, cheering on our sports stars of the future
or joining in the spirit of the annual fancy dress walk.
As leader of our Church services, Jim has always been willing to be flexible
and to allow services to develop “Springdale style”! His encouragement of the
reticent and his positive encouragement of all involved has meant so much to
the generations of children who have graduated from the school. The Springdale blessing introduced by him, which felt so awkward at first for those of us
unused to it, has become a powerful symbol of “moving on” with the ever present support of the school community.
There was a feeling of stunned sadness in the school when Jim announced his
imminent retirement. Now that everyone has had time to process the information, we realise that what we should be doing is celebrating the blessings
this incredible man has brought to us. We have been lucky to have had him in
our midst for so long. We wish Jim and Valerie long life and happiness in this
new chapter of their lives. We’ll miss them both.
Ní bheidh a leithéid ann arís.
Stella Downes, Principal
All Saints News,
40
April - May 2013
A Note from Select Vestry …
Charities supported by All Saints’ Parish
Each year, many charities are assisted by parishioners through the Sunday morning coffee mornings, through special collections and through
other special events.
In addition, each November, the Select Vestry, on your behalf, agrees to
support certain charities directly from parish funds.
The charities supported in this manner in 2012 were:
The Bishops’ Appeal – the Church of Ireland’s campaign to support development and alleviate suffering in the less developed world, mainly through supporting sustainable development. The Bishops’ Appeal is also supported directly
by parishioners through coffee mornings and envelope collections.
Protestant Aid – established over 175 years ago, Protestant Aid works to relieve the horrors of poverty and deprivation in the Republic on a nondenominational basis and, through the Brabazon Trust, provides sheltered accommodation for elderly people.
The Salvation Army offers practical assistance to vulnerable and homeless
people.
Dublin Simon Community also works with homeless people in many ways
from their well-known ‘soup runs’ to supporting efforts to obtain housing.
ALONE works supporting, befriending and, where necessary, providing homes
for older people in need, especially those living alone.
Crosslinks is an Anglican international mission society whose priorities are
evangelism and training trainers to work in youth and student work, prison ministry etc. For some years, Crosslinks ran the children’s summer camp in All
Saints until we had our own leaders.
Mission to Seafarers provides help and support to the 1.3 million seamen and
women who help keep the global economy afloat. The Mission has a presence in
250 ports worldwide, including Dublin port, where it provides practical, emotional and spiritual support to seafarers through ship-visits and drop-in centres.
Focus Ireland was founded in 1985 by Sr Stanislaus Kennedy and works to
prevent people becoming, remaining or returning to homelessness. The Vestry
also made a donation to the Raheny conference of the Society of St Vincent De
Paul whose work to alleviate poverty is well known.
Brian Davison
All Saints News,
April - May 2013
41
The wonderful article below, recounting a trip taken by Hannah and
her family, was given to Jim, who in turn passed it on to me! What a
busy day -it wounds like it was a great trip! Thanks to Hannah for a
lovely piece - you’re a budding journalist. The Editor
A Harry Potter Trip
By Hannah Colbert, age 9 and almost 3/4
On mid-term break my family and I went to the Warner
Brothers studio in London to see the making of Harry Potter.
We got up at 5am and each packed a small bag with a lunch and cost. We
parked our car at the airport and flew to Luton in London and it was snowing
when we got there!
We rented a car for the day and drove for 25 minutes and we were there.
Inside, we saw the Great Hall and all the other sets. My favourite set was
Diagon Alley and the big model of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. I got to taste butter beer, Bertie Bott’s Every-Flavour Beans and took
lots of photos.
After the gift shop, we had dinner and dove back to the airport in more snow!
We got a teatime flight and were back home in Raheny by 8.30pm.
It was a brilliant trip, and I would give it ten out of ten!
42
All Saints News,
April - May 2013
Bowling Club Notes
We are fast approaching the end of yet another Bowling Season (our 44th in fact) and one
wonders where the years go. We have had a busy but very satisfying season and we have
acquitted ourselves well in the competitive arena. Our Miller Team reached the Quarter
Final stage before bowing out to a far superior team from White Church. The Rohu Team
also fell foul to White Church who romped away with the section, and went on to be beaten by one shot in the Final by our friends, neighbours and sister parish Coolock. Well
done lads on bringing the cup back to the north-side! We came respectable second in our
section, and had the 3rd highest number of points in the whole competition. Under the
circumstances we were very happy with this performance in light of the fact we lost a few
members and we were missing five of our best players who have retired from competitive
play.
It was unfortunate that we were unable to field a McIlwaine team this season, and it is
unlikely that we will have one next season either. However we may enter the Kerr Cup
where only 4 players are needed to make up a team. Our afternoon league team did well
and finished mid table in the actual league. We are very proud of our Rinks Team (i.e.
Michael O’Brien, Margaret McKenna, Lil O’Reilly and Anne Corrie) who will be meeting a team from Ringsend in the Final of that competition in the next few days. We wish
them good fortune.
This season we decided to invest in a new uniform for the teams and get rid of the green
jerseys that the night players wore and the navy ones used by the afternoon players. We
now have very nice Maroon coloured Jumpers with an update All Saints’ Logo. While
we were at it we also purchased white polo shirts embroidered with the logo for all team
players. There is a nice level of cross over between afternoon and evening players.
We had a very enjoyable Christmas Party that was well attended. We had the final of the
2 Bowl Competition which was won by Gretta Hardy, and was followed a night of fun
bowls. There were spot prizes galore as well as a Kris Kindle and the night was rounded
off by a beautiful supper. The prizes for the fun bowls competition were picked up by
Margaret McKenna and Mary Hallisey.
The second half of the season was very hectic as there was a lot of league matches still to
be played. Against all of the odds our Captain Margaret McKenna managed to through
the dreaded task of getting the Club Competitions played. Last season we had to abandon
the Pairs Competition, but this year everything is on track for our Finals Night which will
be held on Friday 26th April at 7:30 p.m.
I think it was through a combination of superb organisational skills combined with sheer
doggedness that she has gotten everyone to tow the line this season. Margaret you have
All Saints News,
April - May 2013
43
earned my sincere admiration and I congratulate you on a job well done. Our AGM will
be held at 1:30 p.m. on the 29th April.
For the last 21 years Jim Carroll has been the President of the Bowling Club and he and
Valerie have joined with us in celebrating many milestones along the way i.e. our 25th
Birthday, then our 30th and more recently our 40th. Over the years they have always
made the effort to attend our Finals Nights, sometimes having to rush from another event
to join us.
Since Valerie appeared on the scene Jim has been somewhat pushed to one side when it
comes to the prize giving part of the evening – maybe because it is easier to give a girl
flowers, but I suspect that it has more to do with the kiss the competitors get. We have
always felt privileged to have their company and while we are delighted they will be with
us this year we are acutely aware that our ways must part. It will be with heavy hearts
that we will say farewell to them both as the head for Ferns and a new life where they
will be free from everyone else’s troubles, and the duties that go with parish life. Jim
and Valerie you have given magnificent service to Raheny and Coolock, you have been
like dutiful loving parents to all your parishioners and we hope you have a long and happy retirement together. God Bless you both, your retirement has been well earned.
Virgil Bolger, Hon. Secretary
Select Vestry 2013-14
Following Easter General Vestry (there will be a full report
in the next ASN issue), the following are the
elected/ appointed members of Select Vestry for the next
year.
1. Brian Davison (Treasurer) *
2. Debbie O'Flaherty
3. Damien Moloney (Secretary)
4. John Storey
5. Les Furney
6. Craig Mc Mullen *
7. Daphne Argue
8. Jenny Wilson Ó Raghallaigh
9. Carole Frawley
10. Roger Stirling
11. Seamus Puirseil
12. Dorothy Carroll
* Parish Nominators
People’s Church Warden: Fred Argue
Rector’s Church Warden: Anu Vikevainen-O’Byrne
44
All Saints News,
April - May 2013
Thursday Club
On Thursday 27th November, some members of the Thursday Club visited the
Butlers Chocolate Factory in Clonshaugh for the “ultimate experience”, organised by Billy Lindsey (who himself was unable to attend, as he was in hospital).
We had a great guide called Mags, who entertained and informed us on all aspects of chocolate making. First, we watched a film and munched chocolates.
Next, we visited the chocolate gallery where we saw chocolates being made
from start to finish - a long process!
We were then given the opportunity to release our “inner child” by decorating
a chocolate bear and to being it home when finished.
Finally, after a delicious hot coffee, we went home happy and contented.
Sylvia Vincent
Note from the Editor: this piece just missed the deadline for the Christmas
All Saints News (December-January issue), and due to upheaval during decorating at home, the piece got lost behind a piece of furniture, and missed
the last ASN deadline. My sincere apologies to Sylvia and all the Thursday
Club for the delay in this being published - entirely my fault - and I hope it
won’t put you off sending in wonderful reports, such as this, in the future.
All Saints News,
April - May 2013
45
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Note from the All Saints’ News Team
The next issue of All Saints’ News will be available from
Sunday 26th May 2013.
Features, articles and comments are always welcome! Please submit any articles for the magazine by
Sunday 12th May to Andrea Lazenby Simpson or Carol
Conway or, where possible, send by email to:
[email protected].
The Team
Andrea Lazenby Simpson, Carol Conway, Emma Ryan, Seamus Puirseil, Conor O’Leary and Peter Orford
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