Posts tagged Vestry
4/4/21 :: Easter Vestry 2021
In this sermon, Kevin reflects on the challenges and resilience of the Parish during the pandemic. He acknowledges the hardships faced by all sectors of society and the impact on the Church's activities. Despite the difficulties, he highlights the care and engagement shown by the Parish members. As he prepares to move on, he expresses optimism for the future under new leadership.
4/12/20 :: Easter Vestry 2020
The sermon discusses the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on the church and the community. It highlights the changes in worship, education, social development, and business. The sermon also pays tribute to individuals who have served the Parish over the last year and discusses the future of the church in these challenging times.
4/12/20 :: Easter Vestry 2020
This sermon is a powerful reminder of the blessings that come with being humble, merciful, and peace-loving. It emphasizes the importance of being pure in heart, hungering for righteousness, and enduring persecution for the sake of righteousness. The sermon concludes with a prayer for the church to be a welcoming place for all, yet strong against temptation.
4/21/19 :: Reflecting on Change and Faith
In the Easter General Vestry of 2019, Kevin reflects on the past achievements and challenges faced by the church, emphasizing the need for a forward-looking approach. He discusses the decline in church attendance and the rapid societal changes, urging the community to embrace faith and adapt to serve the evolving needs of the parish. Kevin highlights the importance of engaging with the youth, reevaluating worship practices, and being open to change while maintaining the core values of faith and community.
10/13/16 :: Reflections on Parish Anniversaries
Kevin reflects on the dual anniversary of the Parish of Howth, marking 200 years since the old church and 150 years of the new church. He emphasizes the importance of embracing change while honoring the past, and addresses the challenges of declining attendance and financial contributions. He calls for unity and innovation in the face of necessary maintenance and the intimate nature of upcoming worship during church repairs.
4/5/15 :: Reflections and Transitions
Kevin reflects on his ten years as Rector, noting societal changes and the impact of the economic collapse on the parish community. He discusses the development of youth projects, family services, and the challenges of transitioning to new leadership. The sermon emphasizes embracing change while honoring the past, and the importance of a strong, confident community in worship and service.
4/5/15 :: Transition and Engagement
The Rector's address at the Easter Vestry 2015 reflected on the Parish's period of transition as it approached its 150th anniversary. He acknowledged the loss of faithful members and a decline in attendance and income. However, he highlighted the strength of the Youth Worker Programme and the reintroduction of the Sunday School. He emphasized the importance of younger families engaging in parish roles and concluded by appointing new wardens for the year.
4/20/14 :: Reflecting on Church's Future
Kevin discusses the initiatives by Archbishop Dr. Jackson to encourage reflection on the Church's mission and fellowship. He addresses the decline in church attendance and the importance of engaging younger generations. Kevin highlights the need for embracing opportunities and incorporating new patterns of worship to ensure a vibrant future for the church community.
4/7/13 :: Belonging and Service
3/31/13 :: Belonging and Fellowship
Kevin reflects on his 7th year at the Parish of Howth, emphasizing the sense of belonging and care within the community. He discusses the personal and parish developments, including family milestones, the building of a new Rectory, and the establishment of a Youth Worker post. Kevin also highlights the parish's social initiatives and expresses gratitude to various individuals for their contributions to the parish life.
4/15/12 :: Tradition and Change
In this sermon, Kevin reflects on the evolving nature of tradition within the church, emphasizing that change is not for its own sake but to adapt to the times while upholding the Gospel's timeless truths. He discusses initiatives to engage youth and maintain church traditions, acknowledging the contributions of various community members in supporting the church's growth and fellowship.
4/8/12 :: Growth and Development in Parishes
The sermon discusses a conference on Growth and Development in Parishes, organized by the Archbishop of Dublin. The Rector emphasizes the importance of evolving traditions and addressing the absence of younger demographics in the Church. He also talks about developments in worship, the progress of the Youth Worker Project, and the need for financial decisions regarding the project's future.
4/24/11 :: Tradition and Flexibility
The sermon reflects on the importance of tradition within the Church of Ireland, emphasizing the need for flexibility to adapt to changing times. It discusses the balance between respecting inherited traditions and broadening them to remain relevant. The sermon also highlights the Church's efforts to engage with contemporary issues and maintain its relevance in modern society.
4/4/10 :: Gratitude and Parish Development
Kevin reflects on the contributions of various parish members and the progress of the parish over the past year. He expresses gratitude to those who have served in different capacities and highlights the importance of youth engagement and parish development. The sermon also touches on the economic downturn's impact on the community and the church's response to provide support.
4/4/10 :: Easter General Vestry 2010
In this sermon, Kevin thanks the members of the parish for their service over the past year. He highlights the importance of community and fellowship, and acknowledges the challenges faced by the parish in engaging with the younger generation. He also discusses the impact of the economic downturn on the parish and the wider society.
3/23/08 :: Easter General Vestry 2008
The sermon from Easter General Vestry in 2008 is a reflection on the year's activities and achievements within the Parish. The sermon expresses gratitude towards the individuals who have served the Parish, discusses the ongoing projects, and highlights the importance of youth engagement in the Church. The sermon also addresses the challenges faced by the Church in maintaining the involvement of the younger generation.