The month of January saw great rejoicing around the North Connacht Circuit as the congregations in Sligo and Carrick-on-Shannon celebrated the opening of new worship centres.

After more than six years our church building in Sligo city centre re-opened, having been extensively renovated and modernised to make it fit for purpose as a place of worship in a rapidly changing culture. Built in 1830 the Wesley Chapel had served many generations of Methodist people until, in November 2002, serious structural and electrical defects forced the congregation to abandon the building and begin to worship in the newly built adjoining hall. This might have been “the worst of times,” as the remaining debt on the hall prevented immediate action to repair the chapel, and its future was uncertain. However, it soon became apparent that the move into the hall brought many benefits. There was a less formal feel to the services, and a greater sense of freedom and fellowship developed. The church began to grow. After two years plans were drawn up to renovate the Chapel. Despite opposition from the planning authorities, essential remodelling of the interior was eventually permitted, and after more than a year of construction the building was ready for use. On 11^th January the congregation moved in quietly and without fanfare to celebrate the Covenant service together. A week later, the whole Circuit gathered to mark the reopening of the building, with 180 attending. It has been exciting to see the growth of the church in spite of (or perhaps encouraged by) our forced exile into the hall. One third of worshippers now meeting on Sunday have joined us during our time in the hall, and never experienced worship in the old church building.

Meanwhile, in the last few months of 2008, Rivers Meeting in Carrick-on-Shannon went through quite a spiritual journey as a church, praying for a new church building, thinking of ideas of how to raise the funds to get it. Then the Lord provided in the most amazing way that was beyond our expectation.  The pre-fabricated sectional building was previously being used by a Brethren church. Thanks to Joe Kennedy, who came to the knowledge of our need, got Rev. Noel Mills, connected with the owner Bertie Cole from Collooney, who gladly offered the cabin to Rivers. In the beginning of this year we decided to celebrate the official Launch of the building after all the renovations to it had been completed. Rivers Meeting never does things by halves, and the celebration was spread out over five days. Amazing musicians and big entertainers like Jimmy Cricket (the impersonator) were in attendance. Ministers from around the District contributed to the opening celebration as well as Dr Ken Baker, former Circuit Evangelist, who was involved in setting up Rivers Meeting Church. Three of the five days’ celebrations were unique and innovative events. Italian food was served at a sit down meal and entertainment was provided by Seosamh O' Faolain (Banjo Joe) and Noel Mills Variety Band and guests from Florida just to name but a few. About a hundred and twenty people came, some from as far as Roscrea to show their support of what God is doing in Carrick-on-Shannon.

The official opening of the Sligo church building will be on Thursday, 26^th March by the President, Rev. Aian Ferguson, who was a former minister in Sligo. A Flower Festival to mark the reopening of the church building is to be held from 1^st – 4^th May featuring the work of internationally renowned floral designer Richard Haslam.

Filled with Great Expectations we prepare for more of what God is yet to do as we continue to serve Him in the communities of North Connacht.