16th November, 2024 - Mothers’ Union Big Hymn Sing

The last in the Church of Ireland Mothers’ Union’s series of All Ireland Big Hymn Sings was held on Saturday, 16th November in St Patrick’s Parish Church, Ballymena and The Clare Chorale led the praise for this prestigious event. The choir had previously performed at the closing concert of Mothers’ Union conference in Belfast’s Waterfront Hall in September 2022 and it was a delight to be asked to lead the hymn singing at this very special service.

The series began in St Canice’s Cathedral, Kilkenny in March, with services held in every Church of Ireland diocese during 2024 to raise money for the Mothers’ Union ‘Mums in May’ Fund which supports projects and initiatives across Ireland in accordance with the aims and objects of the Mothers’ Union.

The rector of St Patrick’s is Rev. Canon Mark McConnell, formerly rector of the United Parish of Ballynure and Ballyeaston (Ballyclare), and he has been a keen supporter of the choir since its formation in 2003.

Several hundred Mothers’ Union members and friends attended St Patrick’s from dioceses across Ireland, and the church was packed for the service.

For more photographs of this event please follow this link - Big Hymn Sing

Photos credit - Karen Bushby (Communications officer for the Church of Ireland Diocese of Connor)

27th October, 2024 - Harvest Service in Woodburn Presbyterian Church

The choir was delighted to be invited back to Woodburn again for the church’s annual Harvest Thanksgiving Service. The church was filled to capacity once again for this service led by Rev. David Kelly. The choir led the inspirational and very uplifting congregational singing and sang a number of its favourite sacred pieces in what was a very enjoyable first engagement for the choir season. Everyone enjoyed a delicious harvest supper in the church hall immediately after the service.

The service was streamed live on Facebook and is available to view by following this link - Woodburn Presbyterian Church Harvest Service

24th September, 2024 - Congratulations

It was wonderful to hear the news back in June that our Director of Music, Sheelagh Greer, had been awarded the British Empire Medal in King Charles’ Birthday Honours List. Sheelagh had the pleasure of attending Hillsborough Castle today for the presentation of her award. She was accompanied by her father, Hubert, in what was an extremely proud day for them both.

Congratulations to Sheelagh from everyone in The Clare Chorale.