HISTORY OF THE
Second Presbyterian Church
Saintfield
DURING 150 YEARS
1796 - 1946
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"Secession" was a protest. In the history of the organised Church such a protest has often been made. When the vision has faded, and the fires of early enthusiasm have become as dead ashes, earnest souls, grieved for the affliction of Joseph, have risen up to call the people back to vital religion. Too often met with a dead weight of indifference ; at times persecuted for the faith that was in them ; sometimes driven out from the Church of their fathers ; they have been compelled to surrender many things dear unto them, and go out in faith unto a land which God would show unto them.
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Thus it was with the "Seceders" The Presbyterian Church in Ireland, known in the 18th century as the General Synod of Ulster, had wandered far from its early faith and love. Genuine religion was stifled in a Church which had ceased to be a Church of the Lord Jesus Christ. Spiritual aspiration found no satisfaction. The hungry sheep looked up, and were not fed. There was widespread denial of the Divinity of our Lord, and the Synod, while giving lip-service to the doctrine, permitted those who denied it to continue as leaders of the people. With disregard of the doctrines of the New Testament there was a marked deterioration in morals. True living cannot be built up and sustained on moral platitudes. The Church, thinking wrongly, soon walks in unholy ways.
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Patronage was the curse of the Church of Scotland. In days when churches were few, and there was much poverty, wealthy members built churches, and sometimes paid the salary of the minister. They claimed the right to appoint ministers of their own choosing to the churches they had established, and not only themselves but their heirs, exercised the right. Thus it came to pass that often godless men appointed godless ministers, and there was no redress for a hapless congregation. Fortunately the Church in Ireland escaped that degradation, but she had her difficulties and dangers. The congregation had the right of choosing its own minister, a simple majority of the voters being sufficient for the issuing of a call. But the Synod passed a wise law, making a two-thirds majority to be requisite if a call were to be made out. One can easily understand that, under the old law, if a congregation were almost equally divided in the choice of a minister, the lot of the newly ordained minister might not, with feeling running strong, be a very happy one and there was the possibility too of the slightly smaller half going out to form a congregation of their own. But the wisdom of the new law was made void by the added clause, that the two-thirds shall be reckoned according to number, quality, and stipend of the congregation. In other words, the choice depended on which side paid most.
It was in 1733 that the secession took place from the Church of Scotland, the seceding members forming themselves into what was known as the Associate Presbytery. In the same year came a prayer from 280 families in Lisburn, asking that they might be taken under the care of this Presbytery, and a minister sent to meet their spiritual needs. The Associate Presbytery was unable to respond, owing to the claims made upon it by their own countrymen. But in 1741 a similar application from Lylehill was granted, and the first Secession congregation in Ireland was established. Thereafter the Secession church grew rapidly. It became noted for its energy in the forming of new congregations ; the faithfulness with which the doctrines of the Gospel were proclaimed ; and the strong emphasis it laid on a life of Godliness. There was a spontaneous response to such vital preaching. Large numbers flocked to hear the message from evangelical preachers of the Word.
Mention has been made of the "greater weight of stipend" annulling the two-thirds rule in the call of a minister. This altered the balance when a vacancy j occurred in the General Synod of Ulster congregation of Saintfield, on the death of Rev. James Rainey in 1745. The majority, which was not the wealthier section of the congregation, set themselves to have Mr. Richard Walker as his successor, and petitioned the Presbytery to appoint him as their constant supply. The Presbytery refusing to do so, the majority carried out their threat of erecting a new congregation "at ye Boardmill." By way of appeasement the wealthy minority called Mr. Walker, but matters had gone too far, and a Secession congregation was established in Boardmills.
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Various factors contributed to the forming of a Secession congregation in Saintfield. Distance had something to do with it, for many worshippers must have found it beyond, or almost beyond, their strength, to make their way to Boardmills. There was dissatisfaction with the ministrations of Rev. Thomas Ledlie Birch, M.A., who was far from being evangelical in his preaching. His broad principles were an offence to members of his congregation, and their desire was to have someone who would walk in the old paths, and lead the people therein. Their feeling found expression in the wording of the petition in 1795 which requested the Burgher Synod of the Secession Church to send preachers to Saintfield "for the purpose of reviving decaying religion in that corner." Rev. Joseph Longmoor had at this time been 11 years in Boardmills. The illness and death of his mother-in-law in Dublin compelled him to leave his congregation vacant for one or two Sabbaths. This serious neglect of duty stirred up the wrath of a number of his parishioners, who forthwith made common cause with their dissatisfied brethren in Saintfield, in the endeavour to secure a faithful and evangelical minister.
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The prayer of the memorial to the Burgher Synod which met in Ballynahinch in July, 1795, was granted, and supplies were arranged for Saintfield on every alternate Sabbath for the 10 succeeding weeks, further supplies being sent by the Presbytery of Down. In due course the seceders of Saintfield presented a call to Mr. Thomas Walker, a licentiate of the Presbytery of Monaghan, promising him £30 a year and "oats." Mr. Walker accepting this call in preference to one he received at the same time from Crieve, was ordained on 4th October, 1796, minister of the new congregation in Saintfield. The act of ordination was carried out by Rev. Joseph Longmoor. Rev. Samuel Edgar preached the sermon, Rev. John Reed taking the concluding part of the service. The eldership was represented by Messrs. David Shaw from Killeny, Joseph Stewart from Loughahery, Alex. Rea from Lissara, and John Magee from Ballinahinch.
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Mr. Walker was the third son of Mr. Thomas Walker, farmer, of Ballygoney. He was born in 1773, and licensed in 1793. He was Moderator of the Burgher Synod of 1807.
For 33 years Mr. Walker ministered faithfully in Saintfield, till ill-health cut short his activities. At a visitation in 1830 the Presbytery noted " that, while his health allowed, he had been punctual in the performance of official duties " and " that considerable success had appeared to attend the ministration of the gospel." The same Finding records that the Minister and Elders were "blameless in character and official conduct."
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The congregation for some time worshipped in the Market House, but, in the year of the ordination they erected a " meetinghouse." This place of prayer, T-shaped after the ecclesiastical fashion of that time, served the needs of the congregation for almost a century.
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Messrs. Samuel Orr in 1801, Fras. Dobbs in 1805, Robert McKee in 1807 and 1825, and John Newell in 1826 were representative elders from Saintfield to the Secession Synod.
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In 1809 the Government placed Saintfield in the first class of congregations receiving the Regium Donum.
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The second in the succession was Mr. Walter Moffat, son of Rev. William Moffat of Moira. The call came before the Presbytery at a meeting in Magherahamlet on the 24th May, 1831. The records of the meeting are not lacking in conciseness : " Entered on the business of the Saintfield call. The conduct of the deputation was approved—Commissioners were heard respecting the state of the congregation—The presbytery gave judgment—The call was unanimously sustained as a Gospel Call - presented to Mr. Moffat— accepted by him—and returned to the Clerk." But before the minister elect could be ordained he was required to preach on four Sabbaths in Saintfield. And at a meeting of Presbytery in Alfred Street Meeting-house on 6th July Presbytery " heard from Mr. Moffat a Lecture, Popular, Sermon and Exegesis, as pieces of trial for ordination." And at the same meeting " Mr. Moffat delivered an Exercise and Addition. This and his former discourses were unanimously approved as pieces of trial for ordination. He was examined on Hebrew, Church History and Divinity. The question was put— approve of these and former trials for ordination ? It carried unanimously, approve." After conversation with Mr. James M'Kee, the Commissioner from Saintfield, on the question of the amount the congregation was willing to pay as annual stipend, it was agreed to proceed with the ordination, the date appointed being 9th August, 1831. " In conducting the religious services of the day, Mr. Clarke was appointed to preach first, Mr. Bryson to ordain, and Mr. Thos. M'Kee to preach and conclude."
Mr. Moffat's ministry was destined to last less than seven years, but his life and labours made a profound impression not only on his own congregation but in the church at large. He came to be spoken of, for years after, by the old people of the neighbourhood, as " the sainted Moffat." He was known as the Murray McCheyne of the Secession Church. He was one of those who early came to maturity, and early faded and passed away. His rich and varied talents developed quickly. In his 12th year it was said he was able to take charge of a school. At 14 he was a student in the old Belfast College. At 16 he became assistant to Dr. Thomson, the father of Lord Kelvin, in the Mathematical School of the Belfast Institution. When he became minister of Saintfield he was within four days of his 21st year.
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Walter Moffat made full proof of his ministry. Missionary endeavour was then in its infancy, and the young minister threw himself wholeheartedly into the work of spreading the Gospel he loved, over the whole world. Professor Edgar had been the champion in the unpopular Temperance crusade, and Walter Moffat advocated that cause with all the strength of his being. Sabbath School, Bible Class, Prayer-meeting, all had his earnest thought and prayer. His sermons were the outcome of diligent study. In rightly dividing the word of truth he proved himself a workman that needeth not to be ashamed. The spiritual wellbeing of each individual in his congregation was his supreme concern. He sought by all means to bring them to Christ, and to build them up and confirm them in their most holy faith. It was during a serious illness, when lung trouble first showed itself, that he issued a pastoral address to his people, an address full of loving earnestness and prayerful appeal for their acceptance of a mighty Saviour. His rich gifts of mind and heart, his oratorical powers, and his flaming zeal, gave promise of an outstanding career in the service of Christ and His Church, but his sun went down when it was yet day. God had work elsewhere for His servant.
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During this ministry Messrs. John Newell (1834), James M`Kee (1835), and John Lowry (1836) were representative elders to the Synod.
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Mr. Moffat was succeeded by Mr. David Patterson, of Ballymoyer, Whitecross, Co. Armagh, who was ordained in First Saintfield Church on the 26th March, 1839, as minister of the Secession congregation. Mr. Patterson laboured here, a student (he was a noted Hebrew scholar), and a successful minister of Jesus Christ, till his Home-call after nearly nine years of service in this place. It was in the second year of his ministry that the Union of the Synod of Ulster and the Secession Synod took place, these uniting to form what we now know as the General Assembly. In all such unions, however desirable, there is always to be found a dissenting minority. The Secession congregation of Saintfield strongly disapproved of the action of their minister in joining the Assembly, and threatened to bring Mr. Patterson's ministry to an abrupt conclusion. The storm, however, seems to have quickly blown over.
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The elders who come before us at this period are Messrs. Martin Morrow and John Newell, and Rev. John Dewart. The latter had been minister of Ballymote for 35 years, and on retirement in 1885 came to reside in his old home in Carricknacessna, where he died on the 12th February, 1895.
The troubles that afflict churches do not vary much from age to age. Repairs and the raising of money are recurring problems. Both are referred to in the report of the correspondent of " The Banner of Ulster " of 4th November, 1842. " On Monday, 24th ultimo, a sermon was preached in the Second Presbyterian Church, Saintfield, by the Rev. W. M. Hetherington, A.M., Torpichen, Scotland, after which a collection was taken up to assist in liquidating a debt incurred in erecting an additional gallery, flooring, and otherwise repairing the house. The eloquent preacher took for his text John vi., 65-69, from which he preached a sermon of an hour's length, exhibiting the richest combination of argument, eloquence, lucidly-exhibited truth, and searching appeal. He was listened to throughout, by a large congregation, with the most breathless attention, much regret being expressed when the sermon was over, that such a splendid exhibition of divine truth had not been prolonged." Notwithstanding the length of the sermon the collection amounted to 02, which, considering that admission tickets cost one shilling each, seems not unsatisfactory. But the " additional gallery " which was found necessary suggests that the congregation was in a flourishing state, the number of families being actually 237.
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After the death of Mr. Patterson, on September 7th, 1847, the congregation called Mr. John Mecredy, a native of Rathfriland district, and he was ordained on the 30th March, 1848.
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Mr. Mecredy was known far and wide for his zeal in the Temperance cause, and for his advocacy of Tenant-right. His daughter, Mrs. Campbell, Belfast, writes : " For 30 years he was a faithful preacher and strong Temperance advocate, being one of the first Ministers to introduce the unfermented wine for Communion services. He was the friend of every member of his congregation, a grand visitor, and in him the sick and poor had a constant comforter and help. He was a most lovable, gentle and friendly man. A keen sense of humour, and quiet understanding, sympathy and readiness to help, were his outstanding characteristics. The spiritual well-being of his congregation was always his first consideration."
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Mr. Mecredy, like his predecessors, lived in Lisdalgin, but by his efforts the present Manse was built. He resigned his charge in order to take up work in Belfast. Here his abundant energy had fuller scope, and soon the flourishing congregation he gathered round him in Clifton Street was equipped with a fine church, schools and Manse.
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In his day controversy disturbed the peace of the Church. The minister of Second Saintfield was among those who adhered steadfastly to the Puritan principles of their fathers. " He contended that instruments of music have no sanction in New Testament worship, and that their introduction was both unlawful and inexpedient. He adhered to the Psalms as the medium of praise, holding that they alone were of Divine appointment, and that they were infinitely superior to the compositions found in modern Hymnals." These unhappy days are past, and the memory we cherish is that of a Greatheart fighting the battles of the Lord, one ever true to convictions which in his day were by many bitterly opposed, the friend and helper of all.
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Mr. Mecredy resigned his charge on the 14th January, 1862, and on the 30th June of that year Mr. George Raphael Moore, M.A., was ordained as his successor. Mr. Moore exercised a quiet and unobtrusive ministry for 29 years, commended to the congregation and the community by his life and character, and to his brethren in the ministry by his spirit of friendliness and co-operation. The beautiful tablet which has it place in the vestibule of the new church, bears the following inscription, marking the esteem and affection in which he was held : " Erected by the people of this congregation in affectionate remembrance of their beloved pastor, Rev. George Raphael Moore, M.A., who died at Moorfield, 19th July, 1889, and was buried in the family vault at Ahoghill. Ordained to the oversight of this flock, June 30th, 1862, his ministry was full of true and devoted service to the Master. He was ever earnest in preaching Christ crucified, faithful in visiting the sick and dying, full of consolations for the bereaved, and as a truly good man his memory shall not fade.". " Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His saints."—Psalm cxvi, 15. " He being dead yet speaketh."—Hebrews xi, 4.
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Mr. Moore married Miss Jane Leslie Hamilton, daughter of the esteemed minister of First Saintfield. In her he found one who co-operated heartily in all the work of the congregation. Her labours in the teaching of Psalmody, and as leader of a large class of girls, are still gratefully remembered. On Mr. Moore's death she laboured more abundantly and in a wider sphere, carrying on various activities almost to the day of her Home-call more than 50 years later. Her work in India, in a Soldiers' Home, built and equipped at her own expense, and with the Army of Occupation in Germany, is well known.
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Brotherly devotion was indirectly the cause of Mr. Moore's death. Mr. James Moore, J.P., on his way home from a tour in the East, had taken ill and died in Naples. Mr. Moore with his sister made his way tc Naples, and remained to attend his brother's funeral. There he contracted typhoid fever, and
although he was soon able to return home, the fever broke out afresh, in more malignant form, and notwithstanding all that skill and love could do, he passed away in the home of his childhood.
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The Union Committee was of opinion that the two Saintfield congregations should now be united, or, if the smaller one were unwilling, that it must pay a penalty to the Sustentation Fund of an increased qualification. The Presbytery, however, considered that the second congregation was necessary, and, that being so, ought not to be compelled to pay more than the usual assessment, and allowed the congregation to choose a new minister. The Union Committee appealed to the Assembly, which refused to take any action.
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Thus it was that, on the 17th December, 1889, Mr. Robert M'Elney, M.A., was ordained to the pastorate of the vacant charge.
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Mr. M'Elney was a man of abounding energy, and he threw himself into the work with zeal and enthusiasm. Like some of his predecessors he was a strong supporter of the cause of Temperance, but all branches of Christian activity had his enthusiastic advocacy. He had the keen mind which would have made him a successful lawyer. He had all the qualities which would have made him a physician of distinction. But his calling was to proclaim the wonders of God's redeeming love in Christ, and to that he gave himself with all his powers of mind and heart. His kindly sympathy unlocked many doors. His penetrating mind solved many problems. In the New Testament sense, his zeal provoked very many.
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The Committee had, for some years, been facing the matter of a new church building. For a small congregation this was a formidable undertaking, and by the death of Mr. Moore the difficulties were increased. The need, however, was recognised, and on the 17th June, 1890, at a meeting of the congregation, the following resolution was submitted :—" That we proceed to the erection of a new church on the site of the old one as soon as possible." On the motion of Mr. Samuel Stewart, senior elder, seconded by Mr. William Morrow, the resolution was unanimously adopted. A subscription list was opened, and £608 subscribed by the congregation. When the value of money at that period is considered, and the low prices ruling for agricultural produce, one cannot help but be amazed at the generosity of the people, who, " to their power . . . yea, and beyond their power " gave so generously to the building of the Sanctuary.
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The young minister did not confine his efforts to his own congregation. He visited America, and secured the practical help of friends in that big-hearted country.
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On the 21st April, 1892, the memorial stone of the new church was laid by Mrs. George Raphael Moore, in the presence of a large assemblage. The chair was taken by Rev. Dr. Lynd in the absence of Rev. N. M. Brown, D.D., Moderator of the Assembly. Mr. M'Elney having given a brief survey of the congregation from its beginning in 1796, and outlined the steps taken for the building of the new church, invited Mrs. Moore to lay the memorial stone. Mrs. Moore declared the stone well and truly laid. A handsome silver trowel was presented to Mrs. Moore by Mr. Vincent Craig, architect. The second chair having been taken by Rev. Dr. Murphy, thanks wete moved by Dr. Rentoul, M.P., and seconded by Rev. J. E. Ferguson, to Dr. Lynd, and to Mrs. Moore. Later, at a luncheon in the Courthouse, the latter was presented with an illuminated address in album form, with the autographs of the subscribers.
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This ceremony was followed by a succession of opening services, of which only a brief notice may be given. The first of these was conducted by Rev. Prof. Heron, D.D., Assembly's College, Belfast. Rev. William M`Kean, Ballymacarrett, and Rev. Charles Davey, St. Enoch's, were the preachers on the two following Sabbaths. There were special collections at each service, and the response was so generous that the church was opened practically free of debt.
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Mr. M'EIney, on receiving a call to Downpatrick, resigned his charge in Saintfield, and was installed in the cathedral city on 9th August, 1899. Chaplain of the Mental Hospital and of the Union, as well as minister of the Presbyterian Church, he laboured faithfully till advancing years compelled him to retire at the end of 1936. Mr. M'Elney passed away on 8th January, 1941.
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In Saintfield Mr. M'Elney was succeeded by Mr. James Porter Collins Glendinning, B.A., who was ordained on the 23rd January, 1900. After a brief ministry Mr. Glendinning was called Home on the 6th August, 1907. Great things were expected of him. He was a preacher of outstanding ability. He was a scholar. He had powers of mind and heart which would have carried him far. But, never strong, he was called away in his prime, leaving a sad blank in the ranks of the ministry, and in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. As a student he could get the essence of a book in an hour or two of quick reading, where others would labour for weeks in plodding fashion, and know less in the end. He could present the results of his reading in attractive simplicity, and hold the attention of his audience by his clear exposition. He was a welcome friend in the homes of the people, and his practical wisdom often shed light. The impress of his loving, genial, Christian character, will not easily be effaced.
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An extension was made to the Manse, involving considerable expenditure. A bazaar lasting three days was organised, and the cost of the undertaking was thus successfully met.
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New names in the membership of the Kirk-Session come before us. In 1848 Mr. James Shaw represented the congregation, and in 1850 Mr. James M` Kee. Also belonging to the Session at this time were Messrs. Thomas Wilson, Martin Morrow, and John Spence. Later names occur which link past and present : Messrs. Samuel Stewart, who was one of a goodly succession, his grandfather having been an elder in Lissara in 1782, and his son Hugh, called to office in this congregation ; and Robert Shaw, of Carricknaveagh, whose son James was, for an all too brief period, ruling elder until his tragic death in 1923. k more recent election records the names of Messrs. James M'Ewen and Hugh Stewart. These with Mr. Robert Shaw held office at the time the present ministry began.
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Mr. William Dickie, B.A., of Kilrea, Co. Derry, was ordained on the 26th May, 1908. On that occasion Rev. W. J. Gregg, B.A., preached, his text being Hebrews 3, 1. ; Rev. Stewart Dickson, G.A., M.C., outlined Presbyterian polity ; the ordination prayers were offered by Rev. R. J. Porter, B.A., Belfast, and Rev. Professor Hamill, M.A., D.D., Assembly's College ; the charge to minister and people was given by Rev. R. G. Milling, B.D., Rev. William Carse presided as Moderator of Presbytery. The Guildhall was generously put at the disposal of the congregation for luncheon and tea, by the Kirk-Session and Committee of the First Presbyterian Church.
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The members of Committee at that time were :—Messrs. Hugh Coffey, Gawn Jackson, John W. Maxwell, James Rea Morrow, William Morrow, James M'Kee, George Reid, James Shaw (Carricknacessna), James Shaw (Carricknaveagh), and William J. Shaw, with Messrs. R. J. Matchett, Congregational Secretary, and Treasurer of Stipend and Sustentation Funds, and F. W. Minnis, General Treasurer.
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Mr. John M'K. M'Kee audited the congregational accounts, continuing to do so each year till in 1927 failing eyesight compelled him to hand over the duty to others. This was carried out by Messrs. William Shaw, Belfast, and J. J. Morrow, Belfast, and for the past ten years by the latter only.
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The following taught in the Sabbath School in 1909 :— Miss Anderson, Miss Arbuckle, Miss Milliken, Miss Susan Milliken, Miss Stewart, Messrs. F. W. Minnis (Superintendent), T. Williamson (Secretary), and D. M`Millan.
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Two elections of elders have taken place during the present ministry. On the 1st March, 1921, the following were ordained to the office :—Messrs. W. J. Davidson, Gawn Jackson, James Marshall, Frank W. Minnis, George Reid, James Shaw, (Craigy) and James Shaw (Carricknaveagh). The second ordination was
on the 9th October, 1940, when Messrs. William Girvan, David M`Millan and W. H. Martin, were added to the surviving members.
The passing years have brought changes both in men and methods. Mr. Robert J. Matchett having acted as congregational Secretary for a long period, passed away on the 11th August, 1917. His son Robert was heartily invited to take up his father's work, and he continues to carry on this service. The congregation lost another faithful servant when, on the 21st January, 1917, Mr John Pollock, who had been Church Caretaker for 25 years, died. His successor, Mr. Alex. Withers, served the church till his death on 7th January, 1941. Mr. Robert Patterson, who preceded these as Caretaker, for a time acted as precentor.
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Mr. F. W. Minnis had been for several years precentor and choir-master. To ease the burden it was felt desirable to have some instrumental help, and accordingly in 1914 a small organ was introduced. The Church Hymnary, which was subsequently adopted for use in church praise, gave greater scope for the expression of our distinctively Christian faith, hope and devotion. Members of the Williamson family in succession acted as voluntary organists, and rendered valuable service.
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Individuals have not been unmindful of what they owe to their church and to the church of their fathers. The growing list of donations and bequests bears witness to the desire of not a few that their financial support should not cease entirely at their death, but through moneys left or given for investment, continue to help the congregation. The following bequests have been received :—
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The late James M`Kee, Oughley, £50
The late Hugh Stewart, Leggygowan, £50.
The late Samuel Shaw, Carricknacessna, £100.
The late Miss Anna D. Rea, Saintfield, £100.
The late Miss Mary Brown, Carricknacessna,
The late J. W. W. Maxwell, Whitehead, £25.
The late William Bennett, Belfast, £10.
The late Robert Rea, Belfast, £50.
The late Samuel Shaw, Saintfield, £50.
The late William Shaw, Belfast, £100.
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Gifts include :
Silver Clasps for fixing the Communion linen, from Rev. Mr. M' Elney.
Church Clock from Mr. Samuel B. McKee.
£100 from Mrs. George Raphael Moore.
£300 Belfast Water Commissioners' Stock, from Mr. John M'K. M'Kee.
£100 from Mrs Blain, Drumalig, "In memory of the Anderson (Oughley) family."
£100 3 per cent. War Stock from Mr. Robert Cairns, Belfast.
​In 1918 a Baptismal Bowl was presented to the congregation by Mr. John M'K. M'Kee.
​An anonymous donor provided 200 cups and saucers ; while another completed the social side with the gift of spoons.
In November, 1932, there was dedicated an Individual Communion Set, the gift of Mr. and Mrs. F. W. Minnis in memory of Mr. Minnis's parents. Mrs. George Raphael Moore had given to the congregation a Communion Service which had been in uFe for a long period ; but it was felt that the individual cup was more in keeping with the feeling of the times, and the gift was gratefully received by the Kirk-Session on behalf of the congregation.
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A former member of the congregation, Rev. 'William Shaw Stewart, D.D., rector of Althorne, Essex, remembering the state of the times in which he passed his early days, made a very generous bequest to the Trustees, for the provision of coal for those who might be in need. The days of extreme poverty, it is hoped, are gone for ever, yet such a provision will long serve a useful purpose, and be a comfort to many.
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On Sabbath evening, 21st October, 1945, a new concealed electric lighting installation was dedicated by Rev. W. Graham Smith, B.A., Ravenhill Church, Belfast. The installation was the gift of Mrs. Mary Arnold Minnis in memory of her mother, Mrs. Harriet E. Williamson. By the convenience of such a system and by the adequate light afforded the gift has already proved a valuable addition to the church's equipment, and for many years will prove both a memorial and a help in worship.
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Evangelistic services have been held from time to time. By the brief but strenuous work of such evangelists as Rev. W. J. Gregg, Dromara, Rev. W. J. Sloan, Newtownards, Mr. Sam. Montgomery, Bangor, and Rev. Rupert Gibson, York Street, Belfast, there was found a deepening of spiritual life and renewed interest in the things of Christ. Not a few look back to these seasons as the date of that new birth without which one cannot see the Kingdom of Heaven.
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Some names in the history of the congregation stand out vividly. They are those of the men and women who have rendered particular service or revealed high and holy character. But, while we thank God upon every remembrance of them, these are not " Second Saintfield." This Secession congregation is made up from year to year of all those who share one faith, one hope, one baptism, and bring their gifts of mind and heart to one common Master and Lord. Some pass out of our mortal ken, unhonoured and unsung ; others stand high in the estimation of their fellows. All sorts make up the congregation. It may be in the providence of God, who chooses the weakest and the least for the carrying out of his purposes, that the spiritual health and well-being of the congregation often depend on some of whom the world has never heard, and of whom the world was not worthy.
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On Friday, 6th October, 1946, 150 years after the ordination of Mr. Walker, the Moderator of the Assembly, Rev. Thomas Byers, M.A., D.D., conducted an inspiring service of remembrance and dedication. The historian of the Secession Church, a former member of the congregation, Rev. David Stewart, B.A., D.D., Cregagh, Belfast, on a previous Sabbath, gave an account of theevents which led up to " Secession," and the history of the congregation up to the ordination of the present minister. These services were followed by one conducted by Rev. A. F. Scott Pearson, D.Th., D.Litt., F.R.Hist.S., Professor of Church History in the Assembly's College, Belfast, and one by Rev. John Elliott, B.A., Lisburn, the Youth Leader of our Presbyterian Church.
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Another chapter of religious history in Saintfield has thus concluded, and the opening sentences of a new chapter are already written. But the King and Head of the Church is still the unchanging Christ, Who works by His Spirit through human instrumentality, and maintains His cause from age to age. May His voice be heard from time to time, His call obeyed, that there may be a continuous succession of consecrated lives which will bear witness to the saving and sanctifying power of the Saviour.
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" For the might of Thine arm we bless Thee, our God, our fathers' God ;
Thou has kept Thy pilgrim people by the strength of Thy staffand rod ;
Thou hast called us to the journey which faithless feet ne'er trod ;
For the might of Thine arm we bless Thee, our God, our father's God.
May the shadow of Thy presence around our camp be spread ;
Baptise us with the courage Thou gayest to our dead ;
O keep us in the pathway their saintly feet have trod ;
For the might of Thine arm we bless Theee, our God, our fathers' God."
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For the foregoing account of the Secession congregation of Saintfield the writer is indebted to Miss Stewart, Secretary of the Historical Society, Church House, who put at his disposal old records, Minutes of Presbytery, newspaper and magazine reports, &c., from which material the brief sketch is derived.
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The present minister, Rev. Wm. Dickie, B.A., received a unanimous call to the Church and was ordained on 26th May, 1908.
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During the intervening years Mr. Dickie has proved himself in every sense a true and faithful Shepherd of souls, and a worthy successor to the able ministers who have preceded him.
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His ministry has been marked throughout by a keen desire to feed the flock and this has manifested itself always in lucid and earnest expositions of the Word of God.
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His interest in the youth of the Church has borne continuous fruit in the development and growth of the Sabbath School and in other methods employed to sustain the interest of older pupils.
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In the various duties that fall to a Minister of the Gospel perhaps Mr. Dickie's wise understanding and realization of the deep need of human hearts and lives have found fullest expression on Communion Sabbaths, and in the visitation of the sick and bereaved.
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On these occasions his ministrations have brought strength, healing and encouragement to earnest seekers and tired hearts and lives.
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The Congregation pray that " Long may his bow abide in strength."
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F. W. MINNIS.
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Up to this point the present minister has filled the role of historian. Being, however, a modest man and unwilling to write about himself it has fallen to the lot of a less able pen to bring the narrative up to date and to add a word about Mr. Dickie.
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On the death of the Rev. J. P. C. Glendinning, in 1907, the congregation heard two lists of candidates for the vacancy. After this prolonged procedure the choice of the people was unanimously given to Mr. William Dickie, son of Mr. W. B. Dickie, retired Bank Manager of Kilrea, and of his wife, formerly Miss Jeanette M. Rodgers, sister of the Rev. James Maxwell Rodgers, D.D., of Great James Street, Londonderry. The new minister after having served as assistant in Drumachose, Limavady, under the Rev. Nathan Brown, D.D., was at the time of the call assisting the Rev. William Kerr, of Ballynure.
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Mr. Dickie had received his early education at the Royal Belfast Academical Institution, proceeding to Queen's University, Belfast, where, after winning Scholarships in his Arts years, he graduated with second class honours in Classics. Studying theology in Assembly's College and carrying off prizes and scholarships Mr. Dickie completed his course and was licensed by the Presbytery of Magherafelt in May, 1906. His ordination took place in Saintfield on 26th May, 1908.
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On his settlement in Saintfield Mr. Dickie began his ministry by 'preaching from the text in Nehemiah 2, 18, " Let us rise up and build." Immediately he threw himself into the pastoral work of the congregation and began to develop his powers of expounding the Word of God and of preaching the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Combining according to good Presbyterian tradition the offices of preacher, pastor and scholar his gifts came to fruition quickly and in a few years he added the distinction of the degree of Bachelor of Divinity.
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The response of the people to their new pastor was marked with high regard, appreciation and personal trust which his sincerity and high sense of his calling was bound to evoke. It was natural, therefore, that his marriage in 1915 with Miss Alice Sarah Goldspink, of Westcliff-on-Sea, gave them great satisfaction and that they marked the occasion with a congregational welcome and appropriate gifts.
Mention need only be made briefly of the progress of the life of the congregation. A Minister's Bible Class was started and a weekly Prayer Meeting. Interest in Foreign Missions was stimulated and from time to time evangelistic services were held. Mrs. Dickie's Infant Class became an institution before the general recognition of this important work and gave to tender lives a bias towards the Christian verities.
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Beyond his own congregation Mr. Dickie's name became well-known. A trusted member of Presbytery he was allocated the convenership of Temperance, Sabbath School work, Foreign Missions and State of Religion. In 1926 on the removal of the Rev. S. H. Moore from Ballynahinch to Moneymore, Mr. Dickie was unanimously elected Clerk of Presbytery, an office which he held till lately with wisdom and efficiency. That his good qualities were recognised within the bounds of the Presbytery is proved by the fact that on six different occasions he was convener in charge of the recurring vacancies in Raffrey, and acted in a similar capacity as far as Clough and Seaforde. His highest ecclesiastical honour came in 1935, when he was chosen to be Moderator of the Synod of Belfast, numerically the largest in our Church.
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The thoroughness which characterised Mr. Dickie's congregational work was evident in these extra duties and honours that he was asked to carry. But none came between him and his own people who were primarily his constant care. To his own congregation he remained guide, philosopher and friend, giving generously both of hand and heart, taking the initiative in every good work.
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During the course of his ministry Mr. Dickie has been attended with joys and sorrows. Two sons were born to the Manse. There was responsibility and family planning. New ties formed with England brought occasional visits with their wider view of the Church's work. There was sickness and health and always constant preaching and visiting. The staggering blow of Mrs. Dickie's unexpected death came in 1938. In this trial the people whom he had so often instructed and comforted gave back as they could the consolations of their love, for their loss too was great. The depths of such waters are not easily plumbed. Those who took note, however, could not but feel that in this grievous blow captivity was again led captive, and that the bitter loneliness which still remains was offered and taken up with the love of God in which there is no separation.
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In such manner has this ministry, in fair and dark days, grown in grace and still continues. Discipline and prayer and high personal standards seem to mark Mr. Dickie as a Puritan and a man apart, yet in the sure knowledge of his own people he comes very close, gentle with human frailties, gracious in kindness, and with the true word for those of the sorrowful road. The glory and liberty of God's love are still preached, yet the heart that proclaims them is ever burdened by the world's sins and the blindness and folly of its unwisdom. Such is the lot of God's servants and in such manner do they learn to bear themselves who are stewards of His varied grace.
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Brief note must be made of Mr. Dickie's place among his brethren in the ministry. As a wise counsellor and generous friend, speaking the truth in love and with sharp humour he has constantly put his fellow-labourers in the Gospel in his debt. In the informal atmosphere of the Clerical Club he still remains our best Greek and Hebrew scholar and New Testament interpreter. His papers might with profit have had a wider publicity. They would bring honour to a craftsman who ranks as high as any in our Church's active ministry in sound scholarship and insight.
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A strange thing is this human life of ours with its varied heights and depths which leave their indelible marks. To come through it by God's help without dishonour is no small mercy. To have come through it in the public ministry as Mr. Dickie has for nearly forty years with work well and faithfully done, resting on a people's respect and love and with a name for integrity and sympathy and high endeavour is, as he himself would say, disclaiming all credit, a manifest grace of God.
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There is no sign of failing. The figure is as straight as ever, the step as firm, outward tokens of a constant purpose and a soul well-knit. Thus he continues the servant of God, of his congregation and of his brethren. Thinking of him who does not recall from the Acts of the Apostles that good man Barnabas, of whom it is written : " He was a good man and full of the Holy Ghost and of faith " ?
W. R. ENTRICAN.
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OFFICE-BEARERS 1947
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Pastor :
Rev. WILLIAM DICKIE, B.A., B.D.
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Session :
Mr. WILLIAN GIRVAN
Mr. GAWN JACKSON
Mr. DAVID M'MILLAN
Mr. WILLIAM H. MARTIN
Mr. F. W. MINNIS, J.P.
Mr. JAMES SHAW
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Committee :
Mrs. MINNIS
Miss STEWART
Mr. JOHN HALE
Mr. GAWN JACKSON (Jun)
Mr. DAVID M'KEE
Mr. DAVID M'MILLAN
Mr. H.J. M'MILLAN SKELLY
Mr. WILLIAM H. MARTIN
Mr. R. MATCHETT
Mr. WILLIAM MORROW
Mr. ERNEST SHAW
Mr. ROBERT SHAW
Mr. SAMUEL SHAW
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Treasurer:
Mr. ERNEST SHAW
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Secretary:
Mr. ROBERT MATCHETT
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Sabbath School Teachers:
Miss ENA CAIRNS
Miss DAISY DAVIS
Miss GIRVAN
Mrs. MINNIS
Miss ROBINSON
Miss MYRTLE RODGERS
Miss TODD
Mr. F.W. MINNIS, J.P.
Mr. ROBERT NEWELL
Mr. EDMUND PATTON
Mr. MARTIN SMYTH
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Mr. MINNIS commenced teaching in 1888, and from 1898 has acted as Superintendent.
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Choir:
Miss PEARL CAIRNS
Miss ENA CAIRNS
Miss DAISY DAVIS
Miss MARGARET GRANT
Miss GRETTA HERON
Miss PEGGY LAPPIN
Miss MARGARET M'CLENAGHAN
Miss HARRIET M'MILLAN
Miss ISOBEL MARTIN
Miss LILY MARTIN
Miss LILY ROBINSON
Miss JEAN SIMPSON
Miss INA KELLY
Miss PEARL SKELLY
Mr. JAMES CUNNINGHAM
Mr. RODGER DICKIE
Mr. JOHN FLEMING
Mr. WILLIAM GIRVAN
Mr. THOMAS GIRVAN
Mr. BERTIE GRANT
Mr. ROBERT HEWITT
Mr. JOHN JACKSON
Mr. ROBERT NEWELL
Mr. GEORGE NEWELL
Mr. SAMUEL ROBINSON
Mr. JACK SIMPSON
Mr. HARRY SLEITH
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Organist:
Miss TODD
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Girls' Auxiliary:
President : Miss M. RODGERS
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Boys' Auxiliary
President : Mr. R. NEWELL
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Church Caretaker:
Mr. ANDREW HEWITT