St Pauls and St Barnabas

Church News: A Deep Dive into the Meaning and Impact of Hope - Psalm 9:1-12 St Pauls & St Barnabas, Belfast The notion of hope has been a cornerstone of Christian belief, but have we ever stopped to think about its far-reaching implications in our daily lives? Minister Andrew Irwin delves into this profound concept in a recent sermon at St Pauls & St Barnabas, challenging us to ponder the real essence of hope. Drawing upon his recent travels, experiences in ministering around Belfast, and a trip to the United States, Andrew observes that our world is grappling with an epidemic of hopelessness. Recent studies from Barnardos indicate that a staggering 67% of young people have diminished hope for the future. Andrew argues that this lack of hope isn't just a societal issue but has permeated the Church itself. "The Church should be the most hopeful place in the world," he states, emphasising that our hope is grounded...

Warmth in the Midst of Winter: Join Us in the Winter Coat Project Warmth in the Midst of Winter: Join Us in the Winter Coat Project Imagine a cold winter's night in Belfast. Rain pours relentlessly, the wind howls, and the chill in the air cuts deep. It's a scene all too familiar for many in our community, where the unforgiving weather can be a daunting challenge. In these moments, a warm coat can be the difference between a difficult struggle and a glimmer of hope. It's a shield against the elements, a source of comfort, and a tangible expression of care from one human being to another. It's a reminder that, in our darkest hours, there are those who stand beside us, ready to offer warmth and support. The Winter Coat Project: Extending a Hand of Warmth In the spirit of compassion and community, we are delighted to announce the launch of the Winter Coat Project. This initiative holds great significance for us and aligns wit...

Amidst the changing seasons of our lives, we find ourselves in a continuous search for meaning and redemption. In this podcast episode, we have the privilege of delving into the timeless wisdom of the Gospel, specifically the profound message of Zacchaeus from Luke 19. Rev. Raymond Kettyle, the dedicated rector of St. John's Parish in Lurgan, passionately shares this transformative sermon during his visit to St. Paul's & Barnabas Church of Ireland. As we journey through this episode, we uncover the resounding message of God's unwavering goodness. Zacchaeus, a man known for his moral shortcomings and the despise of his community, seeks something greater. Climbing a tree to overcome his limitations, he unknowingly embarks on a life-altering encounter with Jesus. Rev. Kettyle masterfully brings to light the beauty of redemption and transformation that flows from this encounter. It's a reminder that God's goodness knows no bounds, extending to all, regardless of pas...

Psalm 119 stands as a testament to the power and beauty of God's Word in the believer's life. Verses 25-32, in particular, delve into the soul's yearning for God's guidance amidst life's trials and tribulations. These verses poignantly express our innate longing for spiritual rejuvenation and the transformative impact of divine truths on our journey. "My soul clings to the dust; give me life according to your word!" (Psalm 119:25) captures the earnest cry of the faithful, seeking solace and strength in Scripture.  This passage underscores that God's Word isn't merely a set of ancient texts but a living, breathing guide that invigorates our spirit, renews our path, and steers us toward righteousness. As the world around us shifts and changes, God's Word remains the steadfast anchor, directing our steps and enlightening our hearts. This sermon invites us to delve deeper into the richness of Psalm 119:25-32, encouraging believers to cherish, medit...

  In the tapestry of God's vast creation, humanity occupies a unique and treasured space. Psalm 8 beautifully encapsulates this, revealing both the grandeur of the cosmos and our distinct place within it. Despite the enormity of the universe, with its stars, galaxies, and celestial wonders, God's focus and affection towards us is unwavering.  We are not mere specks in the vastness, but beings of purpose and intention, "crowned with glory and honour" (Psalm 8:5). With this honor comes responsibility—entrusted with the stewardship of Earth, we're called to reflect God's attributes of justice, mercy, and righteousness. This Psalm isn't solely a tribute to the Creator; it's a reflection on our role in His creation.  Central to its message is Jesus, embodying its teachings, and solidifying our valued position before God. As we delve into its verses, our calling becomes evident: to embody Christ's teachings, cherish our divine bond, and lead others ...

  Psalm 7 draws us into the emotional whirlwind of being unjustly accused. David, the Psalmist, encapsulates this with a striking scenario: an unexpected confrontation with the police at one's doorstep. Yet, this is not just a mere illustrative tale. It serves as an invitation to dive deeper into the truths embedded within the Psalm. The backdrop of the Psalm is David’s earnest outcry against the slanderous words of Cush the Benjamite. While focusing on David’s personal challenge, the Psalm magnificently captures the universal struggles that every believer faces at different junctures. The beauty of the Psalms lies in their raw emotional expressiveness paired with steadfast faith. Here, we're reminded that faith offers sanctuary during our bleakest moments. In verses 1 and 2, David’s exposed plea emanates vulnerability. The metaphor of being hunted by a lion echoes the persistence of life's adversities. Amidst this chaos, David's unwavering trust in God stands tall. The...

  I recently had the pleasure of seeing a painting that has a powerful story to tell. The painting, which is currently hanging in the church choir room, was a gift to me from a past client. She was an artist, and this painting depicts her life. The painting shows her as a child, experiencing domestic trauma. The deft palate knife strokes symbolize her anger and sadness by way of swirling degrees of darkness. After counselling at Hope, she experiences positive changes in her life now as an adult. Her recovery is depicted by her journey from darkness to light. I was struck by the power of this painting, and I thought you might be interested in learning more about it. If you're ever in the church choir room, I encourage you to take a look at it. The painting is a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is always hope. With the right help, we can overcome anything. If you or someone you know is struggling with domestic violence, please reach out for help. There are many resou...