Christ Church, in the quaint Co Armagh village of Bessbrook, opens its long awaited Flower Festival next week to mark its 150th anniversary.
Over the next few days floral designers and several props will descend on the building for the opening of the ‘Popular Hymns’ themed event which is expected to be one of the village’s most colourful-ever events.
After three years of preparations, the 150th Anniversary Flower Festival will open its doors from Friday through to Sunday, September 21 to 23.
The dates encompass the consecration date of the Church of Ireland building on September 22, 1868.
The Festival’s floral artiste, Marie Cairns, has overall responsibility for coordinating the blooms to create the spectacular exhibits throughout the church, including the Nave, Sanctuary and Transepts.
A spokesperson for the Festival commented “We are all very excited about the opening of the Flower Festival. This particular event is the result of over three years of planning and design.
“We are anticipating a very inspiring and busy few days and everyone is very welcome to come along and enjoy the beauty and creativity of God’s nature.”
Throughout the three day event there will be delicious teas and lunches available in the Parish Hall, located within the Church grounds.
Christ Church Flower Festival is open on
- Friday 21st September from 11.00am to 9.00pm
with an Opening Service of Holy Communion at 7.00pm.
- Saturday 22nd September from 10.00am to 9.00pm
which will include an afternoon organ recital by the accomplished organist
Rev Dr Peter Thompson, Rector of Donaghmore, Co. Tyrone.
- Sunday 23rd September from 2.00pm to 6.30pm
with a Closing Service of Hymns at 7.00pm.
The Church members have made a great effort to ensure their Flower Festival is open to all members of the community, and have been greatly encouraged by the support of the local business community, who have been very generous in their support of the church’s celebrations.
So why not come along and be part of this historic occasion, not only in the life of the church, but in the life of Bessbrook village.
Further information is available on the parish website www.christchurchbessbrook.co.uk or by calling the Parish Secretary on 07928 096 185.
Main image by Stephen Black
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