Mr Colin Elliott, Principal of Brownlee Primary School, pictured at the Summer Epilogue Service in Railway Street Presbyterian Church last Sunday evening with the Rev Brian Gibson (left) and Rev Canon Sam Wright (right).

Mr Colin Elliott, Principal of Brownlee Primary School, was the special guest at the Summer Epilogue Service last Sunday evening (10th August) in Railway Street Presbyterian Church when the congregations of Lisburn Cathedral, Seymour Street Methodist, First Lisburn and Railway Street joined for worship. Accompanying himself on guitar, Colin sang 'Over There', 'My Jesus I Love Thee' and 'I Saw the Light'. He also joined with Railway Street musicians Janet Ferguson (Director of Music), Dr Bertha Cowan (Keyboard), Rosie Cowan (Violin) and Megan Gillespie (Clarinet) as together they led the hearty singing of well-known hymns that included, 'To God be the glory' and 'I Will Sing the Wondrous Story'.

The minister, the Rev Brian Gibson, explained that in 1913, under the will of Miss Isabella Brownlee, the Brownlee Memorial School replaced the Railway Street National Schools, which were founded in 1869 by the first minister of Railway Street, the Rev David Clarke. The old school, which was situated at the rear of the church, is now the Minor Hall.

In an interview with Mr Gibson, Colin spoke of his pleasure in seeing children in Brownlee Primary develop academically, physically and socially as they progress through the school; and of his joy when some former pupils come back to say thank-you for the positive experience they had during their formative years of education. He recalled his Christian upbringing under Christian parents and grandparents and how at the age of just 8', he gave his life to the Lord at the Dick Saunders Crusade in Lurgan in 1976. Colin went on to explain that, as he grew older and matured in his faith he got involved in playing in Gospel groups and is now worship leader in Newmills Presbyterian Church, near his home in Bleary. He encouraged other young Christians to similarly become involved in some aspect of church life. He also spoke of his pleasure of being able to communicate the Gospel to the pupils in Brownlee through assemblies, the RE curriculum and by inviting guests from Scripture Union, Youth For Christ and Child Evangelism to take assemblies and special events in the school. In conclusion, Colin spoke of his love for Christian music and of his concerts with local band 'Live Issue' and how in recent years he has had the opportunity to tour in the United States and be involved in recording and producing in Nashville.

The Rev Canon Sam Wright, Rector of Lisburn Cathedral, was the preacher. In his address based on Isaiah 40 v 28-31 he referred to the Beijing Olympic games saying that while athletes get tired - the Lord will not grow tired. Speaking of the awesomeness of God he said that those who hope in the Lord would renew their strength, they will soar on wings like eagles and run and not grow weary. He concluded by saying that God will never leave you or forsake, praying that this awesome God would be with you in the days and weeks that lie ahead.

Also taking part were Marion Craig (First Lisburn) who read the Scripture lesson and the Rev Winston Good (Seymour Street) who led the prayers of intercession. Following the service, refreshments were served in the Minor Hall (previously the Railway Street National School).

The venues for the three remaining summer epilogue services are: Sunday 17th August - Lisburn Cathedral, Sunday 24th August - First Lisburn Presbyterian and Sunday 31st August - Seymour Street Methodist.

For more information on Christian singer, songwriter and producer Colin Elliott, go to his website at www.colinelliott.btik.com

11/08/2008