Beekeepers Rejoice

Another year on and the Ulster Beekeepers’ Association Annual Harvest Thanksgiving Service will be held on Sunday evening, 14th October 2007 at 6.30 pm in St Patrick’s Parish Church, Ballymena. 

The service will again be hosted by the members of the local Association - Mid Antrim.  A large turnout of beekeeping members and friends is anticipated from the other eight affiliated local Associations - Belfast, Dromore, East Antrim, Fermanagh, Killinchy, Mid Ulster, Randalstown and Roe Valley – all can expect a warm welcome from the parishioners and Mid Antrim members.

Beekeepers and friends of the affiliated Associations from the Federation of Irish Beekeepers across the border will also join with us in giving thanks for the harvest from the hive – a harvest that the lovely weather of April, May and early June 2007 promised to be the best ever but moderated by a distinct lack of summer weather in July and August that was less conducive to abundant foraging by the bees for nectar. But as always a harvest for which we are very thankful.

The special guest preacher at the service, which will commence at 6.30 pm, will be Rev. Margaret Johnston, Minister Emeritus of Fortwilliam Park Presbyterian Church Belfast, who is also President of the Ulster Beekeepers’ Association and a member of Killinchy Beekeepers’ Association.  The lessons will be read by Hugh Keery, President of the Mid Antrim Beekeepers’ Association and Graham Hall, President of the Federation of Irish Beekeepers’ Associations.

All Beekeepers, their friends and everyone interested in taking part in an inspiring Harvest Thanksgiving Service, will be welcomed into the congregation of St Patrick’s Church in Castle Street, Ballymena with its beautiful stained glass windows, its strong musical tradition and to the ringing of its magnificent twelve bells.

Notes for Editors:

1. Lorraine McBride, Secretary of St. Patrick’s Church is also the Secretary of Mid Antrim Beekeepers’ Association. Her phone number is 028 2564 0872.
   
   Rev Margaret Johnston may be contacted at 028 9754 1231

All Beekeepers, their families their friends and all who are interested are cordially invited to attend

 Directions to St. Patrick's