Medieval beginnings of 
Drumbeg parish outlined in book

Archdeacon Gregor McCamley joined Rev Willie Nixon and the congregation of the Church of St Patrick, Drumbeg, for the launch of ‘Ecclesia De Drum’, a concise and informative history of a parish which dates back as far as 1306.

The book was authored by Mr Matt Neill, typed by Mrs Clara Crookshanks, and published by Rev Stanley Gamble of Slieve Croob Press. Mr Matt Neill is a well known and respected local historian, parishioner, sexton and long time friend of Drumbeg Parish. At 95 years he has a unique perspective on the history of the Parish. Blessed with a great memory, Matt informs the story with his own recollections of the parish, giving it a ‘real life’

Rev Willie Nixon pictured with Mr Matt Neill and Archdeacon Gregor McCamleyplaceholder image
Rev Willie Nixon pictured with Mr Matt Neill and Archdeacon Gregor McCamley

Archdeacon Gregor McCamley enthused about the book during his sermon, which was held on Sunday, September 1, pointing to the past, but reminding the Parish of the need to press on in order to build on the past for the glory of the Kingdom of God.

Rev Willie Nixon, noted that this was ‘an historic moment in the life of Drumbeg, and a day when memories of those who had gone before were called to mind, at a time when through the new SPACE Praise Band and SPACE services, the Parish is very much looking to the future’. The launch of the Revised and Updated edition of his publication ‘Ecclesia de drum’ is on sale at £10 from Drumbeg Parish by emailing: [email protected] or by phoning 07702063412.

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