December 1920

Seagoe Parish Magazine.

DECEMBER, 1920,

How the New Legislation will affect

Seagoe Parish.

[We have received the following important letter from Lt.-Colonel Blacker.

It explains

very clearly how the Parish will be affected by the New Church Acts passed at the

General Synod, held in Dublin, on November 9th —13th, 1920. Colonel Blacker's

suggestions. as to how the new responsibilities may be met, deserve the serious

consideration of the Parishioners.]

The Act, entitled the Minimum Clergy Stipend Bill, recently passed by the General Synod

is of such far-reaching importance, and affects so vitally the future existence of Seagoe Parish, that

I am convinced that its provisions, and what they entail, should be plainly put before all the

members, of the Church in Seagoe.

Briefly this Bill enacts that in ,the event of a vacancy occurring in the incumbency or curacy off

any parish, no clergyman will be appointed to fill such vacancy, until the Diocesan Council are

satisfied that a minimum Stipend of £400 a your nd a free house for the Rector, and £200 a year

(with annual increase of £5 for each year's service) for the Curate is guaranteed.

Let us consider how this affects Seagoe :—At present the Rector's stipend is £300 a year, out

of which he has to pay £30 on the glebe. The payment of this stipend is assured from Endowment,

consequently all the money raised by the Sustentation Fund is available for the Curate.

Last year the Subscriptions to the Sustentation Fund came to about £175. To bring the Stipends

of the Clergy up to the requisite minimum,a further sum of £130 for the Rector and about £45 for the Curate will have to be found, making an increase of £175. Thus the Parish will have to raise

annually £350 instead of £175.

What is the alternative ?

Should the present Rector be transferred, or become non effective, the Parish of Seagoe, containing

some 3,000 Church people would probably be amalgamated with neighbouring Parish, and

thus lose its identity. I cannot think that anyone in Seagoe would desire this to occur.

The remedy is in our own hands. We must increase our Subscriptions to the Sustentation Fund.

I made an appeal last year with little practical result. I again earnestly entreat each parishioner, if

he is a Subscriber to the Sustentation Fund, to double his Subscription this year; and if he is not a

Subscriber to become one.

For a Parish of 3000 church people the raising of £350 annually for the Sustentation Fund

should present no difficulties. I do not think there is any Parish in the Diocese whose contributions

to the Sustentation Fund are so small in proportion to the Church Population. This is surely a blot

on Seagoe.

As a practical basis to work on I would suggest the following plan to determine the amount

each should subscribe—

For Farmers—1s 6d for each acre held.

For Workers—3d a week (or say 4s year) for each £1 a week wages.

Thus a farmer holding 20 acres would give 30s a year, and a worker getting 80s a week

6s a year.

Roughly about 1/200th instead of 1/ 10th, which we are enjoined by scripture to set apart for

the Service of God.

Now some may contingency has not yet arisen : It will be quite time enough to

worry when the occasion arises." To such I would reply—Surely if the increased Stipend is necessary for future Incumbents, it is quite as essential for the existing clergy, who are the only class in the community who have had to bear the greatly Increased cost of living with no increase of income.

I would ask each member of the Church to carefully consider the situation as outlined in this

letter, and do whatever lies in his power to help to keep our Old Parish of Seagoe as a separate

unit in the Diocese.

Marlfield, Winchester, Nov, 20th, 1920.

STEWART W. BLACKER, LT.-COLONEL.

SEAGOE PARISH MAGAZINE

Christmas, 1920.

We wish all our Readers a very happy Christmas and a bright and prosperous new year.

Advent Services,

A special Advent Tract has been widely distributed

through the Parish. It will remind the Parishioners

of the duty which Advent impresses upon us of

Watchfulness and Prayer. On Advent Sunday the

beautiful Hymns and Music from the New Hymnal

Were well sung,and a fair number of the Congregation

were present at Holy Communion.

During this season at all the Services there will be

special prayers and hymns, suitable to the time.

Christmas Day.

On Christmas Day, Saturday 25th December, the

following Services will be held—

8 a.m.—Holy Communion.

11-30 a.m.—Morning Prayer, Sermon and Holy

Communion.

The offertory alms at both services will be for the

Poor Fund of the Parish, on which many calls are

being made just now.

PARISH REGISTER for NOV,

Baptisms.

The following were Baptized in Seagoe Parish

Church on November 6th, 1920.

Glassey— George Charles, son of William John and Rosina Glassey Of Portadown

Sponsors—Mary Marchesi, Rosina Glassey

Stanfield—William John, son of Thomas Edward and Mary Jane Stanfield of Edenderry

Sponsors —Thomas Edward Stanfield, Mary -June Stanfield.

Ellis—Samuel, son of James and Agnes Ellis, of Killicomaine.

Sponsors—Lily Ellis, Agnes Ellis.

Partridge—Margaret, daughter of Benjamin and Olivia Partridge, of Kernan.

Sponsors—Sarah Mary Porter, Olivia Partridge.

Burials,

Hewitt—November 8th, Emma Jane Hewitt, of Tarson. aged 88.

Simpson—November 17th, George Simpson, of Ballinacorr, aged 59 years.

Atkinson —Nov. 25th, Mary Margaret Atkinson, of Edenderry, aged 79 years.

McCoo—Nov. 26th, Mary McCoo, Of Edenderry, aged 51, years. Interred at Vinecash.

We regret to record the death of Mr. George

Simpson, of Ballinacorr, which occurred with great

suddenness. He passed to his rest after but a few

minutes illness.

Death has also removed from our midst one who was

very well known to many, Miss Mary Margaret Atkinson

of "Newstone," sister of Mr. Wolsey Atkinson. Miss

Atkinson had been in failing health for some time,

and gradually getting weaker, passed away on Nov.

23rd. She had spent almost all her long life in

Seagoe Parish, and was greatly attached to it. She

loved to worship within the walls of the Parish Church,

which she had known ;from childhood. On behalf

of the Parishioners we express our sincere sympathy

with the bereaved in their trouble.

Seagoe Kalendar.

The Few Seagoe Kalendar will be ready on Dec.

llth—price Sixpence. It will be a Red, White and

Blue Kalendar. It will contain the names of "Our

Fallen Heroes," printed in a handsome and appropriate

setting. It will contain a fine half tone Block

of Seagoe Church, and an interesting photograph of

the Ulster Volunteer Camp of 1914, at Carrickblacker.

It will also contain "The Story of Seagoe," printed for

the first 'time, also the Parish Motto for 1921, and

complete Calendar for the New Year. The number

of copies will be strictly limited, so secure your copy

early, if you want to get one, unlike last year when

so many were unable to get a copy. The Kalendar

will be on sale at Kyle's Grocery Stores, 16 Bridge

Street, and may also be had from any of the Sunday

school superintendents throughout the Parish.

The Rev. T- H. Scanlon.

The Rev. T. H. Scanlon paid a visit to Seagoe last

week. His many friends were delighted to see him.

Mr. Scanlon played a very courageous part in the

recent Tempo Raid, and was twice shot at by the

raiders, When he was trying to carry Sergeant Lucas

(who has since died Of his wounds) into the Rectory,

Mrs Scanlon also acted very bravely. Mr Scanlon has

been personally thanked by the Military and Police

authorities for his action. Mr Scanlon has been

Rector of Tempo for the past year. The Rectory is

beside the police barrack in the village, and Sergeant

Lucas fell wounded at the Rectory door. Mr Scanlon

gave evidence at the inquest in Belfast. We congratulate

Mr and Mrs Scanlon on their courage.

Presentation.

Mr. &.Mrs. Thos. England have arrived in Canada.

Before he left Mr England received several practical

expressions of goodwill from the Parish. The Choir

presented him with a Bible. The presentation was

made at a social in Seagoe School, most generously

given by Mr and Mrs T. H. Wilson. A most enjoyable

evening was spent. The members of Seagoe Girls'

Bible Class presented him with a handsome suede

Wallet,and the Teachers & Children off Seagoe morning

Sunday School gave him a Fountain Pen. We hope

soon to hear from Mr and Mrs England from their

new home beyond the sea.

SEAGOE PARISH MAGAZINE.

WITH THE "NINTH" IN FRANCE,

By Lieut.„C01. W. S. BLACKER, D.S.O.

Thursday, Jan. 13th, 1916.

I had to send in a Junior Officer's name for attachment

to 1ll Army for probable appointment to

Staff. I asked "G" if he would go and he said he

would sooner stay with the Batt. I was rather

pleased. I believe they have had great games the

last night of the old year. Band out playing "Auld

Lang Syne,” and Fergie in his element !

Friday, Jan, 14th.

Lovely sunny day. Busy inspecting Billets all

my, and gave Lecture on "Battle of copy

of one given by a man who was there on X Corps

Staff.

Saturday, Jan. 15th.

Sunday, Jan. 16th.

We had service with the Downs this a.m. It

then came on to drizzle, but cleared up after 'lunch,

-when Pratt, Padre, and I walked to R—, about 2

niles, and went to see our former landladies, who

were delighted to see us. Came, round by Brigade

Office, and saw the Gen. for a short time. He had

been out to a village where Ensor is trying to erect

Huts, without wood.

We are to get our 2nd lot of M.G. is, and the 1st

lot from each Battalion form a M.G. Company—a

separate Unit. Just had a nice bath first since

Euston Hotel. Berry returned Tuesday. I expect

the Primate will be here next Sunday. I see Going

has been promoted Brevet Lt.-Col. in Res. of Offcers.

Curious reward. I suppose he has been in some push.

Oliver made a regular Maj,-Gen., and Griffths a

Brevet-Colonel.

Monday, Jan. 17th.

Rode out to-day to see if I could get any cool.

Can't get any from A.SAC. A problematic 9 cwt a

week for 1,000 men ! I bought 1,200 lbs. this p.m.

for 42 francs, not too dear, but double What they

Charged a week ago, They have posted two officers

from G.H.Q. School for Officers to join on 30th. I

wonder what they will be like. Pratt very keen about

his coffee shop. A fine a.m. turned to rain all p m.

Laundry and Baths going strong. The rest Of A

Company go off to-morrow,about 10 miles from here,

to build huts, etc. Got 'four waggon loads of coke

today for 120 francs. It only lasts a week in the

laundry. 1b takes 7 braziers going night and day in

the drying room to dry the clothes,

Tuesday, Jan. 18th.

'This a.m. I rode over to the village Ensor is

improving, about miles away. Found him rather

forlorn. The rest of his Company went to him today,

and I luckily struck the C.R E. there and squared

things for him, so I hope now he will be all right.

Griffiths came here in my absence and wandered

round laundry. recreation rooms, etc. I believe he

was quite pleased with everything. A Constant drizzle

SII day. Don't notice much lengthening of days

at either end. George Bruce -has been made GS.O. in

Richardson's place. I'm every glad, as I'm convinced

he's a staff brain, The Brigade were foolish to miss

him. I fried hard to get Griffth to forward application

to promote Fergie Captain, but he wouldn 't.

said he had already tried -one case and been refused

by the Div. Fear it's no good. They say it would be

very bard on Regular Qr. Masters, many of whom

have been out since beginning Of and have

good deal of commissioned service—I quite see the

point.

Wednesday, Jan. 19th.

Berry returned last night —a horrible journey.

C' Viper" no cabins, a walk of two miles from steamer

to train in dark and wet, 17 hour journey in 02nd

class, with only one chance of a meal. 'Mess cart met

him at rail head, 7 miles, and got him here at 8-30

wearied and tired ; 'he is bright as ever to-day.

Thursday, Jan. 20th

Spender full of rumour about the Britigh taking

over French bit between 2nd and 3rd Armies, which

up to now they (the French) have always opposed.

If 'we do,we shall go up into that bit of line, but When

I don't know. Failing that, or till that, we shall stay

here making huts and such like rot. Lovely day.

turned colder to-night, and blowing hard. Brig has

sort of Field Day to-morrow for Officers, no men—

a trench attack—ought 'to be instructive. Staff grouse

at their poor quarters. I told them it's time they

did a little roughing it. Got in coal yesterday.

and, bought another 1200 lbs at 84 francs ton.

Nugent came round this morning when I was

Cather took him to the bombing, but he was in

hurry. Griffith came yesterday. Am sending

Scott out to 'GA" Company, as Medical Adviser. Ho

is still waiting orders. The Havre journey home

out is a nightmare.

Friday, Jan. 21st.

We had long morning at G's scheme—-slow but

instructive. Didn't get back till 2-45, cold wind, but

no grain luckily. Lots of hanging about which was

boresome. G is off on leave on Sunday, I hear.

Primate holds a Service here at 11 am., Sunday, for

us, 18th ;and 12th. We had to send 15 miles for

wood to-day. Stronge borrowed a country

put in 6 horses, and brought in 4 tons of wood. We

also unexpectedly got about & ton Of coal It takes 4

waggons of coke to last a week. So we are going to

try country waggons next week. Pratt tried suppers

here but the men won't look at 'them,funnily enough.

Coffee shop taking 170 francs a day. It's very

SEAGOE PARISH MAGAZINE.

to get things out of the Ordnance, and they say there

is a serious shortage of such things as knives. forks,

spoons, badges, clasp knives, and other metal goods,

and strict economy must be exercised ; the things

cannot be got. Leather also, and repairs of boots, I

cannot extract out of them,and we are getting behind

with the repairs of boots. Can't get any men on

parade. "A" Company away, large numbers of other

Companies employed on hutting schemes, for which

we can't get any materials—wood. nails, canvas, or

tools. Tried to get some hammers and saws in A—

yesterday. You never saw such stuff—toy saws, feeble

hatchets, and ponderous hammers. The Band has

bad a great furnishing up under the Padre. New

instruments,music, and drums painted,and new cords,

at an outlay of £25—about. They have improved

enormously on their playing.

Saturday, Jan. 22nd.

A busy day, tho' the Primate never came. Ho

mg got hung up at Folkestone, owing to submarines.

Fergie says a pal Quarter Master of his, at Dover,

told him we had got two Hun Subs (taken one and

sunk one), and that he saw the taken one at Dover,

one of their newest,whose machinery had gone wrong

and could neither move nor sink. Our New Corps'

Commander insists on training being carried out, so

we are to begin on Monday with Company training,

and then two weeks Brigade and Division Training

after that, about the middle of March, we are to go

into the line, relieving the VII Corps. Cavan, I

believe, is excellent, but it's quite impossible to build

huts and do regular Company training at the same

time. Our men have been at it for 18 months. We

Lave also to find Officers for the New Armies. At

present I have 10 Officers away on duties, leaving one

Captain and one Sub with each Company! I am to

dine at Div. H.Q. on Friday, to meet the Primate.

Sunday, Jan. 23rd.

The Primate, Sir J. Stronge, and Cavan turned

up for Parade Service. P walked round and talked

to each Officer ; did not preach a good sermon ; very

disappointing. I thought Padre far better: Sir J.

came on to lunch ; seemed astounded to see how well

all the men looked. Luckily beautifully fine up to

2 p.m., when a cold fog came on. I asked Cavan

after Edgar Lambert. He said he'd tried France but

was too old, had gone to Egypt, I think. Heard

from Going, He came out in July, and in August

to Ypres where he had been till a few weeks ago,

when they were sent out of the line to near G.H.Q.

to rest. Casualties—10 Officers, 275 men, Primate

and J.B. stay till next Saturday, when J returns

home, and P passes on to Pulteney, 16th Division

and 107th Brigade for a week, I believe.

Monday, Jan. 24th.

Your letter of Friday came to-day, quite quick !

Had a tiring day—Umpire at stupid Field Day. Left

here 8-45 a.m. Got back very wet at 2-30 and had

to go to the Pow wow at 3-30,which lasted till 5 p.m.

What was the reason for the Field Day I cannot

imagine, as we all had to begin Company Training

today. Blackwood is excellent. "Carry on" life like.

Think we shall stay here for a bit. I'm afraid its

doubtful if we get the Guards. Cavan said yesterday

he feared he'd lost them. On the other hand Smyth

says he came over with some G.H.Q. fellow who said

they were coming to the XIV Corps. Primate comes.

to see us in the morning. Another Officer, a Captain

in A S C, posted last night from G H Q. They all

join about end of month.

Tuesday, Jan. 25th

There doesn't appear to be coal available in the

country. No one has it; Primate came this a.m.

Fine and sunny Stayed 2 ½ hours, -walking round

and seeing men. Fergie presented him with a gas

helmet as a souvenir. About 12-45 scheme for

tomorrow's Field Day came in—in which I am opposed

to Bull, he having a convoy, and I to attack it. I

had at once to ride out and see the ground, and have

my orders in Brigade Office by 4 p.m. Rather a rush.

Berry's name has been sent in for D.A.D.M.S, so if

sanctioned we shall lose him. Last night sanction

came for general leave. Pratt and Stronge and two

privates go to-morrow. then no one .to February 16,

when 20 all ranks go, and then none again till

March 11. It will take some time to get through the

Battalion at, the rate of 40 a month. These Field

Days every other day, amid other distractions, are an

awful nuisance. They don't teach us anything

will be useful to us in the warfare we shall be doing,

Seal pattern old Aldershot Field Days they are. What

we want to learn is the attack of trenches, and all the

details to be attended to, Repington's article the

other day I thought was excellent. He said he firmly

believed the war would be decided on the West Front

and that it would be Trench Warfare to the end, and

the massing of Cavalry to dash through the gaps was

rot.

Wednesday, Jan. 26th

I managed to capture Bull's convoy by rather a

fluke. Didn't attempt to strafe me, though he was in

an evil mood, and refused to let the men go home, but

kept the mout for an hour while he laid down the law to

Officers on tactics. Still any amount of comforts, as

we managed to bring everything here. Sand bags we

shan't want till we go up into the line. "At”

handled the Battalion capitally. I was in command

of the side. I believe these blessed days are coming

off thrice weekly !

(To be Continued.)

Presentation,

Another Presentation took place on Thursday,Nov.

25th, at Levaghery school, when Mr John Alexander

McDowell, a member of the Sunday School, was

presented with a Leather Travelling Bag on the occasion

of his leaving for South Manchester, U.S.A. The

Rev. H. G. Singleton presided, and made the Presentation.

Mr McDowell suitably replied, and Miss

Agnes Guy, superintendent of the Sunday school,

expressed the regret of the Teachers and Children at

Mr McDowell's departure.