Church to mark 40 years with ‘drive-in’ Gospel Mission

AN Omagh church is holding a week-long ‘drive-in’ Gospel Mission to mark the end of its 40th anniversary celebrations.

The congregation of Omagh Independent Methodist Church, which opened in Queens Parade in the town on February 23, 1980, held a series of events earlier this year to mark the last four decades, starting with a number of special meetings throughout the anniversary week.

A church spokesperson said, “During one of those meetings a Power Point presentation of the building process was shown. Many of those who volunteered their time and effort returned to thank God with us. Other meetings were held to prepare ourselves for whatever time God gives us in the future. A meal for present members and friends was put on in the church hall. During the meal original members were presented with a framed print of a beautiful painting of the church created by one of our young men.

“We are grateful to God that the celebrations were over before Covid-19 and lockdown occurred. God’s timing is always perfect.”

The church had intended to conclude its year of celebration with a three-week Gospel Mission, but because of the current Covid-19 restrictions those plans have had to change.

Instead, a week-long ‘drive-in’ Gospel Mission will be held in the grounds of Gibson Primary School, which has been kindly granted, each evening from September 6 to 13 between 7pm and 8pm.

The church spokesperson said, “John Weir from Belfast, who was booked to take the church mission has kindly consented to do the drive in services for us.

“We look forward to being able to listen to God’s word in the comfort and safety of our cars. It would be our great pleasure if you could join us.”

Looking back on the church’s 40 years in Omagh, the spokesperson added, “During that time, we have shared highs and lows, tears and laughter, tragedy and triumph, but over everything has been the amazing sense of God’s presence and the knowledge that He has been working out His purposes among us. It has been four decades worth remembering and celebrating together.”