CelticGarden

The Celtic Peace Garden is the culmination of The Columba Community's work of reconciliation over the past 20 years. It is built near The White Oaks Centre and brings serenity and healing to visitors and to the residents of the Centre.

The garden is inspired by the 5th - 12th Century spiritual renaissance in Europe, which followed the fall of the Roman Empire. The Garden with its representations of the Cross of Patrick, the Boat of Brendan, the Island of Columba and the Oratory of Canice,inspires visitors to a spiritual re-awakening and renewal following the recent Troubles in this land. Also, a rough pathway round the perimeter of the Garden affords Christian Pilgrims ample opportunity for reflective prayer.

The video of The Celtic Saints shown at The New Visitors Centre introduces the Pilgrim to the Elements of the Spitrituality of Irelands Golden Age.

Here I am adding a song and the Lyrics of

Psalm 84 to the Tune of The Homes of Donegal and Sung by Ann and Margaret with Ronan on Flute and Tommy on guitar. Just click on the little triangle / arrow and follow the words below

Psalm 84 Jonathan Asprey

©Celebration Services ( Yeldall ) Ltd.

How lovely is thy dwelling place,

O Lord of hosts, to me.

My soul is longing and fainting

The courts of the Lord to see.

My heart and flesh, they are singing

For joy to the living God.

How lovely is thy dwelling-place,

O Lord of hosts, to me.

2. Even the sparrow finds a home

Where he can settle down.

And the swallow she can build a nest

Where she may lay her young.

Within the court of the Lord of hosts,

My King, my Lord and my God.

And happy are those who are dwelling where

The song of praise is sung.

3. And I’d rather be a door-keeper

And only stay a day,

Than live the life of a sinner

And have to stay away.

For the Lord is shining as the sun,

And the Lord, he’s like a shield;

And no good thing does he withhold

From those who walk his way.

(Repeat Verse 1)

The Christmas Trail

Each little house in the garden will have its own Christmas theme and, in the tradition of the great Irish storytellers, will have characters telling the Christian stories behind some of our favourite Christmas traditions. These include the story of St Nicholas, the Christmas Tree Miracle and of course the greatest story ever told, the birth of Jesus.

The tranquil setting will be an oasis for families looking to escape the commercialism, hustle and bustle which can dominate this time of year. Take some time together to enjoy an experience which will have the children discussing the real Christmas story long after this event.

Families will enjoy a guided trail under starlight and a very special dramatic piece created especially for this event and performed by young people. Children can take part in craft activities including cookie decorating while the parents can take a few moments to enjoy a hot drink and festive treats at the IOSAS Centre Café.

This year capture the excitement of the season and combine it with the true spirit of the Christmas message. Have a look at the Video on You Tube highlighting the event.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9MMfSSbQRJo

The Celtic Garden Christmas Trail at the IOSAS Centre – the traditions of Christmas past for a wonderful family Christmas present.

PRE-BOOKING ESSENTIAL – 72 HOURS BEFORE EVENT

Dates:

Fri 9th Dec 4pm, 5.30pm & 7pm Fri 16th Dec 4pm, 5.30pm & 7pm

Sat 10th Dec 4pm, 5.30pm & 7pm Sat 17th Dec 4pm, 5.30pm & 7pm

Sun 11th Dec 4pm, 5.30pm & 7pm Sun 18th Dec 4pm, 5.30pm & 7pm

Prices:

Stg £5.00 per child, £6.00 per adult

Family ticket £20.00 (2 adults & 2 children or 1 adult & 3 children)

Euro €5.50 per child, €6.50 per adult

Family ticket €22.00 (2 adults & 2 children or 1 adult & 3 children)

For booking information contact:

The IOSAS Centre, Derryvane, Muff, Tel: 07493 84866 (00353 7493 84866 from N.I.)

The Yard Project, 11 Queen St, Derry, Tel: 02871 269113 (04871 269113 from R.o.I)

Find us on facebook search ‘IOSAS Centre Christmas Trail’