Lisburn Branch Profile.
Our Branch was formed in May 1976 and we held our 25th anniversary in May 2001.
Miss Margaret Herron pioneered the work in Lisburn and she did a good job in motivating a willing band of helpers.
We met for 26 years in Sloan Street Presbyterian Church Hall.
However, two years ago we moved to our present venue in Lisburn Congregational Church Hall because of better parking facilities.
Our rallies are well attended.
We have a good number of disabled some of whom are confined to wheelchairs, and also some elderly.
Our membership would be 94, with 42 helpers.
After a welcome cup of tea, we have an interesting programme.
The gospel is clearly presented in word and song.
There is also encouragement for those who have a personal faith in the Lord Jesus Christ.
We have a tape ministry.
Our monthly rallies are taped and as well as having some good gospel music, these are mostly given to those who are no longer able to come to our meetings.
Transport to our rallies is provided in a number of ways:
(a)Three tail-Iift coaches from the local Social Services, free of charge.
(b) A minibus from Thompson House Hospital for their own patients.
(c)A coach from Disability Action which we hire.
(d) Private cars.
Our prayer meeting is held in Sloan Street Presbyterian Church (Bible Class room) on the first Tuesday of each month, and we view this as the most important aspect of our work.
Branch holidays have been held since 1979 when we met in Stewart Memorial School in Bangor until 1984.
In 1985 we moved to the Primary School in Newcastle and were delighted when the D.C.F. Holiday Home was opened in May 1993.
A Branch holiday has been held every year since then in the Holiday Home and both helpers and members use the Home throughout the year. Some of our members have come to personal faith during the holidays.
We support the Home financially and trust that it will continue to be used to bring blessing to the disabled.
Some years ago our helpers formed a D.C.F. Choir which has been used mainly in deputation work in our own area.
Prior to Christmas and Easter services are held in some of the residential and nursing homes in the area.
Visitation - members are visited in their own homes.
This ministry is appreciated and it gives opportunity to read God's word and pray.
Visits are also made to Thompson House Hospital and to some members who are in residential homes.
Edna Scott COMMITTEE MEMBER