Service of Dedication at St Patrick's Church

ST Patrick's Church of Ireland was the venue for the service of dedication of a new standard and memorial book for the Special Constabulary Association's Mid Antrim Branch at which Rev. Rober Coulter was the guest preacher in his role as President of the Mid Antrim USCA branch.
By The Newsroom
Published 22nd Mar 2010, 09:32 BST
Updated 22nd Mar 2010, 09:59 BST

The event marked a significant piece of history, not just for the Mid Antrim branch, but also for the entire USCA across Northern Ireland.

The new Mid Antrim standard was presented to the branch by Rev Coulter and Mr Luke.

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Before the new branch standard was unveiled and dedicated, the former Mid Antrim standard was ‘laid up’ and will now be openly displayed in St Patrick’s.

As well as Canon Lloyd dedicating the new standard, he also dedicated a memorial book containing the names of all those known to have served with the USC in the Mid Antrim area from 1920 until 1970.

In his address, Rev Coulter congratulated the USCA members on their turnout, stating: “As we lay our old standard to rest, we look forward to the future. The standard has been a rallying point in the past. We are proud to carry our standards.

“In past battles, when the standard was lost, the troops became disenchanted. As we lay up our old colours, we have many memories. We think of times past, and especially of comrades, some who are not with us today.

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“We know that our members are getting smaller over the years, but that does not diminish our memories of past comrades and events. We must look to God for greater guidance.

“Who can deny the courage both of the men of the USC and their families.

“Those families carried a spirit for us which we found to be encouraging.

“We wonder what our future holds as we go out with our new standard – we go with a new purpose.

“We should all look forward when we can meet the captain of our salvation and hear the words, well done good and faithful servant. The further we look back, the further forward we can see”.