Topics such as belief, faith, religion, and spirituality in Holywood, County Down, Northern Ireland, are the focus of this part of our guide.
Belief is the acceptance of conviction that certain propositions about the world are true. It often arises from personal experience, cultural background, or the influence of religious teachings. In many cases, beliefs form the building blocks of both individual identity and communal practice.
Faith is typically understood as a deep-seated trust or commitment to certain beliefs or doctrines without the need for tangible proof. In the context of Christianity, the most common religion in Holywood, faith is "the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen." (Hebrews 11:1).
Spirituality refers to the experiential and often personal quest for a connection with something larger than oneself. It may or may not be linked with formal religious institutions. However, while spirituality emerges from the inner life of an individual, it often finds expression in communal forms of worship and prayer.
Religion is generally viewed as an organized system of beliefs, practices, rituals, and moral values. It provides a structured framework in which communities gather together to worship, celebrate, and pass on traditions. As such, religion encompasses both the collective expression of faith and the codification of specific beliefs about the divine.
While any topics relating strongly to belief, faith, religion, or spirituality in Holywood are appropriate for this category, those representing churches, ministries, or other places of worship in Holywood are particularly relevant.
Holywood's roots in early Christianity are woven into its name. From the Latin Sanctus Boscus, which translates to "holy wood," a tradition of sanctity and devotion that dates back well before the medieval period. The designation is thought to stem from the interplay between its natural setting and the sanctification of the local woods. The Christian identity of Holywood is predominantly connected to the founding of a monastic community there by Saint Laiseran in the early 7th century.
Today, Holywood is home to a mix of well-established churches and newer ministries. Churches, ministries, and other places of worship in Holywood, regardless of the particular religion, denomination, or sect, are on-topic in this part of our guide.
Recommended Resources
Christian Fellowship Church Holywood
CFC Holywood is a welcoming church community based in the centre of Holywood, Northern Ireland. According to its website, the church offers lively worship services, inspiring talks, and opportunities for prayer and fellowship, and hosts various events, including youth programmes, membership exploration rights, and community gatherings. Its history, spiritual practices, vision, values, and beliefs are outlined, along with a calendar of events and an introduction to its staff and leadership team.
https://thisiscfc.com/holywood/
Holywood Baptist Church is an independent Baptist congregation in Holywood, Northern Ireland. The church holds regular Sunday services at 10:30 a.m., followed by tea and coffee. Its history, a statement of beliefs and faith, policies, and staff are identified on the church's website, which includes a calendar of events, information about its home groups, programmes for children and youth, and men's ministries. A sermon archive, the address of the church, a map, and contact data are provided.
https://www.holywoodbaptist.org.uk/
The Roman Catholic parish and church serve as a spiritual and community hub for the local population in Holywood, Northern Ireland, and the surrounding area. The parish offers live-streamed Masses and community events, while maintaining deep roots in tradition. Visitors and locals can find detailed information on service times, parish activities, and community news on the church's dedicated website, which positions the church as both a historic landmark and a modern place of worship.
https://www.stcolmcillesholywood.org/
Holywood Parish Church stands on Church Road in Holywood, County Down, Northern Ireland, and is an active member of the Church of Ireland within the Diocese of Down & Dromore. Upcoming events, service times, and an overview of the church's approach to community and worship are set forth on the church's website, along with detailed information, news updates, event schedules, and contact details. In addition to in-person worship services, services are also broadcast live.
https://www.holywoodparishchurch.co.uk/
