Presbyterian Herald June 2023

JUNE 2023

Faith in the

fair city

A PLACE OF SANCTUARY CONTROVERSIAL, YET INFLUENTIAL Welcome and hospitality in Tullamore The story of Gilbert Tennent

THE PAIN OF INFERTILITY One couple’s story

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Andrew Ollerton

Gilbert Lennox

CONTENTS | JUNE 2023

FEATURES 14 A place of sanctuary

Welcome and hospitality in Tullamore

16 Controversial, yet influential The story of Gilbert Tennent

18 Confident in Christ

Interview with Moderator-Designate Dr Sam Mawhinney

32 The pain of infertility

The story of one Presbyterian couple

35 The Father’s heart

Heather Thompson discusses her new book

38 Providing holistic care

Supporting health care workers and families in their caring roles A place of sanctuary p14

REGULARS 4 6 8 9 11 12 13 23 31 40 42 47

Letters News In this month My story As I see it Life lessons David Clarke Mission Connect Norman Hamilton Reviews Life in PCI Ruth Sanderson

The pain of infertility p32

Providing holistic care p38

CONTRIBUTORS Kevin Hargaden is an elder in Lucan Presbyterian Church. He is a theologian whose work focuses on Christian ethics. His most recent book is called Parish as Oasis.

Deborah Sloan is a member of Orangefield.

She has four teenage daughters and has recently left a career in academia to pursue her lifelong dream of being a writer.

Rev Dr Martyn Cowan is Lecturer in Historical Theology at Union Theological College and has been on the faculty there since 2016.

Ruth Sanderson lives in Scotland with her husband and two daughters. She is a freelance radio/television presenter and producer.

Cover photo: Jamie Trimble June 2023 No. 849 Published by: The Presbyterian Church in Ireland, Assembly Buildings, Belfast BT1 6DW. T: +44 (0)28 9032 2284 E: herald@presbyterianireland.org W: www.presbyterianireland.org

Editor: Sarah Harding

The views expressed in the features, news reports, letters and book reviews of this magazine are not necessarily those of the editor. Editorial comment and signed Subscriptions and Advertising: articles do not necessarily contain the official views of the Church, which can only be laid down only by the General Assembly. Acceptance of advertisements Edward Connolly; Hazel Gilliland does not imply endorsement of the goods or services. Advertising will not be Design and Layout: included if the product or service is deemed to be in conflict with the Church’s Edward Connolly official views, or if it is inappropriate for a church magazine. It is not Herald policy Printing: to include any editorial content along with adverts. The editor reserves the right W & G Baird Ltd to decline any advertisement or letter without assigning any reason. Letters may be edited for publication. No correspondence can be entered into regarding nonpublication of advertisements or letters.

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The Presbyterian Church in Ireland is a registered charity in Northern Ireland (NIC104483); registered charity in Republic of Ireland (20015695).

Herald June 2023

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EDITORIAL

LETTERS General Assembly

Love deeply

In David Clarke’s regular column studying 1 Peter, he reflects on the command to “love each other deeply”.

David notes that “the adverb ‘deeply’ refers to a horse at full gallop”, and he concludes: “It must be no half-hearted, lukewarm gesture.”

Loving others deeply involves sacrifice. At a time when health care provision is under enormous pressure, family members can find themselves unexpectedly making sacrifices to look after their loved ones. This month, we hear from Healthcare Christian Fellowship Ireland, an organisation seeking to support Christian family members and health care workers in their roles, as they provide for people in a holistic way – spiritually and practically.

Loving others also means caring about the difficulties they endure. This is not always easy, especially when the subject is a sensitive one. Deborah Sloan speaks to one couple who bravely share their struggles with infertility.

She also talks to Rev Alistair Bates, who has completed a PhD on the subject of involuntary childlessness within a PCI context. He describes this as a “major pastoral issue” and also argues that it is a key one for the Church to grapple with, saying: “it is important to establish what a strong covenantal community looks like so that no one feels like a second-class member”.

The demographics of our churches are changing, and ensuring that no one feeling like a second-class member is a pertinent issue. Anne Graham from Cregagh Presbyterian tells her story of working with migrants. Anne and her husband Michael say one of the most rewarding aspects of their role is “encouraging troubled souls to come to Christ and know him as their Lord”.

We also feature Tullamore Presbyterian in Co Offaly where the congregation has received a ‘Church of Sanctuary’ award for its work with refugees and asylum seekers. Although much has been done, minister Rev William Hayes says “we have only scratched the surface” of the work still to do. Despite the challenges, “what better opportunity to share Christ’s message of love and redemption…on our doorstep,” he suggests.

In his big interview, Moderator-Designate Dr Sam Mawhinney shares his experiences of ministering in both rural and urban contexts. He says he is considering his theme for the year ahead as “being confident in Christ”, because “the church has a good deal to still offer this society both in terms of truth and in terms of community”.

As our churches love deeply in their communities, we can be confident that Christ will go before us, empowering and equipping us in his name.

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Herald June 2023

Dear Editor I thank the Clerk for his article in last month’s edition, pointing people to this month’s General Assembly, which opens on the evening of Wednesday 21 June and closes on Saturday 24 June.

As he said, our General Assembly is a coming together of people the length and breadth of this island, to worship, to pray, and to seek Christ in all that we do, as members take the decisions that we need to take. Business will be conducted on Thursday, along with the evening celebration, with business continuing on Friday until Saturday afternoon. This year, as in most years, there are a number of important items coming up and the business will be pretty full, with some changes to the usual format as well, which the Clerk spoke of in his article.

I appreciate that many members of our Church feel that the General Assembly is a rather distant body and are happy just to come to worship on a Sunday, to the midweeks, and serve as they feel they are led to serve. But you will be welcome to come along to the public gallery and watch proceedings – you will find the schedule of business at www. presbyterianirelandlorg/ga23 Alternatively, you can log on to the livestream and watch.

You will be more than welcome to come along to the

opening night, when we install our new Moderator, Dr Sam Mawhinney of Adelaide Road Presbyterian Church in Dublin, our first Moderator from a congregation in the Republic of Ireland for nearly a quarter of a century.

There will be another service of worship on Thursday, with the General Assembly Communion service taking place on Friday. Thursday’s evening celebration starts at 7.45pm and our speaker is Rev Jonty Rhodes, the founding pastor of Christ Church Central, in Leeds. All are welcome.

Rev Roy Mackay Convener, General Assembly Business committee

Women in leadership Dear Editor I refer to the April Presbyterian Herald letters, six of which were critical of the Moderator Designate, Rev Dr Sam Mawhinney, and his personal views on the ordination of women.

Don Carson wrote a book titled The Intolerance of Tolerance illustrating the hypocrisy of the tolerance movement to those who disagreed with their views.

The content and tone of many of these letters is a clear illustration of this and many use the language of the ‘woke’ culture – ‘hurt’ – as opposed to simply stating they disagree with his view and providing

Letters to the Editor Write to: Presbyterian Herald, Assembly Buildings, Belfast BT1 6DW Email: herald@presbyterianireland.org

biblical proofs for their disagreement.

One letter refers to a biblical quote, albeit in my opinion out of context. The apostles Paul and Peter pointed out that the gospel is an offence to many (i.e. 1 Corinthians 1:18 and 1 Peter 2:7–8).

Romans 14 gives clear direction to tolerate those who would have different views on scriptural matters. Some texts in the Bible are very clear such as the Ten Commandments, but others less clear, although what is known as ‘higher biblical criticism’ seems to have the knack of distorting most Scripture passages to suit sinful views or lifestyles, i.e. sexual ethics. While disagreement or challenge can be healthy, I become very uncomfortable when it appears sincere and genuine disagreements are portrayed in the cultural language of a society progressing down the road of decadence at an alarming pace.

Finally, we are reminded in Romans 2:12: “And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.” Robert Dowey Portadown Dear Editor Among the letters in the April issue of the Herald are some whose author’s names have not been published.

This does not render them any less valid where biblical truth is upheld. Many of the letters express deep feelings with regard to women in the ministry. I would draw the attention of the ModeratorDesignate to Galatians 3:28–29. We are all children of God the Father.

Robert A. Sharpe Co Cavan

Please note: Letters are limited to 300 words and may be edited for clarity and length. They will only be published in the Herald if the author’s name and address have been supplied to the editor. On request these will be withheld from print. Anonymous letters will not be considered for publication. The views expressed in the letters are not necessarily those of the Editor or PCI.

Dear Editor I am writing as a full member of PCI, also session and committee member of a small church. I am writing about remarks made about our Moderator Designate, Rev Dr Sam Mawhinney, in the April edition of the Herald about his interview with BBC NI. I am saddened and disappointed about these remarks and would ask the people who made these remarks to read what the Holy Bible says in 1 Timothy 2:12 and also 1 Corinthians 14:33–35.

Name and address supplied

Repentance is needed Dear Editor In reference to Kenneth Patterson’s article ‘Repentance is needed’, in the October 2022 Herald. That article is gold, and the discussion thread generated by it is noteworthy. W.J. Arrell’s point in February, on the primary necessity in our denomination for repentance and revival, is greatly appreciated.

How will our decline be arrested and reversed then?

It was D.A. Carson who asked just over 30 years ago whether we were not “better at organising than agonising”.

This is about “trusting in chariots and horses instead of trusting in the name of the Lord our God” (Psalm 20:7).

We must ask ourselves: has the repentant preparation for, extraordinary course of and lasting fruits of revival not been God’s normative way of manifesting his “glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations...”?

(Ephesians 3:21) Well, if it is normative, then no other fixes will suffice.

Rev Günther Andrich Tempo, Irvinestown and Pettigo Presbyterian Churches

Climate change Dear Editor I could not agree more with Stephen McDonald’s succinct and swingeing rebuttal of climate change idolatry within the Church (letters March). The proper focus of the Church should be on her Christgiven mission and not on ‘the current thing’, whatever that might be.

Unfortunately, however, many in the Church seem beguiled by worldly ideologies, e.g. fearmongering government

propaganda in relation to lockdowns, masks and vaccines; facile explications for international conflicts; ‘Net Zero’. The promotion of these has no place in the Sunday sermon, the midweek prayer meeting nor, dare I say it, the Presbyterian Herald (April)!

In short, the Church has been dazzled into driving in the wrong lane – correction of the steering is required urgently.

C. Ritchie Co Down

Topical Tweets @PCIModerator ‘Amongst the symbolism & all the spectacle, at its very heart is a Christian service of dedication and blessing… It’s an honour to be able to represent Irish Presbyterians at such a unique and historic occasion’ on the Coronation. @peterlynas Gov should look again at why RE in schools has become the ‘Cinderella subject’ and should improve the teaching of faith literacy and RE, to cultivate a more inclusive society where everyone can engage in debate about the different faiths and beliefs that shape society. @Christianitymag God’s anointing is not just for kings. The gift of the Holy Spirit means all believers are part of the royal priesthood, with all the authority that brings. Let’s use it well, say @ andyflannagan @ChristianAidIrl Tens of thousands have fled Sudan since fighting erupted. A partner in South Sudan is responding at the border crossing at Renk in Upper Nile state. Most arrivals are South Sudanese who were living in Khartoum. Many are lacking food & water & some are sleeping out in the open.

Herald June 2023

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NEWS | IN THE ROUND Moderator takes part in coronation

General Assembly 21–24 June 2023

Business timetable THURSDAY 22 JUNE 10am Business Committee Presbytery reports General Council section 1 11.30am Reception of visiting delegates 2pm Council for Social Witness 2.45pm Council for Public Affairs 4.15pm General Council section 2 FRIDAY 23 JUNE 10am General Council section 3 10.30am General Council section 4 2pm Councils and Commissions not presenting verbally (Council for Congregational Life and Witness / Council for Global Mission / Linkage Commission) 2.45pm Listening to the Global Church 4.15pm Judicial Commission (Code Republishing Task Group) 7.15pm Council for Mission in Ireland 8.15pm General Council section 5 SATURDAY 24 JUNE 10am Private session (Judicial Commission) 10.30am Trustees 11am General Council section 6 2pm Council for Training in Ministry 3pm General Council section 7 Overtures Lapsed business (if any) Business Committee (final report) Opening meeting Wednesday 21 June at 7pm Under 30 fringe event Thursday 22 June at 6pm Evening celebration Thursday 22 June at 7.45pm Speaker: Rev Jonty Rhodes (founding pastor, Christ Church Central, Leeds) Worship Thursday 22 June at 12.15pm Friday 23 June at 11.45am – Communion Service

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Herald June 2023

Presbyterian Moderator Dr John Kirkpatrick has taken part in the coronation of His Majesty King Charles III, which took place at Westminster Abbey at the start of last month.

While his predecessor, Dr John McKean, was a guest at the late Queen’s coronation in 1953, this is believed to be the first time that a Moderator from PCI and fellow Church leaders from the island of Ireland have taken part, walking in procession together ahead of the King and Queen Consort at the start of the service.

“For all the pomp and pageantry, and amongst the symbolism and all the spectacle, at its very heart is a Christian service of dedication and blessing. It was a great privilege to be able to take part in the King’s Coronation and an honour to be able to represent Irish Presbyterians at such a unique and historic occasion that hasn’t been seen for 70 years”, Dr Kirkpatrick said.

“The service reminds us as well of the biblical call to pray for those in authority, without fear or favour, in the name of the King of Kings, while acknowledging the grace of God that King Charles will need in order to do all that he is called to do.”

‘Three parent’ baby fears A charity has raised concerns about ‘three parent babies’ as news breaks about the first UK baby created with DNA from three people. CARE questions the safety and ethics of a controversial technique now being used in the UK called mitochondrial donation treatment.

James Mildred from CARE commented: “The advent of ‘three parent babies’ is a source of some concern among ethicists and polling conducted by our charity has highlighted unease among the public. Evidence suggests that transferring nuclear DNA into a host donor egg cell is unsafe and could impact future generations. The techniques used also lead to the destruction of human embryos, which raises moral questions.

“There are serious questions about how children will be affected.

For example, nobody knows how a child will respond psychologically to the fact they have three parents. The biotechnology being used, whilst well-intentioned in this instance, also raises the spectre of ‘designer babies’. It’s clear an ethical line in the sand has been crossed that we come to regret deeply in years to come.”

Church leaders attend coronation Church leaders took part in the coronation of King Charles III last month: Archbishops John McDowell and Eamon Martin, Dr John Kirkpatrick (PCI Moderator) and Rev David Nixon (President of the Methodist Church in Ireland).

IN THE ROUND | NEWS Kennedy opens US Declaration of Independence exhibition

(L–R): Rev Trevor Gribben (Clerk of General Assembly), Joy Conkey (librarian of Union Theological College), Dr John Kirkpatrick (PCI Moderator), Ian Crozier (Ulster-Scots Agency chief executive), Joe Kennedy III, Valerie Adams (librarian of the Presbyterian Historical Society) and Rev Dr John Nelson (vice president of the Presbyterian Historical Society of Ireland).

A new exhibition highlighting the role of the Ulster-Scots in the American Declaration of Independence has been opened by Joe Kennedy III at the Public Record Office of Northern Ireland (PRONI) in Belfast.

The exhibition includes an original Declaration of Independence on loan from the National Archives (UK), which is on display in Belfast for the first time.

Mr Kennedy, the US Special Envoy to Northern Ireland for Economic Affairs, said: “The contribution that your forefathers made to the traditions and values of the United States is profound. I want to thank the Public Record Office and the Ulster-Scots Agency, organisations that preserve our shared history for future generations. It is through moments like this and these documents that we commit ourselves to the values and the ties that united us in the first place.”

Ulster-Scots Agency Chief Executive Ian Crozier said, “This is a landmark day for the Ulster-Scots community and a celebration of our greatest achievement, helping to establish the United States of America. Our achievements and even our existence is often much better appreciated outside Northern Ireland, particularly in the US, than they are at home and we hope this will be a timely reminder that we are a vibrant community with a global legacy that should be appreciated at home and abroad.”

The exhibition is open to the public at PRONI until 24 July and admission is free.

Supporting families for 157 years The Presbyterian Children’s Society held its Annual General Meeting in Assembly Buildings last month.

Addressing a well-filled room, the president of the society, Rev Dr Isaac Thompson, welcomed supporters and friends to the meeting, before highlighting that the society’s work was as important as ever, given the ongoing cost-of-living crisis.

In addition to a number of informative reports from the society’s honorary officers, which sought to highlight the increasing demand for help from Presbyterian families, as well as the encouraging level of congregational subscriptions, attendees were also challenged by an address from the Trussell Trust’s NI Network lead, Jonny Currie.

From its earliest beginnings – a single food bank operating from a garden in Salisbury – the Trussell Trust has grown into a UK-wide network of 1,200 food bank centres that provide emergency food to local people in crisis.

Also during the meeting, a number of congregational collectors and organisers were recognised for their long service, the longest, at 63 years, having been given by Marie Dickson from Raffrey.

Almost £703,000 (which also included some small grants to congregations) was distributed last year to support the needs of Presbyterian children and their families.

Front row (L–R): Marie Dickson (Raffrey, 63 years’ service); Elizabeth Malcolmson (New Mills, Co Down, 46 years’ service); Margaret Buchanan (Milford, Letterkenny, 45 years’ service).

Back row (L–R): J. Nicholson (executive secretary); Joe Carmichael (Dungiven, 35 years’ service); Very Rev Dr David Bruce (former Moderator); Wallace Porter (Cladymore, 36 years’ service); Rev Dr Isaac Thompson MBE (President).

PCI family holiday 2023 The PCI family holiday took place at Castlewellan Castle, Co Down, from Tuesday 11 to Friday 14 April this year.

The holiday is open to everyone – single, married, pensioner, disabled, with kids or no kids. The daily programme offered time and space to chill out, rise to the challenge of a variety of fun activities and consider God and his place in our lives. The Presbyterian Children’s Society provided funding for some families to attend the holiday, enabling those who would not be able to come along to have the opportunity to be there.

Herald June 2023

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IN THIS MONTH...

June 1977

Dipping into the archives to take a look back at what was making Presbyterian headlines and news in history.

Ecumenism – what’s it all about?

Hayden Foster

I suppose, if we are to be honest, we would have to admit that this odd word ‘ecumenism’ is regarded by many people as being a word one doesn’t use, except in a derogatory sense. Indeed, to be described as ‘ecumenical’ is, as often as not, an insult in this country. However, it is the sort of insult any Christian should be pleased to take; it’s like being told you take Jesus too seriously.

On the part of most people, negative attitudes to the ecumenical movement are due to a lack of knowledge of what is meant and to misinformation…

Ecumenism is about ‘mission’ both locally and elsewhere. That means that ecumenism is evangelical and that may surprise those who think of it negatively.

Ecumenism is biblical because those involved take our Lord’s prayer, that we should all be one, very seriously, because those involved take God’s promise of salvation for all men to be true and act upon it. Ecumenism is a difficult word, a strange word, an emotive word. It is not a dirty word!

It sounds interesting E. Rea

Every minister who has broadcast knows that no matter what he says, he is certain to produce a wide range of reactions from his listeners. However, the significant thing is that people are listening, and listening carefully. In an age of declining church attendance, radio and TV provide the churches with, by far, their best opportunity of speaking to the uncommitted masses. Are we facing up to that challenge?

The advent of local radio, first of all BBC Radio Ulster, and later Downtown Radio, has provided Christians with an unprecedented opportunity… Five mornings a week … various speakers have the chance to give a ‘Thought for the Day’ at peak listening time on Radio Ulster. Every Sunday there is the morning service… Every morning of the year Downtown Radio transmits ‘Just a Moment’, a short religious talk… and each evening ‘By your Side’, a reading and prayer for bedtime. If you add together the audiences for these programmes, the combined total far exceeds the number of people who attend church in our Province each Sunday morning. Is it possible to overestimate the importance of religious broadcasting?

Portadown ‘news’

Members of the PWA and Senior CE of First Portadown took their opportunity at the annual congregational meeting to present new pulpit robes to Rev W.M. Craig, who has been their minister for 29 years.

Also from June ’77 8

Herald June 2023

Apple ships its first Apple II computers

James Earl Ray (Martin Luther King’s killer) escapes from prison

Conservative and radical Derek Drysdale

“The Presbyterian Church is split down the middle!” That is the plain man’s way of saying that our Church, today, is experiencing inner tension in one of its more acute phases. The so-called ‘split’ is the tension that exists between what we describe as ‘evangelicals’ and ‘liberals’, or ‘conservatives’ and ‘radicals’, or whatever other tags we are accustomed to use…

When we meet as Christians, standing only on the ground of our conservatism or radicalism, then inevitably we suffer that tension which polarises us. When we meet as Christians, seeking to stand on the common ground of the Bible, then we share that tension which enables us to become open to each other…

Of course, we will meet around the Bible as those who hold different views of biblical composition and interpretation, but it is because of those differences that we have much to learn from each other… The future of our church will depend not a little on our response to this tension in our fellowship. This tension could lead to the ultimate irrelevance of an institution trapped within its own interior friction, busy in the work of shoring up the group fortifications. On the other hand, this tension could lead to a church with a renewed vision and enlarged for mission.

Elvis Presley gives what will become his last performance in Indianapolis

MY STORY...

Anne and Michael Graham are elders in Cregagh Presbyterian. Following careers in the security forces, they became involved with Migrant Help (MH), an organisation set up to support the victims of human trafficking. Anne gives a flavour of the work that they do.

Helping migrants

M

ichael and I feel humbled and privileged to work in our home church at Cregagh, where he has effortlessly for MH. After 12 years’ service, we are part of integrated into the church community. David is a selfa team of seven with responsibility for over 330 proclaimed Presbyterian and a God-fearing young man. clients from war-torn countries like Eritrea, While most of our clients are male, we also support females Sudan, Somalia, Yemen and Afghanistan. Working closely too – Masomeh has been a regular attendee at Cregagh for with the Home Office, the Police Service of Northern Ireland about 18 months. Born in Afghanistan, she moved to Iran when (PSNI) and social services, we support the victims of modernshe was ten – both hostile environments for women. Worship day slavery, primarily male victims aged 18+. This can involve is very important to Masomeh. Quiet, unassuming and blessed supporting individuals with complex needs, including addiction with a lovely smile, her life journey has been troubled but and self-harming. she now enjoys religious freedom and has benefited from the We felt God had plans for us when we joined MH, and kindness of members of the congregation who have helped her though the work is challenging and at times emotionally with one-to-one English lessons and with her art work, which draining, it is incredibly rewarding when we are able to is a great source of comfort to her. It was with joy in our hearts transform lives damaged by abuse. Prior to Brexit, most that Masomeh chose to be baptised in early 2023 and in doing of our clients came primarily from so made the conscious decision to convert Eastern Europe, but in the last three to Christianity.

That journey to freedom We would ask readers to pray for years there has been an influx from the aforementioned war-torn countries, Masomeh, David and all the migrants. This can be frightening and seeking a new life in a free and safe liberal is one of the most rewarding aspects of harrowing… democracy. That journey to freedom can the job for Michael and me – encouraging be frightening and harrowing, as David, troubled souls to come to Christ and know one of our clients from Sudan, experienced. him as their Lord. Connecting with the business community Readers will be aware that Sudan is currently in conflict and is another role that we have embraced. We have managed to British nationals have been evacuated as the war between the develop career opportunities for clients in food-processing Sudanese army and the paramilitary ‘Rapid Support Forces’ companies and in the hospitality sector. Clients cannot work escalates. David, the eldest of four, was born in a refugee camp until they receive their ‘leave to remain in the UK’, which is and his family still live there. Intelligent, articulate and able granted by the Home Office for a period of three to five years. to speak six languages, David left Sudan at 15. His journey to Santander, the Spanish-owned bank, donated £1,500 to the freedom took him to Libya, via the Sahara Desert, where he Ulster College of Music to support a ‘community keyboard was apprehended by traffickers, detained in a type of warehouse course’ led by a professionally trained music tutor, which has along with other nationalities and forced to work as a labourer, helped some of our clients to overcome recent challenges by without pay or adequate food; his mobile phone was confiscated learning a musical instrument. Integration into every facet of too. He was released by his traffickers after a period of time but life socially and culturally is so very important. Shortage of his onward journey to the UK through Italy and then Calais, accommodation has become a problem, though, so if you have France, included a spell living in a make-shift camp in what is rooms available in the rental sector that would suit our clients, known as ‘the jungle’, before travelling to Dublin in the back of or if you can provide suitable employment opportunities, please a lorry, with others, on a journey that lasted three days. David contact me at agpgraham12@gmail.com. Together, we can all became one of our clients in late 2021 and worships regularly help to make a difference for our brothers and sisters in Christ.

Herald June 2023

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NEWS | PCI

Find out more on www.presbyterianireland.org

News

Resources Going Well

Would your congregation like to recruit and host an apprentice to play a part within an aspect of your church’s life and witness in 2023–24?

Whether it’s recruiting an apprentice to focus on children’s, youth or family ministry, hosting someone to be involved in local outreach, worship or chaplaincy ministries, or acting as a training ground in preaching and pastoral care for those keen to test a calling to ordained ministry in the future, PCI offers a package of advice, support and training intended to help guide congregations as they explore this opportunity.

If your congregation would like to recruit an apprentice, supply a short profile for publication on the PCI website.

For more details or to provide a profile go to www.presbyterianireland.org/apprentice

Being Transformed The Presbyterian Women’s annual conference took place in May in Assembly Buildings with the theme ‘Being Transformed’.

There was a particular focus on mental health and counselling at home, as well as supporting Christian broadcasting across the Middle East and North Africa.

Is your congregation sending a team overseas this summer? You can help prepare them with the ‘Going Well’ resource.

‘Going Well’ comprises four short training clips presented in an engaging style. Containing a clip for leaders and three clips that can be watched together as a team, areas covered include ‘building team’, ‘discipleship’, ‘culture’ and ‘nuts and bolts’. The resource is accompanied by a downloadable leaders’ guide that includes questions to stimulate conversation and provoke learning amongst team members. Access the resource at www.presbyterianireland.org/goingwell

Expressions ‘Expressions’ is an eight-session film series, useable in home groups, midweek services or alternative Sunday evening settings.

Blending Bible teaching and personal stories from around PCI, the sessions aim to help participants better connect what they believe with how it is expressed in their everyday lives.

Booklets cost £3.50 (euro equivalent) – minimum order is five.

To find out more and to order copies go to: www.presbyterianireland.org/expressions

Blaze resources Blaze is certainly a busy bee and has been on another visit to a global mission worker.

New Blaze resources are now available, including a children’s address with Digital Dispatch, children’s ministry ideas and family activities, all to help children learn more about being a global disciple. Blaze is also learning June’s new habit to care for our world from our 2023 creation care calendar.

Check out these new resources at: www.presbyterianireland.org/blaze

Those taking part in the annual PW conference were (L–R) Esther Parker and Ann Wilson with guest speaker Rev Ali Calvin, rector Christ Church in Kilkeel, and Pauline Kennedy, PCI’s Women’s Ministry and PW Development Officer.

News from Portugal James and Heather Cochrane, PCI global mission workers in Portugal, are currently focused on handing over responsibilities at the ICPP Pedras Vivas congregation in Porto during the month of June, prior to returning to Ireland in July for a sabbatical and a period of deputation in the early autumn.

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Herald June 2023

Reformed Church in Hungary’s International Partners’ Consultation Rev Uel Marrs will represent PCI at the Reformed Church in Hungary’s International Partners’ Consultation from 14–18 July in Budapest, Hungary and in Transcarpathia. One aspect of the consultation will be to examine partners’ shared experiences, concerns and hopes for the nation of Ukraine.

Change of date

DIARY DATES

The church planting taster day will be on Saturday 21 October 2023 at Central (May Street), Belfast, not 14 October as previously advertised.

June General Assembly

Assembly Buildings, Belfast: Wednesday 21–Saturday 24

July/Aug Impact

Belfast – 22–29 July Londonderry – 29 July–5 August First Monaghan – 5–12 August Seskinore – 12–19 August Co Cavan – 12–19 August

Newsletter To stay connected and up to date with the latest resources, events and training for your congregation’s life and witness, sign up to our E-quip e-zine at www.presbyterianireland.org/ equip

Scan the QR code with your smart phone to visit the e-quip webpage...

AS I SEE IT...

An all-Ireland Church Alf McCreary

T

his year’s General Assembly will be special because the thousands of new converts every day, which helps to make incoming Moderator, Rev Dr Sam Mawhinney, will be Christianity still so vibrant. Christianity remains the world’s the first minister of a church in the Irish Republic to largest religion, with 2.2 billion followers. Sometimes we in the hold this important post since 2000, when Very Rev West, with its invasive secularism, may be tempted to lose heart Dr Trevor Morrow from Lucan was installed. and to become defensive, but we should continually rejoice Dr Mawhinney will be the 178th Moderator since 1840, and that we are part of a world Church that still preaches the living his installation will be a reminder that the life and work of the Word to men, women and children of almost every conceivable Church at large crosses all international borders. It is interesting background, community and location. to note that when Dr Morrow was installed both jurisdictions This year’s General Assembly is also a reminder that the on this island were part of the European Union. Dr Mawhinney work of PCI continues at home. The Assembly is a mixture will be installed when we in the north are on the outside of worship, networking and dealing with the many doctrinal because of Brexit, though a majority of people here voted to and social issues of our time as well as the nitty-gritty practical stay in the EU. Thereby hangs a complex political tale, and the details of running a large Church with so many congregations. implications of Brexit are still creating Having reported on General Assemblies …the installation of Dr immense complication for people from for nearly 25 years for the Belfast Telegraph, all the main communities in Northern I have sometimes wondered how many Mawhinney… is a Ireland. It is unlikely that there will be a people in the pews actually pay detailed permanent settlement to please everybody reminder that PCI covers attention to what goes on in these annual any time soon. gatherings at Assembly Buildings in all of Ireland…

In Church terms, however, the Belfast or elsewhere. However, they are installation of Dr Mawhinney, an an important reminder to people of the Ulsterman who has been minister of Adelaide Road in Dublin spiritual and practical role of the Church in the modern world. since 2008, is a reminder that PCI covers all of Ireland.

For many decades, deliberations at the Assembly were widely There is perhaps a certain parochialism up here where some reported on in some detail by the media, but now it is often congregations may find it difficult to look far beyond their only the controversial issues that make the headlines. However, own boundaries; in the past there were towns and even villages it is important to give credit to PCI and indeed to all the other that had two or three churches within a small population and mainstream Churches for the good they do. mergers were not popular. However, the recent closures of many A clear example of this is the work of PCI’s World churches due to dwindling congregations, or for other reasons, Development committee, of which I was a member for many has led to mergers that have been welcomed on all sides and years. This annual appeal, around Christmas time, has raised are working well. For example, my own Whitehouse Church in enormous sums for the developing world and it is a testament recent years has been enriched by members from at least two to the great generosity of so many throughout the Church. other local churches in north Belfast that are no more. In the From my experience of covering so many good projects past year or so, two former major Belfast churches – Windsor overseas, I am aware that a little money can go a marvellously and Townsend Street – closed their doors for different reasons, long way where it is needed among the poor and but happily both buildings have become a new base for others: underprivileged communities across the world. This, and other an arts group at Windsor and the Ulster Orchestra on the lower work, does not always make major headlines but it does not go Shankill. unnoticed.

The fact that this year PCI is crossing political borders in Recently, a Belfast Telegraph editorial described the combined installing its new Moderator is a reminder of the role of the entity of the churches here as “one of the pillars of our society”, Church universal and its importance to countless people and deservedly so. Those people in our modern society who over the globe. During my very many visits to the developing write off the churches do so ill-advisedly. Christianity, with all world to report for Christian Aid and Tearfund, I was always its achievements and despite its shortcomings, has been part of impressed by the passion and vitality of so many Christian the bedrock of our civilisation for more than two millennia, and churches overseas and what their faith meant to them. it will continue to play a unique and crucial role in our society That vitality in the world Church continues with many and in individual lives. Long may it do so.

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PERSONAL VIEW

Life lessons Ian McCullagh Captain First Dromara Boys’ Brigade

I was born in 1956, so on my last birthday I was 67 years young! I grew up in a Christian home on a small mixed farm just outside Dromara in the middle of Co Down. I had a very happy childhood and enjoyed the freedom of living in a rural area, even if we did have some hard work to do on the farm. I am the middle of three brothers. For the past almost 38 years I have been married to Rose. While we have no family of our own, we are blessed to have two nieces, five nephews, seven great-nieces and three great-nephews.

I decided not to go into farming and instead chose to take up a career in surveying and working in estate agency. I qualified as a chartered surveyor and worked for a firm in Belfast for a number of years before opening my own estate agency business 30 years ago.

I joined the Dromara Boys’ Brigade company when I was 11 years old. Since the company commenced in 1963 it has been a joint company under the oversight of the four Dromara churches, namely the two Presbyterian, the Reformed Presbyterian and the Church of Ireland. I thoroughly enjoyed every aspect of BB life and took every opportunity to experience all sorts of activities in the company, such as canoeing, sailing, orienteering and a broad range of badge activities. I managed to gain a Duke of Edinburgh Silver Award, a BB President’s Badge and BB Queen’s Badge. When my time in the ranks of the BB came to an end, I progressed into leadership and served as an officer for a few years. In 1982, the then captain left the company and I was asked to take on this role.

It is always pleasing when second-generation boys join the company. To see boys achieving some of the advanced awards such as Duke of Edinburgh, President’s and Queen’s Badges is such an encouragement. As is seeing ordinary BB boys achieving something they didn’t think they could do. It has been a particular delight to have seen some former members taking up leadership roles in their own churches and to have seen a few going into full-time Christian ministry. Hopefully, the BB has played a part in their Christian walk.

In 2016, I was highly honoured to receive a British Empire Medal in the late Queen Elizabeth II’s Birthday Honours for service to young people in Northern Ireland through the

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Boys’ Brigade. I consider this to be shared with the many faithful officers and leaders who have worked with me over the years. I certainly could not have carried on so long without their unstinting support. I consider working in the company to be very rewarding both in terms of working with boys but also in working with a team of leaders. It seems to me that it is becoming increasingly difficult to get people to commit to giving of their time to help in church organisations, but I would certainly encourage people to do so. I have had much enjoyment over the years and made many life-long friends.

Most of all, it was through the BB that I came to faith and I am very aware that we are saved to serve. I believe this is the role God called me to do and I don’t consider it a chore to give something back.

Apart from the ongoing work at company level I have been involved in various roles over the years at Down Battalion and at Northern Ireland District levels. I consider one of my greatest achievements to have been having had a small part in the Down Battalion project in Uganda. I have been to Uganda on three occasions on short-term building and maintenance teams. The battalion first got involved to celebrate the millennium in 2000 when we took a team to build a primary school in a very remote rural area. After many visits by BB teams and others, today there is a primary school, high school, farm, medical centre, church, guest house and a group of houses for homeless families. To have had a small part in this work has been very exciting. Many have worked hard to make it happen but God has blessed it in the most remarkable way.

Keeping our walk close to the Lord continues to be a challenge no matter how long we have been a Christian. We never reach a point where we will not be tempted to do our own thing or go our own way.

I really enjoy some of the modern hymns, such as ‘In Christ Alone’, simply because of their words. Some older hymns, such as ‘What a Friend We Have in Jesus’ and the BB hymn ‘Will Your Anchor Hold’ mean a lot to me. One of my real favourites is ‘It is Well With My Soul’. The depth of meaning is simply awesome, particularly the words “My sin – not in part – but the whole, is nailed to his cross and I bear it no more, praise the Lord, praise the Lord, O my soul”.

REFLECTIONS

Living for the will of God David Clarke Studies in 1 Peter (4:1–13)

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or 25 years, Victor Raymond Edman was president “the day is almost here” (Romans 13:12) to the closing prayer of Wheaton College, a prestigious Christian liberal of the Book of Revelation, “Come, Lord Jesus” (Revelation arts college near Chicago. Dr Billy Graham, who 22:20). Though 2,000 years of wrong have rolled past since was a student at Wheaton under Edman’s presidency, that promise and that prayer, we dare not say the writers were described him as “the most unforgettable Christian I ever met”. mistaken. The period between Bethlehem and Golgotha and One day, a minister in the southern United States was the eventual end of all are ‘the last times’. We are living in ‘the passing through Chicago. He and Edman had been college last times’, and Peter tells us how those days are to be employed. contemporaries and, on an impulse, he decided to look up his They are not to be filled with frenzied speculation, conjecture or old college friend. The two chatted for a while, recalling old lurid predictions. Rather, we should be “clear-minded and selftimes, while the visitor spoke of his work in the southern states. controlled” (v7). As Calvin put it, “From the time when Christ He then asked Edman, “And how are once appeared, there is nothing left for the things with you?” faithful, but with suspended minds ever to Peter can command love, look forward to his second coming”.

“Just as usual,” replied Edman. “Simply trying to find the will of God and do it.”

The slave content to sing “He’ll find for love is not primarily Who can say with absolute certainty me picking cotton when he comes” knew an emotion, but a what the will of God is on such subjects that until that blessed day comes, certain as nuclear power or embryo research? On decision of the will… It duties are incumbent upon us. We must other subjects, the will of God is painfully “love each other deeply” (v8). Peter can must be no half-hearted, command love, for love is not primarily clear. Paul was in no doubt: “It is God’s will that you should be sanctified” (1 an emotion, but a decision of the will. lukewarm gesture.

Thessalonians 4:3). Peter likewise was clear The adverb ‘deeply’ refers to a horse at full that each recipient of his letter “should not gallop, or an athlete’s strenuous exertion. It live the rest of his earthly life for evil human desires, but rather must be no half-hearted, lukewarm gesture. for the will of God” (v2). The old pagan lifestyle of dissipation Likewise, we must not begrudge hospitality. The early was to be shunned, even though as a result they would feel the Christian missionaries depended on finding those prepared to sting of criticism and ridicule, as those among whom they lived open their doors to them, for such inns as then existed were “heap abuse on you” (v4). often expensive, regularly filthy and notoriously immoral. Peter One result of striving to do God’s will is to encounter ridicule. himself enjoyed the hospitality of Simon the tanner (Acts Those who genuinely strive not to be squeezed into the world’s 10:6). We must be prepared to welcome the stranger (Matthew mould ( J.B. Phillips’ rendering of Romans 12:2) will stand 25:35). out, as did Bunyan’s pilgrims in Vanity Fair: “The pilgrims When Peter lists the various forms in which Christian service were clothed with such kind of raiment as was diverse from can be rendered, he reminds his readers that the purpose must the raiment of any that traded in the fair. The people therefore be “to serve others” (v10). Just as our Shorter Catechism teaches of the fair made a great gazing upon them … and as they us that our chief end is to glorify God, so whether in speech or wondered at their apparel, so they did likewise of their speech, service, their motive and ours must always be “that in all things for few could understand what they said; they naturally spoke God may be praised through Jesus Christ” (v11). The motto of the language of Canaan, but they that kept the fair were men of the Benedictine order of monks comprises four letters: IOGD. this world; so that … they seemed barbarians each to the other.” They are the capital letters of the Latin phrase ‘In Omnibus Perhaps Bunyan’s contrast is too severe, yet many modern Glorificetur Deus’, meaning ‘In order that in all things God Christians have a chameleon-like power of adapting to their may be glorified’. circumstances. As one shrewd critic observed: “The Christian church is the best disguised group of pilgrims the world has ever seen.”

On the other hand, one incentive to do God’s will is the recognition that “the end of all things is near” (v7). That theme Very Rev Dr David Clarke is a former PCI Moderator and minister runs through the New Testament, from Paul’s warning that emeritus of Terrace Row Presbyterian Church, Coleraine.

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CONGREGATIONAL STORY

A place of

sanctuary

William Hayes shares how Tullamore Presbyterian Church in Co Offaly – the first PCI congregation to receive a ‘Church of Sanctuary’ award – is helping to provide welcome and hospitality to refugees and asylum seekers in the town.

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n the second Sunday in Advent in 2022 we had a very special service in Tullamore Presbyterian Church. Places of Sanctuary Ireland, an organisation that works to build a culture of welcome, hospitality and inclusiveness across the island of Ireland, presented us with a ‘Church of Sanctuary’ award. We were one of the first churches in Ireland to receive this award and the first Presbyterian Church on the island to do so.

The service in which the award was given marked another step on what is now a 14-year journey for the congregation.

Over that time, we have worked in Direct Provision centres, with government-led refugee resettlement programmes, families assisted by the Red Cross, informal refugees from the Libya conflict, Afghan families reunified under United Nations programmes and, most recently, families fleeing the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

Our work with refugees and asylum seekers began in earnest in around 2009 when volunteers from the congregation started working in a nearby Direct Provision centre, helping families with young children to run a parent and

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toddler group. A Direct Provision centre is something akin to an open prison in which people who have applied for asylum in Ireland are assessed to see if their claim can be upheld and they can be granted ‘leave to remain’ in Ireland. These centres are often disused hotels and whole families share one room. If you have ever spent a week cooped up in a hotel room with an average-size family, you will have a small idea of the capacity for stress to build up in close quarters when that time goes from weeks to years.

The parent and toddler group was something of a lifeline for young families, especially young mothers, and gave the children time to be children. After two years, the management of the Direct Provision centre received government funding to provide this facility on a daily

…we have only scratched the surface of the huge amount of work there is to be done here in Tullamore…

basis instead of the once a week that the church could offer. Consequently, we stepped back from the work but continued to help families on a one-to-one basis. This work set a pattern that would continue over the years in Tullamore Church. The congregation would see a need, they would respond and as the need would change or be taken over more formally by other bodies, the church would step back but continue to offer more traditional pastoral care.

The most recent work in which congregation has been involved is what we have called the International Welcome Centre. It began in late 2013/early 2014, when the church was approached by Offaly County Council to be involved in a refugee resettlement programme for Hazara refugees from Afghanistan.

The families had come to Ireland having originally fled to Syria. Our church’s role was to provide a meeting place every Thursday afternoon for the families to come together and meet Irish people from their own neighbourhoods.

At the same time, ‘a good neighbour’ programme was started, involving people

…what better opportunity to share Christ’s message of love and redemption … on our doorstep… in the local community who could help and support the refugees in the parts of town where they had been settled. This resulted in a fascinating mix of people from many different parts of the world meeting together in our building on Thursday afternoons. When the formal phase of the resettlement programme had finished there was a strong desire among the Afghan community and the people involved to keep the Thursday drop-in going, while expanding it to people of other nationalities. This became what we rather grandly call the International Welcome Centre, which has become a place of grace and blessing for people who have made Tullamore their home.

Along with families from Afghanistan and Syria, people from Russia, China, Iran, Sudan, Libya, Brazil, Germany, France, Poland, Latvia, Lithuania, Ukraine, Italy, India and Turkey find a warm welcome at the centre. Over the years, the character of the work has changed with the Welcome Centre evolving with the different waves of migration that have come through Tullamore. We have, for the most part, been blessed with translators or shared/ common languages such as Persian, Russian or Spanish. When someone arrives with no common language, we are very thankful to be living in the era of Google Translate!

Like most Irish county towns, Tullamore is an astonishingly diverse place for its size

and rural context.

For example, a discussion a few years ago with some mums and dads at our normal parent and toddler group ‘Busy Bees’ revealed that the 44 different families present comprised 22 different ethnicities and nationalities.

This has meant that in order to simply be a local church working within our parish we had to learn to be a community that reaches out and provides a welcome space for people of many different nationalities and backgrounds.

Reflecting some of this diversity within modern Ireland, Andy Pollok, the Places of Sanctuary board member who presented the award, said, “As somebody with a Czech refugee father and an Irish Presbyterian mother, it is a real joy to be able to present Tullamore Presbyterian Church with this certificate and welcome them into the Sanctuary family”.

He went on to say, “This marks only the beginning of their sanctuary work.

There is a huge need for good-hearted people in this country to reach out a hand of friendship and welcome to the poor, lonely, often frightened people from overseas who have come to Ireland seeking work or sanctuary, not least to prevent the kind of fear-inspired far-right reaction that we have seen in a few places in Ireland, Britain and other European countries recently.”

Awards are nice, and it’s good to be recognised by outside bodies for the work that we do as a church, but there was something really sobering in Andy’s words to us as a congregation: “This marks only the beginning of their sanctuary work.” Despite all that we have done and the impact it has had on so many families and

individuals, we have only scratched the surface of the huge amount of work there is to be done here in Tullamore, never mind the work across Ireland.

The world around us is going through one of those historical phases, as it has done in the past, where people affected by war, economic hardship and natural disasters have found themselves having to move from their own countries and regions and find safer places to live in other countries.

Irish people have done this repeatedly down through the centuries, moving to Britain, America and continental Europe to find work, safety and freedom. Our Presbyterian ancestors did this throughout the 18th and 19th centuries. In the past, it was people leaving our shores who sought help from others overseas. Nowadays, it is people coming here to Ireland who need our help and support. Our churches are ideal places to provide the kind of help that refugees, asylum seekers and immigrants need.

They need to find people who are welcoming, connected to their local community and willing to take the time and make the effort needed to help them integrate and thrive for however long they are here. Where better than a church to find such people and what better opportunity to share Christ’s message of love and redemption with the world than when the world turns up on our doorstep, looking for our help, looking for friendship and hoping for sanctuary?

Rev William Hayes is minister of Tullamore Presbyterian and convener of PCI’s Republic of Ireland panel.

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Controversial,

yet influential

Martyn Cowan tells the story of Gilbert Tennent, who was baptised in Vinecash Presbyterian Church before leaving for America in the early 18th century. He is widely regarded as the single most important Presbyterian minister in North America before the War of Independence.

He also built the ‘Log College’, which later became Princeton University.

Gilbert Tennent (1703–1764)

by Jacob Eichholtz, American, 1776–1842 after Gustavus Hesselius, American, 1682–1755 Princeton University Art Museum. Princeton University, gift of Miss Smith

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ilbert Tennent’s name ranks alongside those of Jonathan Edwards and George Whitefield as the most famous leaders of the Great Awakening in colonial America. Yet his story begins much closer to home, in Vinecash Presbyterian Church, Co Armagh. It is one worth considering, because it offers important insights into the complex (and sometimes contradictory) interplay of two of the influences that have shaped conservative Irish Presbyterianism: a commitment to the theology of the Westminster Confession of Faith and evangelicalism, often in its revivalist form.

Gilbert’s father, William, was one of around 50,000 Scots who migrated to Ulster in the years after the Williamite Wars. An economic depression in Scotland made Ulster seem attractive despite the fact that Presbyterians there were dissenters, only in some measure tolerated. William was received as a licentiate by the recently-founded Synod of Ulster in 1701. That same year, he married Catherine, daughter of Gilbert Kennedy, one of the most important Presbyterian ministers in Ulster. Their first son was born on 5 February 1703.

He was named Gilbert, presumably in memory of his late grandfather, and he

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was baptised at Vinecash. Despite having a wife from a staunchly Presbyterian family, a short time later William Tennent transferred his ministerial allegiance to the established Church of Ireland. He does not appear to have had a settled parish of his own and this may suggest that he was never comfortable as an Anglican.

Our story turns westward once again when the Tennent family sailed to the new world. By this stage, large-scale emigration from Ulster across the Atlantic was in full swing. As soon as they arrived, William asked to be received as a minister by the Presbyterian Synod meeting in Philadelphia. As the family contemplated its future in this new land, Gilbert thought that he would follow his father into the ministry, but he came to doubt this calling and commenced medical training. During his studies, he underwent a period of intense spiritual struggle, which resulted in his conversion and a renewed sense of calling to the ministry. After a difficult early period of ministry, Gilbert adopted a new form of preaching, one that emphasised the ‘terrors of the law’. Styled a ‘Son of

...he rose to prominence as a preaching sensation...

Thunder’ by one biographer, he rose to prominence as a preaching sensation; his hearers were deeply moved, with some sobbing and others being overcome to the point of collapse.

Understandably, such revivals caused controversy – some Presbyterians viewing them as a somewhat mixed blessing.

Undoubtedly, there was increased interest in spiritual matters, but the tactics of some of the revivalists were deeply concerning.

With so many Ulster-Scots arriving, the new church was growing rapidly and it was increasingly difficult to train suitable ministers. Two different strategies were proposed: some emphasised doctrinal purity and supported subscription to the Westminster Confession of Faith, but others, such as the Tennents, looked towards a renewed focus on personal piety. By 1738, two issues threatened to divide the Synod. The first concerned ministerial training. Sending prospective ministers back to Scotland was expensive, but the New England colleges of Harvard and Yale were seen as drifting from Reformed orthodoxy. Another option, favoured by the Tennents, followed a practice common in Ulster: training ministers through something like an apprenticeship scheme in local

academies. In his home in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, William Tennent offered training in a small wooden building, dismissed by its critics as ‘the Log College’.

William’s school was close – just north of Philadelphia – but it lacked a faculty and library and it nurtured a very particular revivalist form of Log College. Engraved by Snyder, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons Presbyterianism. The Synod stipulated that those without was John Thomson, who was, it has been formal university training would have said, neither dangerous nor unconverted. to be examined in order to ensure that Born in Ulster, Thomson had been their education had been adequate. The influential in the Synod of Philadelphia Tennents saw this as an attempt by antiadopting the Westminster Confession. revivalists to undermine the Log College Furthermore, Thomson had actually and those who had trained there. supported the revivals that were taking The second issue was that of itinerant place in Virginia. His concerns with preaching – ministers going into an area Gilbert Tennent were twofold: firstly, he to preach without any invitation from viewed Gilbert’s innovative practices as the local presbytery. Gilbert and many potentially manipulative; secondly, he involved in revivals routinely ventured was concerned about how he preached into places where they believed that the law in order to bring about fear and people were not hearing the true gospel. despair prior to the preaching of the This practice created much resentment, gospel. often because the preachers frequently cast suspicion over other ministers who did not share their brand of spiritual Tennent’s story … zeal. To some, it seemed that itinerant preachers were unwilling to submit to encapsulates some of the the legitimate authority of the church; wherever they went, division and disorder most significant … followed. emphases that have Into this fractious environment stepped shaped Irish George Whitefield. This formidable orator delivered sermons to massive Presbyterianism… crowds that resembled gripping theatre.

David Garrick, one of the most famous Thomson insisted that the conviction English actors of the 18th century, of sin necessary for true conversion was envied the manner in which the young brought about through the peaching Whitefield could melt an audience. of the gospel; both sorrow for sin and People had never seen or heard anything saving faith were the result of the Spirit’s like this beforehand. The smaller revivals work in regeneration. Conversion could that had taken place under Gilbert and sometimes be slow and gradual. It did Jonathan Edwards now morphed into not necessarily have to come through what is still styled the Great Awakening. a dramatic moment of crisis. This was Gilbert and other Log College not a clash between what today might graduates became some of the be termed conservative and liberal Englishman’s closest associates. In theology. Rather, it was a clash between March 1740, Gilbert preached a highly a revivalistic form of Presbyterianism controversial sermon, ‘The Danger of and one that was more churchly in an Unconverted Ministry’. In it, he focus. Tensions increased, and in 1741 denounced all opponents of the revival this resulted in the first division in the as blind guides and Pharisees. To make colonial Presbyterian Church, with the matters worse, he did it as an itinerant in a pulpit that was not his own. One of the parties known as the Old Side and the New Side. ministers whom Tennent was attacking

In 1743, Gilbert was called to pastor a church in Philadelphia that had been established in the revival. Now settled in the city, he mellowed and matured. He became concerned about elements of the Great Awakening, especially the growth of groups that denied important doctrines. As a result, his own relationship with Whitefield soured and he found himself accused of many of the things of which he had formerly accused others. He backed away from the attitudes and practices that had divided the church.

His father was now dead, and the Log College was no more, but the need for properly trained ministers was only increasing. Gilbert became a trustee of a new college that was established in New Jersey and that was, in some ways, patterned after the Log College. In 1753, he travelled to Great Britain and Ireland to raise funds for the building on land donated at Princeton. Back in the land of his birth, he attended the Synod of Ulster and secured support for the erection of Nassau Hall – at its time, the largest stone building in the colonies.

The reunion of the divided American church took place in 1758. Gilbert Tennent had been instrumental in the reconciliation and was elected the first Moderator of the reunited Synod.

Francis Alison, an Old Side minister who had been born in Leck, Co Donegal, recognised that Gilbert had done more than anyone else to heal the breach. The reunited Church embodied the following: confessional Reformed orthodoxy; an emphasis on personal piety; a commitment to an educated ministry; and an evangelistic outlook. Despite this success, his last years of ministry were difficult and he died in 1764, having served the Arch Street Church for 20 years.

Tennent’s story is worth remembering because it encapsulates some of the most significant, and at times conflicting, emphases that have shaped Irish Presbyterianism over the past four centuries. In many ways, his story is part of our own story as a Church.

Rev Dr Martyn Cowan is Lecturer in Historical Theology at Union Theological College.

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Confident 18

Herald June 2023

Photography Jamie Trimble

in Christ

Kevin Hargaden interviews the Moderator-Designate, Dr Sam Mawhinney.

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delaide Road Presbyterian Church has stood for almost 200 years in the heart of Dublin city. Sharing a road with embassies and global law firms, it backs on to the city’s Grand Canal and sits an equally brisk walk from the Dáil – where Ireland’s political power resides – and the complex of offices that are home to Google, Facebook and many other tech giants – the base of Ireland’s economic power. It is one of the most well-established churches in the Dublin and Munster Presbytery, both in terms of its historic legacy and its contemporary vitality. A diverse congregation gathers each Sunday – and throughout the week – to praise and worship, to study the Bible, to host parent and toddler groups, or international befriending events, or many other different programmes, depending on the time of year.

Sam Mawhinney has ministered to this congregation since 2008. Born and raised in Ballycastle, Sam has been ministering in the Republic of Ireland since arriving in the mission outpost of Clonmel in 1997. And at this year’s General Assembly he will become the first Moderator from the 26 counties since Trevor Morrow held the position in 2000.

I met him in his church office in March, a few weeks after discovering this news. The first thing he had to share with me was his own sense of startlement: “The fact that I got the job was actually quite shocking.” He had allowed his name to go forward as a nominee from the Republic, but at no point did he

think he was going to be elected. When we met, arrangements were still being made as he and his congregation adapted to the news and began to welcome it.

Having got over the initial surprise, he is now looking forward to the role and the opportunity it will give him to “relate as much as I can about my experiences of working in the Republic and how much I have enjoyed the freedom of it, the Biblecentred nature of it, the non-sectarian context” of ministry here.

…he will become the first Moderator from the 26 counties since … 2000.

Sam was raised in a loving Christian home. His father was an elder in the local church. The family attended every Sunday. He loved the CSSM summer programmes that the church hosted.

He enjoyed school. He participated in every sport he could. He describes his childhood as “idyllic”. At the age of 15 he felt a need to explore his faith more for himself. He signed up to communicant classes at his church and found that the faith that had been handed down to him was something in which he could trust.

“That was a sort of further solidity,” he reflects.

After A-levels, he went to Belfast to study Medicine at Queen’s. There, the Christian Union proved to be a further testing ground as he took on positions of leadership and enjoyed firm fellowship with medics and with other students

from across the university.

Through it all, he felt a strong sense of calling to ordained ministry. But with it was an equally strong sense of resistance, worried that his personality was not suited to a role in the spotlight and concerned about being able to live up to such a high vocation. In retrospect, he wonders if studying medicine was not an attempt to bargain with God, as if to say, “How about I just be a missionary doctor instead?” Ultimately, he heeded the call, but did not give up on the idea of serving as a missionary doctor, spending a year in a Presbyterian Church of East Africa hospital in Kikuyu, outside Nairobi in Kenya. It was back in Belfast, studying Theology, that he met Karen, a nurse, who he would go on to marry.

Their first destination in the Republic was the rural setting of Clonmel, a small town in Tipperary. It was a baptism of fire. As he remembers it, “that was difficult”, before quickly adding “– not because Clonmel per se was difficult”.

But it was a project conceived in the very early stages of the denomination’s modern turn towards church planting and the ingredients for success were not present. “We had no island of strength, we had no building, we had no presence… I was parachuted in there.” PCI has learned so much in the intervening decades, with successful projects such as Maynooth and Donabate to refer to. A lot of approaches were taken then “that just wouldn’t happen today”.

After three years in Clonmel he moved south to Fermoy in County

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Cork and things got much easier. “We had a building, even though it was derelict. We had a presence there that people could understand.” And when the Church renovated the building, this communicated their wider vision for their presence in the community, and the people of the town welcomed them.

The number of people who have been blessed by the church is truly substantial… It is a hub of mission at the heart centre of the city.

As much as these years had difficulties, Sam and Karen enjoyed their time in Tipperary and Cork. But it was a culture shock to realise “just how weak we were as a denomination”. Coming from the Presbyterian heartlands of Ulster, it was hard to adapt to a situation where they had no standing and were reliant on people’s hospitality to get even basic ministries off the ground. But that sense of having to build from scratch also brought with it a kind of liberation.

Instead of replicating a giant ecclesial infrastructure, the work they have done

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is based much more in getting to know people, teaching the Bible informally and becoming invested in the community.

“If I met anybody, I just talked to them,” Sam says. What he found was that people loved to chat – about the GAA and the stories in the local newspaper, and often about Jesus as well. “There isn’t that angst of sectarian sensitivities about talking to people… There’s more interest in debating the things of faith and religion and more openness about what they do or don’t believe. I’ve always appreciated that.”

The context of Dublin’s south inner city is different in that he cannot operate with quite the same vision – Fermoy was his parish in a way that the capital city cannot be. And Irish culture has changed dramatically in the last 20 years. But that sense of liberation that comes from being a minority persists. Presbyterians account for about 0.5% of the population in the Republic. Adelaide Road might be strong within itself, but the scale of the work remains daunting.

Daily reading of Scripture forms the basis of his spiritual practice. Sam recounts a profound experience he had on his 30th birthday, reading Jeremiah 1. That morning, the call to be a prophet to the nations resonated powerfully with him, in a way he remembers still. Now, a few decades later, he realises that this is his reality in Adelaide Road. The church is rooted in a particular location but it ministers across the globe through the diversity of the congregation. Worship might be led by someone from Korea while the Bible is read by someone from Monaghan. Refugees sit beside tech executives. People come and join for a season and then leave again as studies or contracts prompt them to move. They hear of former members who spent a season with them leading dynamically in student ministries in Australia, and of people who first got involved in the church through its international café becoming members of the Church in China. The number of people who

Karen, Sam and their three sons

His personal position does not hinder him … from recognising, working with and even celebrating the work of his fellow ministers who are women. have been blessed by the church is truly substantial. On more than one occasion, Sam has found himself travelling and bumping into people who he discovers were once members of Adelaide Road. It is a hub of mission at the heart centre of the city.

Holding such diversity together can be a challenge, but it is one Sam relishes. “It’s not because I’m here; it’s because there’s a lot of people doing the welcoming!” One element of the life of the church that he appreciates particularly is the way that the community of young adults are so passionate about their Christian discipleship. “They actually have their birthday parties here; they spend their Saturday nights here.” Even these informal get-togethers become a context for mission. “That’s the most exciting

Sam with Adelaide Road’s Irish mission worker – David Boyd

thing – the diversity and openness of people that are here.”

Based on the impression created by the first media engagements after Sam’s election, such an openness to diversity might come as a surprise. Asked about his personal position on women’s ordination, Sam explained that he holds a “complementarian” perspective, whereby men and women are considered equal but are called to distinctive roles.

If he could go through that process again, he says he would be “much more conscious” that “the role of the Moderator is not about my personal opinion but about the position of the Presbyterian Church in Ireland”.

His personal position does not hinder him, however, from

recognising, working with and even celebrating the work of his fellow ministers who are women. He works closely with women in the presbytery and would work with women as elders. My wife – who served for years as a prison chaplain – can testify to Sam’s sincere and meaningful encouragement and support. When he says that his secondary concerns do not outweigh his primary desire for unity with everyone who sees Christ as Lord, you end up hearing a message too complicated to fit into any headline, soundbite or tweet.

Firmly holding the mirror position on this important question, I have found Sam to be the opposite of hostile. He is a friend from whom I learn in our disagreements. He understands that his position is nuanced and might be easily misunderstood but he intends to serve as a Moderator for all the Church’s membership. Throughout his ministry, he has worked with the tension of his personal conscience and his much more fundamental public conviction about the good of the church – “I would never elevate this to a point where I would not accept the ministry of a woman or not participate with them”.

Sam is clearly bruised by his first media encounters. He accepts that his words

Herald June 2023

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He knows what it is like to minister in the most rural of contexts as well as the most urban.

have hurt people and will endeavour to be “a representative for the whole Church”.

But he also would love to see the level of discourse in the denomination – about this issue and others as well – raised so that we recognise that stark binary options do not fit anyone. Understanding why people arrive at the positions they hold is as important as knowing where they stand and often allows common ground to be discovered. “We label people so easily and people are always more complicated than the camp they find themselves in.”

Holding these finely balanced views together is possible, for Sam, because “the missional context in the Republic of Ireland simplifies everything”. No church is strong enough to stand on its own and that generates a “sense of collective unity” that might be instructive for the wider Church as it faces difficult years ahead.

Even in the North, “we are increasingly becoming weaker, but I think we need to see that as an opportunity”. When we are stripped of the support structures of cultural relevance, we are freed to discover new ways of being confident in Christ, comfortable in diversity and open to how God might do new things. If he does settle on a slogan for his year as Moderator, “the idea of being confident in Christ” will be at the fore, because the church still has a good deal to offer this society in terms of both truth and community.

Sam and I are avid cyclists – indeed, we both arrived on two wheels to our meeting. Fitting for its inner-city

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location, Adelaide Road Presbyterian Church has some of the finest bikeparking facilities I have ever found at a church. Asked if promoting such developments would be part of his mandate as minister, he laughed. He agreed with me that he would not be the Greta Thunberg of PCI, but he granted that we must remember that environmental care is part of the Christian life. “We need to live as God has mandated us to live, respecting the resources that he has given us.”

Sam Mawhinney is a man from Co Antrim utterly at home in the Republic.

He is the minister of a church that stands for the long heritage of Presbyterianism in Dublin city and that has membership from all over the world. He knows what it is like to minister in the most rural of contexts as well as the most urban. He holds firm to his own convictions while being open to difference. It is entirely understandable if all his complexity doesn’t fit into a nice soundbite. In these regards, he is a fitting representative leader for our denomination for the coming year.

Kevin Hargaden is an elder in Lucan Presbyterian Church. He is a theologian whose work focuses on Christian Ethics. His most recent book is called Parish as Oasis.

JUNE 2023

Mission Connect

To God be the glory

To God be the glory Rev Jonathan Currie

Mission news from workers around Ireland and the world.

Using words to witness Rosemary Spiers Reaching out with vision John McCandless The cult of death Naomi Leremore Jesus is greater than John Naomi Keefe

Every aspect of our Church’s mission depends to some extent on United Appeal. Hundreds of projects and programmes at home and overseas are helping to advance God’s kingdom, showing God’s love in action to hundreds of thousands of people.

A valuable volunteer Kenneth Downes

Including June prayer diary

To God be the glory

Rev Jonathan Currie Kilkenny Presbyterian Church

“I was glad when they said unto me, ‘Let us go into the house of the Lord’” (Psalm 122:1).

A close and beneficial relationship has been formed with the Faith Mission nearby at Durrow, which provides men’s weekends, ladies’ days and youth and children’s camps. We have a wonderful resh coffee is brewing as parents sign in toddlers and group of young teens/adults who help lead many of these camps, children to their various teaching groups, ready to disperse and their experience there, in turn, enriches our congregation’s at the allocated time children’s ministry and worship. during the service, while the Kilkenny Presbyterian Our church is filled with imperfect people being encompasses various youth attend to the sound system, PowerPoint or leading nationalities. Recently we perfected little by little, by a perfect God. worship. The church services have been joined by many include relevant teaching Ukrainian families – the need to of God’s Word, praise led by all-age worship teams, personal provide a translation of the sermon in their language has become testimonies and puppet ministry for the kids’ talks. a vital ministry, to include our brothers and sisters in our worship.

It is Ireland, so being on time is not a big priority! By the end of the “Proclaim to all the nations the marvellous deeds of the Lord!” first praise, the church is filled, forcing an overflow into the hall, with (Psalm 96:3). people occupying all the chairs available. It reminds me of Mark 2:4: To God be the glory, great things he has done. “They were “Since they could not get to Jesus because of the crowd, they made continually devoting themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to an opening in the roof...” What a wonderful problem to have! fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer” (Acts 2:42). The The power hub of our church is the prayer meetings. Around message of our church is Christ crucified. Our church is filled with 15–20 people meet to pray every Saturday at 8.30am until 10am, imperfect people being perfected little by little, by a perfect God. covering all aspects of church life in fervent prayer, as well as If you are ever in Kilkenny, please come and worship with us. targeting various missionary causes around the world. Prayer is also a significant part of our midweek meeting. Corporate and Please pray: one-to-one Bible studies prove a vital spiritual nourishment for • Give thanks for the ‘new thing’ the Lord is doing in Kilkenny weary souls. We know that when the church prays, souls are Presbyterian Church. saved and chains are broken as people are set free in Christ. Street • Pray for a deepening hunger and obedience to God’s Word. evangelism and door-to-door is also a vital part of introducing • Pray that many more blinded eyes will be opened by the gospel. people to Christ.

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Mission Connect | Herald June 2023

Using words to witness Rosemary Spiers

Deaconess, Greenwell Street Presbyterian Church, Newtownards “When will you be king? Show them you’re the boss in charge of everything!”

to Serve. The principal of the school expressed her thanks, on a Facebook video clip, to the churches for the gorgeous book that explained about her faith and journey to the throne. he coronation of King Charles III is fresh in the memory; Tracts and books have the amazing ability to deliver the message however, the words above are from a children’s book called to many people that the distributor will never meet. One day, Are We Nearly There while seeking something to Yet? by Alison Brewis. This little read, James Hudson Taylor Tracts and books have the amazing ability book went into a pack with turned over a basket of a chocolate Easter egg for tracts in his father’s library to deliver the message to many people the children of Newtownards and selected one that was Nursery School this year. Also interesting. He fell down on that the distributor will never meet. at Easter, each family received his knees and accepted the a book called The Life of Jesus Saviour; he then went on to and a special knitted chick at our tots’ group. These Easter and found the China Inland Mission. What a marvellous harvest with Christmas packs evolved during Covid-19. The packs contain a one seed sown. little book and chocolate and the children from Newtownards At Greenwell Street we have many opportunities to spread Nursery and P1 class of Victoria Primary School received them the seed of his Word to young and old, into the community of from Greenwell Street.

Newtownards, praying that lives would serve the King of Kings.

Last Christmas, the nursery was able to return to our church halls Bulk purchases of books and tracts are available from publishers for its first Christmas nativity play after the Covid-19 pandemic.

The Good Book Company and 10ofThose.

The children used Makaton sign language to explain the Christmas story in word and song. Parents went home with our church Please pray: magazine and a Christmas tract. One Sunday morning during a • Praise God for the opportunity to share about the Lord via Scripture Union presentation to the church, a parent shared how books, our church magazine and tracts into the community of delighted she was that her daughter had come home from nursery Newtownards. with a little book from Greenwell Street explaining the true • Give thanks for our ‘Fit for Life’ event and fun day – praise God meaning of Christmas. for those from the community who came along to these events During the late Queen’s platinum celebrations, both First Ards and heard about the Saviour. and Greenwell Street gifted every child from Victoria Primary • Pray for the holiday Bible club being held 24–28 July.

School the book called, Queen Elizabeth II: The Queen Who Chose

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Mission Connect | Herald June 2023

Reaching out with vision John McCandless

Community outreach worker, Mountpottinger and McQuiston Presbyterian Churches

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elen Keller, the blind author and writer, was asked: “Is there than 50 people from the area enjoyed celebratory treats and fun. anything worse than being blind?” She answered, “Yes, Mountpottinger men’s meet-up and lunch brings up to 18 men having your sight but no vision!” from the community each week for a lovely two-course meal, I love the individual visions and time and space to get to of each of our organisations know others. A thought for the I love the individual visions of each of our here at McQuiston and day is always looked forward Mountpottinger – each one organisations… Each one tailored to meet the to by these men. Our team tailored to meet the task of of volunteers has been so task of reaching others with the love of Jesus. reaching others with the love encouraged by the community of Jesus. We as a ‘community fun day arranged by Karis, our outreach team’ have been meeting people on the doorstep, family worker, where upwards of 140 kids and adults came along. reaching fringe families, engaging with traders on the road, The work on the front doorstep of the church, where our food contacting the local schools and making a difference in the table and coffee bar is positioned, brings many needy people to lives of asylum seekers and refugee families. Thankfully, the two us. Thanks to David and his family for overseeing this ministry. congregations bring support in many ways.

I thank our God for his vision for the work in east Belfast, for Euston St and Elmgrove Primary Schools have had visits from involving us in that work and enabling us to do that as a team. our team four times a year – working alongside children, planting spring flowers and decorating Christmas gingerbread figures. Our Easter competition brings about 200 entries from the two schools, nursery to P7. Teachers too are delighted with our input. With the help of the congregations – giving food, toiletries and cash Please pray: contributions – we have helped no fewer than 14 families this year, • For our newly appointed minister, Rev E. Tagle Aguiar, as he supporting, encouraging and uplifting them. Refugees from Iran, teaches and gets to know God’s will for the community.

Libya, Somalia, Cameroon, Slovakia, Saudi Arabia – without your • For John’s work in both congregations. help through prayer and giving they would have struggled and • Give thanks for souls already won for God. given up.

• For the vacancy in McQuiston – that God’s person will come to The Jubilee Celebration of 2022 in our halls set the vision us. rolling for a King’s coronation celebration in May where more

Mission Connect | Herald June 2023

The cult of death Naomi Leremore

Global mission worker, Kenya

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e’re in the midst of an unfolding tragedy in Kenya, As post-mortem examinations begin, one grisly theory being involving a self-proclaimed pastor and tele-evangelist explored is that of organ harvesting. A commission of inquiry called Mackenzie. He started his church 20 years ago is to be set up to unearth the truth behind the mass killings. In at the coast and slowly began radicalising his church members, Matthew 7:15, Jesus says: “Beware of false prophets who come teaching that the Bible does disguised as harmless sheep not support education. Those but are really vicious wolves.” …the Church has lost its standing since the with exam certificates were Religion in Kenya is said encouraged to burn them to be the only business that pulpit was turned into a podium for politicians. is booming in these harsh and remove their children from school. The faithful in economic times. The ‘planthis congregation were taught not to let their children receive a-seed’ prosperity gospel has been used by con men as a way vaccinations or seek medical attention when sick. of robbing people desperately praying for a quick fix to their After his church and TV station were closed down, Mackenzie financial woes. Cult members are indoctrinated and controlled went underground. He started ‘farming’ on 800 acres within the by their charismatic leader. The fear of dire consequences is used vast Shakahola forest. His teachings were based on visions and to manipulate them into obeying their leader’s instructions. They included end of the world prophecies. With no need for earthly do not think rationally for themselves. Previous attempts by the treasures, some fanatical followers gave up their jobs and sold all government have failed to regulate the churches and mosques their properties – cars, land and houses – to bring their tithes and from preaching extreme doctrines and radicalising members. offerings to Mackenzie.

However, the Church has lost its standing since the pulpit was The doomsday cult members believed that the end of the world turned into a podium for politicians. would come on 15 April 2023. Mackenzie instructed them to begin Please pray: ‘fasting’, by which he meant starving to death, in order to be the • For those who have been rescued from the cult – that they will first to meet Jesus. The deaths were to happen in a specific order, receive the physical, emotional and spiritual help they need to with the children dying first, followed by the women, then men recover and start life afresh. and lastly the pastor. Almost half of the bodies being found in the • For the families waiting to find out if their loved ones are among shallow mass graves are of innocent children. the dead in Shakahola forest. Thank God for the help they are The ‘Shakahola forest massacre’ is one of the worst religious receiving from the Kenya Red Cross Society. tragedies in Kenya’s history. At the time of writing, the death toll • That this massacre will be properly investigated so that the stands at 110, with the Kenya Red Cross registering 410 missing truth behind what happened is revealed, and that the findings relatives – 227 of these are children. More than 30 members were become a wake-up call for the government and church bodies found alive but physically weak and emaciated. Some died on the to agree on regulations that will prevent similar tragedies in the way to hospital while others survived and are begging to go back future. to the forest, determined to continue with their fast.

Mission Connect | Herald June 2023

Jesus is greater than John Naomi Keefe

Global mission worker, Brazil

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he month of June is a time when many saints’ days are to me, of God allowing me to actually see the ‘theological truth celebrated in Brazil, one of them being that of Saint John the penny’ drop into place.

Baptist. The volunteers from both Peixinhos and Beberibe Our large M&M sweet is being used again. This time we hope to hope to ‘go fishing’ during use the letter M of the M&M this time, using different sweet to share what John the I really enjoy these moments, and they are evangelistic strategies. Our Baptist said about Jesus being theme is ‘Jesus greater than greater than him. There are a real encouragement to me, of God Saint John (Jesus MAIOR do many words beginning with allowing me to actually see the ‘theological que São João)’. Our key verses the letter M in Portuguese from the Bible are John 1:27: that we hope to link in. Below truth penny’ drop into place.

“He is the one who comes are a few of them with the after me, the straps of whose Portuguese word in brackets: sandals I am not worthy to untie”; and John 1:30: “A man who • Greater/bigger/more important – (Maior) comes after me has surpassed me because he was before me.”

• Toffee apples – (Maçã de amor) What did John the Baptist mean when he said, “A man who • Corn – (Milho) comes after me has surpassed me because he was before me”?

• Corn soup – (Mungunzá) Who was older – John the Baptist or Jesus? How can Jesus, who All the volunteers from both Beberibe and Peixinhos was born, humanly speaking, after John the Baptist have been congregations are excited about using this time of year to reach before John? out to the neighbouring community with the good news of Jesus.

These are some of the interesting questions I love throwing out For the street evangelism presentation in Peixinhos the ‘Good News to the group of volunteers of Beberibe congregation, to get them Club’ children hope to decorate the streets with bunting, using the thinking about how Jesus was actually with God in the beginning colours of the wordless book, instead of the traditional Saint John (John 1:1). bunting. The food served will also be of the five different colours After a Q&A format Bible study, we then took on the task of how and they hope to explain John 3:16 using these colours. we were going to present this during our evangelistic presentation in the street. After discussing the use of puppets, acting out a Please pray: scene of someone untying someone else’s sandals, organising • Pray for all the organisation and planning of these evangelistic the food and who was doing what, our nine-year-old asked the events – or, as we call them, ‘fishing events’. question, “How is it again that Jesus existed before John, even • Pray that God by his Holy Spirit will use each of these events to though he was younger?” bring many to himself.

After a quick recap, she then declared, “Oh yes! Jesus is actually • Pray that, as one of our volunteers puts it, we will have “the joy God so he is greater than John the Baptist – okay, now I get it.” I of having a catch of many fish”. really enjoy these moments, and they are a real encouragement

Mission Connect | Herald June 2023

A valuable volunteer Kenneth Downes

Volunteer, Council for Social Witness office

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he Council for Social Witness (CSW) has a number of support Manchester United. On Thursday evenings I am involved volunteers across our services, all of whom play a vital role. in the Ballymagee youth club in Bangor, where I am a youth leader Kenneth Downes, our longest-standing volunteer, joined the and also recently gave a presentation there on health and safety.

Social Witness office team as an intern in 2010 and he has been part “I have recently been appointed as a lieutenant in the 4th Ards of the fixtures and fittings ever since. He is well known throughout Company of the Boys’ Brigade and obtained my Gold Duke of the building and is the life and Edinburgh Award a few years soul of any Assembly Buildings ago with the Company as well.

I always love Wednesdays to come to gathering.

The officers really encouraged Assembly Buildings and work hard.

Kenneth works Wednesdays me to complete it and I am from 10am to 3pm. He certainly so proud to have achieved I have met lovely people and I always packs a lot into this time, this, especially meeting Prince once he has had his morning Philip at Hillsborough Castle to give 100% when doing my work. cuppa and bun first, of course! receive my award. My picture Kenneth helps with processing certificates for training, general appeared in the Presbyterian Herald and the Ulster Tatler. office duties such as shredding, filing and word processing and he “I always love Wednesdays to come to Assembly Buildings and also delivers the mail to all the offices in Assembly Buildings. work hard. I have met lovely people and I always give 100% when Dermot Parsons, CSW director says, “Kenneth’s time in the office doing my work. Every time I pass Assembly Buildings, I have a smile is valuable to us in many ways. He provides great assistance to the on my face because I love it there as well as the staff. team and, at times when we are preoccupied with crises, his calm “My favourite Bible verse is Mark 12:31: “Love your neighbour as manner settles us down.” yourself.” This is my favourite verse because I think it is important to Kenneth details a little bit about the very busy life he leads: love and care for everyone.

“I am 33 years old and I have Down’s syndrome. I live in Newtownards with my parents – Jennifer and Roy – and have two brothers called Stephen and Michael. Stephen lives in London Please pray: with his wife Danielle and my little nephew Lorcan. Michael lives • Give thanks for the enthusiasm and commitment that Kenneth in Glasgow with his wife Fiona and they have Jensen, Rose and brings to his role in CSW, and for his friendly and helpful manner Penelope. I love all of my family so much and I am a very proud to everyone he meets in Assembly Buildings. uncle and brother.

• For Kenneth in his various roles, as youth leader in Ballymagee “As well as working in the Council for Social Witness I have a very youth club and lieutenant in the 4th Ards Company of the Boys’ full social life. I play for Bangor Castle football team and compete in Brigade. Give thanks for the positive role model he is to the a league tournament at the Valley Leisure Centre. Locally, I support young people he encounters and helps.

Glentoran Football Club and go to most of their home games. I also

Mission Connect | Herald June 2023

Please pray...

JUNE 2023

n CHAPLAINS – For Rev John Coulter, chaplain at the University of Ulster in Coleraine; give thanks for the partnership with the Christian Union. Pray that this partnership would develop and deepen.

n CHAPLAINS – For Rev Kenny Hanna and all in the rural chaplaincy team as they partner with different congregations to be present at a number of agricultural shows in June and July.

n FRANCE – For theological training being undertaken at the Faculté Jean Calvin in Aixen-Provence, France, especially that the staff will be granted wisdom and strength, and for the students to be prepared effectively for ministry and mission.

n COMMUNITY OUTREACH – For John McCandless, community outreach worker in Mountpottinger and McQuiston; pray for the activities that take place that enable connections with people in the community – that they would encourage curiosity regarding the good news of Jesus.

n COMMUNITY OUTREACH – For Mark Annett working in First Rathfriland; pray for the congregation in this time of vacancy – that they will know the Lord’s presence and leading as they meet together each week.

Mark Annett

n GLOBAL MISSION PARTNERS – Give thanks for PCI’s partnerships with churches, mission agencies and institutions around the world. Pray for their representatives attending PCI’s General Assembly this year – especially that travel visas will be granted where needed, and that we may hear God speak to us through our guests. n HOME MISSION – For the congregations of Donegal and Stranorlar; pray for the members of the congregations as they gather for worship – that the Word of God will go out each Sunday and will be heard and understood clearly. n RECOVERY – For those who have survived abuse and are in recovery – that they may find the appropriate help and a safe place, as well as ongoing support. Pray for those who have yet to tell their story – that they may find the strength to disclose. Give thanks for individuals and organisations providing specialist help and training in this area. n REFUGEE CRISES – For an immediate cessation to the conflict that broke out in mid-April in Sudan, especially in its capital, Khartoum, and the Darfur region, involving rival factions of the military government.

Remember the hundreds of thousands who have been displaced or who are attempting to flee to neighbouring countries and pray that vital food relief will reach the millions threatened by hunger so that humanitarian catastrophe can be avoided. n THOMPSON HOUSE – Give thanks for the work and witness of Thompson House – our Church’s supported housing scheme for offenders. Pray for David Farrow, the director, and his staff team as they get alongside residents and show them the love of Christ.

Give thanks for the Bible study that takes place among residents, led by staff members.

n KENYA – For Kenyans left reeling following the ‘Shakahola forest massacre’, one of the worst religious tragedies in the country’s history, arising from the activities of a self-appointed pastor and a doomsday cult. Over 500 people are either dead or missing, around half of them children. Pray for comfort for grieving families and for spiritual, emotional and practical support for the victims who have survived the cult – that they would recover and be able to start life afresh. n CSW SERVICES – Give thanks for God’s protection on the everyday work of the Council for Social Witness. Give thanks for dedicated staff, so often going the extra mile in their caring of residents and tenants. Pray for all our residents and tenants as well as their family and friends – that they may see the love of God within our services. n CHAPLAINS – For Rev John Gilkinson, health care chaplain in Belfast City Hospital – that he will be filled with the love and compassion of Jesus as he cares for patients and their families in difficult circumstances. n COMMUNITY OUTREACH – For Ben Day, community outreach worker in Kilbride; pray for a deepening of those relationships that have developed with the local community – that people would be drawn to Christ.

Carol Reid

n HOMELESSNESS – That God will watch over those who tonight will sleep in the open. Pray for those who work among homeless people, giving them food and shelter and assisting with health problems. Pray that we will be filled with compassion and that we can find ways to help meet their needs.

n DISABILITY – For families who provide love and care for children and/or adults with disabilities – learning, physical, visual/ sensory impairment or a combination of these. Give thanks for the support provided by government, charities and the Church and pray that individuals and their families will have the resources they need to be able to cope with all the demands disability places upon them. n DEACONESS – For Eleanor Drysdale, serving in Wellington; pray for Eleanor as she serves the congregation pastorally and in leading different ministries – that she will know the Lord’s equipping and guiding. n VOLUNTEERING – Give thanks for the many volunteers involved in CSW’s work, as they serve and undertake a range of roles in our homes and services – assisting with outings and activities, leading Bible studies, garden upkeep etc. n INDONESIA – For the Evangelical Christian Church in Halmahera, especially for the unity of the church, for the training of new ministers and for effective outreach. n CHAPLAINS – For PCI’s forces chaplains as they serve Jesus, particularly those currently on deployment; pray that they would know the presence of Jesus with them and that they would draw close to the Word of God for their strength and encouragement. n DEACONESS – For Heidi England, deaconess serving in Railway Street, Lisburn; pray for wisdom and guidance for Heidi in all of her pastoral visits and that the love of Jesus would be evident in each encounter. n INTERNATIONAL MEETING POINT – For the staff and volunteers in the International Meeting Points in both north and south Belfast; pray that they will be able to signpost those that come to the relevant services available and that migrants and refugees would see the love of Jesus in action. n SOUTH BELFAST FRIENDSHIP HOUSE – For Carol Reid, as she serves and coordinates the different children’s programmes. Pray for the summer activities – that these will be a way of engaging with new people in the Sandy Row area. n ZAMBIA – For the witness of the Church of Central Africa Presbyterian, Synod of Zambia; pray that through the leadership of Rev Sevatt Kabaghe, General Secretary, the Church would be guided and encouraged.

TALKING POINTS

Tone is everything

Norman Hamilton reflects on the inspiring speech of Senator George Mitchell at the Queen’s event to mark the 25th anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement.

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’m always very wary of hype… words like ‘iconic’, ‘amazing’, One of the most powerful moments in Senator Mitchell’s ‘radical’, ‘life-changing’ and ‘once-in-a-lifetime’ usually mean speech was when he spoke of the personal cost to his wife that I pay less attention to what is being promoted than I Heather and himself of what he was seeking to do in Northern might otherwise have done. What is being offered is often Ireland. He said this: little more than an attention-seeking slogan or a call to join in “Then our son Andrew was born. And, as every parent knows, with another new idea or project. my life and my responsibilities would change, irreversibly. I However, just occasionally, something takes place that does flew home for his birth, and I also made plans to travel to justify attention-grabbing language – but is promoted without Washington. actually using any hype.

“My wife Heather had to remain in the hospital with Andrew Such an event was the keynote address by Senator George for a few days. So, it was there that we had a long and sombre Mitchell at the conference in April at Queen’s University talk about the future. I had asked and was told that on the day Belfast to mark the 25 years since the of Andrew’s birth, 61 children were born signing of the Good Friday Agreement. As George Mitchell’s speech in Northern Ireland. We talked about a member of the audience that day, I wasn’t what his life might be like, and about the that day reminded me at all clear what to expect. But what he lives of the 61 children from Northern said, and how he said it, was a masterclass yet again that tone is Ireland. Then I told her that I was going in powerful communication steeped in to Washington, and why. Her reaction was graciousness, sensitivity, warmth, humility, every bit as important as immediate and strong. self-effacing humour and powerful personal “She said: ‘You have to go back until it content. It is not what testimony. He spoke for 44 minutes, yet it ends, one way or the other. If you leave you say that matters – it now and the fighting resumes, and lots of seemed like only ten.

Like many others reading this article, die, you’ll never be able to forgive is what people hear that people I regularly speak in public – as when yourself. Go back, give it one last try. I’ll leading public worship on a Sunday or at take good care of Andrew. You think about counts. a midweek gathering. Senator Mitchell’s those 61 children.’ So, I cancelled the trip speech that day reminded me yet again that tone is every bit as to Washington and returned to Northern Ireland. When I got important as content. It is not what you say that matters – it is back to Belfast I felt as though I was coming home. what people hear that counts.

“But coming home doesn’t always mean returning to safety…

The more I have reflected on that speech, the more I have For the first time I felt a sense of defeat. Then, it quickly got become conscious that these are qualities echoed throughout even worse.”

Scripture by the prophets, the apostles and Jesus himself.

Massive commitment by them both to the well-being of the For example, the sorrow of David in Psalm 51; the distress people of Northern Ireland, and at huge personal cost to them of Christ in Gethsemane; the humility of Moses in Exodus both over a long period of time.

4; the statement by Paul of lowliness in 1 Corinthians; the It is not hype to say that I was genuinely touched and constant graciousness of warmth, welcome and forgiveness in inspired by George Mitchell at that event in Queen’s. Nor is the ministry of Jesus throughout the gospels. And all the time, it hype to say when the Holy Spirit is allowed to work in my we can read and see for ourselves the power of words carefully life, his wisdom and enabling can bring to my own life those chosen and carefully spoken, so that the message is carefully memorable words of Paul: “I can do all things through Christ communicated. who strengthens me” (Philippians 4:13). Even when I feel I have also reflected on the times when my words were far defeated and deflated. from helpful – or worse, the occasions on which I should have And that promise is for you too! Today spoken but did not – alongside the times when I spoke when and tomorrow. saying nothing would have been much better. When a critical spirit overpowered listening and understanding; when doing Norman Hamilton something now took precedence over taking time to figure out what would be the right and God-honouring thing to do; when Very Rev Dr Norman Hamilton is a former frustration squeezed out agape love; and when emphasis on the Moderator of the Presbyterian Church in right content overtook emphasis on the right tone.

Ireland.

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The pain of infertility

Deborah Sloan looks at the pain that infertility causes and speaks to one Presbyterian couple who bravely share their experiences. She also interviews Rev Alistair Bates on his research into involuntary childlessness within PCI.

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W

hen Paula and Andrew eloped to New York to get married six years ago, after meeting through their jobs as civil servants, they decided they wanted to start a family straight away.

A few months later, when things weren’t happening naturally for them, they went to see their doctor and were referred to hospital for further investigation. After waiting six months for an appointment and undergoing a series of tests, they were told there was no reason why they couldn’t get pregnant.

Having then made the decision to progress with IVF and reached the top of the NHS waiting list in January 2020, they were hit by a further setback when Covid delayed treatment for 18 months.

The couple have now been through two cycles of IVF, one funded on the NHS and one privately funded. Although embryos were successfully implanted, sadly both cycles ended in miscarriage.

It was during her darkest day last summer following their second loss that Paula felt God prompting her to share their story more widely within their church. Paula explains that she had taken herself off to bed one afternoon – something she didn’t normally do – and as she lay there for three hours, she had an overwhelming conviction that could only have come from God. She realised that not being able to have children was a taboo subject at church and even though it was a common real-life issue for many, it just wasn’t talked about. She fully appreciates that theirs is a very personal story of infertility, but she also believes that it is an important story of unanswered prayer that has relevance to so many other situations.

Paula and Andrew describe the last few years as a rollercoaster of emotions – from hope to despair, expectation to disappointment, joy to grief – and they want to be fully honest about the impact of this on their relationship with God. In the early stages of trying for a baby, they were open with family and close friends about their situation and asked them to pray for them. Andrew, in particular, was expectant that God would answer their prayer for a baby.

“I believed it was only a matter of

…it is an important story of unanswered prayer that has relevance to so many other situations. time,” he says. “[I thought] ‘God’s going to come through for us’.” Paula remembers how they prayed on their knees for weeks, asking firstly that they could conceive naturally and then moving into praying more specifically that the IVF would be successful. But when the first IVF cycle didn’t work out as they had hoped, the couple admit that they hardened their hearts to God. Although they continued to attend church, Andrew stopped singing and didn’t read the Bible anymore. They found it increasingly difficult to be involved in family celebrations at church, particularly baptisms. Paula says she began to realise how quickly life moved on for other people and that she had nothing to look forward to. Paula is now in her early 40s and while it has always been a bit of a joke that she is older than Andrew, last August, she sat down with him and asked him did he want to leave the marriage as he could still have a chance with someone else.

When Paula and Andrew shared their story in Orangefield Presbyterian Church earlier this year, it was during a Sunday evening sermon series focusing on Psalm 23. ‘The Lord is my Shepherd’ holds special significance for Andrew as he turned to the words of the psalm when he found himself walking through a season of complete darkness. For most of his life, Andrew believes he had lived in a bubble. Everything had worked out as planned for him – job, car, marriage, house – and a baby was now the next thing on the list. But suddenly, his plans all fell apart and this led him into what

…it is important to establish what a strong covenantal community looks like so that no one feels like a second-class member.

he describes as “a year of real mental suffering”.

He explains that one day as he was driving to work “it was as if a switch flicked” and he was filled with an overwhelming anxiety. For the first time in his life, he found himself in a valley of despair as he dealt with crippling fear, waking up every morning desperately hoping that God had healed him.

While it is a period he never wants to go through again, Andrew knows that it brought him back to God. Although he wants to emphasise that Paula has suffered physically, his experience of mental suffering has encouraged him to highlight men’s mental health and how men can also be greatly affected by the fertility journey as they watch what their wives are going through.

Paula found that she couldn’t go to bed at night. She struggled to understand why and it was only when she talked to a friend who reminded her “but isn’t that when you pray and read your Bible?” that she realised that she was no longer spending that quality time with God. Gradually, she was able to sit with God in silence and just listen to worship music.

Along with Andrew, Paula has been involved in leading Alpha groups for a number of years. After their second loss, she says she didn’t feel she could continue with her Alpha role but she was persuaded to lead an online course and she believes this saved her all over again, bringing her back into close relationship with God. When they reflect on their two IVF experiences, the couple refer to them as being like “night and day”. First time round, they felt that they needed a complete break from God and they grieved alone. The second time, they decided they weren’t going to blame God, they grieved together with him and had a much greater sense of his presence.

Paula and Andrew have also become increasingly aware of the importance of having a support network around them.

They aren’t part of any specific Christian groups for those experiencing infertility but alongside loving families, trusted Christian friends and their minister, they have found their home group to be a real

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…men can also be greatly affected by the fertility journey as they watch what their wives are going through. place of comfort, somewhere they can seek both counsel and advice.

While there has been unanswered prayer and they are disappointed not to have children, Paula says that they aren’t disappointed with God and believes it

is important to acknowledge answered prayer during their journey. She recalls the embryologist phoning to explain that an embryo transfer would be unlikely to happen during the second course of IVF treatment. Paula says she was devastated and said, “God, I just need to know you are there”. The next day, she received a phone call from a very surprised embryologist to say that things could go ahead after all. Paula believes that someone had prayed that day for a miracle.

One of Andrew and Paula’s favourite songs is ‘Hymn of Heaven’ by Phil Wickham. They recall singing it with broken hearts and tears running down their faces but hope that their story and these words can bring some comfort to those facing similar circumstances.

“And every prayer we prayed in desperation The songs of faith we sang through doubt and fear In the end, we’ll see that it was worth it When he returns to wipe away our tears.”

Involuntary childlessness Rev Alistair Bates, minister of Wellington Presbyterian fit into all of that? We don’t.”

Church in Ballymena, has recently completed a PhD thesis Many church resources can also be weighted towards on the topic of involuntary childlessness (not being able to supporting family life, including parenting, and Alistair conceive after having an expressed desire to do so) in the emphasises that what this might infer to those contending with Presbyterian Church in Ireland. Through 14 case studies, childlessness is that there is a distinction between marriage and he explored the ‘lived experiences’ of those unable to have family, with family only being made complete when children children and the impact of this on their personal faith as are produced. One interviewee acknowledged that even the well as on their relationship with their church community. language used at times gives women the impression that they Alistair first became aware of the suffering resulting from are broken or in some way flawed because of infertility. With infertility when he was officiating at an infant baptism service an increasing theology around family life, Alistair believes it is and noticed a couple who were visibly upset. When he followed important to establish what a strong covenantal community up with them, he discovered they were unable to have a looks like so that no one feels like a second-class member. second child. As Alistair explains, with Similar to Paula and Andrew’s one in seven going through childlessness experiences, Alistair found that faith …this is a major pastoral appears to add new dimensions to the across the UK and one in six in Northern Ireland, this is a major pastoral issue and fertility journey, or even become the issue… it is important to understand how to source of blame. However, despite the bridge the gap between respecting the magnitude of their trials, for the majority, privacy of those impacted while also ensuring that they are their encounter with God becomes a stimulant towards greater cared for by the church. Alongside the immediate pain, those dependence on him. Alistair believes that the wider Church facing childlessness are also dealing with the future loss of needs to acknowledge the spiritual journey that many have grandchildren and the strain on their marriages. been on and hear their stories of profound faith. Most of those Alistair’s research findings clearly echo Paula and Andrew’s interviewed said that while they valued their privacy, they also story and highlight the significant levels of emotional distress desired public acknowledgement. that couples experience. Alongside anger, frustration, Alistair’s research concluded that although individual bitterness and resentment, oscillation between hope and ministers can be resignation is a particular struggle for those still undergoing supportive, there is fertility treatment. These emotions are heightened by choices limited additional support they feel they have to make around concealment or disclosure. available. Some of the Many believe infertility is a subject that shouldn’t be talked recommendations he about and choose not to reveal their situation as they risk being makes are for greater stigmatised or devalued. pastoral awareness and Alistair notes that those experiencing infertility can also feel theological training, excluded during family-based activities and calendar events adjustments to baptismal such as Mother’s Day, Christmas Day and annual children’s liturgies that may cause services. Often, childless couples can feel marginalised and discomfort, the provision of battle with understanding how they fit into the ‘church family’. relevant resources that go One interviewee, when discussing ministries offered by her beyond a leaflet or event church, said, “I can see their purpose, but the way the church and the development of is structured is that there is something for the children, for the a community of informal families, for older people and for the students. But where do we networks.

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INTERVIEW

The Father’s

heart

Sarah Harding talks to Heather Thompson about her book The Ministry of the Father’s Heart: A Journey of Discovery.

H

eather Thompson has been involved in prayer ministry for over 40 years. In 1988, she answered the call of God to full-time ministry and completed a Theology diploma at Union Theological College. She then served as a member of the pastoral team at West Presbyterian Church, Bangor until 2011. Having led various groups on the subject of prayer ministry, in-depth ministry and ‘Life in the Spirit’ seminars, she has known for a long time that God was calling her to write a book sharing the insights that he had given her into the in-depth ministry.

However, the timing didn’t feel right until around four years ago, when she heard God clearly tell her: “Now is the time to write the book.”

Such is the wealth of knowledge and insight that Heather has gathered over the years that one book has ended up becoming three. All three have the overarching title of The Ministry of the Father’s Heart, as this is the name that

God gave Heather to describe this ministry that draws upon insights from the Father-heart of God. Each book explores different aspects of this.

In the introduction, Heather explains to readers how she hopes it will impact them: “My prayer is that you experience more and more of the love that God has for you, and that you will become rooted so deeply in his love that you know without doubt that you are uniquely special and have an important place in this world. He wants you to enjoy life with him and to be free to fulfil all that he plans for you.”

Tell us about the first book.

It is about the basis of our Christian belief: the deep unchanging love of God for each of us and the redemption offered to us through the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross. It includes the fact that God wants intimacy with us including having conversations with him – that is something that is dear to my heart because it has been the means through which we have been able to do this ministry. We encouraged those who came to us for help to listen to God along with us and so receive insight from him as to how the traumas of life had affected them and the ways in which he would help

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them. Rather than become dependent on us, they became empowered to receive help directly from their heavenly Father and so were able to share this knowledge and help others.

Why do you think that people often struggle to fully accept the love of God? I think it’s a whole lot of things: the pain and the hurt that people experience… and fear. There is a lot of fear in people – fear of rejection, fear of being seen as stupid, fear of doing things wrong. Many live with guilt, even feeling guilty that they’re not functioning in a way they think a perfect Christian should function.

Personally, I knew all of my life that God loved me, but I never experienced it at heart level until about ten years ago.

That was because I’d had a lot of rejection in my life. Over

There is a lot of fear in people – fear of rejection, fear of being seen as stupid, fear of doing things wrong. many years, God progressively healed and restored my heart so that I was able to receive his gift of love deep within.

Fifty years ago, when I was baptised in the Holy Spirit, I was completely bathed in the love of God. I could feel God’s overwhelming love for other people, even strangers. It was the most amazing change in my life. I knew that I’d had a baptism of love that had freed me to love people unreservedly, but at that time I couldn’t fully receive it for myself.

How would you describe what it felt like when your heart was healed?

For the first time in my life, I knew what it was like to be totally secure in God – the contrast was so marked. I am now in a place where I don’t live in fearfulness with unrealistic expectations of myself.

I just see myself as I am and marvel at the things that God can do through me in my weakness, and I see more and more how dependent on him I am, and it’s just a very safe, happy place to be.

Do you think there’s a lack of recognition in us that we need inner healing?

Yes, I think so. Many are hurting, feeling insignificant or unworthy in some way.

People can work hard at becoming what they know God would like them to be – honouring one another, forgiving one another – all

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these kinds of things. But it can be a very cerebral exercise and when it’s cerebral, it doesn’t bring change or healing with it. Healing comes when we engage with the Holy Spirit about the things that are troubling us, and let him bring the negative emotions to the surface and take away the pain. Throughout our lifetime, we are being sanctified through being progressively released from our sinfulness and healed from our hurts. We discover that it’s okay not to be perfect – we’re accepted just because we’re loved. When God heals us from hurt by releasing our pain, our forgiveness is spontaneous and from the heart. Until this is explained, people sometimes wonder why they find themselves continually feeling bitter even though they have forgiven.

Your father was a minister in the Church of Scotland – how did your upbringing affect your understanding of the Holy Spirit?

When I was growing up in the church, I heard only about the Holy Ghost. It was later that I heard the name Holy Spirit and began to understand who he is. My dad worked hard as a minister, preaching and visiting and meeting pastoral needs, and so as children we didn’t see much of him. It was only later when he retired that we talked together about the Holy Spirit and I came to realise that he had experienced times when he would stand up to preach a sermon that he had prepared only to sense that God wanted him to preach about something else. I had never known that.

He suffered from time to time with depression but despite having the medical treatments available, he never got free. It was only in his last few years of life that he and I talked about this and he told me, “This thing that has plagued me is evil”.

It’s one of the sad things in my life – that his was such a struggle. There must be many like him who don’t get help.

Personally, I knew all of my life that God loved me, but I never experienced it at heart level until about ten years ago…

The book discusses prayer as a conversation. Do you think that people often don’t view it like this?

I’ve got lots of passions but probably prayer as a conversation is one of the foremost ones because if people can be helped to understand that this is one way in which they can deepen their relationship with God, it can change their lives. As soon as any of us start to listen to him, then we’re in a place where we can talk to him and he can help us; he can give us meaning in our lives and take away our insecurity. I think it’s a really important aspect of faith. Knowledge of this and teaching on it is widespread now.

In the book, whenever you talk about the Holy Spirit, you speak with such confidence of what he says to you.

How do you think we can engage with confidence with the Holy Spirit?

I have confidence in what the Scriptures teach: “My sheep listen to my voice…”; “Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know.” There are numerous examples in Scripture where God instructs and leads a person. Any confidence I have isn’t in hearing him correctly, it is in the fact that he will answer, at some stage, maybe not immediately.

I approach him with reverence, with awe, with the knowledge that I can get it wrong. So right from the very start, I’ve always checked with Scripture what I think I hear. Checking is very important

because we can be led astray.

I have some prayers that I would pray before asking God questions – if, for example, I want some insight to help someone. First, I bind the enemy and command him not to interfere or communicate in Jesus’ name. That’s sufficient to stop him from intruding with his thoughts. Second, I do what I can to quieten my thoughts and thoughts that I may have absorbed from others.

I pray, “Lord, I choose to submit my thoughts to yours and lay down my desires so that I can hear your voice”. It’s important that I be in that place where I will be content whatever the answer.

There are times when I hear him speak and I know that it’s definitely him because it has cut across everything I’ve been thinking about. There are other times when I’m just not sure so I will ask him to confirm it in a different form that’s not a ‘yes’ or ‘no’. Sometimes I ask him to give me a Scripture that I wouldn’t normally associate with the particular subject but which would give confirmation.

What can we expect in the second and third books?

The second book unveils our new identity in Christ. Jesus taught, “He who abides in me, and I in him, bears much fruit”. In the first section of this book, we consider seven attributes of God that are resident within us as a consequence of Jesus living in us by his Spirit. In the second section,

we explore what it means for us to be in Christ, seated in the heavenly places – our position in Christ through which we have authority in Jesus’ name over the enemy.

In the third book I discuss various ways in which people can be affected as a consequence of trauma, emotional upheaval or the pressures in life, and a variety of forms of healing that restore us back into wholeness.

How would you advise people to use the book?

Many people have been saying to me they are using the first book like a devotional. They’re reading it really slowly, absorbing each part while listening for promptings from the Holy Spirit, all of which is leading to change within.

Priced at £10.99, The Ministry of the Father’s Heart: A Journey of Discovery is available at www.ministryofthefathersheart.com Heather’s second book, The Ministry of the Father’s Heart: Unveiling our New Identity in Christ, will be launched on 24 June.

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Providing

holistic care Christelle Andrich outlines the work of Healthcare Christian Fellowship Ireland in supporting health care workers and family members who are caring for the sick and vulnerable.

A

s humans, we know that if we lose our health we could lose a lot more: time, money, company, sanity or zest for life. We have experienced this for ourselves and for our loved ones – their pain is ours. We are troubled by unpredictable diseases and perplexing mortality statistics. And into the mix, our public health care is highly valued but crumbling. Devoted and heroic health care workers are at breaking point and now there are direct requests by health care officials for families in communities to help where they can.

Herein lies a wonderful, growing opportunity for churches to get involved in medical mission towards both groups who care for the sick – the workers and the families. In public and private settings – hospitals, residential homes, houses, communities – they are providing physical care and spiritual care, the two hands of the gospel. Quality physical care dignifies humans in the image of their Creator. Anointed spiritual care draws humans to the Christ. Medical mission work supports those who care for the sick and equips them to provide the whole gospel package.

This is where a mission organisation like Healthcare Christian Fellowship

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of Ireland (HCFI) comes in. Its role is to help the churches to support those workers and families in their midst who care for the sick holistically. HCFI sees itself as an arm of the church. Its parent organisation was founded by the late Dr Francis Grim in 1936 in South Africa and today it has a presence in over 120 countries, establishing itself in the Republic of Ireland in 1969 and in Northern Ireland in 1971. Currently, HCFI works on an all-Ireland basis.

Spiritual care for the sick is crucial. Dr Grim said: “More people in the world pass through healthcare facilities than churches [and God visits them right there] where they lie horizontally and look upwards.” Here, only God himself can do the impossible. Therefore, HCFI seeks to lay a foundation of intercession and encouragement.

To facilitate intercession, HCFI hosts a monthly prayer meeting for the health fields in Ireland, helps set up prayer

Medical mission work supports those who care for the sick and equips them to provide the whole gospel package.

triplets and teams for such ministry and issues a bi-monthly prayer letter.

Encouragement is key because health workers are rightly called ‘front-line workers’. Any soldier on the front line will tell you that those next to them mean the world to them. Therefore, HCFI helps many health care workers to link up with each other in Christian fellowship, shoulder to shoulder and face to face.

Of course, most groups find it natural and biblical to combine intercession and encouragement.

Churches that are keen to receive help from HCFI have different options of getting involved. Some arrange a personal meeting with the minister or one or more of their health workers. Others request an information pack. Others arrange a mission slot in a Sunday service or small group meeting. Others participate in one of HCFI’s regular national, continental or international prayer meetings on Zoom. At some point in the relationship, in addition to intercession and encouragement, there is a discussion about training.

One of the main issues in our context that training addresses is how to be salt and light in a difficult environment.

Many are saying that they feel restricted from being a Christian witness in their

workplace. To address this challenge, the first piece of training offered by HCFI is the accredited ‘Saline Process’ course.

It is completed over a six-hour half day, including worship, lunch and tea breaks.

When churches host the course, they can either request a worship team or provide their own. The training is done in the context of worship because it keeps the focus on the One who is to be glorified and enjoyed forever. There is no fee as HCFI is a faith-based organisation, although donations directly to the organisation are welcomed.

The basic approach of the training is to give Christians practical principles, and eight tools, by which to live out Peter’s exhortation in their workplaces: “But in

This course helped us think about the Lord, holistic care, getting alongside people … creating opportunities to talk about our faith… your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect” (1 Peter 3:15).

This course seeks to put believers and those unbelievers with whom they share life and work on a mutual journey towards Christ, taking little steps as he

Ballywatt experience Rev Ross Collins

I first heard about HCFI through an email from Christelle Andrich, the national co-ordinator, in 2022. Christelle had emailed ministers within PCI and made us aware of training that could assist the pastoral care that was already taking place across congregations.

On hearing about the work of HCFI, I was instantly struck by its intention and passion to draw alongside and encourage health care workers as well as family and congregation members to share the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ with the sick and dying because there really is an eternal heaven and hell.

In these current days, with the cost-of-living crisis impacting the health care system, our congregation members are having to increasingly care for family members in the home, rather than rely on hospitals or nursing homes.

The needs of people, physically and spiritually, are always great and Christians can often feel under-equipped to serve Christ and their neighbours well. Yet, Jesus calls and equips his people by his Spirit to go and serve. Therefore, training in righteousness is necessary and ongoing. In Ballywatt Presbyterian, we went ahead and organised a training day in February 2023 for health care workers and family members – not just those in Ballywatt, but across the Coleraine and Limavady Presbytery and beyond.

It was a great day, and having an opportunity to meet and learn together with Christians was uplifting. HCFI’s ‘Saline Process’ training course, applied in the life of our church,

works in their hearts. Because of this straightforward approach, the course has been suitable for any church member or leader who wishes to draw others to Christ where they live, work, study or play sport. And for many, those connections will be made in a medicalmissional context, either through their own illness or that of someone they care about.

For more information, please phone, text or email Christelle Andrich: +44 7876 690878; christelleandrich7@gmail.com Christelle Andrich is the national co-ordinator of HCFI.

complements the regular availing of the ordinary means of grace – Word, prayer and sacraments. The course as an ongoing resource strengthens believers in Christ by means of a helpful and practical toolkit that builds the confidence of those who use it to minister Christ wisely to patients and/or work colleagues according to their needs.

The necessity of intercessory prayer is immense, and HCFI has encouraged us to remember the health care sector by issuing prayer letters and meeting in person to pray. The requirement to share the gospel message in the light of a coming day of judgement creates an urgency. What can we do about it now?

By fellowshipping with other Christians in church, work and in our home, this burden of sharing something of who Jesus is and what he accomplished for God’s people becomes more manageable.

This course helped us think about the Lord, holistic care, getting alongside people, being salt and light, witnessing in word and deed, asking good questions, listening, creating opportunities to talk about our faith and sharing our testimonies. I would endorse this course to ministers, elders, pastoral visitors and congregation members who have a desire to be a more effective witness to the Triune God. For more information, please phone or email Rev Ross Collins: +44 28 2073 1496; rossco_collins@hotmail.com

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REVIEWS

Unless otherwise stated all resources are available from your local Faith Mission Bookshop or online www.fmbookshops.com

Resource A Mind of Their Own CARE FOR THE FAMILY

£10

«««««

This resource is based on the book of the same name by Katharine Hill.

By adapting it into a resource, Care for the Family has helpfully made it into a very practical tool that churches and school groups can use to support parents.

Navigating children through the ups and downs of childhood and then the teenage years can feel overwhelming, and the pandemic has definitely added another layer of difficulty. Headlines are full of the increased levels of anxiety and mental health issues that children and young people are facing and parents can be left feeling helpless, desperate or even guilty when their children are suffering.

This resource makes it straightforward to facilitate a one-off event, lasting two hours; teaching is provided on short video clips and discussion questions are offered too. A leader’s guide gives step-bystep instructions on how to run an evening and parent booklets for participants are available to buy or download.

Topics include building resilience, brain development, body confidence and role models.

Church can often be a place where we might look at other families and assume they have everything sorted.

So it is especially helpful to have an encouraging resource that reassures parents that they are not alone and starts more honest conversations about the challenges and struggles that they face. This is an excellent starting point!

SH

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Wholehearted Faith Rachel Held Evans with Jeff Chu HARPER ONE

£20

«««««

What does it look like to love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind?

This was a question that Rachel Held Evans was clearly wrestling with before her tragic death in 2019.

This book was an incomplete manuscript when Rachel died, but her close friend and fellow author Jeff Chu has lovingly woven it together with his own research. It is a collection of essays through which the reader is challenged to consider what they have accepted about faith in light of the God they’ve grown up with and the boxes they may have constructed for him.

Held Evans never shied away from asking hard questions in her lifetime and she encourages the reader with the argument that wholehearted faith is not at odds with questioning and uncertainty.

Readers are encouraged to reflect the honesty we witness in the psalms in our quest to love God with our whole being.

We are also urged to make Sabbath rest our starting point and a means of human flourishing.

This is a thought-provoking read; Held Evans is bold and characteristically candid in her writing. Upon finishing this book, I couldn’t help but think that while she will no longer be in any doubt as to what it means to be whole, the world has lost a much-needed voice calling us to chase after such things.

LS

Killing Comparison Nona Jones ZONDERVAN BOOKS

£16.99 hardback

«««««

Social media has shaped and continues to shape our everyday routines and, if we’re honest, has also seeped into our self-consciousness with its addictive nature.

Written primarily for a female audience by social media expert and Meta executive Nona Jones, Killing Comparison aims to provide a better understanding of the pressure of what she calls “toxic comparison” and the ability to overcome it.

Nona acknowledges that, even in Christian circles, this comparison exists as we see lives of the rich and famous and those next to us in the pews in a wider context through what they post online.

She is honest in some of the experiences she has personally faced. She shares the pain and rejection she felt at not being asked to speak at an American Christian conference at which her contemporaries were invited to speak (an experience made even more painful by finding out about it via social media).

Nona looks beyond the Twitterverse and examines the story of David, Saul and Jonathan in the Old Testament as to what our attitude should be and how to approach this sense of unworthiness in the correct frame of mind. She reminds us to secure our identity to God’s approval alone and encourages readers to let go of some of the other insecurities we can pick up.

Each chapter finishes with a recall, receive, recite and reflect section that is helpful in summarising the key points and therefore makes it an accompaniment to our ongoing use of social media.

RM

RD – Ruth Dalzell is a schools’ worker for Scripture Union NI SH – Sarah Harding is the editor of the Herald JD – Very Rev Dr John Dunlop is a former PCI Moderator RM – Rebecca McConnell is a member of First Rathfriland Presbyterian BH – Barbara Huddleston is a member of Second Comber Presbyterian LS – Lisa Skinner is an elder in Kirkpatrick Memorial Presbyterian REVIEWERS

Undistracted Bob Goff NELSON BOOKS

£11.05

«««««

In today’s world we are continually bombarded with distractions everywhere we turn. Some of these are unavoidable, but many are selfinflicted, as we scroll mindlessly through our devices.

In this book, Bob reminds us that we have choices to make if we want to live lives full of joy, as God intended. What are our priorities in life? Can we recognise what is temporary and focus instead on the things that will last – our faith, our families and the purposes God has given us? If we want to live more undistracted lives, he challenges us to “get real and admit that busyness is actually hijacking our joy”.

Through many often humorous stories from his own life, Bob gives practical examples of how we can focus our attention on what matters in ours. He also warns that it is often when we take this type of risk with our faith that the devil will do his best to distract us from expressing our gifts and doing what we are meant to do.

As a working mum of three who often feels too busy, I found this book a really useful way of working out what is important in life and what is just a distraction. In the modern world, it is all too easy to lose sight of God’s purpose for our lives. Bob finishes his book by encouraging us with these words: “find your peace with God, find your place in the world... [and] refuse to be distracted any longer.”

BH

Legacy Marie Lacey

AVAILABLE VIA STREAMING SERVICES

««««« Marie Lacey may be known to many as the director of Belfast Community Gospel Choir, but she is a renowned solo artist in her own right. She has

Caribbean Prophet: The Public Theology of Ashley Smith Roderick R. Hewitt, Hopeton S. Dunn and Jane Dodman IAN RANDLE PUBLISHERS

£20.22

«««««

This book is about the public theology of one of Jamaica’s most distinguished Christian ministers, Ashley Smith (1929–2002). It invites us into critical and creative reflection about wider concerns beyond those of a congregation or a denomination, dealing with biblical issues like justice, freedom and truth as they affect society.

Ashley Smith engaged with the struggles and challenges of ordinary

released a new album called Legacy (her first in over ten years), and it will be no surprise to learn it contains some classic gospel songs.

Just like me, Marie grew up with music in her home. This album includes some of her favourite songs – songs that have played a huge part in her life.

It was originally recorded to preserve songs that her mother, Margaret Leebody, had released so Marie’s grandsons could know them. However, some friends persuaded her that it was too good to keep to herself.

With well-known songs such as The Old Rugged Cross and Just a Closer Walk With Thee, this album delivers a warm, fuzzy feeling with lots of nostalgia thrown in. If you like old gospel songs, this is an album you’re sure to enjoy!

RD

marginalised people and the way in which issues of race, colour and gross economic disparity and the legacy of European colonialism and slavery retard their lives. He risked speaking truth to power. Like the prophets, his biblical insights “interrogated the immense social, racial, political, economic, environmental, cultural, sexual and health issues” that impact Caribbean people.

Ashley served the church as a minister in rural and city settings, as Moderator of the United Church, lecturer and president of the Theological College of the West Indies, spiritual advisor to a prime minister, president of the Jamaican Council of Churches and a Reformed Caribbean theological activist. Some readers may remember he spent some months among us here in Ireland.

This book can stimulate us Irish Presbyterians with perspectives through which we can look again at the history of (our) European colonialism, the historical experiences of the peoples of this island as well as the contemporary challenges we face as citizens, Christians, congregations and a denomination in post-Brexit Ireland, north and south.

JD

Herald June 2023

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LIFE IN PCI

Tag good news stories from your congregation on Twitter with #lifeinpci and @pciassembly

100th anniversary of Clough and Seaforde On 5 March 2023, a service took place to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the union of Clough and Seaforde congregations in Co Down. Included in the photograph are: Dr Rob Craig and Rev Maurice Stewart (past ministers of the congregations), Rev David Bingham (present minister) and RAF chaplain Michael McCormick, together with session members of Clough and Seaforde congregations.

Funds for ‘Friends of the Cancer Centre’ For over 30 years, Rev David Clarke has been writing a ‘Thought for the week’ in his local paper, The Coleraine Times. When he was PCI Moderator in 2006, a collection of these articles, entitled Page Ten, was sold to raise funds for a Bible Society project in Egypt. In late 2022, a further collection, The Pieces of Myself, was assembled and sales raised £3,500 for Friends of the Cancer Centre. The photograph shows Dr Clarke with Sarah Wilson, fundraising secretary of Friends of the Cancer Centre.

New elders in First Larne Five elders were ordained and installed by a commission of the Carrickfergus Presbytery, held in First Larne on 26 February 2023. The elders and moderator of presbytery are along the front row (L–R): Shirley Torbitt, Kathryn Swann, Rev David Kelly (moderator of presbytery), Heather Murray, Mary Magill, Beth Alexander. The presbytery commission and congregational representatives are along the back row (L–R): Robin Tweed (clerk of session, First Larne), Willie Hunter, Rev Mark Russell, Rev Andrew Watson, Rev Dr Colin McClure, Norman Carmichael, Sam McKibben, Roy Kennedy.

Birthday milestone at Ballycastle On 3 April 2023, it was the 100th birthday of Lily Patrick, a long-standing member of Ballycastle Presbyterian Church. Dr Ian McNie and Dr Godfrey Brown were also present to celebrate the occasion, alongside the local mayor, Ivor Wallace, and members of the family. Thanks go to the staff in Leabank Private Nursing Home for making this day one to remember.

Photo by Kevin McAuley.

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Faithful service marked Molesworth Presbyterian Church, Cookstown, recently acknowledged the retirement of Roy Maxwell, Lillian Black and Trevor Dallas from Bible class and Sunday school following 120 years of service between them. Also included are Rev Tom Greer and Clarke Hill, Sunday school superintendent.

To share good news stories from your congregation please send your photographs and details to herald@presbyterianireland.org

Retirement after 50 years’ service First Garvagh George McIlroy has retired after serving for 50 years as a ruling elder in First Garvagh Presbyterian Church. He was presented with a watercolour of the church painted by Rev Joe McCormick. (L–R): Rev Mark Donald (minister of the congregation), George McIlroy, Beth McIlroy and Elaine Donald.

Brigader brooches awarded at Granshaw GB Grace Dugan and Ruth Martin received their Brigader brooches from their mums at the Girls’ Brigade display of the 348th NI Granshaw Presbyterian Company, East Belfast Presbytery.

100th birthday at Trinity House, Garvagh Former Presbyterian Moderator Dr Ian McNie and Rev Paul Linkens, minister of Ebrington Presbyterian Church, Londonderry, congratulate Evelyn Gault on her 100th birthday on 15 February 2023.

Farewell Service in Ballylinney Ballylinney Presbyterian Church, Co Antrim, said farewell to Rev Emerson McDowell at a service on Sunday 2 April 2023. Margaret McNeill presented flowers to Paula McDowell on behalf of the congregation and Sam Kennedy shared some reflections and presented a painting. From left to right, Ms Margaret McNeill (elder), Mrs Paula and Rev Emerson McDowell and Dr Sam Kennedy (elder).

Thanksgiving service for the farming community in Co Antrim Clough Presbyterian Church, Co Antrim hosted a service of thanksgiving for the farming community last autumn.

God’s faithfulness to the farming community was celebrated and there were several contributions from members of the industry. Victor Chestnutt, past president of the Ulster Farmers’ Union, took part as did Peter Alexander, current president of the Young Farmers’ Clubs of Ulster. There were special items of praise by the church choir and the address was delivered by Rev Roland Watt, minister of Killymurris Presbyterian Church. The offering on the evening, along with the sale of a farming calendar, raised £3,000. This was recently presented to a representative of Air Ambulance Northern Ireland.

Herald June 2023

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LIFE IN PCI

Tag good news stories from your congregation on Twitter with #lifeinpci and @pciassembly

Retirement presentation in Dunmurry Ballyblack seedtime service Ballyblack congregation in Ards Presbytery was able to recommence its annual seedtime and ploughmen’s service. Those who took part: Andrew Patton (YFCU), Jonathan Lemon and John Rankin OBE (collectors), Ruth Cooke (Christian Aid), Ruth Irvine (wife of the speaker), Meta McIlwaine (collector), Rev Andras Gilicze, William Irvine (guest speaker, deputy president UFU), Harry Millar (collector), Christine Rankin (FWINI), Dr George Beale (organist) and Alex Warden (clerk of session). The praise was led by the Ballyclare Male Choir and an offering of £971.20 was raised on the night for the Turkey/Syria earthquake appeal, which will be donated via Christian Aid.

David McCleery (former clerk of session) with Valerie Harkness, current clerk of session in Dunmurry Presbyterian Church. As the transition happened during the Covid lockdown and the presentation at the AGM in 2021, the congregation wanted to mark the occasion by sharing this photo from their February session meeting with the wider Church. David was thanked for his many years of faithful service as clerk. (L–R): Valerie Harkness, David McCleery and Rev Corrina Heron.

New elders in Legacurry Legacurry Presbyterian Church in Dromore Presbytery appointed a number of new elders in February. (L–R): Jacqueline Pickering, Michael Davidson (moderator of presbytery), Rev Dr Allen Sleith, Alan Little, David Smyth and Rev Bobby Liddle (minister of the congregation).

Farewell and thanks for faithful service in Ebrington The congregation of Ebrington Presbyterian Church in Londonderry bid farewell to David and June Faulkner as they move to Ballybay, Co Monaghan. A gift was presented by Rev Paul Linkens on behalf of the congregation. The couple have faithfully served in Ebrington for many years in the church choir and Sunday school; David was an elder and former treasurer and June was a former GB captain and church secretary.

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Balteagh ordains new elders Three new elders – Geoff Ferris, William Purcell and William Willis – were ordained and installed by a commission of the Coleraine and Limavady Presbytery as elders in Balteagh Presbyterian Church recently. Front row (L–R): Rev Trevor McCormick (clerk of presbytery), Rev James Hyndman (moderator of presbytery), William Willis, William Purcell, Geoff Ferris, Rev Gary Aitcheson (minister of the congregation) and members of the presbytery commission.

To share good news stories from your congregation please send your photographs and details to herald@presbyterianireland.org

Trinity Boardmills GB celebrates 70th anniversary The Girls’ Brigade of Trinity Boardmills, Co Down, 90th NI company, celebrated its 70th anniversary at its display in March. Present to cut the cake were (L–R): A. Patterson (former captain), R. McKeown (president), J. Martin (captain) and H. Kirk (former captain). Photo by M. Braniff.

Redrock PC and Air Ambulance

The Bowling Club from Redrock Presbyterian Church, Co Armagh, recently held a competion to raise funds for Air Ambulance NI. Some of the members are seen here presenting a cheque to James Speers representing the Air Ambulance service.

25 years’ service in Downshire Road, Newry

New minister in Joymount, Carrickfergus

A presentation was made to Sylvia Lawson for over 25 years’ service as secretary of Wider World in Downshire Road Presbyterian Church in Newry. (L–R): Suzanne Moffett, Rene Faloon (leader), Sylvia Lawson and June Magowan.

Rev John Stanbridge was recently installed as minister of Joymount Presbyterian Church. (L–R): Rev David Kelly, moderator of Carrickfergus Presbytery, Rev Gabrielle Farquhar, vacancy convener and Rev John Stanbridge.

Farewell service at Armagh Road Rev Christina Bradley has recently retired as minister of Armagh Road Presbyterian Church in Portadown. Pictured along with Rev Bradley are members of the congregation and Dr John Dunlop, former PCI Moderator.

Herald June 2023

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Fitzroy Presbyterian Church

Youth and Children’s Worker

Wellington Presbyterian Church, Ballymena

Full-time (37.5 hours per week)

Fitzroy Presbyterian Church’s mission is to enable people of all ages to grow in their relationship with Christ and have life to the full (John 10:10)

wishes to appoint a

Pastoral Care Coordinator

If you share our vision, have a heart for youth and children’s work and meet our criteria please apply for this post.

This is a 3 year fixed term post (renewable, subject to review/funding) Part time (18.75 hours per week)

The post holder will be responsible for the continuing development and coordination of the youth and children’s ministry within our church, working alongside existing leaders and volunteers.

Application forms and further details are available from: Clerk of Session Mr Geoffrey Marshall 1 Beaumont Hill Ballymena, BT43 6BJ Tel: 07918 719373 geoffreymarshall@hotmail.com

Salary scale – Band B of PCI recommended salary scales 2023 (level depending on experience) To obtain a full job description and application details contact Roberta Clotworthy

roberta@fitzroy.org.uk

The closing date for applications is Friday 23 June 2023

Closing date for applications is 12 noon, Tuesday 20 June 2023.

www.wellingtonpc.co.uk

CROSSWORD Puzzle no 279 1

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ACROSS 1 Makers of goods (13) 9 Name associated with a lion (3) 10 Whoppi Goldberg film (6-3) 11 Offspring of man in 8 down (3) 12 Sticky hair products (4) 13 Set of doctrines (8) 15 Don’t be a poor one (5) 17 You might hear this in a market (8) 19 Dens (5) 21 A swim (slang) (3) 23 Extrasensory perception (abbrev.) (3) 24 An ecclesiastical area (6) 26 Stringed instrument (5) 28 Stitch (3) 30 A jar, probably old (3) 31 Jesus came to set these free (9) 32 Adolescents (5)

DOWN 1 The Anointed One (7) 2 Save this for a rainy day (7) 3 Enemy (3) 4 Ringing (of a bell) (8) 5 Type of long life milk (abbrev.)

(3) 6 Congregational leaders group (9) 7 Definitely not fake (4) 8 Jacob had many of these (4) 14 Sweets on a stick (9) 16 Holiday places (7) 18 Clay by another name! (3) 19 A unit of learning (6) 20 Grey of facial colour (5) 21 First appearance (5) 22 Type of pasta (5) 25 An attack (4) 27 Exist (3) 29 Marry (3)

REFLECTIONS

The wait

Ruth Sanderson

M

y friend Gráinne and I had arrived hours before Gráinne and I stood agog, holding our duty-free bags our plane was due to leave Fiumicino Airport, redundantly, brimming with tears as we watched our easyJet Rome. If you read this column regularly, you’ll flight taxiing along the runway and soaring away without us. know that Gráinne and I were students together at Waiting is hard. Whether it’s waiting for a flight, waiting for university and have remained chums ever since. A few years ago Christmas, waiting for a partner, waiting for results, waiting for (pre husbands and children, when disposable income was still a children. Yet, often waiting for an answer to prayer can be the ‘thing’), she and I took a trip to Rome. hardest thing of all.

It was winter and the city was very quiet. No queues to see How many times have we prayed and expected an instant the tourist attractions. We were the only two people looking answer, treating God like a personal genie to bend to our whims at the Trevi Fountain – Irish girls eating ice creams in January. and grant our wishes when we want them (which is usually We casually dandered into the Pantheon, immediately)? tiny coffees in hand. We didn’t even have Waiting is hard. Whether I’m waiting for an answer to prayer at to wait to get into the Vatican and raced the moment and I’m finding the ensuing through, unimpeded by the usual stampede its waiting for … a silence really tough. Paradoxically, I know of onlookers – a northern Presbo and a that God is in control, has heard my prayer partner, waiting for southern RC standing on either side of a and will answer when his timing is perfect, somewhat worried looking Swiss Guard as results, waiting for one way or another – yet even though I we took cheesy selfies with him. know that, and I believe that, it’s the inchildren. Yet, often We spent a glorious week walking miles between time that’s the trickiest. The wait and miles each day, looking at architecture, waiting for an answer to is hard. galleries and sculpture – constantly talking you’re waiting for something at prayer can be the hardest theMaybe and stopping to eat and drink in any moment too. You’ve put the big ask out number of little tavernas, which were more thing of all. there to God, but so far, no answer. than pleased at the passing trade in such God knows that we are not patient by a quiet period. Everything was dreamy. In fact, it was all going nature, so he has a lot to say about waiting. I think one of the so smoothly that we made it with lots of time to spare for our most simple and effective verses in my life has been from Psalm flight home… which, quite frankly, was unusual for both of us.

27: “Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for We looked at how many euros we had left and decided to get the Lord.” a glass of something to celebrate a lovely week, bid arrivederci The context of this psalm is David appealing to the Lord to to Roma and have a bit of a natter before our plane was called save him and give him victory over his enemies, those whose to board. armies advanced against him. Yet, calmly, he knows he is to wait We waited. for God. And we waited.

In my own circumstance, I know that I too have to be And we waited. strong, take heart and wait for the Lord. Waiting can also There were no announcements. No bing bongs. We were be a wonderful opportunity to learn to trust the Lord; very checked in. We were in the right airport, the right section of often, prayers can be answered when we are waiting. Plans departures – yet there was no mention of our flight home. and circumstances can form that we may not have foreseen or Eventually, we wandered down to the gates to find that our gate imagined. Waiting is not a time of passive nothingness – and had CLOSED. long nothingness, I believe, is part of the process of prayer being “STOP!” shrieked Gráinne. “This is our flipping flight!” (or answered. I need to remind myself of that at the moment as I words to that effect – I’ve toned it down for the Presbyterian wait. I need to stop panicking because I haven’t got an answer Herald). yet and realise that the dialogue has already begun, the wheels “No madam,” said a very snooty air host with slickly gelled are in motion and I might be surprised as to where God leads. hair and a very tight uniform. “That was your flight. Gate In the meantime, I’m still waiting in Rome for my flight is closed,” he said, matter-of-factly, sashaying away with an home – so if anyone knows of an easyJet plane scheduled soon, imagined hair flick. do let me know.

Herald June 2023

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CHURCH RECORD VACANT CONGREGATIONS, MODERATORS AND CLERKS OF KIRK SESSIONS (Information supplied by clerks of presbyteries, conveners of Assembly commissions and councils.)

1. LEAVE TO CALL GRANTED

Application forms are available on request from the Clerk’s Office or may be downloaded from the PCI website.

BALLYALBANY and GLENNAN: REV D.T.R. EDWARDS: (Ballyalbany) Mr Sam Condell, Billary, Smithborough, Co Monaghan. (Glennan) Dr Michael Wallace, 8 Fellows Grange, Fellows Hall Road, Killylea, Co Armagh, BT60 4LR. BALLYRONEY and DRUMLEE: (Reviewable Tenure – 7 years) REV GEORGE McCLELLAND: (Ballyroney) Mr David Peters, 30 Seafin Road, Ballyroney, Banbridge, BT32 5ER. (Drumlee) Mr Graham Truesdale, 128 Lackan Road, Ballyward, Castlewellan, BT31 9RX. BELMONT: REV T.J. STOTHERS: Mr Christopher Steele, 1 Hawthornden Drive, Belfast, BT4 2HG. DUNFANAGHY and CARRIGART: (Home Mission) 50% Congregational Ministry, 50% CMI Mission Project REV T.J. BRUCE: (Dunfanaghy) Mrs Ethel Montgomery, ‘Millrace’, Marble Hill Road, Dunfanaghy, Co Donegal, F92 N2WO. (Carrigart) Mrs Joy Buchanan, Figart, Carrigart, Co Donegal, F92 N2WO. DUN LAOGHAIRE: (Reviewable Tenure – 7 years) REV A.J. BOAL: Mrs Dorothy Shanahan, 1 Holmwood, Brennanstown, Cabinteely, D18 T2T5.

GARDENMORE: REV B.S. PRESTON: Dr Philip Shepherd, 1 Huntersbuoy Lane, Larne, BT40 2HH. GARVAGH, MAIN ST and KILLAIG: REV KNOX JONES: (Garvagh, Main St) Mr Alan Farlow, 39 Ballynameen Road, Garvagh, BT51 5PN. (Killaig) Mr Ivan McKane, 27 Cashel Road, Macosquin, Coleraine, BT51 4PW. HILLTOWN and CLONDUFF: (Reviewable Tenure – 7 years) REV KENNETH NELSON: (Hilltown) Mr John Ervine, 51 Rostrevor Road, Hilltown, Newry, BT34 5TZ. (Clonduff ) Mr Cecil Brown, 39 Bannfield Road, Rathfriland, Newry, BT34 5HG. KNOCK: REV R.J. BEGGS: Mr Hugo Wilson, 5 Finchley Gardens, Belfast, BT4 2JB. LECUMPHER and MAGHERAFELT, UNION ROAD: REV J.A. MARTIN: (Lecumpher) Mr Sammy Thompson, 10 Ballynagowan Road, Desertmartin, BT45 5LH. (Magherafelt, Union Road) Mr Ian Francis, 32 Caraloan Road, Magherafelt, BT45 6NW. LOWE MEMORIAL: REV DR D.J. McKELVEY: Dr Moyna Bill, 6 Old Coach Avenue, Belfast, BT9 5PY. McQUISTON MEMORIAL: (Reviewable Tenure – 7 years) REV DR COLIN BURCOMBE: Mr Ken Galbraith, 14 Millars Forge, Dundonald, Belfast, BT16 1UT. RALOO and MAGHERAMORNE: (Reviewable Tenure – 7 years) REV DR CECIL GRANT: (Raloo) Mr Geoff McBride, 72 Raloo Road, Larne, BT40 3DU. (Magheramorne) Mr Morris Gardner, 89 Ballypollard Road, Magheramorne, Larne, BT40 3JG. RATHFRILAND, FIRST: REV C.G. HARRIS: Mr David Scott, 13 Sleepy Valley, Rathfriland, Newry, BT34 5HL. SAINTFIELD, FIRST: (Reviewable Tenure – 7 years) REV B.A. SMALL: Mr Paul Jackson, 20 The Grange, Saintfield, BT24 7NF. STRABANE and SION MILLS: (Reviewable Tenure – 7 years) REV P.B. HOUSTON: (Strabane) Mr William Watson, 44 Orchard Road, Strabane, BT82 9QS. (Sion Mills) Mr Colin Campbell, 26 Albert Place, Sion Mills, Strabane, BT82 9HN. WARINGSTOWN: REV R.L. BROWN: Mr David Crawford, 148 Avenue Road, Lurgan, BT66 7BJ.

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2. LEAVE TO CALL DEFERRED CLADYMORE and TASSAGH: REV R.I. ABRAHAM: (Cladymore) Mr David Wilson, 73 Kilmachugh Road, Mowhan, Armagh, BT60 2EN. (Tassagh) Mr Philip Crozier, 68 Bachelors Walk, Keady, Armagh, BT60 2NA. DROMORE and DRUMQUIN: REV E.T. FRAZER: (Dromore) Mr Lynden Keys, 25 New Park Road, Dromore, Omagh, BT78 3JU. (Drumquin) Dr Paul Booth, 231 Tummery Road, Irvinestown, BT78 3UF. RICHVIEW: REV N.S. HARRISON: Mr Victor Garland, 25 Abingdon Drive, Belfast, BT12 5PX.

SETTLED STATED SUPPLY APPOINTED BALLINDERRY: VERY REV DR W.J. HENRY, Minister of Maze.

BOVEEDY: REV DR T.J. McCORMICK, Minister of 1st Kilrea.

CAHIR: (Home Mission) REV WILLIAM MONTGOMERY, Minister of Fermoy.

KATESBRIDGE: REV N.J. KANE, Minister of Magherally.

TYRONE’S DITCHES: REV J.K.A. McINTYRE, Minister of Bessbrook.

3. DECLARED VACANT ARMAGH, FIRST: REV G.R. MULLAN: Mr Ian Kyle, 8 Drummanmore Road, Armagh, BT61 8RN. ARMAGH ROAD, PORTADOWN: REV N. MCCULLOUGH: Dr David Lowry, 5 Ridgeway Park South, Portadown, BT62 3DG. BALLEE: REV T. P. McCULLOUGH: Mr John Quigley, 81 Queen’s Avenue, Magherafelt, BT45 6DB. BALLINA, KILLALA & BALLYMOTE: (Home Mission) REV D.J. CLARKE: Mr Geoffrey Shannon, Robin Hill, Carraun, Corballa, Ballina, Co Mayo, F26 A070.

BALLYCASTLE & CROAGHMORE: REV DR ANDRE ALVES-AREIAS: (Ballycastle) Pat Shirley, 22 Dunamallaght Rd, Ballycastle BT54 6PB. (Croaghmore) Andy McGugan, 158 Whitepark Road, Bushmills, BT57 8SS. BALLYLINNEY: REV MARK RUSSELL: Dr Michael McBrien, 24 Lylehill Green, Templepatrick, BT39 0BF. BALLYNURE: REV D.J. KELLY: Mr George Clarke, Kinnen House, 70 Ballyvallagh Road, Gleno, BT40 3NA. BELLAGHY and KNOCKLOUGHRIM: REV J.B. MULLAN: (Bellaghy) Mr Harry Ferson, 12 Railway Terrace, Castledawson, Magherafelt, BT45 8AY. (Knockloughrim) Mr Wilbur Bownes, 10 Meadowell Fold, Westland Gardens, Magherafelt, BT45 5DP. BELVOIR: REV B.J. WALKER: Mr Brian Dunwoody, 19 Drumart Drive, Belfast, BT8 7ET. BUSHMILLS: VERY REV DR D.I.J. McNIE: Rev Martin Gracey, 6 Bush Crescent, Bushmills, BT57 8AJ. CASTLEDERG FIRST AND KILLETER: REV R.A. ORR: (First Castlederg) Mr Robert Rutledge, 36 Ednagee Road, Castlederg, BT81 7RD. (Killeter) Mr Robert McKelvey, 17 Carrickadartans Road, Castlederg, BT81 7NQ.

Editor’s Note: Information for this page is supplied by the General Secretary’s Department.

Vacancies for conveners of commissions, councils and committees of the General Assembly are online at www.presbyterianireland.org/convenerships CASTLEDERG, SECOND AND URNEY: REV C.H. DEERING: (Second Castlederg) Mr Bert Huey, Tossa, 8 Listymore Road, Castlederg, BT81 7JG. (Urney) Mr Norman McMullan, 80 Orchard Road, Strabane, BT82 9QT. CASTLEROCK: REV D.H. BROWN: Miss Heather McSparran, 26 Freehall Road, Castlerock, BT51 4TR. CLONTIBRET and MIDDLETOWN: REV J.H. HANSON: (Clontibret) Mr S.R. Gray, Legnacrieve, Castleshane, Co Monaghan, H18 DN20. (Middletown) Mr David McElnea, 45 Madden Road, Armagh, BT60 3LJ. CRUMLIN: REV BEN JOHNSTON: Mr James Livingstone, ‘Edin’, 56 Largy Road, Crumlin, BT29 4RW. CUMBER and UPPER CUMBER: REV S.W. HIBBERT: (Cumber) Mr Eric Christie, 43 Gorse Road, Killaloo, Londonderry, BT47 3SS. (Upper Cumber) Mr Jack McFarland, 12 Cregg Road, Claudy, Londonderry, BT47 4HX. DROMARA, SECOND: REV D.H. GILPIN: Mr Herbert Chambers, 29 Stewarts Road, Dromara, BT25 2AN. DROMORE, FIRST: REV ANDREW FAULKNER: Mr John Wilkinson, 10 Island Hill, Dromara Road, BT25 1HA. DUNDROD: REV R.C. KERR: Mr William McClure, 20 Thorndale Road, Dundrod, BT29 4UD. ENNISCORTHY and WEXFORD: (Home Mission) REV M.R.J. ANDERSON: (Enniscorthy) Mr Ian Gibson ‘Tanglewood’, Monart, Enniscorthy, Co Wexford. (Wexford) c/o Mr Ian Gibson.

ENNISKILLEN: REV G.M. ANDRICH: Miss Kate Doherty, Tiernisk, Drumgay, Enniskillen, BT74 4GH.

Clerks of presbytery please note: Only material received by the General Secretary’s Department by noon on the first Friday of the month can be included in the Church Record.

NEWINGTON: REV DR I.D. NEISH: Mr John Lynass, 8 Bushfoot Park, Portballintrae, BT57 8YX. NEWTOWNARDS, SECOND: REV C.W. JACKSON: Mr Ivan Patterson, 11 Heron Crescent, Newtownards, BT23 8WH. NEWTOWNBREDA: REV ANDY GALBRAITH: Sir Bruce Robinson, 3 Deramore Drive, Belfast, BT9 5JQ. PORTAVOGIE: REV G.J SIMPSON: Mr Trevor Kennedy, 1 Cairndore Road, Newtownards, BT23 8RD. RANDALSTOWN, O.C.: REV G. MOORE: Mr Alun Coulter, 48 Portglenone Road, Randalstown, BT41 3DB. RASHARKIN: REV A.J. McCRACKEN: Mr Norbury Royle, 96 Drumsaragh Road, Kilrea, BT51 5XR. RATHCOOLE: REV A.K. DUDDY: Mr Norman Creaney, 7 Coolshannagh Park, Newtownabbey, BT37 9LA. RATHGAR – CHRIST CHURCH: REV DR S. MAWHINNEY: Mr Paul Fry, 44 Monolea Wood, Firhouse, Dublin 24, D24 A2V3.

SPA and MAGHERAHAMLET: REV DAVID BINGHAM: (Spa) Acting Clerk – Mr Stephen McBride, 28 Ballynahinch Road, Castlewellan, BT31 9PA. (Magherahamlet) Mr David Whan, 74 Castlewellan Road, Dromara, BT25 2JN. TULLYCARNET: REV R.S.J. McILHATTON: VINECASH: REV P.W.A. McCLELLAND: Mr Thomas Graham, 38 Richmount, Portadown, BT62 4JQ.

TEMPORARY STATED SUPPLY ARRANGEMENT

FAHAN (Home Mission) and WATERSIDE: REV G.A. McCRACKEN: (Fahan) Mr James Lamberton, 1 Deanfield, Limavady Road, Londonderry, BT47 6HY. (Waterside) Mr William McIlwaine, 19 Glenaden Hill, Altnagelvin Park, Londonderry, BT47 2LJ.

BALLYCAIRN: REV WILLIAM HARKNESS: Mr Brian Milligan, 19 Glenariff Drive, Dunmurry, BT17 9AZ.

GLASTRY and KIRKCUBBIN: REV A. GILICZE: Mr James McClements.

BELLVILLE: REV D.S. HENRY: Mr Mervyn King, 29 Ardmore Road, Derryadd, Lurgan, BT66 6QP.

GLASCAR and DONAGHMORE: REV M. McMAW: (Glascar) Mr Alan Little, 38 Loughbrickland Road, Rathfriland, Newry, BT34 5HF. (Donaghmore) Mr David Shilliday, 21 Cargabane Road, Donaghmore, Newry, BT34 1SB.

CARNLOUGH-CUSHENDALL and NEWTOWNCROMMELIN: REV J.A. BEATTIE: (Carnlough-Cushendall) Mr Norman McMullan, 91 Ballymena Road, Carnlough, BT44 0LA. (Newtowncrommelin) Mr James Gillan, 67 Gracefield, Ballymena, BT42 2RP.

GORTNESSY: REV COLIN McKIBBIN: Mr Ross Hyndman, 32 Temple Road, Strathfoyle, Londonderry, BT47 6UB.

GRANGE with CRAIGMORE: REV R.S AGNEW: Mr Jamie Harris, 32 Portglenone Road, Randalstown, BT41 3BE.

HYDEPARK & LYLEHILL: REV C.K. McDOWELL: (Hydepark) Mrs Lynas Alexander, 22 Broadacres, Templepatrick, BT39 0AY. KELLS: (Home Mission) REV ALAN McQUADE: Miss Ruth McCartney, Shancarnan, Moynalty, Kells, Co Meath, A82 PF60.

KILMAKEE: REV ROBERT LOVE: Miss Aileen Irvine, 5 Aberdelghy Park, Lambeg, Lisburn, BT27 4QF. KILREA, SECOND: REV DR CLIVE GLASS: Mr John McIlrath, 9 Moyagoney Road, Kilrea, Coleraine, BT51 5SX. LOUGHALL & TARTARAGHAN: REV ALASTAIR McNEELY: (Loughgall) Mr James MacQueen, 114 Moy Road, Portadown, Craigavon, BT62 1SA. (Tartaraghan) Mr Norman Cornett, 11 Cloncarrish Road, Portadown, Craigavon, BT62 1RN. MONEYDIG: REV DR S.D.H. WILLIAMSON: Mr Steven Torrens, 115a Agivey Road, Kilrea, Coleraine, BT51 5UZ.

NEWTOWNSTEWART and GORTIN (Home Mission): REV JONATHAN COWAN: (Newtownstewart) Mr James Baxter, 22 Strabane Road, Newtownstewart, Omagh, BT78 4BD. (Gortin) Mr Adrian Adams, 32 Lisnaharney Road, Lislap, Omagh, BT79 7UE. WHITEHEAD: REV D. CROMIE: Ms Helen Graham, 4 Kilcarn, Islandmagee, BT40 3PJ.

THE ELDERSHIP Installed CHRISTCHURCH, DUNDONALD: Heather Coard, David Munster Died: BALLYLINNEY: David Williamson BUSHMILLS: Alex Creith SECOND COMBER: Thomas James (Tom) Parker GRANSHAW: David Lindsay GREYSTONE ROAD: George Lynn HARMONY HILL: Jeannie Green, William Hull HIGH KIRK, BALLYMENA: William Henry KILMORE: James Alistair Cairns NEWTOWNBREDA: Pearl Young WARINGSTOWN: Gilbert Crook

continued on page 50

Herald June 2023

49

CHURCH RECORD continued from page 49

Piano Tuning

THE MINISTRY

Services available throughout Ireland

Inducted: Rev Dr Colin Dickson, as Moderator’s Assistant on 1 May 2023

Tel: +44 (0)28 9268 9468 Mobile: 07788 746992

Installed: Rev Emerson McDowell, as Minister of First Ballymena on 21 April 2023 Rev Philip McKelvey, as Minister of Toberkeigh and Ramoan on 28 April 2023

Hoping...

to be in a relationship?

Resigned: Rev Dr Colin Dickson, as Associate Minister of Bangor West on 30 April 2023 Rev Emerson McDowell, as Minister of Ballylinney on 20 April 2023 Rev Philip McKelvey, as Minister of Loughgall and Tartaraghan on 27 April 2023 someone who shares your faith?

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Retired: Christina U.R. Bradley, as Minister of Armagh Road, Portadown on 31 March 2023

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Please note: Adverts must be received in writing (email or post) by the first of the month preceding publication to guarantee inclusion. Adverts received after that date will be published if spaceForemost permits. Advertising rates canAgency be found on website – Ireland's Introduction fortheCatholics www.presbyterianireland.org/herald – or telephone the Herald office on +44 (0)28 9032 2284 for more information.

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Accommodation Northern Ireland PORTSTE WART: Excellent 4-bedroom cottage bungalow available June –S ept. Call 07513 826551, Email: pabloguy50@ gmail.com.

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PORTSTEWART: Holiday House to rent in Portstewart opposite the Baptist Church.

Two double beds and a bunk bed. Adults preferable. No internet or freezer. Very clean large house. Bed linen and towels included. Very convenient to Portstewart.

Ring 07803 143874.

PORTRUSH: Excellent 3-bed first floor apartment available for holiday letting with partial sea view located on Ballyreagh Road. No pets. Min of two nights booking.

Contact 07730 159553 or 07769 600382.

PORTRUSH: Holiday home (Magheraboy Area) 4 bedrooms, sleep 8. Close to shops, quiet cul-de-sac. Enclosed back garden.

No pets. NITB approved. Tel: 028 40669198.

PORTSTEWART: Beautiful 3-bedroom house available for summer rental June to September. Very close proximity to beach and town centre. Contact Denise 07738 632366.

50

Herald June 2023

CROSSWORD

Ross Morrow A.L.C.M., L.T.C.L.

PORTSTEWART: Holiday rental in Portstewart town centre. 3-bedroom apartment sleeps 5 with full sea views. £950 per week. Please contact Trevor on 07921 753002 or email trevor@jtm.org.uk for photographs.

PORTRUSH: Cosy holiday home available a few minutes’ walk from beaches and golf courses. Can accommodate 4 adults and 2 children. Min 2 nights. Reasonable rates. Tel: 07735 928901.

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Solution to No 279

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CASTLEROCK: Lovely NITB approved chalet bungalow accommodating 6. Minutes from the beach. Call 07817 998495. puffinlodge@ btinternet.com NEWCASTLE, CO DOWN: 4-bedroom self-catering accommodation available for weekly lets (sleeps 8). Parking and large enclosed garden. 5 mins walk to beach and shops. No pets. Tel: 07810 883975.

L O N G T E R M H O L I D AY L E T PORTSTEWART: Refurbished with 2 double bedrooms. Semi-detached with garden and private driveway. 5 mins from beach. Apply 07703 134587.

Republic of Ireland CO DONEGAL: 3-bedroom farmhouse to rent for holiday accommodation all year round. Pets welcome. 1 mile from Carndonagh town centre. 10 minutes from beautiful local beaches and Ballyliffen golf course. Tel: 00353 749374227; Mob: 08684 48955. €80 per night.

Self Catering HOLIDAY ACCOMMODATION: FLORIDA – Disney 20 mins, heated pool etc. SPAIN – East coast, minutes to beach, public travel by bus or tram. NORTHERN IRELAND – North coast, Portstewart, sea views.

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Advertising Rates for 2023 (Trim size: 210mm x 297mm Bleed: 3mm)

Full Page – Outside Back/Inside Front

£490.00

Full Page – Inside

£450.00

Half Page portrait (w86mm x h256mm)

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Half Page landscape (w176mm x h126mm)

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Quarter Page portrait (w86mm x h126mm)

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One Eighth (w86mm x h61mm)

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Semi Display (per column cm – width 41mm)

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Classified ads are charged at 40p per word All prices are exclusive of VAT Registered charities and PCI congregations will receive a 12% discount Advertising needs to be booked by the first of the month preceding publication e.g. 1 August for September edition.

If you wish further information about advertising in the Herald or want to place an ad please contact the Herald office in Assembly Buildings.

Tel: +44 (028) 9032 2284 Email: herald@presbyterianireland.org

D O N AT I O N E N V E LO P E S

Holy Land Tour 18–29 November 2024

A very special 12 days visiting Israel and Jordan Travel confidently, comfortably and congenially!

Interested?

Want to know more?

Brochures and further information available by contacting Rev Dr Colin McClure cmcclure@presbyterianireland.org Tel. 07984 030881

Church Envelopes 22-Dec-2024

Only buy the envelope numbers that you need

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THE BENEFITS! • Save Money • Locally Sourced • Larger Envelope • COVID Secure • Better Visibility • Fresh Colours

THE CASE STUDY We only print and supply the actual number of Envelope Sets that you need for your contributing members.

One congregation was able to reduce the envelope sets they purchased from 350 to 200 and save 48%!

This congregation saved £515!

Read the full Case Study here: Tricord Ltd 4 Ferguson Drive, Lisburn, BT28 2EX

DONVELOPE.NET CLONTIBRET PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

FIRST DUNBOE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH INVITE APPLICATIONS FOR THE POST OF

YOUTH & FAMILY WORKER Permanent, full-time post (39hrs which will include evening and weekend working), engaging with the youth and families of the congregation.

Salary will be in line with current PCI rates i.e. £20,462 £29,953 (dependant on qualifications/experience).

There is a Genuine Occupational Requirement (GOR) that the post-holder is sympathetic to the ethos of the Presbyterian Church in Ireland.

For further information, job application, job description & personnel specification documents visit www.1st-dunboe.co.uk or email 1stdunboeclerkofsession@gmail.com

HARVEST FLOWER FESTIVAL “PRAISE AND THANKSGIVING” Friday 29 September – Sunday 1 October 2023 Friday 29 September – 2pm–7pm Saturday 30 September – 11am–6pm Sunday 1 October – 2pm–5pm

CLOSING HARVEST SERVICE Sunday 1 October at 7.30pm

Refreshments available Group bookings essential

Contact Alison Lyster 00353 86 8368638 alisonlyster@yahoo.co.uk Clontibret Presbyterian Church Braddox, Monaghan, Co Monaghan H18 V340 Charity No Chy22945

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