Presbyterian Herald March 2024

MARCH 2024

CARING IN GOD’S WORLD

Amelie Gray wins the Moderator’s art competition

GO MAKE DISCIPLES…

FAILURES OR EXAMPLES?

Equipping young people for ministry Challenging our attitudes to poverty

You share We ship To hungry Christians around the world

Why does Barnabas pay to ship out food rather than buying produce in the receiving countries?

Barnabas Aid runs many food aid projects where financial support is sent to project partners so that they can buy food locally and distribute it.

But food.gives works by transporting food aid from Australia, Canada, Germany, New Zealand, South Africa, United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland, the United States and other “sending” countries to needy Christians in lands of poverty and food scarcity.

Why the difference?

In some countries food shortages – often the result of crop failures caused by droughts or other natural disasters – are so severe that even if Barnabas sent money, there is no food to buy.

In others, food can simply be so expensive and inflation so rampant that food.gives is by far the most effective way of helping our Christian family.

What you can send CHICKPEAS

RICE

SALT

LENTILS

SUGAR

OTHER PULSES

Furthermore, international sanctions can prevent the sending of money to some parts of the world – but it is still possible to send food.

Transporting food through food.gives makes sound financial sense, and often results in huge savings. For example, a 40-foot container of dehydrated soup mix carries one million servings.

This works out at just half a penny per serving!

A combination of direct aid through food.gives and funding sent through other Barnabas Aid feeding programmes ensures that we can continue to provide food for hungry Christians in many lands of poverty and persecution.

To get involved scan the QR code or visit www.food.gives/get-involved

123c Front Road Drumbo Lisburn BT27 5JY Please send post to our UK office address. Telephone 02891 455246 Email ireland@barnabasaid.org UK Office Unit 23, Ash Industrial Estate, Kembrey Park, Swindon Telephone 01793 744557 Email info@barnabasaid.org Registered charity number 1092935 Company registered in England number 04029536

CONTENTS | MARCH 2024

FEATURES

7

Weak made strong

PCI’s Mission in Ireland evenings

12 A vision trip for ministers Opportunity with Wycliffe in 2025

14 Tackling a spirit of Babel

How the Bible relates to and speaks to life today

16 When the saints go marching in…together

Greystones Presbyterian celebrates St Patrick’s Day

18 Our Easter hope

Moderator’s Easter reflection

20 Age of opportunity

Ministry and evangelism among older people

31 Egypt: The forgotten church

When the saints go marching in…together p16

PCI’s recent conference with Dr Anne Zaki

34 Kenya revisited

Celebrating 40 years of Theological Education by Extension (TEE)

36 Understanding forgiveness Dealing with hurt and pain caused by others

38 Presbyterians in Pennsylvania

Tracing Ulster roots from Donegal Presbyterian in the States

Editorial News In this month My story Jonny Frazer Life lessons Mission Connect Reviews Life in PCI Ruth Sanderson

Cover illustration: Barry Falls March 2024 No. 856 £2.20/€2.60 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

Kenya revisited p34

CONTRIBUTORS

REGULARS

4 5 8 9 13 22 23 40 42 45

Egypt: The forgotten church p31

Ken McFarland is an elder in Mountjoy Presbyterian Church, Co Tyrone. Having retired from the police force, he now volunteers with Faith Mission Bookshops.

Suzanne Hamilton is Senior Administrative Assistant for the Herald.

She attends St Andrew’s Presbyterian in Bangor, is married to Steven and mum to twin boys.

Alex Drew leads Faith in Later Life, a ministry which exists to inspire and equip Christians to reach, serve and empower older people in every community, through the local church.

Billy Kennedy is a senior News Letter journalist and a member of Tandragee Presbyterian Church.

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 March 2024

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EDITORIAL Topical Tweets

Christ in me

The life of St Patrick sounds like it could be the dramatic plot of a Hollywood movie: a 16-year-old boy from Cumbria, England is taken captive by Irish raiders and enslaved for six years in Ireland; he survives the trauma by turning to God for comfort and strength; he then escapes and finds his way back to England, later returning to Ireland after God calls him to evangelise the country.

He is a significant figure in Ireland’s history, and although many of the celebrations on St Patrick’s Day do not reflect the rich Christian roots in his legacy, it is still a day that can present exciting opportunities for the church. Greystones Presbyterian in Co Wicklow is one congregation that has developed links with local churches and the community by having a float in the town’s St Patrick’s Day parade. Rev Gary McDowell says: “…the churches working together has not gone unnoticed…we are lifting high the name of Jesus.”

Although St Patrick achieved so much in his life, his writings show that he often felt inadequate because he had been poorly educated. Many of us will suffer from ‘imposter syndrome’ at some point in our lives, which can sadly hold us back or prevent us entirely from embracing all that God is calling us to do. Often societal influences can negatively endorse these feelings of inferiority. This month, Alex Drew from Faith in Later Life, writes about the value of older people in our churches. Recognising that in the world older generations are often “pushed to the margins and seen as incompetent, hostile, and a burden to society”, she says the church has a chance to tell a different story. PCI will be hosting an event in May with Alex Drew as keynote speaker. The ‘Age of Opportunity’ morning is designed to help unlock the potential for age specific ministry and evangelism among those in later life (details on p21).

Although March always celebrates St Patrick, this year, the more significant event of the month is Easter.

Moderator, Dr Sam Mawhinney offers a reflection that reminds us of the great sacrifice Jesus paid for us on the cross and the glorious grace we now therefore receive. He says: “The cross is our central symbol, and we need to keep it firmly in view.”

In St Patrick’s Breastplate, his famous prayer for protection, Patrick affirms that through Jesus’ death and resurrection, his power is available to each one of us who believes, a perfect reminder for us as we celebrate this Easter: “Christ with me, Christ before me, Christ behind me, Christ in me…”

Happy Easter from everyone in the Herald office.

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Herald March 2024

@careorguk Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson has argued that altering the law around assisted suicide could fundamentally change the relationship between those with disabilities, and society at large. @TearfundNI This year, more than 50 countries – accounting for half of the world’s population – will be holding elections. Pray for good leadership, for wise decisions and for God’s hand on the process and outcomes of every election and government decision that takes place this year. @rickhillni I came across this comment on social media earlier this week: “Those who made this decision are good and Godly brothers & sisters who acted with integrity and good faith. This doesn’t mean we agree with it.”

Surely we could all learn from that kind of approach to conflict. @PCIModerator Like many people I was saddened to hear of the death of the former Taoiseach, John Bruton, earlier today. A well respected politician and statesman, who led well and was instrumental in the early days of the peace process. His family and friends are in my prayers. @pciassembly As @niassembly got down to business today @pcimoderator congratulated the FM & DFM & @niexecutive on their election to office.

‘Now more than ever we look to those in leadership to bring confidence, stability and the necessary progress we all want to see.”

Bit.ly/3SLVKWA @wycliffeuk ‘Now, how are we going to translate the name of God?’ Read about how a series of life experiences spanning several continents and several decades came together to provide the word for the name of God for the Yewase people. wycliffe.org.uk/yewase #bibletranslation #burkinafaso @EANInews Join us as we pray for our new leaders #Stormont #NorthernIreland

IN THE ROUND | NEWS Rev Richard Murray to be next Moderator The next Moderator of the Presbyterian Church in Ireland will be Rev Richard Murray.

Commenting on his election, the 58-year-old minister of Drumreagh Presbyterian said, “I feel humbled to be called to this office, yet also privileged, and with God’s help, I will endeavour to represent the Church and the Lord to the best of my ability. My desire is to be committed to the Word of God in everything and my request is that people remember me in prayer throughout my year in office.”

As a boy, Mr Murray attended Suffolk Primary School in Belfast and Suffolk Presbyterian Church. Due to The Troubles, the family moved to Finaghy on the outskirts of the city, becoming members of Lowe Memorial Presbyterian Church, which he considers his home church.

Having attended Wallace High School in Lisburn, he started his first full-time job

with Arthur Guinness & Co in Belfast as a distribution clerk, where he worked for three years before moving to Ulster Bank in Lisburn, where he was a clerk. In 1989 he went to Queen’s University, Belfast where he graduated in 1992 with a BA in Ancient History and Social and Economic History.

PCI’s Union Theological College beckoned and in 1995 he gained his Bachelor of Divinity, the same year that he was licensed as a minister of the gospel in Lowe Memorial.

He then served as assistant minister in Terrace

Row Presbyterian in Coleraine for three years before moving to Hilltown and Clonduff Presbyterian Churches, near Rathfriland in County Down, where he was ordained in 1997.

In 2005 Mr Murray was called to Connor Presbyterian Church near Ballymena, where he served as minister for 11 years. He became minister of Drumreagh and Dromore Presbyterian Churches, a joint charge, in 2016 with Dromore Presbyterian amalgamating with Drumreagh last year.

Alongside Mr Murray, this year’s nominees were his ministerial colleagues, Rev Trevor Gribben (Clerk of the General Assembly); Rev Richard Kerr (Templepatrick); Rev Gary McDowell (Greystones); and Rev Mairisíne Stanfield (First Bangor).

Mr Murray received nine votes (Armagh, Ballymena, Coleraine and Limavady, Down, Iveagh, Newry, Omagh, Route, Tyrone); Mr Gribben, five (East Belfast, Carrickfergus, Derry and Donegal, Dromore, Dublin and Munster), Mr Kerr, three (North Belfast, Monaghan, Templepatrick); Mr McDowell, none; Mrs Stanfield, two (Ards, South Belfast).

New Irish CE convention theme

Funding for emergency project PCI has recently secured Irish government funding on behalf of one of its international partners for an emergency project, initiated in response to the 2023 earthquake in Nepal.

On 3 November 2023, a 6.4 magnitude earthquake hit the districts of Jajarkot and Rukum West, in central Nepal, killing 153 people and injuring a further 375.

Roads and bridges were damaged, further isolating already remote areas. Thousands of buildings were destroyed, including schools and hospitals, and tens of thousands of families were displaced, having lost their homes.

Minority Focus is a small, Christian non-profit organisation based in Kathmandu. PCI has partnered with them for many years, working mainly on leadership development projects. Minority Focus is undertaking a project to respond to the needs

created by the earthquake, working through local churches and locally-based missionaries.

The first phase of the project will involve responding to the immediate needs of 300 families, including distribution of hygiene kits, blankets and heating materials. These families are based in one of the district’s most remote areas, which has not previously been reached by other organisations providing relief.

The second phase will involve longer-term measures, supporting the rebuilding of schools and helping the communities to become more resilient to disasters.

Funding totalling €15,000 has been awarded by Irish development charity, Misean Cara, to Minority Focus, through PCI for the earthquake response.

These funds will help to prevent further health issues and give communities the opportunity to rebuild their lives.

‘Jesus is King’ is the theme for the 109th Irish Christian Endeavour Convention.

This year’s event, which will be hosted by the Enniskillen Union, will be held on Saturday 21 September 2024 at 7.30pm, in Lisbellaw Methodist Church.

Rev John Beacom, who is superintendent of two Methodist circuits, is this year’s speaker.

John recently published his first book entitled, Moments with the Master. It is a book of 365 one-minute devotions for the busy Christian and has been a major success, with all proceeds going to a social ministry project being developed in Ballinamallard.

2024 Easter dawn services On Easter Sunday each year, across various outdoor locations as the day dawns, Presbyterians will come together once more to celebrate and worship the risen Lord Jesus.

A tradition that goes back many generations, for details and venues of PCI’s Dawn Services on Sunday 31 March, please visit: www.presbyterianireland.org/ easterdawn.

Some even offer a tasty breakfast afterwards.

Herald March 2024

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NEWS | IN THE ROUND PCI welcomes restored Assembly and Executive PCI Moderator Dr Sam Mawhinney, has welcomed the recent political developments in Northern Ireland, which have led to the restoration of the Assembly.

He said, “Along with many others, I am thankful that the Assembly has been restored, with all the challenges that involved, but now is the time to move forward, recognising the need to work for the common good of all and finding collective solutions to the issues that face us, especially the most vulnerable in society.”

Dr Mawhinney continued, “The past 18 months have been incredibly challenging. The cost-of-living crisis, continued strain on the public sector, growing waiting lists and recent strike action has had an undeniable impact on the public. Now more than ever we look to those in leadership to bring confidence, stability and the necessary progress we all want to see.”

Expressing gratitude to Northern Ireland’s senior civil servants for their leadership, Mr Mawhinney acknowledged that the Assembly’s Executive Ministers will have a challenging task ahead of them.

In a joint statement, the leaders of the Church of Ireland, Roman Catholic Church, Presbyterian and Methodist Churches in Ireland, and the Irish Council of Churches said: “Partnership government will almost always be challenging, but at its best it can be much more than the sum of its collective parts. It can be the means of delivering together a better and more secure future for all of our fellow citizens, as problems are faced up to and solved, and the new opportunities opening up are grasped.”

Presbytery tour brings back ‘fond memories’ for Moderator

Last month, Moderator Dr Mawhinney, visited the Presbytery of Templepatrick, an area he knows well.

“Each tour is intensive, but they are so worthwhile, as they are wonderful opportunities for Moderators to get a genuine feel for the life and ministry of the Church. This time, for personal reasons, the Templepatrick tour was different, as it holds some special memories for me and my wife Karen.

“We met in First Antrim, which was Karen’s church, and we were married in the church in 1993. Two years later, I was licensed there.

But having studied to become a doctor, I had wrestled with leaving medicine to offer myself for the ordained ministry while working as a trainee GP in Templepatrick. The presbytery, has therefore, been a significant shaper of my life,” Dr Mawhinney said.

“We were made very welcome during our week-long visit, as I spent time with my minister colleagues, and found them to be in good heart and have been impressed with their missional outlook to ministry.

“The visits to businesses across the presbytery, like Randox and Brett Martin, schools and colleges, including Greenmount Agricultural College, have also highlighted the positive influence Christian men and women can play in their workplaces and communities. It was a good week.”

The Church Leaders Group (Ireland) L–R: Most Rev Eamon Martin (Roman Catholic Archbishop of Armagh and Primate of all Ireland); Right Rev Andrew Forster (President of the Irish Council of Churches); Most Rev John McDowell (Church of Ireland Archbishop of Armagh and Primate of all Ireland); Right Rev Dr Sam Mawhinney (PCI Moderator) and Rev David Turtle (President of the Methodist Church in Ireland).

Big Parenting Questions Care for the Family is organising a new event, aimed at helping parents navigate the leap from childhood to adolescence in their children’s lives.

‘Big Parenting Questions’ aims to give parents a framework to help them answer tricky questions, as well as develop strategies to keep their child safe, both in the real world and online, and discover ways to help their child establish their identity and develop independence.

The event is taking place at Lagan Valley Vineyard, Lisburn on 2 May at 7.30pm. An early bird rate of £6 is available until 6 March.

Further information is available at www.careforthefamily.org.uk/events/ tourevents/big-parenting-questions/

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Herald March 2024

Healthcare chaplaincy conference A conference for all those who serve as PCI healthcare chaplains is taking place at Assembly Buildings, Belfast on Friday 26 April, between 10am and 2.30pm.

The conference will include Bible teaching from former PCI Moderator Dr David Bruce, a keynote address from Dr Tim Huey, a panel of various experts and time for discussion around tables.

The venue will be the Board Room in Assembly Buildings and lunch will be included. There is no charge but booking is essential. To book a place, fill in the form found on www.prebyterianireland.org/events or email mission@presbyterianireland.org for more information.

MISSION IN IRELAND EVENINGS

Weak made strong Rick Hill highlights upcoming regional events to promote the work and outreach of PCI throughout Ireland.

I

n collaboration with the Council for Mission in Ireland, a series of special events are taking place throughout March to highlight the work and outreach of our Church across the island of Ireland. These Mission in Ireland evenings are designed to shine a spotlight on how the Church is active in mission at home, while also seeking to inspire and encourage those who attend about how they can be used by God in service of him.

Throughout the various events, a whole host of home mission ministers, church planters, chaplains, deaconesses and mission workers will share about their ongoing work through a mix of video, interview and preaching. Each gathering is a specific opportunity to tell the story of what God is doing through his church and to share the message of Jesus today.

The theme for this year’s Mission in Ireland evenings is ‘Weak Made Strong’, drawing on the Apostle Paul’s words in 2 Corinthians 12 about God’s power being made perfect in weakness. This focus aims to offer us a reminder that even though we may feel weak as individuals or no longer assume a position of strength as the Church, weakness is no barrier for gospel growth. As we face the fresh challenges of sharing the message of Jesus in a contemporary society across Ireland, we want to ensure that our response isn’t one of withdrawal or defeat, but rather faith-filled and forward-looking.

Each speaker, story and example offered will underline this as we seek to each play our part in God’s mission in Ireland today. The Bible regularly reveals that the people God chooses to use to advance his purposes are not strong, impressive or powerful; but are weak, foolish and inadequate. Whether it was the excuses of Moses, the size of Gideon’s army, the stature of David or the vulnerability of Mary, it is clear that weakness is no barrier for the power of God being displayed. It is also evident that the Church no longer holds a position of cultural power or numerical strength within Ireland today. But rather than grieving what we have lost or fighting for the culture to reflect our values, perhaps our new reality might actually lead us to adopt a more conducive posture to enable the work of God – dependency.

While many may automatically associate ‘mission’ with the work of churches overseas, mission at home is also a vital part of gospel outreach. Our Mission in Ireland evenings enable Presbyterians, and others, to get a snapshot of the role played by PCI centrally in home-grown mission and the green shoots that we are seeing in local communities the length and breadth of Ireland. These evenings are a great opportunity to discover more about that work and how God’s kingdom is growing.

Full details of each meeting, with venue, times and speakers, can be found at www.presbyterianireland.org/events

Weak Made Strong Event details Ards Presbytery 3 March, First Ards Presbyterian Church, 7pm Rev Keith McCrory and Robert Dalzell Armagh Presbytery 20 March, Richhill Presbyterian Church, time TBC Rick Hill, Tom Dowling and Sharon Heron Ballymena Presbytery 13 March, Trinity, Ahoghill Presbyterian Church, 8pm Rick Hill, Toni Bassett and Rev Nigel Craig Carrickfergus Presbytery 10 March, Ballynure Presbyterian Church, 7pm Rev Jonathan Currie and Joanne Dunlop Coleraine and Limavady Presbytery 17 March, Terrace Row Presbyterian Church, 7pm Rev Alastair Dunlop and Rev Graham Stockdale Dromore Presbytery 10 March, Railway Street Presbyterian Church, 6.30pm Rev Helen Freeburn and Rev Michael McCormick Iveagh Presbytery 3 March, Tullylish Presbyterian Church, 7pm Rev David Moore and Rev David Allen Newry Presbytery 5 March, Downshire Road Presbyterian Church, 8pm Rev Andy Carroll Omagh Presbytery 17 March, Aughentaine Presbyterian Church, 7pm Rev Philip Poots and Rev Kenny Hanna Route Presbytery 17 March, Dunloy Presbyterian Church, 7pm Rev Gary McDowell and Rev Keith Preston Templepatrick Presbyterian 17 March, Muckamore Presbyterian Church, 7pm Rev Jonathan Porter and Louise Davidson

Rick Hill is PCI’s Secretary of the Council for Mission in Ireland.

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IN THIS MONTH...

March 1992

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

The euthanasia debate today David Cupples

Decisions at the end of life will confront us as long as we live. Doctors and relatives daily face agonising decisions in caring for the terminally ill. But for those concerned about euthanasia this is no time for complacency.

It is already moving into public debate and the campaign in parliament to legalise it has begun…The present push has come partly from the widespread acceptance of the practice in Holland where an estimated one sixth of all deaths result from euthanasia…

The many societies which exist to promote ‘the right to die’ focus their arguments on two things – compassion and the individual’s right of selfdetermination…In addition proponents say it is better to face reality by legalising what public opinion wants and thereby controlling it, rather than pushing it underground. No one would wish to easily dismiss the immense burden of many real-life situations but this apparent appeal to such noble concepts is in fact deeply flawed and deeply dangerous…

The major problem is how to know a request for euthanasia is truly ‘voluntary’… Are people at their lowest point capable for rational decision? …The whole basis of Western medicine is that the doctor is aiming to care even when he cannot cure. Permission for doctors to in fact terminate life would subvert this entire tradition and shake to the foundations the important relationship Cementing a friendship of trust between patient and carer…

Ultimately this is a clash of two On Friday 24 July, a team of 14 competing ideologies. Euthanasia results PCI young adults depart for three from the secular worldview in which man weeks in Hungary and Romania. is his own master, life is to be valued in The group has been gathered from terms of its quality, and death is the end.

10 of the congregations which have In contrast stands the Christian belief in active twinning relationships with man as God’s creation…receiving life as a congregations of the Reformed divine gift and death as something to be Church in Hungary. determined by divine providence…

The primary purpose is to Christians must gather their resources to develop the Church Twinning resist the further flow of the secular tide programme of the Overseas with its dehumanising effects or else see Board’s European committee… our nation swept further by it into a moral The itinerary includes a fivewasteland. day teaching camp for young Christians at a conference centre north of Budapest, followed by a weekend visiting and worshipping in twinned congregations.

The second stage is to visit Romania. Plans are that the group will again help in youth camps.

It is hoped also to give some support to the Reformed Church’s orphanage…

Also from March ’92 8

Herald March 2024

South Africa votes to end apartheid in referendum

Anthony Hopkins wins Oscar for Silence of the Lambs

Aid – Not arms

Defence spending should be cut in order to increase aid to Two-Thirds World countries, according to a national opinion poll commissioned

by Christian Aid. In the poll, 48% said they were in favour of cutting defence spending to increase aid compared to 41% who were not in favour…

The poll also revealed that 74% of people think the government should do more to help people in the ‘Two-Thirds World’. This was in spite of the fact that they were unaware that in real terms aid had declined… government aid over the last three years (1988–91) is actually 12% less in real terms than it was 10 years ago.

At the same time public giving to Two-Thirds World development agencies increased. In 1990 it went up by 13%, dispelling the myth of compassion fatigue…

Pictured after a weekend of special services held last November to mark 150 years of work and witness in Carryduff congregation are: (from left) Rev J. Flaherty (assistant minister); the Moderator, Dr Rodney Sterritt; Rev W.S.K. Crossley; George Bowsie and Rev J.M. Maddock (minister of the congregation).

Stay by Shakespears Sister tops UK charts

MY STORY...

Judith Hooks grew up in Markethill Presbyterian Church and is the founder of Fire Lily, which aims to help young women journeying with cancer.

Beauty from the ashes

A

fire lily is born from the ashes of a landscape charred beauty from the ashes; how people can become spiritually well by a wildfire. Just nine days after a fire has reduced a through the journey of being physically unwell. To journey once lush and green land in the Cape Fold Mountains through cancer and not have the hope of the Lord is a scary of South Africa to nothing but ash, a fire lily emerges thought. Only when our hope is in Jesus and we know that no as a bright, red and pink beacon of hope across the land. The matter what the doctors say we have nothing to fear, that is fire lily is completely dependent on fire to when we have true security: “My hope is flower and produce seed. built on nothing less than Jesus’ blood and It has brought home a Cancer often sweeps through lives as So, when the storms of life greater reality that my life righteousness.” unexpectedly as a wild fire does. It can bring hit, we cannot be shaken because our God with it great pain and hardship as it does, is not my own – it is a gift. is with us and he goes before us and will leaving behind a mark, like ashes of grief, in give us what we need. the deepest parts of our souls where no one but God can really Fire Lily has stemmed from seeing a gap – the need for faithsee. Cancer is not as God designed our world to be. But Jesus based support for women journeying with cancer. It is a ministry reminds us in John 16:33: “In this world you will have trouble, that gives young women an encouragement box filled with but take courage, for I have overcome the world.” That’s the very pamper items that were helpful to me in my journey along with a key to the ashes that cover our days in this life. Christ came to set message of hope. us free. He came to redeem, to bring hope. Christ came to bring We would really appreciate your prayer support for the women beauty from ashes. who receive the Fire Lily boxes – that they would know the love At age 21, I was diagnosed with non-Hodgkins lymphoma and strength of God in the midst of their own journey. We would whilst living in Edinburgh working as a pre-registration also appreciate prayers for Fire Lily as a ministry, that it would optometrist. This news came completely out of the blue for me, grow and flourish to reach more women for the glory of God. but God gave me a real peace that it didn’t come out of the blue If you or anyone you know would like to receive a Fire Lily box, for him. God says, in Psalm 139, that even before one of my days simply email judith@firelily.org.uk came to be he had ordained each one of them, and that included I look to people close to home, and other people that I have this one. This was part of God’s perfect plan for me. met along my own journey, who love the Lord and who are I am thankful to God for the journey that he has led me on; I walking in difficult times. How bright they shine because of the am thankful because it has shown me that my days here on earth ash. An email from a young woman who received a Fire Lily box are numbered, but that my God is good. It has brought home a said: “It can feel overwhelming at times and takes every effort to greater reality that my life is not my own – it is a gift. We who keep speaking out truth, hope and letting Scripture speak louder love the Lord are in the land of the living, but for those who don’t than words doctors have spoken. But what a God we have, who know Jesus, that is the ultimate sickness, cancer is not. is the name above cancer and knows every cell of our bodies. All What the world needs is healing, not from cancer, but healing the glory goes to him who knows and sees it all. Be blessed.” from sin, and so my passion lies in seeing how God can bring

Herald March 2024

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NEWS | PCI

News Concorde Travel Fund The deadline for this year’s Concorde Travel Fund is 31 March.

The fund aims to help young Irish Presbyterians (18–25 years old) finance their travel overseas for short-term service, so that they might learn from, and contribute to, the life of the wider church.

To find out more, go to: www.presbyterianireland.org/concorde

Friendship House It has been an exciting time for the team at Friendship House, with the Dalzells (below – Robert is mission project leader) welcoming their second daughter, Norah, and the Reids (right – Carol is the children’s worker) welcoming their son, Jude.

Friendship House is also delighted to welcome Abbi White (below right) as the new children’s worker covering Carol’s maternity leave. Abbi has previously volunteered at Friendship House and is a member of a local Presbyterian church.

Storytelling workshop A week-long ‘Bible Storytelling’ event took place at Union Theological College recently. Bible storytelling is a method of bringing God’s Word to those who learn better through interactive means rather than reading.

The event was split into two courses – five days for instructors and three days for practitioners.

Summer teams

Entertainment at Adelaide House Residents and staff at Adelaide House in Belfast, thoroughly enjoyed a visit from a group of singers from Malone Presbyterian Church recently.

PCI’s summer 2024 ‘Impact’ teams are now open for booking.

Impact is an opportunity for young people (aged 16 years and over) to come together for a full week of worship, learning and serving God alongside local congregations across Ireland.

Each team will gather each morning for worship and Bible study, before serving alongside a local congregation in different outreach activities. Through Impact, team members will grow their leadership skills, love for God and in confidence as a witness for him.

This year there are two teams. The Londonderry Hub takes place between Sunday 21 July and Sunday 28 July, while the Belfast Hub runs from Saturday 27 July to Saturday 3 August.

To find out more about our 2024 locations go to: www.presbyterianireland.org/impact

Blaze prayer calendar Blaze the bee is continuing to encourage children, leaders and families to pray for global mission.

In March, we are praying for the Cowan family in Kenya.

To download the Blaze prayer calendar and other Blaze resources go to www.presbyterianireland.org/blaze

Resources PCI’s daily digital devotional Delivered straight to your inbox each weekday morning, PCI’s daily digital devotional ‘Tides’ is a chance to read God’s Word, reflect on what he is saying and respond in your daily life.

This is a home-grown resource, created and written by contributors from across PCI. Sign up at: www.presbyterianireland.org/tides

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Herald March 2024

Find out more on www.presbyterianireland.org

Events

DIARY DATES March

Young leaders residential A residential for young people currently serving in a leadership role within their congregation is taking place at Derryvolgie Halls, Presbyterian Chaplaincy, Belfast in June.

Open to those aged 21–30 who are perhaps a member of staff, ministry apprentice, youth leader, congregational committee member or a relatively new elder, ‘Emerge’ will explore some of the key aspects of leading in the church today.

It will feature a mix of Bible engagement, leadership workshops, facilitated discussion, times of personal reflection and opportunities to enjoy community with other emerging leaders.

Alongside local PCI leaders, Phil Knox (evangelism

Kids’ Big Day Out

First Ahoghill – Saturday 9

Mission in Ireland evenings and missiology senior specialist at the Evangelical Alliance UK, and author of The Best of Friends) will consider how we look after ourselves and each other as we lead.

Emerge takes place from 6pm on Friday 14 June to 6pm on Saturday 15 June. To find out more and book your place, go to: www.presbyterianireland.org/ emerge

Confident to Care A practical training course to equip those delivering pastoral care is taking place in May. Suitable for ministers, elders, pastoral visitors and church staff members, ‘Confident to Care’ will provide the necessary tools to care well, through a mix of upfront teaching and practical exercises. It will address how to build connection, hold conversation and bring biblical and prayerful content into care.

The three-week course, delivered by Biblical Counselling UK’s Andrew Collins, in conjunction with PCI, is taking place on Tuesday 14, Tuesday 21 and Tuesday 28 May, from 7.30pm to 9pm, at Union Theological College, Belfast.

To find out more and book your place, go to: www.presbyterianireland.org/confidentocare

An online youth ministry event will take place on 15 April, between 7.30pm and 8.45pm.

Foundations – a free event – is an opportunity to gather online with youth leaders from other churches in the Republic of Ireland, to be equipped to build ministry with children, young people and families in congregations.

To book a place go to: www.presbyterianireland.org/events

Age of opportunity Refresh for elders Elders will have the opportunity to come together, to be renewed and refreshed in fulfilling their calling of eldership, later this month.

Called ‘Refresh’, the in-person event at Second Limavady takes place on Thursday 14 March, between 7.45pm and 9.15pm.

To find out more and to book go to: www.presbyterianireland.org/ refreshforelders

The Age of Opportunity morning offers new eyes to see the potential for age-specific ministry and evangelism among those in later life.

Taking place in Assembly Buildings on Thursday 16 May, between 10.30am and 12.30pm, the event will explore possibilities and stories of engaging in a range of ministries of discipleship, leadership development and evangelism among those in later life.

PCI’s own resource called ‘All the days of my life’ will be offered as a way to get started.

The event is delivered in conjunction with the Faith in Later Life organisation – to find out more and to book, go to: www.presbyterianireland.org/ageofopportunity To find out more about the ‘All the days of my life’ resource and Faith in Later Life, go to: www.presbyterianireland.org/allthedaysofmylife

Family Festival The PCI Family Festival is a chance for congregations to invite families of all shapes and sizes, and with children aged 0–11, to enjoy a fun afternoon of outdoor activities, crafts and games.

This afternoon of ‘Fun at the Farm’ takes place at Spruce Meadows, Lisburn on Saturday 18 May, between 2pm and 5pm.

To find out more and to book go to: www.presbyterianireland.org/ familyfestival

Ards Presbytery (First Ards) – Sunday 3 Iveagh Presbytery (Tullylish) – Sunday 3 Newry Presbytery (Downshire Road) – Tuesday 5 Carrickfergus Presbytery (Ballynure) – Sunday 10 Dromore Presbytery (Railway Street) – Sunday 10 Ballymena Presbytery (Trinity, Ahoghill) – Wednesday 13 Coleraine and Limavady Presbytery (Terrace Row) – Sunday 17 Omagh Presbytery (Aughentaine) – Sunday 17 Route Presbytery (Dunloy) – Sunday 17 Templepatrick Presbytery (Muckamore) – Sunday 17 Armagh Presbytery (Richhill) – Wednesday 20

Refresh

Second Limavady – Thursday 14

Ministry taster day

Union Theological College, Belfast – Saturday 16

April Foundations

Online training – Monday 15

Healthcare Chaplaincy Conference

Assembly Buildings – Friday 26

May Age of Opportunity

Assembly Buildings, Belfast – Thursday 16

Family Festival

Spruce Meadows, Lisburn – Saturday 18

July Impact

Londonderry Hub – Sunday 21 to Sunday 28 Belfast Hub – Saturday 27 to Saturday 3 August

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A vision trip

for ministers

Ricky Ferguson promotes a Wycliffe vision trip for ministers in 2025 – to experience how God is working in Senegal through Bible translation.

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his year marks the 700th anniversary of the birth of Gospel of Luke and are now hard at work on the book of Acts.

John Wycliffe who gave us the first English translation On the vision trip, ministers will get the opportunity to meet of the Bible. He was passionate about having the Bible, the translators and local church leaders, observe the translation not just in Latin, the language of the educated elite, but process, hear their testimonies and how God is already using in the language of ordinary people so that the translated portions to change lives. they could know Jesus through it.

Senegal has for many years enjoyed …one in five people are especially close links with Northern Seven hundred years on, one in five people are still waiting for God’s Word Ireland (NI), and PCI. There are four still waiting for God’s in their own language. Wycliffe Bible Wycliffe families from the UK and Ireland Translators is partnering with modern-day Word in their own serving God in Senegal in the roles of John Wycliffes all around the world, who director, translation advising, language language. are working to do for their people what project management, multimedia, finance John Wycliffe did for speakers of English, and HR. Three of these families are from and together create a world where everyone can know Jesus NI: David and Janet Wilkinson; Séba and Clare Orr Diédhiou; through the Bible. and David and Ruth Lowry. These three couples and their In recent years, the achievements of these translators have families are all supported by PCI congregations. Ministers been extraordinary. Backed by the faithful support of churches will spend time with these families and other staff in Senegal, and individuals, including many within PCI, more translation gaining an insight into each of their roles and the projects work began last year than ever before – at a rate of more than they’re involved in and how they fit into supporting the work as one language a day. A tipping point has been reached – for a whole in Senegal. the first time in history, the number of languages with work in This Wycliffe vision trip offers ministers a unique opportunity progress (3,742) has exceeded the number of languages without to see God at work in amazing ways and be inspired and work in progress (3,652). renewed in their ministry back at home. One minister, Rev There has never been a more exciting moment to see what Robert Hamilton (Movilla Presbyterian, Newtownards), God is doing through the translation of his Word, and Wycliffe who was on the last ministers’ vision trip in May 2023 said: is delighted to offer that opportunity to PCI ministers by “One major highlight that I will take away from the trip joining a vision trip to Senegal in March 2025. is the Senegalese people working and interacting with the Senegal is a country in West Africa where 97% of the projects; people from their own country being trained in population is Muslim and the vast majority of people are yet to Bible translation. One morning in particular, we met the be reached with the gospel. Wycliffe is in partnership with the Contemporary Wolof translation team and had the privilege Senegalese church and translators who are translating the New of listening to each of their testimonies in coming to faith in Testament into Contemporary Wolof, a language spoken by Christ Jesus. We left Senegal with many stories to tell! We an estimated 16 million people, mainly within the urban areas were so impressed by the people working with Wycliffe in this of Senegal. The translation team are using ground-breaking country.” oral translation methods to make God’s Word available and easily accessible.

The trip will take up to 10 days in mid to late March 2025 and Elizabeth, a have a cost of approximately £1,200 (including insurance).

There will be an information morning in late May for Senegalese interested ministers. For more information and to register translator, said: your interest contact Ricky Ferguson (Ireland team leader for “My greatest dream Wycliffe) on +44 (0)28 9531 3380 or rferguson@wycliffe.org.uk is that through the PCI’s Council for Global Mission translation, the commends this trip to ministers.

Wolof people will Grants for ministers going on this trip receive Christ in are available from the PCI Ministerial their life.” The team Development Programme. have published the

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REFLECTIONS

Fasting

Jonny Frazer

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o you even like crisps? I remember a friend being they don’t receive their Advent calendar, and just be glad it’s asked that question as he triumphantly declared that past for this year! he was giving up crisps for Lent. I don’t think he For the Christian in modern-day Ireland, Advent is not a expected the question to be honest, and he certainly time of fasting, it’s more a time of feasting – the fast waits until hadn’t thought it through, because I, and many others, knew the diet begins in earnest in January. Nor is the time of Lent a that the answer was a firm ‘no’! priority for fasting.

With stammering and a face that was getting redder by the In the period of Lent, which we find ourselves currently in – moment, his triumphant exclamation suddenly seemed like that period of 40 days (excluding Sundays) beginning on Ash little more than an ironic joke.

Wednesday and running up to Easter – is intended as a time of I still had to admire him though; he was doing something reflection, penance, fasting, and prayer, mirroring Jesus Christ’s that I wasn’t doing, at that time anyway.

40 days of fasting in the desert. This period Maybe it was my own sense of ‘being for Christians will focus on self-discipline, We’re good at the too good for that kind of thing’, or the sacrifice, and spiritual growth, with many celebration of Easter and choosing to give up something they enjoy reasoning that ‘there were other more important things to be thinking of than that of course is central… as a form of sacrifice. For some this might avoiding crisps’, but I hadn’t fasted from be crisps; for others whole meals; for some anything over the course of Lent. Growing but we must also truly it will be social media or their phone; up it was the opposite actually – I was prepare ourselves for it still others might try the unattainable by often encouraged to take up something, avoiding caffeine (maybe that’s just those through the period of form a good habit out of something, and with young children!). Like I previously use Lent as a time of positive spiritual mentioned, some will seek to form positive Lent… growth. That made sense to me, and the habits or take on additional acts of charity desire to simply avoid something (that I and service. In any of these ways the goal may not have even liked in the first place) was of no interest to is to prepare spiritually for the celebration of Easter, which me. commemorates the resurrection of Jesus Christ. However, much That was until I read the Sermon on the Mount. like the period of Advent, we have lost the true meaning of Among all the directives we receive and the teachings that Lent, and Jesus’ words in preparing ourselves for Easter. We’re are easy to follow, it seems that Jesus was really serious about good at the celebration of Easter and that of course is central – fasting. In fact, in chapter 6 of Matthew’s Gospel there is a it is a time in which we celebrate all that Jesus achieved through whole section included about what to do when fasting. There’s the cross and the empty tomb – but we must also truly prepare no mention of ‘if you fast’ or ‘here’s a few suggestions of how ourselves for it through the period of Lent, and fasting where to fill your time if you happen to think about turning off your appropriate, otherwise we’re ignoring Jesus’ teaching on it and iPhone for an hour a day’ but rather when you fast. He talks the benefit we will receive from it. about it here and throughout his ministry gets pretty serious You may be counting down the days to Easter and this about showing his disciples what it’s also about. celebration. Maybe that’s because you’re fasting. Maybe you’re Fasting was commonplace within the early church, with just looking forward to a few days off. In our local, large, Christians often fasting twice a week. This was all the more branded superstore, the Easter eggs had appeared as soon as in periods leading up to any major feast as people prepared the Advent calendars left the shelves. When that happens, it themselves spiritually for it. We might be familiar with this numbs us to the coming celebration – it feels like it’s been there thinking during Lent, but even Advent was a fast before the for so long that we ignore it. Instead, this Lent, use the act of feast. Forget chocolate calendars and ministers enjoying several fasting to focus ourselves on that coming celebration. You might Christmas dinners before the big day. Forget the Christmas choose a meal, a time away from your phone, you might choose party and the children’s celebrations – in the early church, a habit, but if I see you, just don’t tell me it’s crisps!

Advent was a period of fasting. If anyone decides to fast during Advent you will obviously receive many plaudits and jewels in Rev Jonny Frazer is minister of Garnerville Presbyterian Church, your crown, just don’t expect your children to be happy when Belfast.

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Tackling a spirit

of Babel

Norman Hamilton considers how the Bible relates to and speaks to life today.

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ver all my years as a Presbyterian minister, I have found – and am still finding – that the context of ministry is always changing. No longer do people generally think it worthwhile to have a church connection, never mind have a faith rooted in Christ. No longer is community life based in or around the church building – for so many live in one place, work in another, and socialise in still others. No longer does the truth matter – it has been widely replaced by ‘my truth’, though that is most certainly not a new idea as shown by the last verse of the book of Judges: “All the people did whatever seemed right in their own eyes.”

Our whole culture – ‘how we do things here’ – is unrecognisably different from what it was even 10 years ago, and the changes brought by Covid are now

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cemented into normal everyday life. For example, getting groceries delivered to your door, so you don’t have to interact with anyone; being able to ‘watch’ church by livestream so you don’t need to have any interaction with other believers… etc.

…we must use the whole Bible…from Genesis to Revelation, as a lens through which to examine and critique what is being said…in politics, the media, the arts, science and literature.

This ever-changing culture means that I have found the need to constantly rebuild my understanding of how the Bible relates to and speaks to life today. And central to doing that means I have to work through, yet again, the importance of Paul’s famous words in Romans 12: “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is – his good, pleasing and perfect will.” Peter too is up front in saying that he wants “to stimulate [his readers] to wholesome thinking” (2 Peter 3:1).

I don’t want to be conformed to or be captured by the thinking of the modern world, yet I do want to be able to interpret properly what is happening all around me from Scripture and with the light of the Holy Spirit. I also want

It is hard to see that any honour is brought to the Lord…when we rely on force of argument or dismissive tone when discussing, debating or deciding what is right… to contribute to the community in which God has placed me. And so, I do want my mind to be transformed and renewed – for if I am not thinking biblically, then surely, I cannot live a life that is honouring to the Lord.

Central to my ongoing journey is a major book which has just been nominated as the book of the year by Christianity Today – Biblical Critical Theory by Chris Watkin. It is a very substantial volume (a mere 650 pages!).

Central to Watkin’s thinking is that it is “not enough for Christians to explain the Bible to the culture…in which we live. We must also explain the culture in which we live within the framework and categories of the Bible.” In other words, we must use the whole Bible, section by section, from Genesis to Revelation, as a lens through which to examine and critique what is being said and promoted, for example, in politics, the media, the arts, science and literature. And use it to show how God’s light on these matters is so much better than any others, even though there may well be value in some things that are being promoted in wider society.

I have been particularly struck by Watkin’s masterly handling of the account in Genesis 11 of the building of the tower of Babel. “The spirit of Babel continues to this day… we must all make a name for ourselves… ‘you can be anything you want to be’.”

Watkin reminds us that this means “we are faced with the twin responsibility of first choosing what to be and then becoming what we have chosen – on pain of namelessness.” He beautifully contrasts this futile striving with the comment: “How much sweeter, more peace bringing, more liberating, it is to receive a name from God – child, image and beloved.” There is absolutely no need to be anxious – or even pleased – by the number of ‘likes’ or ‘retweets’ we may have on social media.

This ‘Babel-like’ need for selfadmiration and pride is still very much with us today. For example: the attempt

by some parents to ‘push’ their children to a level of excellence in school or sport or music that risks them feeling like failures if they don’t quite make it; the almost worship-like adulation poured on celebrities whose every word carries great influence with little or no questioning of their underlying set of values or beliefs; the prestige that comes from wearing the latest trainers or having the latest iPhone; the expectation and/or pressure to have a ‘dream home’ with its underlying assumption that it will help create heaven on earth.

Perhaps I need to be crystal clear. I am not denying that some people are very gifted and that those gifts need to be properly recognised. Nor am I suggesting that shoddiness is a path worth travelling.

But I am suggesting that when anything – anything – becomes more important than being in a harmonious relationship with the God who made us and the Saviour who died for us, that very thing helps us build our own tower of Babel – making our own name for ourselves so that others will be impressed by what we do/have/are.

It is very significant that Jesus never sought fame. He was born in the most lowly of residences to a mother who handled the shame of being a single mum alongside her earthly husband Joseph, who stood by her in all that was happening. And when Jesus was mobbed by the crowds because his fame had gone before him, he often ministered to them in their need, and then sent them away, or moved with his disciples to a quiet place. And he died in the most shamefilled way possible. The New Testament knows nothing of self-admiration and self-promotion for the follower of Christ – either then or now.

The heart of Watkin’s book is captured in a comment by Christianity Today: “Scripture offers a deeper analysis of modern society than modern society could give itself.” We are constantly assailed by so much that seeks to turn Romans 12 on its head, and transform our minds so that we follow anything

and anyone other than Christ. Watkin is quite explicit that we do not need to be on the defensive in our witness. We have all we need in Scripture to show a better way, without the need to rubbish or demean what others hold dear. This is a very important insight, not least for Presbyterians since we affirm in all our services of ordination and installation that we are not to ‘refuse light from any quarter’. It is hard to see that any honour is brought to the Lord, or people helped, when we rely on force of argument or dismissive tone when discussing, debating or deciding what is right in the eyes of the living God. We are people driven by grace. So, it is much more satisfying and much more effective to face issues and address concerns as Watkin suggests: “within the framework and categories of the Bible”.

This is of course an immense challenge in itself, for it requires us to take on board the rigorous example of some members of the early church. We read in Acts 17: “Now the Berean Jews were of more noble character than those in Thessalonica, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true.” They were following through on the blessing promised in Psalm 1: “Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers, but whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and who meditates on his law, day and night.”

Locking on to the importance of Romans 12 has rarely been so important, for it is so difficult to resist the spirit of the age where anything goes and almost anything is promoted as not only acceptable, but desirable. My own ability to resist this has, to my delight, been massively helped by Chris Watkin’s book, and I am so grateful to God for the opportunity to draw on his wisdom and insight. You might too – perhaps giving yourself the whole of 2024 to read and digest what he has written!

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CONGREGATIONAL STORY

When the saints going marching in… together Gary McDowell shares how Greystones Presbyterian Church in Co Wicklow uses St Patrick’s Day as an opportunity to reach out to the local community.

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t Patrick’s Day in the Republic of Ireland is, of course, an important day. There are parades in many towns and cities, including Greystones.

When I first arrived in Greystones, almost nine years ago, I was invited, along with leaders from two other churches, to sit on the viewing platform and watch the floats pass by. But after a couple of years, we thought – rather than view the parade, our churches should enter it.

There are five churches in Greystones.

The leaders meet monthly and we work together, when we can, to provide a strong Christian presence in the town, particularly at key times of the year like Easter and Christmas. And our collaborative approach was recognised by the local council when we received an award a few years ago.

When we first applied to enter a

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float (a car towing a boat with a man portraying St Patrick in it), we were told that they didn’t accept entries from religious organisations. However, when the irony of denying St Patrick a place in his own parade was pointed out, the organisers changed their minds and we have had an entry each year since.

Covid stopped the parade for a few years, but happily the celebration has resumed. Last year our theme was ‘We Are All God’s Children’ – a celebration of the international make up of our land and also of God’s kingdom. We invited

…the churches working together has not gone unnoticed….we are lifting high the name of Jesus.

local school principals to our planning meeting and encouraged their school’s participation in the event. Children, during school time, produced the flags of various countries that they could hold and wave as part of our float. The children could also dress up according to the theme.

A previous theme was ‘The Land of Saints and Scholars’, when even our church leaders dressed up as saintly scholars. Again, school children, parents and teachers participated, in addition to many from our local congregations. With the creativity of a number of people, and the school children, the float was a happy, musical and uplifting spectacle – and we even won an award!

Working together has had so many positive benefits. It has developed relationships between members of the churches. It has developed our faith and

stimulated outreach to our town. It has broadened our vision of who we are and who God is.

Greystones population has been growing for a number of years, and it continues to grow rapidly. It is a lovely and highly desirable place to live, and, being at the end of the DART line, it is a commuter town for Dublin. It has the same challenges as much of the Western world – secularism, consumerism, individualism, a decline in religious affiliation. However, the churches working together has not gone unnoticed.

People comment on it and are positive towards it. And, at a deeper level, we are lifting high the name of Jesus.

The first St Patrick’s Day we entered had a man in a boat with a simple poster saying – ‘Don’t forget St Patrick’. Every subsequent float we have entered has been our way of saying ‘Don’t forget about Jesus, Lord of all’.

In a wider context, we as a church have just recently completed a building project.

We were out of our building for nine months while the work was done, and now that we’re back it feels like a new start for us as a church.

We have been re-establishing some of our church activities that reach beyond our own congregation. Our toddler group is up and running again, and it’s buzzing with life. It’s so good to connect with parents and childminders from the wider community.

This past Christmas we had our first proper carol service since before Covid.

It was wonderful to be able to celebrate Christmas as we used to do with the local community.

We have also re-established our monthly praise service which is a contemporary style of service and attracts people from other local churches and further afield.

Playing our part in being a blessing to the people of Greystones and beyond is important to us – indeed it is written into our vision statement. And our relationship with the other churches in the town has been a beautiful journey as we identify ways in which we can cooperate together.

In addition to the church leaders meeting monthly, we also have a group of lay representatives from the churches who meet together to brainstorm ideas

Every…float we have entered has been our way of saying ‘Don’t forget about Jesus, Lord of all’. and who do most of the practical tasks related to the events we plan – like the St Patrick’s Day parade, our ‘Good Friday Walk of Witness’ though the town, or reflective services around Advent and Easter.

Greystones used to be a little village but has grown rapidly over the last 10 years into a thriving town. In 2008 and again in 2021, it was voted the ‘World’s Most Liveable Community’. But the challenge for us as a community of God’s people, is to know how best to reach out with the good news of the kingdom. We recognise our limitations, indeed I often quote the words of Jesus who said: “Apart from me, you can do nothing”, but we also know that with God all things are possible.

I get so many opportunities to minister beyond the church walls. We have a wonderful connection with the men and women of Tiglin (two Christian-run drug/alcohol rehabilitation centres in Co Wicklow). I feel blessed to have an input into the lives of these beautiful people who have struggled so much with

addiction. A number of them attend our church services and they bring an energy that is infectious. Some of our church members are committed to serving the Tiglin community. They volunteer at the centres – leading various activities, building lovely relationships with the folk, and becoming mentors to some.

At the end of January we hosted four classes of pupils from St David’s Holy Faith Secondary School during Catholic Schools’ Week. The school hadn’t done this kind of thing before, but they thought it would be good to engage with the local churches. As it happens, one of our members – Lisa Garcia – is head girl at the school, and she was delighted that the school had reached out to us.

So, over the course of a school morning, four different classes came to our church and Lisa and I talked to them about all things Presbyterian and they asked various questions. It was a wonderful time together.

Greystones is a beautiful place to visit, and the sun always shines here, so if you happen to be down this way come along and see us – you’ll be so very welcome!

Rev Gary McDowell is minister of Greystones Presbyterian Church, Co Wicklow.

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Moderator, Dr Sam Mawhinney, offers a seasonal reflection that affirms our confidence and hope in the Easter story.

Herald March 2024

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he story of our Western culture has moved quickly and significantly towards issues of identity, race, sexuality, gender and age. These identity groups formed movements that have sought to deal with the oppression they experienced from their oppressors. The telling of their stories has been a powerful medium in this movement, so says Ben Chang in the introduction of his very good book on identity politics, Christ and the Cultural Wars.

The power of story has been witnessed recently in the ITV drama, Mr Bates vs The Post Office, a story of the injustice faced by postmasters and postmistresses, as the faulty Horizon IT system said they had stolen the Post Office’s money. Their stories of how lies, shame and injustice destroyed their lives and those of their families, followed by the incredible relief and freedom experienced by those same people when they were declared not guilty, resonated emotionally and powerfully for all of us who watched in the UK and Ireland.

The Easter story resonates with our culture because it also deals with the issues of guilt, shame, injustice and oppression.

The person of Jesus, his identity, innocence and redemptive and reconciling death on the cross is our powerful story that we can have great confidence to believe and tell.

The cross is our central symbol, and we need to keep it firmly in view.

Dr Luke has carefully researched the story of Jesus and recounts the facts of the death and resurrection of Jesus in chapters 22–23. I want to focus on the picture of the three crosses and the deaths of the three ‘criminals’ on those crosses as we explore where our hope lies. Luke 23:26–49 outlines the crux of the story – of rejection, redemption and repentance.

The middle cross offers us redemption.

Illustration: Barry Falls

Redemption On the middle cross, Jesus hangs, and his identity is key. The Jewish council members, the Roman authorities represented by Pilate, the Jewish King Herod, and the people wanted to know who he was; they made up their minds about him without listening and considering the evidence.

Like a murder-mystery there are clues – as the story of Jesus’ life unfolds, we see more clearly his identity. As he is crucified, he prays for his enemies (23:34) and in doing so he keeps the law of God perfectly. As he dies, his clothes

The cross is our central symbol, and we need to keep it firmly in view. are divided among his executioners by casting lots (23:34), which fulfilled Old Testament prophecy about the Messiah (Psalm 22:18). Crucially, Luke tells us five times in his story that Jesus was innocent – Pilate (23:4), Herod (23:15) and the criminal (23:41) all knew he had done nothing wrong. He was innocent and his trial and death were unjust. As Jesus died, there was a deep, supernatural darkness for three hours, from midday until three o’clock (the darkness pictorially represents God’s anger/wrath and his judgment on sin). Lastly, as he dies, about a mile away in the Temple, the large curtain that separated the Most Holy Place, where God resided, from the Jewish priests and the people, was supernaturally torn in two from the top to the bottom, which opened the way into God’s presence.

The evidence was all there – Jesus was the Messiah, God’s anointed King, the great High Priest, the Son of God. He died as an innocent man, as a sacrifice of atonement for sins, as the context of Passover and his own words (22:19–20), made clear. This was the central message of the apostles to the church: “In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the richness of his grace” (Ephesians 1:7).

The crosses on either side illustrate how we respond to the question of Jesus and his identity as the King, Priest and Son of God; one rejects him and the other repents as they view Jesus and the redemption he offers.

Rejection To one side of Jesus, a man hung who had committed a crime deemed worthy of capital punishment. His final words show very clearly his rejection of Jesus. He didn’t believe who Jesus had said he was and he was mocking of his ability to save.

He represents everyone else mentioned in the story who also rejected Jesus. In what was a definitive moment, the crowd shout as one: “Away with this man! Release Barabbas to us!” Luke gives us the crime sheet for Barabbas: murderer, rebel and rioter. The people reject Jesus decisively.

Repentance On the other side of Jesus, another criminal hangs for his crimes against an individual or society. However, his

response is completely different to the other criminal. Instead of rejection, there is recognition and repentance.

His response is utterly remarkable. Jesus is naked, dying and there is no indication of who he is, but the man discerns, by the grace of God, who Jesus is and what the proper response should be.

He shows appropriate respect, indeed a proper fear of God (23:40), and he believes that Jesus is the King and has a Kingdom (23:42). This is not visible at this moment in time, quite the contrary, so it comes by faith – a gift of God. He also acknowledges that Jesus is innocent, “This man has done nothing wrong” (23:41), which is a further outworking of his understanding that Jesus is divine and sinless. He admits his own sin – he does not declare his own innocence – he admits that he is deserving of the punishment of death, and in his words to Jesus he further acknowledges that Jesus alone is his hope.

It is a simple but poignant moment, as he looks at Jesus and proclaims his name, “Jesus” (23:42) and requests that he would, “remember me when you come into your Kingdom.” His words are personal, humble, dependant and fully recognising the kingship, divinity and power of Jesus to save.

The theme of my moderatorial year is ‘Confident in Christ’ and we come to the declaration of Jesus – words of truth and hope – with confidence. “Jesus answered him, ‘I tell you the truth, today you will be with me in paradise.’” Following our death, there is hope of resurrection, hope of a place (heaven which will be paradise), without the reality of sin, guilt, shame, injustice and oppression.

Jesus did not say to the man that there was no hope for him, nor that he was too bad or that he was too late. Because he saw who Jesus was, and believed in him, his faith enabled him to accept the gift offered of forgiveness for sins and reconciliation with God in Christ and acceptance into heaven and eternal life.

The story of Jesus – his identity, his innocence in the face of injustice and his self-sacrificial death – is a beautiful story of being justified from our guilt, forgiven for our wrong thoughts and actions, of being reconciled to God by his mediation and of our being loved and bought by his blood, that we might be with Jesus in heaven for ever. Our story is true and worth telling; it is our only hope. And what a hope it is, of having Jesus look at us and say: “Today you will be with me in paradise.”

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Age of opportunity

Alex Drew, the keynote speaker at an upcoming PCI event, discusses how age is just a number when it comes to being useful to God.

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he Bible is packed with examples of older people living purposefully for God, being respected in their communities, and sharing wisdom with future generations. Abraham was 99 when God promised to make him the father of many nations. Moses was 80 when he spoke to Pharaoh, and the prophet Anna, at 84, was worshipping God with fasting and prayer in the temple day and night.

Abraham, Moses and Anna are just some of those who honoured God well into old age and are now held up as wonderful examples to us.

Fast forward to 2023 and to the UK and Ireland and I’m afraid older age is often not associated with this vitality and purpose. All too often, older people, rather than being at the heart of families, communities, and even the church, are pushed to the margins and seen as incompetent, hostile and a burden to society.

Our population is ageing, that’s a fact.

Fewer babies are being born and more people are living longer. So, the number of people potentially affected by these

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negative attitudes is enormous. What a travesty for those who are already there and what a bleak future for those of us still heading in that direction. It’s so bad, that older people themselves are sometimes ageist about what they can and can’t do, and over half of those in mid-life consider later life to be something to fear.

The church’s beautiful position Although not entirely devoid of some of this, the church is beautifully positioned to change attitudes and the personal experiences of those in later life. Churches already tend to have a good cohort of older people, and unlike hobbies and interests at home or in the community, church belonging is not cast aside as age and ailments advance.

…often older people… are pushed to the margins and seen as incompetent…and a burden to society.

Counter-culturally, church life also presents a good source of examples of what it can look like to grow older.

Where else in society do we see such an army of older volunteers engaged in effective preaching, mentoring, children’s work, serving on trustee boards, welcoming, catering, praying, and more?

Older people also have experience and ways of being that elude some of us younger ones. During a year of covering our youth worker’s maternity leave, I saw teenagers drawn to our volunteers who were over 70, like bees around a honeypot, leaving the rest of us kicking our heels by the tuckshop while our older team members shared their stories and prowess in giant knitting and sometimes fierce card games. I learned that teenagers don’t necessarily want to hang out with people their parents’ age or even the age of their older siblings; however, hanging out with people who remind them of their indulgent and unconditionally loving grandparents – well that is a whole other matter!

Faith in Later Life How engaged older people are in church will vary, and that’s where ‘Faith in Later Life’ comes in. Our work is, in part, to help churches keep and draw older people into the heart of their communities – enabling and mobilising older people to minister meaningfully for the whole of their lives and equipping the entire church to reach them with God’s love through the challenging times and the end of their lives. We encourage churches to do this in a way that goes beyond pastoral care and is rooted in sustaining discipleship and creativity.

Doesn’t that sound like a more hopeful future for us all?

The other aspect we’re passionate about is seeing those in later life come to know Jesus before they run out of time to do so.

We understand the urgency of this, and the complexities wrought by a lifetime of misconceptions about the church, God and his people, and for some, diminishing cognitive clarity or ability. We want to help churches with this and together join in with God’s mission to make disciples, for his glory.

A network of champions We do this primarily through our network of hundreds of church champions. These are individuals in churches around the UK, paid or unpaid, who have a heart for older people and who are already ministering or are about to minister among those in later life in some way. They sign up to receive our information and training opportunities and this gives them access to a whole range of free support, training, prayer and encouragement; like how we can minister to those with dementia, or how to share the gospel with older people at any stage. We have bimonthly online training and prayer sessions and lots of helpful information on our website, and church champions choose their level of engagement.

Some churches have asked: “How can we be more intentional about reaching people in later life?” Well, encouraging someone with a heart for older people to become a Faith in Later Life church champion is a great place to start. You could invite them to do so by heading over to our website and signing up.

Feedback we receive has shown that these

…the church is beautifully positioned to change attitudes and the personal experiences of those in later life. individuals greatly value our resources, recognition of their work, prayer, and fellowship, and many have expanded their ministry, or been reignited when they ran out of ideas and encouragement.

Giving that person a voice into leadership teams which help shape outreach and discipleship strategies will further ensure that the fastest growing cohort in churches and communities is considered prayerfully through the lens of

experience and expertise.

God calls us into a lifelong and lifegiving relationship with him, he does not abandon us as we age, and he has built his beautiful church to share his love, unrelentingly, with all people.

Alex Drew leads Faith in Later Life, a ministry which exists to inspire and equip Christians to reach, serve and empower older people in every community, through the local church.

Find out more about the ministry of Faith in Later Life at faithinlaterlife.org

Don’t miss out on this age of opportunity One of the realities of the setting for the life and witness in any congregation in Ireland is that we are living in an increasing ageing society. We shouldn’t be at all surprised then if the average age of our membership is also creeping upwards.

But do we see only the challenge that presents or also the opportunities?

Those in later life have so much to bring to the life of the Church, but often we fail to appreciate and harness the contribution they might make because we view getting older as society does – as a problem, rather than a stage of life full of possibilities.

The ‘Age of Opportunity’ morning offers new eyes to see the potential for age specific ministry and evangelism among those in later life. It’s for anyone who wants to be envisioned, enthused and inspired about what is possible for ministry among an often-neglected section of Church and society.

Possibilities and stories of how churches have moved beyond the unimaginative approach of defaulting to just looking after the older people will be shared and explored. Ways of engaging in a range of ministries of discipleship, leadership development and evangelism, prayerfully and carefully crafted to connect with those in later life, will be offered to fire our imaginations.

You will come away with fresh vision, some simple ideas that you could begin to develop in your congregation, as well as a free copy of ‘All the days of my life’, PCI’s very own resource for evangelism among those in later life.

Find out more about the ‘All the days of my life’ resource at www.presbyterianireland.org/resources Rev David Thompson Secretary to PCI’s Council for Congregational Life and Witness

Age of Opportunity Assembly Buildings, Belfast Thursday 16 May 2024 10am–12.30pm Cost: £6 Sign up for Age of Opportunity at www.presbyterianireland.org/events

Herald March 2024

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PERSONAL VIEW

Life lessons Alan Speer

Elder in Trinity Presbyterian Church, Letterkenny, Co Donegal I was born in 1938 in Letterkenny, Co Donegal. My father had two shops – hardware and grocery. As a young boy on Saturdays, I would help as groceries were delivered around the county with a donkey and cart. When I was 12, I went as a boarder to Coleraine Academical Institution. After leaving school, I worked in the hardware shop, mostly sweeping floors and doing messages. In the summer months I enjoyed youth hostelling by bicycle around Ireland, England and Switzerland. In 1961, I spotted an ad in the personal column of the Sunday Times.

A young man was looking for an idea to see the world. To cut a long story short, the next year three of us set off in my Mini Austin to drive over land to Singapore. I filmed the trip and parts were shown on UTV’s Teatime with Tommy.

My long-term plans at that stage were uncertain but a fire in the shop back home decided my future. My father decided to retire, so it was up to me whether to carry on the business or try something different. Not really having any idea what I wanted to do, I kept the shop going. In 1967 I married Margaret Kelso, a farmer’s daughter from near Letterkenny.

We had three children – Paul, Lynda and Andrew. We are now blessed with eight lovely grandkids.

My faith journey began in 1955 when, after a mission in Trinity organised by Rev Jack Weir, I signed a ‘Covenant of Faith’ card and pledged myself “heart and soul and mind and strength, in covenant with God, to follow his commandments in my life, to take my full part in his church and to show his kingdom to my fellowmen.” Sadly, worldly distractions got in the way of my pledges. It was not until several years later when I was asked to take over as captain of the local Boys’ Brigade that I got back on the right track. I discovered a book by LeRoy Eims called Be the Leader You Were Meant to Be. In the book he highlighted two essentials for a Christian leader – Bible reading and prayer. These were the two things I had neglected.

For some time, I acted as World Development agent for the Donegal Presbytery. I decided to try and raise money for Christian Aid – my target was £200 – by going up and down the 35 stairs which led to the gallery in Trinity enough times

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to equal the height of Mount Everest. I achieved this over the course of a week in 1984 and actually raised over £900.

In the years when Trinity was vacant, we would have ministry students come for a few months in the summer. Early in our marriage we would often have had these young men over for dinner.

As our faith was developing, we had many questions so there were some interesting debates with these students.

We were both starting to read different Christian books.

We discovered a good Christian bookshop in Ballymena run

by Marshall and Martha Russell. We felt that there might be a demand from other people for Christian books. We made the decision to open part of the hardware shop upstairs and so the Upper Room Christian Bookshop opened in 1983.

In 1996 we went to a local meeting to hear a man from Belfast called Bobby Moffett. He was talking about a charity he had started some years earlier called Educate the Orphans (ETO).

It supported poor children in a remote part of central Kenya through sponsorship. After the talk he appealed for sponsors and some of us signed up. Later I had some doubts about how the money was being used. Margaret suggested that I should ring Bobby to discuss my questions. Bobby said the best answer would be to go with him to Kenya. I went the next year and it truly was a life-changing experience. The poverty was awful but the faith of the people was amazing. I went back the following year and persuaded Margaret to come also. Even though she found the conditions difficult, she was equally enthused. We set up a branch of ETO in Donegal with the initial group of local sponsors and began fundraising and publicising the work around the North West.

Even though my faith took many wrong turns, God has blessed me richly. Protecting me both physically and morally, so much so that the words of my favourite hymn say it all: “It is well, it is well with my soul.”

Alan’s Mini adventure can be viewed on YouTube at www.youtube.com/watch?v=6BxIE4wRC5w

MARCH 2024

Mission Connect

Stepping out in faith

A day in the life…

Keith Preston

Mission news from workers around Ireland and the world.

A church without walls?

Rev Rodney Beacom The Link Heidi England Defined by being loved by God Julie Gibson Stepping out in faith Gary and Mary Reid

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.

Breathing new life Naomi Keefe

Including March prayer diary

A day in the life…

Keith Preston

Irish mission worker, International Meeting Point

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he International Meeting Point (IMP) is so varied in its enabling us to help in these situations. outreach that sometimes it’s hard to describe it. Take a Lunchtime was particularly busy, with around 90 people there for recent Friday as an example… lunch. God is so good. LifehubNI is a food ministry run by Edmund At 9am I went over to north Belfast to see Shirley McGonigle, Aurofor. It supplies us with lots of food that we can share with who leads the site there, before the volunteers and mums started visitors. On this day we treated everyone to Nando’s chicken and to arrive for Tiny Tots. After rolls. Edmund visits us mostly reading and praying with on a Wednesday, which means I talked with a Hungarian who we were Shirley, I had a quick update we can share out food with with Rev Peter Burke, from the 70 or so who come to the able to help into employment and prayed Grace and Hope Community morning Bible study and the with a Bulgarian man…

Church. I then hurried similar number who come to over to the Lisburn Road the afternoon English class. where Prof David Leach was bringing eight young apprentices After lunch I spent some time around the pool table as it’s often to see the Meeting Point, but got diverted as I arrived, as PCI’s a flashpoint when the men get animated over results. While I was property support officer wanted to show me potential alternative there, an Iranian got a phone call from the Home Office, telling premises. I need not have worried because Henry Coulter gave him he had got status, meaning he moves from being an asylum the apprentices an excellent introduction into what we do, before seeker to someone entitled to live and work in the UK. I arrived.

All in a day’s work!

Thankfully the apprentices were able to stay for a couple of hours and I got a chance to talk with them. By this time, the Meeting Please pray: Point was getting very busy. I talked with a Hungarian who we • Pray for more volunteers in the ‘Op shop’ in north Belfast. were able to help into employment and prayed with a Bulgarian • Pray for Mahmoud, a Muslim convert as we try to get him into a man after locals had broken his windows for the second time since local church.

Christmas. Henry and Sharon were helping people in the office, • Pray for Sharon and Henry as they try to help people find and I was able to receive some clothes and food from individuals accommodation. and churches that support our work. Two Syrian women asked if • Pray for S*, a Syrian Christian, who brought his friend M* into they could look at our clothes ministry upstairs; then I was able IMP who gave his life to Christ. to help an Eritrean lady who needed a little financial help. We are *Initials used to protect their identities. so thankful for everyone who supports our discretionary fund,

Mission Connect | Herald March 2024

A church without walls?

Rev Rodney Beacom

Lisbellaw, Lisnaskea, Maguiresbridge and Newtownbutler Presbyterian Churches “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect…” (Romans 12:2).

meetings exploring a picture of the church, the mission of Jesus, servants of the king and gifts of the Spirit. All of these were to help us draw closer to Christ in continued repentance and growing faith, so that we, people of all ages in our congregations, might be t’s not always transformed by the renewing straightforward to discern of our mind in Christ the King …we must seek to reach out… going out what God’s will is, nor and empowered to use the indeed what it means to be gifts and talents we have been to meet people wherever they are in life, transformed by the renewal blessed with for the building whatever they’re facing… of your mind, especially when up of his church and for the we’re serving Christ Jesus praise of his glorious name. at a time when his church, Our next step is to build on or perhaps most traditional denominations here in the affluent what we have just begun, by carrying out a community audit, Christian West, seem to be struggling to survive. “Treading water” so that we can identify the hurts and needs of the community it’s called in swimming parlance as you patiently wait to be where we live, work and worship. Then we must seek to reach rescued. Is the church waiting to be rescued? out to meet at least one of those needs, to be a church without Most people will be familiar with the saying, “If it’s not broken, walls, where everyone is welcome to come in, and there are no don’t fix it”, which may be appropriate when applied to mechanical boundaries to us, as servants of the King, going out to meet machinery, but every machine needs regular maintenance for it to people wherever they are in life, whatever they’re facing, living be fit for purpose. So, how does this apply to Christ’s church? and sharing the life-transforming news of Jesus who came to give Ministering in the west of the province in four small home us life to the full. mission congregations, commonly known as ‘The Fermanagh Four’ (the congregations of Lisbellaw, Lisnaskea, Maguiresbridge, and Newtownbutler), is a challenging but rewarding calling.

Please pray: However, the key to understanding God’s will, according to • Give thanks for God’s rich blessings poured upon us day after Romans 12:2, is to be transformed to be more like Christ Jesus our day, and for the many gifted and talented people he has blessed Saviour. That’s why in November 2023 we embarked on a ‘Church us with. and Community Transformation’ programme. We began with a • Pray for wisdom and seeking the Lord’s will as we move forward celebration service, thanking God for who we are and what we do. with our ‘Church and Community Transformation’ programme.

Part of this special service included a congregational audit of gifts, • Pray that the Lord will use us for the sharing of the gospel, the talents and resources at our disposal. building of his kingdom, and the glory of his name.

Then we embarked on a series of sermons and midweek

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Mission Connect | Herald March 2024

The Link

Heidi England

Deaconess in Railway Street, Lisburn

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he Link is a lovely bright welcome area which has been to find ways to meet up and connect in the real world. The good created from a former warren of corridors and underused number of regulars who come week by week is testament to the rooms that connected Railway Street meeting house with truth expressed in Genesis 2:18 that solitude and isolation is not the adjoining hall. what God intended.

We all know that a church is not its buildings – it is the people In recent months I have enjoyed being in a discipleship group of God who worship and serve where, together, we are there. And the important how the gospel In today’s world of online ‘communities’ it has learning links are not thoroughfares, reframes every part of our lives. but rather the interpersonal never been more important to find ways to meet It has also been wonderful, relationships that are forged over the past few years, to up and connect in the real world. with God, with one another, help lead a regular Bible and with the community. study group with a growing Since work on The Link was completed late in 2022, all sorts of membership. Our greatest need is for God himself. The most connections have been established and strengthened. A group important connection in our lives is our fellowship with him, of visionary women came together to found a Girls’ Brigade through Christ. In fact, Revelation 21:3 depicts our ultimate life company, which has grown from zero to 75 in a very short period with God. His plan has always been to dwell among his people. of time. They embody the GB motto – to ‘Seek, Serve and Follow So even now, we can anticipate that future reality as we come Christ’ – and the girls love it. Our links with the community have together to grow, to know him through fellowship together grown through the GB, and this has resulted in new families around his Word. becoming involved in the life of the church.

The welcome area has enabled us, as a congregation, to strengthen our bonds of friendship and fellowship. The café-style Please pray: tables and seating allow for relaxed coffee times after our services • Praise God for new facilities, new ministries and new people. of worship and at other church events. Planning meetings and • Thank him for the faithfulness of those who have worshipped prayer meetings take on an informal flavour when held in this and served here for many years. setting. Every week I am involved in hosting a drop-in time which • Pray for our elders and leaders to know the mind of God in is known as the ‘Link-Up’. Visitors from the local community and planning and decision making. further afield find a warmth of hospitality and welcome there. And • Pray that all our endeavours will serve to grow faithful and yet the main benefit has been for our own members. In today’s fruitful disciples of Jesus. world of online ‘communities’ it has never been more important

Mission Connect | Herald March 2024

Defined by being loved by God

Julie Gibson

Manager, Aaron House

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aron House is a residential home based in Dundonald for with humility and with compassion, putting the needs of those we adults with both learning and physical disabilities. I have serve first. been blessed to have worked in Aaron House since it first It is comforting to know that we are part of an organisation that opened back in 1995, initially working as a team leader before wants to ensure that Aaron House, along with all of the other CSW taking on the role of manager homes and facilities, are not in March 2023. just places that ‘care for people’ A disability is an inability to do something, Aaron House was initially but are places that value opened by the Currie people and that reflect God’s but it does not reflect the wonderful gifts Community, a small group of love, grace and compassion. dedicated individuals who Aaron House is much more and abilities that each resident possesses. spent many years working than a care home and it is tirelessly to put into reality much more than just a job their dream of providing lifelong and homely care to those for the staff. Aaron House is ‘home’ and the residents and staff are individuals with profound learning disabilities, within a loving ‘family’. Many have had the privilege of working in Aaron House and Christian environment. They created a place where they fully since it first opened and over the past 29 years, we have all grown recognised that not only do people with a disability have the right up together. New staff over the years have quickly become valued to live fulfilling and purposeful lives, but also that they have the members of our team and our goal has always been to put the ability to teach us about God’s purpose and the true meaning of residents first. Like any family, we have had good times and bad life. times, joyful times and sad times, peaceful times and challenging Every day in Aaron House we are blessed to witness how our times, but throughout it all you could never ask for a more residents reflect God’s love and character through their humility, supportive, loving and selfless team. resilience and ultimately through their unconditional love. A More importantly, we could never have asked for a more disability is an inability to do something, but it does not reflect wonderful family of residents, both past and present, all of whom the wonderful gifts and abilities that each resident possesses. The who have enriched our lives. If everyone in the world could mirror residents within Aaron House are not defined by their disabilities our residents, what a truly wonderful world it would be. A world but by their identity as being loved by God. based on unconditional love, kindness, acceptance, patience, joy, In 2010, Aaron House was handed over to the care of the innocence, humility, resilience and courage. A world like him.

Presbyterian Church in Ireland’s Council for Social Witness (CSW). It was important to the founder members of the Currie Community that Aaron House was handed over to an organisation that Please pray: would carry on the Christian ethos of the home. As always, God • Pray for the residents, that they will continue to lead fulfilling never deserts us and we are blessed to be guided and supported lives in the Aaron House family. by a CSW team who strongly uphold and promote the Currie • Give thanks for the staff of Aaron House and for the care they Community values and beliefs. Through their servant leadership it provide. is abundantly clear that ‘people matter to God’. They serve quietly

Mission Connect | Herald March 2024

Stepping out in faith

Gary and Mary Reid

Global mission workers, Kenya

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ransformation! There are a number of precious Maasai who bringing good news on the mountains and across the plains, are were living in oppressive and foreboding spiritual darkness indeed Maasai feet. who have seen a great light. They have turned from this They, in love of their Saviour and desiring the salvation of their darkness to the light and from the authority of Satan to God. They families, neighbours and communities, are visiting different received forgiveness for their homes, distributing the sins and have a place among Scriptures and sometimes …these beautiful feet bringing good news all who are sanctified by faith trekking over quite large in Jesus. These same Maasai areas. When they visit with on the mountains and across the plains, not only met with Jesus, each home, they share why are indeed Maasai feet. asked for his forgiveness they are there, and they then and now know that they are offer to pray with them. There justified before God because of him, but they have also grown may be those who do not wish to have a Bible, and this choice to love him… he who loved them first, who loved them most. is respected, but prayer will be made to our all-powerful and And because of their great love for him, they desire to share with gracious God for those who, at this point in time, do not want to others all that they have seen and heard, and desire to witness to know his Son, our beloved Saviour, and an opportunity sought everyone that he is God. from him so that each one will be able to hear about him and, if When we first came to this area of Maasailand in 2005, our possible, see him through the lives of his children. hearts’ desire was to see the land filled with the knowledge of our beloved and his Word to be placed in many homes, and in even Please pray: more hearts, because we know that his Word is actually alive and • Rejoice with us that God is working in his precious children, penetrates deep within through the workings of his Holy Spirit. It giving them the desire and the power to do what pleases him. comes as no great surprise, then, that our hearts have delighted in • Please remember in prayer the members of the church families the Lord and his goodness, as we have witnessed these precious within Olkinyei who are going with the Good News, and for all souls treasure the flawless words of his mouth, and desire to share those who have received, or will receive, either a Maasai or a his Word with others, so that they too have opportunity to have Swahili Bible. faith in Jesus and grow in their knowledge and love of him, as they • Pray that God’s Word will be received, read (and accordingly discover for themselves who he is. listened to by those within the family who are illiterate), and Fast-forward to December 2023 and, spanning across the first understood. quarter of 2024, we witness the commencement of our hearts’ • Pray that the reading of God’s Word would bring forth fruit for desire being fulfilled. We had yearned that the feet carrying God’s his glory and the extension of his kingdom, with many believing Word into Maasai homes, and even into the homes of other tribes, and knowing him. would be Maasai feet. And wonderfully, these beautiful feet

Mission Connect | Herald March 2024

Breathing new life

Naomi Keefe

Global mission worker, Brazil

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ow do you put life into a dead bird? Have you ever tried to to us on a one-to-one basis with our neighbours. In all of these bring a dead animal or bird back to life? Imagine a dead things we are being reminded that it is God by his Holy Spirit who bird on the ground. These are the questions we have been breathes new life into a person, not us. Our job is simply to obey looking at recently. Perfect in the command of Jesus and be every way – the bird has wings, ‘fishers of men’, casting out our …it is God by his Holy Spirit who breathes feathers all in place, legs to nets and rods in sharing the stand on, a beak to eat with good news of Jesus. As fishers new life into a person, not us. and all its organs – the only of men, we are always being thing that is missing is life. aware that unless the Holy Genesis 2:7 says: “The Lord God formed the man from the dust of Spirit breathes upon them, they will never really hear what we are the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life and the saying, repent and believe, as they are spiritually dead in their sins. man became a living being.”

Just like the dead bird is physically dead, they are spiritually dead.

Adam and Eve were like dolls, perfectly formed, and yet until God The prayer of the volunteers in both Beberibe and Peixinhos is breathed into their nostrils, they were physically dead. New life in that as we share the good news of Jesus, men, women, boys and Christ works the same way. In Ephesians 2 the Bible talks about girls who are dead in sin will become alive in Christ Jesus. how we are dead in our sins and only life breathed into us by the Holy Spirit can make us spiritually alive.

Without the work of the Holy Spirit and his breathing into Please pray: an individual, the person, whether an adult or a child, male or • Pray that God by his Holy Spirit will breathe new life into the female, remains spiritually dead. Shouting at the person, trying to boys, girls and adults in the communities of Peixinhos and resuscitate them with all different types of strategies, encouraging Beberibe. them to see what they are missing out on is all to no avail unless • Give thanks for the volunteers in both Beberibe and Peixinhos God by his Holy Spirit breathes new life into them. and continue to pray for the various evangelistic events, In Peixinhos and Beberibe we are sharing the good news of Jesus ‘Reading in the Park’, football evangelism, and visits to the with the various families we come into contact with through the nursing home.

‘Reading Room’, ‘Good News’ club, ‘Coffee with God’ Bible studies, • Pray for the monthly teacher training events in the congregation ‘Reading in the Park’, puppet evangelism, visiting of the nursing of Beberibe and the community of Peixinhos. home, football evangelism or simply sharing what God means

Mission Connect | Herald March 2024

MARCH 2024

Please pray... n STEPHEN AND ANGELINA COWAN – That many of the elderly people will take up the invitation to attend the monthly seminar where issues can be discussed and progress agreed within the framework of the wisdom of God’s Word. n HOME MISSION – For Clones, Stonebridge, Ballyhobridge and Newbliss congregations as they meet together for worship and fellowship. Pray that they would be built up in the love and knowledge of the Lord Jesus and equipped to serve him where he has placed them.

n NAOMI KEEFE – Give thanks for encouraging training sessions with the leaders, teachers and volunteers in both Beberibe and Peixinhos. Pray for the planning and preparation of various evangelistic events in the communities over the Easter period. n NATIONAL EVANGELICAL SYNOD OF SYRIA AND LEBANON (NESSL) – As conflict continues in Syria and as Lebanon struggles with economic collapse, pray for alleviation of the poverty that is touching every sector of life.

n UNIVERSITY CHAPLAIN – For Nigel Craig as he supports students at QUB, Stranmillis and UTC, for opportunities to share the good news of Jesus Christ. n SPECIAL MINISTRY IN WEST Nigel Craig BELFAST – Give thanks for the skills and commitment of the members of the core group of this ministry.

Continue to pray that those who attend the Bible study would come into a living relationship with the Lord Jesus. n COUNCIL FOR SOCIAL WITNESS – For the Council’s Business and Finance panel as it considers how best to use the resources available for the Council’s work. Pray that they may be blessed with wisdom in the decisions they make. n RURAL CHAPLAINCY – Give thanks for the rural chaplaincy team and the relationships they have built with marts and farmers of all backgrounds. Pray that they would be a witness of the hope of Christ through their conversations. n SUNNYSIDE HOUSE – Based in Bangor, this 45-bed unit offers care and support to older people in a Christian environment. Give thanks for the dedicated staff team. Pray that staff continue to promote integrity in daily practices and that their hearts remain full of compassion for those who reside in the home. n INTERNATIONAL MEETING POINT – For the Op Shop in north Belfast, that new volunteers would sign up to help. Pray for Sharon and Henry as they serve in South Belfast and seek to help people find suitable accommodation. n FACILITIES – Carlisle House is a residential substance misuse treatment centre, situated in Belfast. Gray’s Court, on a separate site in the city, provides longer term supported housing for those in the early stages of recovery. Pray for staff in both facilities, that they may have the strength to face the challenges they meet day by day.

n COMMUNITY OUTREACH – For Jason Sime serving in Alexandra; that God would guide and equip him as he serves the congregation and local community so they may know the love of Christ. n DIANE CUSICK – That Zambia’s cholera epidemic might be contained quickly so that schools can reopen soon. Pray for Diane as she assists the Synod with other projects as well as her daily work in early childhood. n VULNERABLE CHILDREN – Around 2,000 children in Northern Ireland each year are identified as needing protection from abuse. Please pray for these vulnerable children, and for ministers, designated persons and others within congregations who are dealing with difficult child protection issues. Pray for guidance and wisdom as they work together to resolve issues and help in situations that are challenging.

n DEACONESS – For Heidi England serving in Railway Street Presbyterian Church. Praise God for new facilities, new ministries and new people. Pray for the elders and leaders to know the mind of God in planning and decision making. n VOLUNTEERS – Give thanks for the many volunteers involved in the Council for Social Witness’ work, as they serve and undertake a range of roles in our homes and services. Pray also for Kenneth Downes (CSW volunteer intern), giving thanks for him and the joy he brings to Assembly Buildings. n SOUTH BELFAST FRIENDSHIP HOUSE – For Abbi White as she starts as the new children’s worker, covering maternity leave, that she would settle quickly into her role. n FACULTÉ JEAN CALVIN (FJC), FRANCE – Pray for FJC as they plan and host a conference this month discussing doctrinal discords. Pray that all involved would know the Lord’s leading. n DEACONESS – For Joanne Dunlop serving in hospitals. As she supports patients pastorally, pray that they would know the peace of Jesus Christ. n PRISON CHAPLAIN – For Rodney Cameron, who spends most Thursdays in Hydebank Wood, meeting men and women of all ages. Pray that God will guide him as he shares God’s love. n CARERS – For families who provide love and care for children and/or adults with disabilities. Pray that local congregations will look for ways to include people with disabilities (of all ages) in worship and other church activities, and to give sensitive pastoral and practical support to families. n IRISH MISSION – For Philip Whelton serving in Arklow Presbyterian Church.

Give thanks for the young people who come to weekly clubs and pray for understanding as the gospel is shared.

n URBAN MISSION – For St Columba’s, Lisburn congregation as they gather to worship each Sunday, that they would grow in faith and fellowship with each other. n GARY AND MARY Philip Whelton REID – For the families who have received Maasai and Swahili Bibles, that God’s Word will not only be read, listened to and understood, but will also bear fruit for the extension of God’s kingdom. n SAT-7 – For the SAT-7 Arabic programme You Are Not Alone, created for people struggling with loneliness and isolation. Pray the show will provide comfort. n HEALTHCARE CHAPLAINS – For healthcare chaplains as they share the hope and love of Christ to patients, staff and families.

n COMMUNITY OUTREACH – For Michelle Mullan serving in Portstewart Presbyterian. As she builds relationships with those in the church and local community, pray for seeds to be sown. n FORCES CHAPLAINS – For PCI’s forces chaplains as they seek to engage with people of every rank and differing degrees of gospel interest and understanding. n MISSION IN IRELAND EVENINGS – Pray for the various speakers who will share examples of PCI’s mission across Ireland and that God would use these evenings to encourage the wider Church.

www.presbyterianireland.org/prayer

Egypt: The forgotten church Suzanne Hamilton reports on PCI’s recent conference entitled: ‘God’s Church in Egypt: Challenges, calling and creativity’, with guest speaker Dr Anne Zaki.

“T

he forgotten church, but the cradle of our faith” is how Dr Anne Zaki, professor of preaching and practical theology at the Evangelical Theological Seminary in Cairo, describes the church in the Middle East.

Addressing PCI’s latest conference looking at the Middle East called, ‘God’s church in Egypt: Challenges, calling and creativity’, Dr Zaki gave an overview of the region’s rich history and how it’s responding to challenges.

Comprising of Egypt, Israel, Iran, Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon and Palestine territories, the Middle East and North Africa region officially has 15–20 million Christians.

However, Dr Zaki pointed out that this is a conservative figure, as it does not include the underground church: “There are many secret believers who cannot be registered and who cannot change their identity.”

Dr Zaki’s own country – Egypt – officially has 10–15 million believers, and she described its rich history, going back to Saint Mark. It was also a predominantly Christian nation until the Islamic conquest in the 7th century.

Christians still make up about 10% of

the Egyptian population, with the community made up largely of the Coptic Orthodox Church. There are also Catholics, who are smaller in number, but are influential in social services due to their schools and hospitals.

Protestants – known as Evangelicals – are the second largest grouping of Christians at around two million. There are around 500,000 Presbyterians, making it the most numerous among the 18 evangelical denominations.

“Our early beginnings as the Evangelical Church came through American and Scottish Presbyterian missionaries – that was in 1854,” she said, explaining that the missionaries had

Christians formed human shields around their praying Muslim neighbours…

originally gone to Syria and Lebanon but illness prompted a move to Egypt for better treatment.

“When they came, they realised that the land was ready, that Egypt was ready for the evangelical gospel…They got involved very quickly in medical missions, in work among women, in starting rural schools in Cairo, and in public evangelism.”

Just nine years later, Evangelical Theological Seminary was established to train indigenous Egyptian church leaders. It now has 15 full-time professors and 620 students, who come from 13

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Egyptian provinces and 17 countries.

Many of them are studying online in their own nations.

The success of the seminary is an indicator of how the church remains strong despite being in a minority and surviving a turbulent past.

“True, we’re not in the numbers that we used to be,” said Dr Zaki, adding, “However, we survived all of this historic crises: the Islamic conquest, the crusades, World War I and II; the Holocaust, the Armenian genocide; the Six Day War; the establishment of the state of Israel; civil wars in Lebanon; struggles over oil fields; and then the stuff that we deal with on a daily basis, like discrimination, the Israeli–Palestinian conflict; the economic decline; security issues; out migration; and political upheaval.

“We’re still here by God’s grace because God has been faithful to his church.”

The Arab Spring of January 2011 saw 18 “beautiful days”, where everyone came together because they longed to see a different Egypt. Christians formed human shields around their praying Muslim neighbours to prevent attacks from police, and the Muslims returned the favour for Christians when Sunday came. Churches and mosques were turned into field hospitals to treat the injured. “It was Christian and Muslim doctors treating the bleeding wounds of Egypt, not thinking who’s Christian and who’s Muslim.”

These dreams were dashed with the emergence of the small but organised Muslim Brotherhood group, who won the elections. “We found ourselves in this struggle. We had just got rid of autocracy and now they wanted a theocracy, now they wanted the reign of Islam, they

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wanted Islamic law and they wanted to be the second Saudi Arabia.”

While the Muslim Brotherhood’s President Morsi tried to make it look like he was a president for all, both Christians and moderate Muslims suffered under his reign. This led to the second revolution in 2013.

Dr Zaki said: “We saw, before our own eyes, Egypt slipping away, and that was a terrifying moment. All of a sudden, we’re back on the streets again – Muslims and Christians.”

It was hoped that 25 million would take to the streets. Instead, upwards of 33 million Egyptians protested for a whole week, until he left. What those in Cairo did not realise was that in the south, away from the capital, there were organised groups ready to attack churches the minute their two protest campouts were dispersed.

“We call it Black Wednesday because that night, and over the next three nights, there were some 60 churches attacked… and this is a tiny number compared to the attacks on Christian homes, Christian businesses, Christian hospitals, Christian schools.”

Instead of declaring revenge, as expected by the perpetrators, the Orthodox Pope spoke of forgiveness during a television broadcast. Dr Zaki said, “That speech protected Egypt from a civil war.”

The political upheaval did bring unexpected opportunities to Christians, however, as Dr Zaki explained: “We

Egypt is a spiritual nation…We are a spiritual people.

noticed in Egypt that a lot of bad people were taking advantage of the disarray in the country… As a seminary we thought, why is it that the bad people know how to take advantage of the chaos and the good people just do nothing? And we thought we should take advantage of the chaos too.”

With Egypt descending into lawlessness, the seminary decided to take its chance to expand. Since then, four centres have been formed and in 2014, the seminary started operating online to reach out to the Muslim Arab youth who were becoming disillusioned with Islam.

“They thought this (Islam) was the religion of peace and unity and community. And all of a sudden, the Arab Spring peeled the mask of Islam, and the youth were faced with a religion that was no longer a religion that they could be comfortable claiming as their own.”

She explained there was so much interest in anything but Islam. “Egypt is a spiritual nation…We are a spiritual people. If you look at anything that’s left for us from our ancient history, it’s tombs.

You don’t find Pharaoh’s palaces, you find their tombs…So, as Egyptians, we have it in our DNA to focus on the afterlife… when you talk to Egyptians, they will more likely start experimenting and exploring Christianity as another faith, as opposed to no faith at all. And this was the privilege and the chance for the church to step in.”

The seminary started getting requests from students who wanted to study theology. They had read the Bible and listened to Christian media programmes, and they wanted to go deeper. “This is how, in 2014, we started enrolling

students in the online programme, so that we can train leaders for the church in all of North Africa…and the churches also around the Middle East and the Gulf.”

Pointing out that there were only 70 students at the seminary in 2000, but there are now 600 from 37 countries due to the troubles in Egypt, Dr Zaki said, “Don’t think that God doesn’t bring something beautiful out of crisis.”

The political upheaval has also brought amazing creative energy, said

the professor, explaining that Christian media channel, Sat-7, is one of the biggest success stories and its ministry has sprung to a whole new level since the Arab Spring. Bible societies have been proactive in producing material, engaging people on the internet, and hosting Bible festivals for 100,000 children.

There are also ministries reaching out to the 18–20 million refugees in Egypt.

The Evangelical Fellowship, which gathers all the parachurch organisations,

perhaps demonstrates this growth best – before 2011 there was only about 20, now there are 113.

Concluding her address, Dr Zaki referred to what Paul said in Romans: that a character born out of suffering and perseverance in turn gives birth to hope.

She encouraged PCI to pray for Egypt, saying: “Come alongside us, partner with us, so that the forgotten church will be no longer forgotten.”

Dr Anne Zaki

father to pass on the kind words that had been included in the letter – about him and Sarah Harding chats to Anne about her his ministry. She also asked him again for his upbringing and faith journey. thoughts on the matter. He responded by sending her a book in the post – a book that he Dr Anne Zaki has been a professor of had written in 1973 and that she knew nothing preaching and practical theology at the about. It outlined his view that he believed Evangelical Theological Seminary in Cairo female ordination to be biblical (written four since 2013. She is married to Rev Naji Umran years before Anne was born). and together they have four sons.

“I said to him, ‘Why wouldn’t you tell me Both Anne’s father and grandfather were where you stood?’ He said, ‘I wanted you to Presbyterian ministers and her home come to it yourself. I didn’t want you to be congregation was in downtown Cairo. She influenced in a certain way just because I’m explains how she learnt to participate in your father.’” church life from a young age: “It was a very Anne and husband Naji have shown great small church – only about 40 members, but courage in following God’s leading in their lives. After spending 150 kids in Sunday school, and about 100 in our youth group. time in Canada studying, God called the family back to Egypt in There weren’t enough members to serve all the children so we 2011 – during the Egyptian Revolution – the most tumultuous had this motto: ‘Every member is a minister’.” time in Egypt’s recent history.

From a young age, Anne was serving – helping with preAnne says, “We tested our call. We took 30 days of fasting and schoolers, then leading devotionals with younger children and praying and every single day there was confirmation. And we later serving as a youth leader, when she reached college age. tried to negotiate, saying, ‘We’ll go back The Presbyterian Church in Egypt has next year – once Egypt is calmer.’ And been ordaining women as elders since God called the family both of us heard the same voice: ‘If you 2006, but does not currently ordain go back this year, don’t go back women pastors. Growing up, Anne back to Egypt in 2011… don’t again.’” noticed that women worked for the Years later, the couple realised that the most tumultuous church in many areas during the week returning then gave them more – teaching, preaching, leading camps, time in Egypt’s recent credibility in the community and enabled visiting the sick, leading worship and them to have more influence. In 2011, prayer meetings – but they were never history. around 100,000 Christians left Egypt, so involved in the Sunday service. She the couple found there was important recalls questioning her father on this when she was around the work to do: “We wanted to raise the next generation of age of 10.

Christian leaders.”

“He replied: ‘What do you think?’ I said, ‘I don’t know – you Anne began working as a professor at the Evangelical make it feel like Sunday is too holy for women to do anything.’

Theological Seminary in Cairo in 2013; she applied to do a PhD And my father said, ‘Keep thinking about this. This is good.’ He in 2017 and completed it five years later. didn’t give me any answers.”

Juggling work life with a busy home life hasn’t always been Many years later, after studying abroad and completing a easy. She says, “A wise woman once told me: ‘B is for balance. master’s degree in Divinity from Calvin Theological Seminary, You’re going to kill yourself if you try to get an A in all areas Anne applied for ministry in the Presbyterian Church in Egypt, of life. You just have to accept that if you want to do all these despite the policy of not ordaining women. She was turned things, you’re going to need to live with a B.’ This is a really hard down several times, but the application caused the Church fact of life to accept for an over-achiever like myself! But it is so to consider the issue more fully. It was debated and discussed freeing.” through committees and wider Church engagement, until in Anne also affirms the importance of finding time to spend 2016, the denomination decided to stop discussing the matter with God. She says, “It’s a discipline of solitude – of saying to for 10 years (it therefore can’t be debated again until 2026).

God: ‘Remind me who you are and how you see me.’”

After Anne’s first rejection letter in 2008, she wrote to her

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Kenya revisited Jean Gibson reflects on a recent trip to Kenya she and husband Brian undertook, representing PCI at the 40th anniversary celebrations of the Presbyterian Church of East Africa’s (PCEA) Theological Education by Extension programme (TEE), a programme they started back in the early 1980s when they served as PCI missionaries.

“H

ow great thou art, how great thou art.”

The music swelled around us as hundreds of African voices joined in the refrain.

As they transitioned seamlessly from English into Swahili words, our hearts lifted in worship and we joined with our African brothers and sisters, thanking God for this opportunity to experience his international cross-cultural church.

We had been invited to attend a conference in Mombasa to celebrate the

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40th anniversary of the setting up of TEE in Kenya. Theological Education

by Extension had become the main focus of our work soon after we arrived in the country back in 1982 to work with the Presbyterian Church of East Africa (PCEA). Because of the shortage of ministers within PCEA churches, much of the ministry fell on the shoulders of lay people. Alongside our work in the lay training centre near our home, we set up a programme of TEE courses for those willing to help in church ministry but unable to leave their home situation to access Bible and theological studies. By August 1983, almost 300 people across Kenya had enrolled to do the first course.

Little did we think that 40 years later we would stand in a Mombasa church and look out over an audience of TEE

By August 1983, almost 300 people across Kenya had enrolled to do the first course.

coordinators from across the country. A whole new generation is now studying God’s Word, using the courses and tools set in place all those years ago. The Basic Diploma, made up of the eight original courses, is still the most popular, with 3,000 people studying it at present. TEE has grown and evolved; more courses have been added and the programme has spread throughout East Africa and further afield. Rev John Gatu, current TEE director, announced in his overview at the conference that 27,000 people had studied TEE over the past 40 years.

Of course, the event was celebrated with much singing and dancing, the cutting of a cake and the presentation of a book to each delegate, recording the history of TEE in PCEA. The theme for the conference was printed on the conference shirts which each delegate received: ‘Sound Theology for a Safe Society’. PCEA Moderator, Rt Rev Patrick Mutahi, opened the conference by highlighting the need for a good understanding of the Word of God, both knowing it and living it out.

Over the years since its inception, seven directors have headed up the work of TEE. Brian told the story of its beginning and presented the current director with a copy of one of the original courses which we typed on a portable typewriter, ran off on a duplicating machine, collated by hand and got bound in head office. It is a very different book to the colourful, glossy TEE productions of today, but significant in all that it represents.

Rev Uel Marrs took over the work when we left in 1989 and after him came a series of Kenyan directors. As the various directors took it in turn to talk about their time in office, it was wonderful to see their enthusiasm for the programme and the way God had used each of them to deepen and expand the work in different ways.

Since 2013, PCI has had input into TEE through the work of Naomi Leremore. Originally from Larne and now based in Nairobi, Naomi has been working with a team of local writers to produce new materials on a range of topics, including Christian music, and politics and civic duties. On the TEE board of management, Naomi helps to expand and promote the work of TEE. It was a joy to meet up with her again and get to know some of her colleagues.

One of those on the writing team we had already met some years ago when she was a children’s and youth worker in Mukuyu congregation in Kenya. Now working in a different congregation, Gladwell is using her gifts of communication, including music, to share the message of God’s Word in an African context. Gifted, committed young leaders like Gladwell raise a beacon of hope for the future of the church in Kenya.

TEE is now recognised as the leading programme in rehabilitation of prisoners.

One of the older delegates at the conference was Evanson, who was a member of the Church of the Torch, beside our home back in the 1980s.

Today, he is still in that congregation and enjoyed reminiscing with us and sharing photographs of those who were in the very first TEE group in the congregation.

Evanson is now the coordinator for groups in that parish area. He shared how one of the groups included church ministers from two other denominations, interested in starting TEE in their own churches. He was delighted that most of those who had studied TEE in his local groups were now preaching in various churches on Sundays.

Tabitha, a coordinator in Happy Valley Parish, told us how her interest in TEE began when she did the Basic Diploma course in 2016. Concerned about the mental health crisis in the country, she encouraged a special group to study the TEE Diploma in Guidance and Psychological Counselling, enabling them to help many struggling in the community around them. During Covid, online TEE groups sprang up, especially among younger people. When they began to meet in person, they asked her for separate groups from adults. With their own leader, the young people are now forging ahead in studying the Bible together. Tabitha was excited about going back to share the content of the conference with all her groups.

After each session, people came forward to talk to us, to take photographs and to express their appreciation for the work that we had done in starting TEE. Everyone seemed to be an ambassador for the programme, representing their parish at the conference but going back to their home situations determined to spread the word about the benefit of TEE. One lady shared: “There has been no TEE group in our church for the past 10 years. We really need it, so I’ve come to the conference to learn about it so that I can go back and start a group in our own area.” Another young man, just 29 years old, already had 10 TEE groups running in his parish.

One of the most exciting developments has been the growth of the programme within prisons. At first people struggled to understand what the church was trying to do. Gradually it became obvious that the TEE students were doing well within the prison system and were becoming leaders within their own prison community, often being referred to as ‘pastors’. On their release, their reintegration into society has been so successful that TEE is now recognised as the leading programme in rehabilitation of prisoners.

A moving moment in the conference came when an elderly man came forward to share his story of studying TEE in prison and of the effect it had on his life. Looking back, he said, “I was not arrested; I was rescued, so that I could go to prison, do TEE and find Jesus.”

After 27 years in prison, he was released, returned to his family and retook his marriage vows. He now serves as an elder in his congregation and expressed his desire to share the Word of God: “I want to tell my story so that no other young man will follow the path that I took.”

A few days after the conference, we returned to Nairobi where the Moderator, Dr Sam Mawhinney, and his wife Karen were commencing their overseas tour in Kenya. On our last day, we visited Kikuyu hospital together, where the Moderator had worked for a year as a medical doctor and next door to where we had lived as a family back in the 1980s. The four of us walked the local paths together. After 40 years, it felt like a kind of pilgrimage as our time in Kenya came to a close.

We do appreciate the opportunity we had to be in Kenya for this significant celebration in the life of the church there. It was a chance to meet friends and colleagues from long ago, to praise God for all that he has done over the years and to look ahead to what he might accomplish in the days to come.

As the PCEA Moderator pointed out in his keynote conference address: “There remains yet very much land to be possessed” ( Joshua 13:1).

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Understanding

forgiveness

Ken McFarland, author of a new book on forgiveness, gives his views on how we can understand this issue more fully.

W

ithin the field of theological study, there are few subjects as personally challenging as forgiveness.

When choosing to address the subject, particularly in a post-conflict society, it is necessary to tread a delicate path.

Therefore, it is hardly surprising that many church leaders tend to keep the subject as a whole at arm’s length, choosing rather to deal with the less controversial aspects of forgiveness as it impinges on relationships within the body of believers, where a forgiving attitude is essential for a healthy church. The problem with this take on forgiveness, is that it is not easily replicated in the real world in which we live.

There is another problem for believers who seek to delve a little deeper into the subject of forgiveness, and it is found in much of the associated theological literature available today. While authors seek to present a biblically-based examination of forgiveness, the modern trend, I contend, is predominantly towards the downplaying of repentance, and the promotion of unconditional forgiveness. The outworking of this approach places the emphasis on the Christian believer to forgive in all circumstances, regardless of whether an offender has displayed any sign of remorse, let alone having genuinely sought forgiveness. Again, in the context of our divided past, where wounds remain

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raw, the promotion of unconditional forgiveness can often do more harm than good.

The Christian approach to conflict resolution should be to nurture an attitude of love and a willingness to forgive in line with the Apostle Peter’s teaching in 1 Peter 4:8: “Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins.” It must also be understood, however, that “love” is not expected to cover all “sins”. Indeed, Jesus’ own teaching as recorded in Matthew 18:15–17 bears further witness to the truth that there may be occasions when, short of repentance on the part of an offender, forgiveness cannot be granted.

We see an example of such a scenario in a dispute between the Apostle Paul, and Alexander the coppersmith (2 Timothy 4:14–15). In writing to Timothy, Paul issues this word of caution: “Alexander the coppersmith did me much harm.

May the Lord repay him according to his works.” While we are not privy as

…in the context of our divided past, where wounds remain raw, the promotion of unconditional forgiveness can often do more harm than good.

to whether any attempt to resolve the dispute had taken place between Paul and Alexander, it is evident that the matter remained unresolved, whereupon Paul was content to leave it in the hands of a just God. The distinction therefore between covering an offence in love, and withholding forgiveness until there is a recognition of wrongdoing, is determined by the seriousness of the offence. In short, those more serious offences which have the potential to undermine a faith community, or disrupt family or wider society, require repentance on the part of an offender before forgiveness can be granted.

However, before we conclude that forgiveness is relatively straightforward, there are three difficult aspects worthy of examination.

The first challenge we face is that when there has been genuine repentance by an offender, forgiveness must be granted.

Following directly on from Jesus’ teaching on the necessity of repentance (Matthew 18:15–17) Peter asks the following question: “Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? Up to seven times?” (v21). Peter probably thought he was being rather magnanimous by suggesting one should forgive “seven times”. However, Jesus replies: “I do not say to you, up to seven times, but up to seventy times seven” (v22). While the mathematician might determine that Jesus is suggesting

an offender should be forgiven 490 times, such number counting is to miss the point entirely. The radical message Jesus is relaying here is that when an offender truly repents, forgiveness cannot be withheld.

At this point it is tempting to seek excuses, and indeed this was the reaction of the apostles in Luke 17:3–4, where Jesus declares: “If your brother sins against you, rebuke him; and if he repents, forgive him. And if he sins against you seven times in a day, and seven times in a day returns to you, saying, ‘I repent’, you shall forgive him.”

The apostles respond with the plea that they lack the faith to comply with such a demand (Luke 17:5). Nevertheless, Jesus is quick to counter their excuses and says: “If you have faith as a mustard seed, you can say to this mulberry tree, ‘Be pulled up by the roots and be planted in the sea’, and it would obey you.” In effect, Jesus is saying it is not a matter of faith, but of obedience. And by way of emphasising the point yet further, Jesus relays the duties of a hard-working servant, who, despite his arduous schedule, is still expected to fulfil all the duties expected of him (Luke 17:7–10).

However, there is the danger that some might think it would be easier if the perpetrator didn’t repent at all. And if we are honest, there is a self-righteous streak in all of us which derives some contentment looking down on those who have wronged us. The problem with this mindset is that it can spawn those negative emotions of resentment and bitterness. While many Christian counsellors will contend that the act of forgiving is the only way to alleviate those negative emotions, and while such advice is indeed commendable for

…there may be occasions when, short of repentance on the part of an offender, forgiveness cannot be granted. resolving the myriad of relatively minor infringements committed against us; seeking closure for those more serious offences, where no remorse has been expressed by a wrongdoer, presents a second challenge.

Referring again to Paul’s dealings with the unrepentant Alexander, we get a glimpse of the biblical foundation on which Paul places his reasoning when in his letter to the Romans, he quotes from Deuteronomy and declares: “Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord” (Romans 12:19). When a great hurt has been caused to someone, it inevitably takes a measure of faith beyond what we ourselves are capable of, to set aside those negative emotions and place our trust in God who promises to administer justice in his time. There are no short cuts in this respect, as anything less than a Christ-centred approach will have us floundering.

There is also a third, and in many respects, a more difficult challenge which centres on Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 5:44: “But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you.”

One of the surest ways to overcome those negative emotions which block our path to closure, is to develop a different mindset toward those who have harmed us. A little insight to what

“loving an enemy” might entail, is found in the fact that Jesus uses the word ‘agape’ when speaking of love. It is not ‘eros’ (physical or sexual love), nor ‘philia’ (brotherly love), rather agape speaks of selfless concern for others. We find a perfect example in the story of the young Israelite servant girl, who having been taken captive by the Assyrians, now finds herself a slave in the house of Naaman her master (2 Kings 5). This young girl had every reason to despise Naaman, and yet she felt compassion for her master’s plight as he slowly succumbed to the incurable disease of leprosy.

As previously stated, there are no shortcuts on the road to forgiveness and reconciliation, and it is also a journey we cannot undertake alone. With Jesus walking alongside us, we have access to his Word as we ask the searching question: despite the wrongs I may have endured, how do my thoughts, words and actions contribute to achieving reconciliation – in my personal relationships, in my family, and even in wider society?

Ken McFarland is an elder in Mountjoy Presbyterian Church, County Tyrone.

Having retired from the police force, he achieved a BA Honours degree in theology, and presently volunteers with Faith Mission Bookshops.

Forgiveness Through the Lens of Heaven: Dealing with unresolved conflict Ken McFarland Maurice Wylie Media £9.99

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Presbyterians in Pennsylvania

Following an article in the November Herald, focusing on the migration of Ulster Presbyterians to Pittsburgh, Billy Kennedy now traces Ulster links at Donegal Presbyterian Church, Lancaster County, Pennsylvania.

D

onegal Presbyterian Church near Lancaster in eastern Pennsylvania was the focal point for one the earliest Scots-Irish (Ulster-Scots) settlements on American soil.

The congregation was established as early as 1721, with families from Co Donegal moving inland from Philadelphia after sailing from Londonderry. They set up homes on the Indian-titled territory of Chiquesalunga, fertile and largely wilderness lands hitherto only inhabited by native American Indian tribes.

Presbyterianism was taken to America

by Donegal pastor Rev Francis Makemie in 1683 and, in 1706, he founded the Philadelphia Presbytery, the first independent church body of any kind in the American ‘New World’ colonies.

By 1717, there were 13 organised Presbyterian churches in the region and, although many Glasgow and Edinburgheducated clerics arrived from Ulster and Scotland on the emigrant ships, they

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could not meet the growing demands of new congregations that were sprouting up as the frontier was pushed westwards.

The earliest documented evidence of a Presbyterian congregation at Donegal Springs was contained in a letter dated 1 August 1721, dispatched by Andrew Galbraith to the Presbytery of New Castle in Delaware. In the letter, Galbraith asked for a minister to support the people at “Chicken Longus” (his spelling of the word Chiqueslunga).

Supply ministers were sent, but without adequate guides in the rugged frontier terrain they lost their way and never appeared. The first full-time pastor was

Supply ministers were sent, but without adequate guides in the rugged frontier terrain they lost their way and never appeared.

Scottish-born Rev James Anderson, who had worked in America since 1709 and supplied a New York city pulpit before the call in August 1727 to the log cabin meeting house at Donegal Springs, along the Susquehanna River and bountiful springs.

A stone church was erected in 1730 to replace the log cabin, the stone gathered by men and women of the congregation from the quarries and fields nearby.

Tradition in the area relates that the women drove the wagon carrying the stones to the site of the building, and that the old horse which pulled the wagon died as the last stone was placed at the peak of the hip-roofed structure. As a gesture of gratitude for faithful service, the horse’s head was buried under the pulpit.

The first Donegal church was erected similar to the church at Rathneeny near Donegal town in Ireland. A cemetery was attached soon after the Donegal Springs church became established, and a school was up and running within a short period.

The first gravestone belongs to Thomas Jamison, who died in 1732.

Rev Colin McFarquhar, church minister during the Revolutionary War, is buried there beside his wife Elizabeth, as is Colonel Alexander Lowrey, who led a battalion of militia from the church against the British at the battle of Brandywine in 1777.

Colonel Lowrey was one of the first in the region to advocate independence. He was a delegate to Carpenter’s Hall in Philadelphia, where the resolution in favour of independence was passed in 1776. A contemporary, Colonel Bertram Galbraith raised a battalion in 1775, composed entirely of Donegalians and a number were killed or taken prisoner at the battle of Long Island.

Other members of Donegal Presbyterian Church who distinguished themselves in battle were Lieutenant Colonel William Clark, Captain Hugh Pedan, Captain Alexander Boggs, Quartermaster Sergeant David Jamison, Captain Joseph Work, Captain Nathaniel Lytle, Captain Joseph Lytle, Captain Alexander Scott and Captain Robert C. Craig.

It was Lurgan, Co Armagh-born James Logan, the agent for Governor William Penn in Pennsylvania, who reserved all of Donegal township for the Scots-Irish. The township was later divided into Rapho, Mount Joy, East and West Donegal and Convoy townships, all named after locations in Co Donegal, back in Ireland.

It included what are now the boroughs of Elizabethtown, Marietta and Mount Joy. Logan, a Quaker, who “counted considerable numbers of good sober people” among the heavy Ulster migration, allowed very few land grants in that place after 1720, largely as a result of the disarray after the death of William Penn in 1720. An exception was made in the case of the Scots-Irish people, who, he said: “If kindly used, will, I believe, be orderly as they have hitherto been, as easily dealt with; they will also, I expect be a leading example to others.”

The grants were confirmed for the settlement at Donegal. Samuel Evans, in his history of Lancaster County (1883), refers to Donegal as “one of the most remarkable Scotch-Irish settlements in America”, while Wayland Dunaway in

James Buchanan…was the 15th US president (1857–61) and…had also lived at Ramelton in Co Donegal.

The Scotch-Irish of Colonial Pennsylvania states that Donegal was a major nursery of Scotch-Irish Presbyterianism.

The Encyclopaedia of the Presbyterian Church of America (1884) says of Donegal Church: “Of several Scotch-Irish churches in America the one in Donegal township, Lancaster County, Pennsylvania was the most notable. It became the nursery of Presbyterianism in middle, western and south-eastern Pennsylvania, and of Virginia and North Carolina.”

Samuel Fulton was a typical Ulster pioneer settler at Donegal township, taking up residence on 309 acres at Old Peter’s Road, about a mile from the church. He married Elizabeth Stewart, and the humble Fulton stone cabin, probably built in 1724, was still standing in 1997. It was purchased by the trustees of the Ulster-American Folk Park and was dismantled, stone by stone, and transported across the Atlantic for siting at the Omagh, Co Tyrone theme park.

Members of the Fulton family became involved in the mercantile business, importing linen and general merchandise and exporting flaxseed, staves and flour. James Fulton, of the same family from Ramelton, Co Donegal, headed a shipping company which carried emigrants from Londonderry to Philadephia in the 1760s. He was in partnership with an Ephraim Campbell, of Londonderry.

Mount Joy in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, where Donegal Church is located, has a population of 12,000.

It is distanced 80 miles from the city

of Philadelphia. United States President James Buchanan, resided at Wheatland, Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, not far from Donegal Springs Church. Buchanan, a Jacksonian Democrat, was the 15th US president (1857–61) and of the Buchanan family from Deroran near Omagh, Co Tyrone who had also lived at Ramelton in Co Donegal.

His father James left Londonderry in 1783 with his wife Elizabeth Speer.

They settled in eastern Pennsylvania.

Buchanan was intensely proud of his Ulster Presbyterian roots and he once famously said, with conviction, during his presidential term: “My Ulster blood is my most priceless heritage.”

He was strongly influenced by his father, who, with his wife, were devout Christians. Of his mother, the president, humbly born in a log cabin, wrote: “I attribute my little distinction which I have acquired in life in this world to the blessing which he (God) confided on me with such a mother.” Of his father, Buchanan, uniquely the only bachelor of the 46 United States presidents, said: “My father was a man of practical judgment and of great industry and perseverance.

He was a kind father, sincere friend and an honest and religious man.”

Buchanan was a strict Sabbatarian, reciting daily prayers and being very conversant with the Bible. He died in 1868, aged 77, having served 47 years in the US House of Representatives (Congress), at Washington, in addition to his single term as president. A younger brother, Rev Edward Young Buchanan, was rector of Trinity Episcopal Church in Philadelphia and married Anne Eliza Foster, sister of the eminent 19thcentury American music composer Stephen Collins Foster (with songs like Beautiful Dreamer). Foster’s family, with Presbyterian connections to the Ballougry/Moville area of Co Donegal, also emigrated from Londonderry around 1767.

More information can be found in The Scots-Irish in Pennsylvania and Kentucky and They Sailed from Londonderry by Billy Kennedy.

Billy Kennedy is a senior News Letter journalist and a member of Tandragee Presbyterian Church, Co Armagh.

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REVIEWS

Two Sisters and a Cup of Tea Sarah Dargue and Felicity Carswell PODCAST ««««« Reading the Bible in study groups and one-to-one has been extremely important to sisters, Sarah Dargue and Felicity Carswell, since coming to faith in their 20s.

With the sisters living in different countries, they embraced the new way of working brought about by the Covid-19 pandemic and took the opportunity to study the Bible together. Unable to find many Christian podcasts which nourished them through the opening of God’s Word during lockdown, they decided to record their own, and so ‘Two Sisters and a Cup of Tea’ was born.

Their insightful and well-paced podcast takes a deep dive and explores often complex Bible passages and books; through structured weekly episodes.

Among the episodes I listened to was one on Deuteronomy. In this, the two sisters introduced the book and discussed the challenges in understanding Deuteronomy, both how do we apply its teachings and how the book should be broken down and understood by us.

I also listened to an episode where they introduced Ecclesiastes in which the subject of God always being in our lives was discussed. It was intriguing hearing the true meaning of the book.

The episodes were short, concise and well structured. Lasting around 20 minutes, they are perfect for your daily commute to and from work.

Overall, I enjoyed listening to this podcast.

AH

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

Recovering Life Colin Holmes

PESIOD PUBLICATIONS

£8

The Parish as Oasis: An introduction to practical environmental care ««««« Kevin Hargaden and Ciara Murphy

Like many, Colin Holmes’ life prior to 2020 was hectic as he juggled family commitments with his part-time roles as a community pharmacist and church pastor. Then the author was thrown two curve balls – the disruption to normal life through the Covid pandemic and associated lockdowns, and a lifethreatening medical condition.

A bleed on the brain and subsequent surgery forced Holmes to rest and reflect on what was important. “In a strange, surprising, and sudden way in the hospital I had a sense I was being invited graciously to rest,” he says, adding that he was also called to reflect upon setting aside the busyness of life and selfdependence.

In his book, the author takes the reader through a journey – he firstly shares how he felt disconnected from nature, friends and even from his own body. He then moves on to share his road to recovery, considering teachings contained in Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes and Job as well as the gospels.

“This was the road to return to Who was important and to trust in help that came from beyond myself. It would be in this that I would know recovery that was more than physical, but also relational, emotional, and even spiritual.”

I’ll admit that this book isn’t what I expected, but it was enjoyable. While there are snippets of the author’s recovery and the effects of the Covid lockdowns intertwined throughout, this is a book full of reflections about what is truly important in life, and the hope that we have as Christians.

SH

MESSENGER PUBLICATIONS

£12.95

«««««

It is not often that ‘Presbyterian’ and ‘Jesuit’ occur in the same sentence: Dr Kevin Hargaden is a Presbyterian elder who works alongside Dr Ciara Murphy in the Jesuit Centre for Faith and Justice in Dublin. Their 135-page book calls Christians not to despair in the global environmental crisis. “Your parish is an oasis, waiting to be cultivated.”

Pitched towards a mainly Roman Catholic readership, with frequent references to Pope Francis’s encyclical Laudato Si, there is much nevertheless to challenge any Christians concerned to make an environmental difference.

Critiquing Christmas as celebrated in our culture, they commend ‘Advent Conspiracy’ as a period of waiting and reflection before a 12-day celebration of Christmas with an emphasis on hospitality over gifts and consumption.

Since the biblical story begins and ends with trees in a garden, they suggest that churches intentionally cultivate the spaces around their buildings.

A section on bread presents the challenge: “It would be a travesty to come and take the bread and wine having exploited your fellow Christians.”

There is much practical wisdom, but to gain traction among PCI congregations, parts would need rewritten to address our contexts and traditions more closely.

JF

REVIEWERS

JE – Jeremy Eves is a member of West Church, Bangor RD – Ruth Dalzell is a schools’ worker for Scripture Union

The Surprising Rebirth of Belief in God Justin Brierley TYNDALE HOUSE PUBLISHERS

£13.73

«««««

Informed by conversations with a wide variety of thinkers in his ‘Unbelievable’ podcast, Justin Brierley is an acute observer of the crumbling of new atheism and the rise of theism and search for meaning.

Born from these interactions, his new book is an apologetic tour de force – clear, concise and convincing. The sea of faith ebbed under the onslaught of atheistdeterminist materialism, but people, left feeling hollow and exhausted by the search for meaning which they must invent, have been “surprised to find God waiting for them on the deserted beaches of secularism”.

So, some of the leading thinkers are starting to pursue a story that makes sense of who we are. It is the story of the Logos, who created a world out of love, entered it himself to redeem and restore it; a story where every individual story matters.

Brierley’s contention is that the sea of faith is returning from its furthest ebb. The church needs both apologists in the academy and storytellers in the arts; people in the tradition of C.S. Lewis showing not only that the Christian story is true, but why we have wanted to believe it all along. So, our mission as the church is to transport seekers into another world, a better story, something completely different from their normal everyday life. We need to embrace our beliefs rather than being slightly embarrassed about them.

For thinkers everywhere, this relevant, accessible book is highly recommended.

JE

SH – Suzanne Hamilton is an administrative assistant for the Herald BH – Barbara Huddleston is a member of Second Comber Presbyterian JF – Rev John Faris is minister emeritus of Aghada and Trinity, Cork AH – Andrew Hamilton is a member of St Andrew’s, Bangor

Worship for Workers The Porter’s Gate

AVAILABLE VIA STREAMING SERVICES

««««« On a Sunday, many of the people who gather to worship are those who have been working throughout the week.

They may have faced difficulties and challenges, maybe successes and triumphs. There are things on their mind about their jobs, things they need to talk through with God and yet, it is not likely that these topics will come up in their Sunday worship service.

In order to help with this situation, The Porter’s Gate (a group of Christian

Say Goodbye to Anxiety: A 40-day devotional journal to overcome fear and worry Elle Limebear and Jane Kirby AUTHENTIC MEDIA

£13.85

«««««

This 40-day devotional journal is aimed at anyone who suffers from anxiety at any level. Both authors have battled anxiety to some degree in their lives.

They are open and honest about their

musicians, songwriters, pastor and industry professionals) came together to write worship songs which would help Christians bring their daily work before the Lord.

I really love the music on this album and I’ve found myself coming back to it again and again. As we go about our work, the songs remind us that we also have God’s work to do. There are different themes for different types of workers: joyful workers, frustrated workers, guilty workers, fruitful workers and desperate workers.

The songs aim to show Christians that their daily work can be offered as worship to God. Even though we fall short, God is able to redeem what we offer.

My favourite song is Slow Me Down which opens with the lyrics: “Oh Good Shepherd, would you teach me how to rest/ I’m rushing on, will you make me to lie down.”

This is a great album to listen to during the commute to and from work or when you are feeling the stresses and strains of daily life. It will help you remember God has placed you where you are for his purposes and glory.

RD

struggles in a way that is easy to relate to.

They refer to the need to sometimes seek professional help from a doctor and the use of anxiety medication, depending on the level of severity.

The journal is beautifully laid out, clear and easy to use. The authors suggest doing the 40 days consecutively, but once completed it is also a useful resource to refer back to.

The daily devotionals include Bible verses, questions to ponder and a reflection from one of their own experiences. There are helpful suggestions on how to move forward and each day there is a song to listen to. There is space within the book to record your own thoughts and what you have learnt, as you progress through.

I have found the book very helpful as a daily devotional tool and a reminder that if we trust God we can “overflow with hope” (Romans 15:13).

BH

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LIFE IN PCI Balteagh marks 200 years In 2023, Balteagh Presbyterian Church, a rural congregation on the outskirts of Limavady, celebrated their 200th anniversary under the banner, ‘Great is Thy Faithfulness’.

Throughout the year, all the organised events pointed to the amazing faithfulness of our Heavenly Father.

The celebrations commenced with a dinner for senior members which coincided with the 90th birthday of senior minister emeritus Rev James Clarke, who was in attendance on the day. In April, Ballyclare Male Choir shared their ministry in song – an uplifting evening that glorified God. The church’s flower festival attracted visitors from near and far. The floral director, Cherie Nummy, created beautiful biblical themed displays and this was a joyous time of fellowship and fun for all. The minister emeritus, Rev John Noble, and his wife Lynda were unable to attend, but John provided a lovely message to the congregation which was included in the festival brochure. The weekend featured an exhibition of photos and memorabilia across the years, and was a great source of nostalgia and enjoyment for many.

Dr John Kirkpatrick (who was PCI Moderator until Above: Tree planting at the manse.

Below: The flower festival featured an old capstone in June 2023) led the closing service for the festival. the vestibule arrangement.

This was special to the congregation because he was born and baptised in Balteagh.

‘Good and Beautiful You’ was organised for girls and ladies, led by Helen Hunter of My Father’s House, and Christina Smyth of Meraki Art, and it was inspiring, challenging and encouraging. A weekend of mission was led by rural chaplain Rev Kenny Hanna. Men enjoyed a time of fellowship and breakfast on the Saturday morning.

A tree was planted to commemorate the King’s coronation, while a visit to the NW200 pits and a treasure hunt and barbecue were also fitted into the busy calendar. Craft class members, with help from others, created 248 hats which have been donated to International Meeting Point, and a metal commemoration Communion token was commissioned for all members, past and present.

Finally, the year concluded with a packed carol service, led by Rev Gary Aitcheson, with representatives from all the offices and organisations taking part.

Christina Smyth offering guidance to the ladies.

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The anniversary cake, created by Laura Purcell, was cut by Dr John Kirkpatrick.

Dr John Kirkpatrick was baptised in Balteagh in the summer of 1956 along with Ivan Loughery, Violet Bradley (nee Moore) and Raymond Stewart.

Some members enjoying the entertainment at the dinner for senior members.

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

100th birthday marked in First Bangor PCI Moderator Dr Sam Mawhinney recently visited Eileen Grant, a member of First Presbyterian Church, Bangor, on the occasion of her 100th birthday. Also pictured are Rev Mairisine Stanfield (minister of the County Down church), Karen Mawhinney (elder) and pastoral team member Daphne Gilmore.

Birthday celebrations in Crossroads Tillie McArthur, a member of Crossroads Presbyterian Church, celebrated her 100th birthday recently. She is pictured with former PCI Moderator Dr Rob Craig, her daughter Christine, Richard Russell (session clerk) and Rev Ross Kernohan (minister of the County Donegal church).

Retirement in Kilkeel Main Street, Garvagh member celebrates 100th birthday Betty Templeton, a member of Main Street, Garvagh, celebrated her 100th birthday recently with family and church members. She is pictured with PCI Moderator Dr Sam Mawhinney.

After serving 44 years as session clerk in Kilkeel Presbyterian Church, George McCullough has retired from his duties. Mr McCullough was ordained as an elder on 26 May 1965, was assistant clerk from 1973 to 1978 and clerk from 1978 to 2022. He served 58 years as an elder and 44 years as session clerk. The minister of the County Down church, Rev Stephen Johnston, thanked him for his faithfulness and presented Mr McCullough with an oil painting of his home with the mountains in the background.

Refurbished manse for Second Comber Contractor David McClune recently handed over the keys to the refurbished Second Comber manse to minister Rev Andrew Conway. Also pictured are: Roy Courtenay (treasurer of the County Down church), Mary McIlveen (clerk of session), Wayne Storey, Sarah Conway, Heather Laird (congregational secretary), Sarah Otley and John Weir (manse subcommittee). In front are Annie and Peter Conway. Photo courtesy of Newtownards Chronicle.

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LIFE IN PCI

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

Anniversary celebrated in Second Castlederg

Banagher’s Golden Hour marks anniversary

Members of Second Castlederg PW recently celebrated their 70th anniversary by having a special thanksgiving service, with refreshments served afterwards in the church hall. The guest speaker was Eleanor Drysdale, deaconess at Wellington Presbyterian Church, Ballymena, who is pictured with 96-year-old Iris Adams.

A great afternoon tea and talk was had by the senior members of Banagher Golden Hour as they celebrated their 20th anniversary. Pictured are: Eileen Ward, Rev Noel Ward (minister emeritus of the County Londonderry church and guest speaker), Ida Canning (secretary) and Stanley Warnock (founder and present chairman).

CROSSWORD Puzzle no 286 1

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ACROSS 1 Eyes of the house (11) 8 Jesus is this to us (7) 10 One who looks after another (5) 11 Occur as a consequence (5) 12 Old English county (5) 13 To drink (6) 16 Enemy (3) 19 Pottery (11) 20 Writer of sacred songs (8) 23 Precious stone (4) 26 We are to be these for Christ (11) 28 Stretch for (5)

DOWN 1 Irish boy band (8) 2 Month of remembrance (8) 3 Wind instrument (4) 4 Money pouch (5) 5 The most pleasant (6) 6 Biblical parchment (6) 7 Of God’s Word (10) 9 French one (2) 14 We have none of these here! (5) 15 Beautiful holiday destination (7) 17 Clever clogs (4) 18 Three people or things (4) 20 Fruit (4) 21 Father God (4) 22 Cleansing agent (4) 24 Famed for leaning tower (4) 25 Not against (3) 27 School subject (initials) (2)

REFLECTIONS

Final destination Ruth Sanderson

L

et me take you back with me to a couple of weeks ago, was an approximation of this. I had to swerve a car bumper along on the worst journey I’ve had in a long time. For strewn on the motorway, then had to zig zag in the darkness my work, I travel the length and breadth of Britain… I along the back roads of rural Norfolk, avoiding branches as am absolutely blessed that I get to be nosy for a living the wind cracked them like kindling from their trees. I finally and people pay me to do that. The travelling is a bonus; I see arrived at the hotel in the pitch black as they were about to lots of places which no one really goes to and all of which lock the doors, exhausted, cold, wet, shaken after a 10-hour hold interesting stories, usually told by earnest, enthusiastic, trip, risking life and limb. My phone pinged. It was a message fascinating people. Yet the week before last, I longed for an from the person presenting the programme, who only lived 45 office job. minutes away.

I was on my way to north Norfolk, which isn’t the closest “Not coming,” it read. “Too windy. Sorry.” place to my home in Fife. Lots of time to read, catch up on I could actually have cried if I hadn’t been so tired. Instead, work, and be nosy with fellow passengers I flopped on the hotel bed – it was after in a non-professional capacity. However, the storm was still raging …life is like a journey. It midnight, I hadn’t factored in one thing – Storm outside, and very soon I was asleep.

Isha. It could have been any of the named can be hard but it’s worth The next morning, I opened my eyes and storms we’ve had this year, which are stretched out. I opened my curtains to the coming thick and fast, and the chances are it for the destination. most amazing view. The wind had died that you are reading this in a tidy, warm down, the sky had cleared. The land was sitting room in front of a nice, cosy fire, or in the kitchen with entirely flat and beyond the low fence of the hotel was a vast a cup of tea. (As a side note, I really like imagining where you array of yellow-reeded marsh, leading out to a wide blue sea, are reading this – maybe you’ve got in from church, had your the horizon and sky almost indistinguishable. Birds swirled in lunch and now it’s time to flick through the Herald. Maybe the sky overhead, mixed about by the wind they called to one you’re still in church and this isn’t even your copy!) Anyway, I another in high warbling song. Clouds danced excitedly above digress; the point is, wherever you are reading this, the chances them. Dawn was breaking over the thin line of land and the are, yet another named storm might be battering down outside. ribbon of sea, the vista lit up with a shimmering gold as the So, imagine then if you will, the slight trepidation with which I morning sun lit up the ocean like a carpet of sequins. began my trip.

As I stared out at my new view, it made me think of how It started to go wrong almost immediately, with every life is like a journey. It can be hard but it’s worth it for the traveller’s most dreaded three words: ‘Rail replacement service’. destination. I thought of how many times in life it feels like We trudged on the bus and set off to the airport. However, we a slog, how often it can be hard as we navigate the twists and didn’t end up at the airport, we ended up very far away from turns of a storm in the darkness. How it can often feel as it in fact. So, off I dashed, sure I was going to miss my flight, though it’s not going as smoothly as we had hoped, that there running through the streets of Edinburgh in a howling gale and are too many U-turns and dead ends, and how we can be such panting and soaked, jumped into a taxi. I made it with moments weary travellers because of it. The wonderful promise for us in to spare, even though, you guessed it, the plane was delayed. I Christ though, is that our destination is eternity with him. It’s was lucky though as most of them were cancelled. Eventually I the sun-filled morning of his creation; it’s being forever in his boarded what can only be described as the bumpiest flight I’ve presence. ever been on. We landed with three loud bumpy wallops on the runway in Birmingham. Late, I set out in the rain again to the hire car centre.

“Sorry, we don’t have a record of your booking,” they said.

Eventually, I managed to blag myself a car and was off on a three-hour drive cross-country. Have you ever seen the disaster movie Twister about the tornado chasers in America? My drive

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Sloan Street Presbyterian Church, Lisburn are hoping to appoint a

ministry apprentice This will be a 2-year post from summer 2024 and will include attendance at Cornhill Belfast.

It is particularly suitable for those considering full-time ministry or anyone keen to learn more about working in the Church while being trained in the core skills of understanding and communicating the Bible’s message to others.

Candidates will have a wide range of opportunities to serve in the local church and benefit from significant mentoring from experienced ministers.

For more information contact info@sloanstreet.org

For information on the Apprentice scheme visit www.presbyterianireland.org/apprentice

MILLISLE AND BALLYCOPELAND PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 250th ANNIVERSARY

Flower Festival “WALKING BY FAITH”

Friday 24th May 2024 Saturday 25th May 2024 Sunday 26th May 2024

10-00am - 8-00pm 10-00am - 8-00pm 2-00pm - 5-00pm

Thanksgiving Service Sunday 6pm

Other local attractions include: Eden Pottery Mount Stewart House & Gardens Ballycopeland Windmill

Refreshments, Morning Coffee, Light Lunches, Afternoon teas to 7-30pm Group bookings essential for further information on catering contact

Patricia Lightbody Mob: 07912449690 Proceeds in aid of Church Funds Registered Charity in N.I. - NIC 105206

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Church AV Specialists

PA systems • Loop systems Projectors & screens • Installation & repairs alan@audiopromotions.co.uk www.audiopromotions.co.uk

07855 450887

City Missionary Do you have a heart to reach people with the message of the Gospel?

BELFAST CITY

MISSION

Do you have experience in sharing your love for Jesus with others in an urban environment?

If so, could God be calling you to work in Belfast?

Belfast City Mission is looking to recruit a full-time Missionary to join our team. The successful candidate must be able to demonstrate a track record in evangelism through preaching, teaching and organising outreach programmes.

Contract: Full-time permanent (subject to a satisfactory probation period).

For further information and an application form please contact The Executive Secretary, Belfast City Mission, Assembly Buildings, 2–10 Fisherwick Place, Belfast, BT1 6DW. Tel: (028) 9032 0557 Email: info@belfastcitymission.org.uk Closing date for applications: Friday 29 March 2024.

There is an occupational requirement that the person appointed is sympathetic to the views of the Presbyterian Church in Ireland.

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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.

2. LEAVE TO CALL DEFERRED

BALLYLINNEY: REV MARK RUSSELL: Dr Michael McBrien, 24 Lylehill Green, Templepatrick, BT39 0BF.

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.

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.

DROMORE and DRUMQUIN: REV E.T. FRAZER: (Dromore) Mr Lynden Keys, 25 New Park Road, Dromore, Omagh, BT78 3JU. (Drumquin) Dr Paul Booth, 54 Bradan Road, Drumquin, Omagh, BT78 4QQ.

BALLYWILLAN: REV STUART MORROW: Mr Robert Wilson, 13 Millbrook Avenue, Portstewart, BT55 7DZ.

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

BANGOR, WEST (ASSOCIATE): (Reviewable Tenure – 3 years) VERY REV DR C.J.C. McMULLEN: Mr Lindsay Conway OBE, 14 Rutherglen Gardens, Bangor, BT19 1DD.

RICHVIEW: REV N.S. HARRISON: Mr Victor Garland, 25 Abingdon Drive, Belfast, BT12 5PX.

CASTLEROCK: 60% Part-time REV D.H. BROWN: Miss Heather McSparran, 26 Freehall Road, Castlerock, BT51 4TR. 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. EGLINTON: REV STEPHEN LOWRY: Mr Dougie Crowe, 25 Meadow Park, Crawfordsburn, BT19 1JN. ENNISKILLEN: REV G.M. ANDRICH: Miss Kate Doherty, Tiernisk, Drumgay, Enniskillen, BT74 4GH. FAHAN: (Home Mission) 50% Congregational Ministry, 50% CMI Mission Duties (Reviewable Tenure – 7 years) REV P. POOTS: Mr James Lamberton, 1 Deanfield, Limavady Road, Londonderry, BT47 6HY. 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. LEGACURRY: REV A.J. THOMPSON: Mr J. Ferguson, 142 Comber Road, Lisburn, BT27 6XQ. LOUGHGALL and TARTARAGHAN: REV ALASTAIR McNEELY: (Loughgall) Mr James MacQueen, 114 Moy Road, Portadown, BT62 1SA. (Tartaraghan) Mr Norman Cornett, 11 Cloncarrish Road, Portadown, Craigavon, BT62 1RN. 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. RAVENHILL: REV J. WARBURTON: Mr Denis Marriott, 216 Orby Drive, Belfast, BT5 6BE. 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.

48

WEXFORD CHURCH DEVELOPMENT: (Home Mission) (Reviewable Tenure – 7 years) MR RICK HILL: CMI Secretary, c/o Assembly Buildings, 2–10 Fisherwick Place, Belfast, BT1 6DW.

Herald March 2024

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

BOVEEDY: REV DR T.J. McCORMICK, Minister of First 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 ANAGHLONE and GARVAGHY: REV D. CONKEY: (Anaghlone) Mr John Logan, 4 Bluehill Road, Katesbridge, Banbridge, BT32 5LU. (Garvaghy) Mr James Smyth, 35 Tullyglush Road, Banbridge, BT32 3TN. ARMAGH, FIRST: REV ALAN MARSH: 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 and KILLALA: (Home Mission) REV D.J. CLARKE: Mr Geoffrey Shannon, Robin Hill, Carraun, Corballa, Ballina, Co Mayo, F26 A070.

BALLYCASTLE and CROAGHMORE: REV G.W.M. GLASGOW: (Ballycastle) Pat Shirley, 22 Dunamallaght Rd, Ballycastle BT54 6PB. (Croaghmore) Andy McGugan, 158 Whitepark Road, Bushmills, BT57 8SS. BALLYNAHATTY, CREEVAN and FINTONA: REV JONATHAN COWAN: (Ballynahatty & Creevan) Mr John Nevin, 116A Clanabogan Road, Omagh, BT78 1SN. (Fintona) Mr Keith Boland, 119 Blackhill Road, Fintona, Omagh, BT78 2LN.

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

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.

BANAGHER: REV DAVID BROWNLOW: Mr Ivan J. Montgomery, 66 Teenaght Road, Claudy, BT47 4DD.

HYDEPARK and LYLEHILL: REV DEREK WEIR: (Hydepark) Mrs Lynas Alexander, 22 Broadacres, Templepatrick, BT39 0AY.

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.

KELLS: (Home Mission) REV ALAN McQUADE: Miss Ruth McCartney, Shancarnan, Moynalty, Kells, Co Meath, A82 PF60.

BELVOIR: REV B.J. WALKER: Mr Brian Dunwoody, 19 Drumart Drive, Belfast, BT8 7ET. BOARDMILLS, TRINITY: REV JOHN TORRENS: Mr Adrian Patterson, 41 Cabra Road, Legacurry, BT26 6NB. 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. CASTLEDERG, SECOND AND URNEY: REV ROBERT McFAUL: (Second Castlederg) Mr Bert Huey, Tossa, 8 Listymore Road, Castlederg, BT81 7JG. (Urney) Mr Norman McMullan, 80 Orchard Road, Strabane, BT82 9QT. CLOUGH, BALLYMENA: REV T.D. KANE: Mr Ian Johnston, 48 Springmount Road, Ballymena, BT44 9RB. CORBOY and MULLINGAR: REV DR K.D. McCRORY: (Mullingar) Mr Wilson Porter, Joristown, Ruharney, Kilucan, Co Westmeath, N91 A344. (Corboy) Mr Christiaan Potgieter, 2 Pine Grove, Clonbalt Woods, Longford.

CRUMLIN: REV Stephen McNIE: Mr James Livingstone, “Edin”, 56 Largy Road, Crumlin, BT29 4RW. CUMBER and UPPER CUMBER: REV S.W. HIBBERT: (Cumber) Mr Cecil Pollock, 248 Tamnaherin Road, Londonderry, BT47 3LY. (Upper Cumber) Mr Jack McFarland, 12 Cregg Road, Claudy, Londonderry, BT47 4HX.

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. LOUGHBRICKAND and SCARVA: REV DR. MARK GRAY: (Loughbrickland) Mr Fred Cairns, 20 Scarva Street, Loughbrickland, Co Down. (Scarva) Mr Robert Jordan, 3 Station Rd, Scarva, Co Armagh, BT63 6JY. LISBURN, FIRST: VERY REV DR D. BRUCE: Miss Margaret Thompson, 2 Springhill Mews Lisburn BT28 3QG. LURGAN, FIRST: REV L.W. WEBSTER: Mr Norman McCleery, 12 McCormack Gardens, Lurgan, BT66 8LE. MONEYDIG: REV DR S.D.H. WILLIAMSON: Mr Steven Torrens, 115a Agivey Road, Kilrea, Coleraine, BT51 5UZ. 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. OMAGH, TRINITY and GILLYGOOLEY: REV JANE NELSON: Mr Samuel Gallagher, Ramona, Strathroy, Omagh, BT79 7JE. PORTAVOGIE: REV G.J. SIMPSON: Mr Trevor Kennedy, 1 Cairndore Road, Newtownards, BT23 8RD.

DONEGORE, SECOND REV E. McDOWELL: Mr Samuel Gawn, 120 Parkgate Road, Kells.

PORTRUSH: REV DR JOHN COULTER: Prof John Gillespie, 12 Randal Park, Portrush, BT56 8JJ.

DONEGAL TOWN and STRANORLAR: REV ROBERT ORR: (Donegal Town) Mr Oswald Perry, Drumenagh, Donegal Town, F94 N7P8. (Stranorlar) Mrs Audrey Chambers, Magheracorran, Convoy, Co Donegal.

RANDALSTOWN, O.C.: REV G. MOORE: Mr Alun Coulter, 48 Portglenone Road, Randalstown, BT41 3DB.

DROMARA, SECOND: REV DR A. SLEITH: Mr Herbert Chambers, 29 Stewarts Road, Dromara, BT25 2AN.

RATHCOOLE: REV A. CARSON: Mr Norman Creaney, 7 Coolshannagh Park, Newtownabbey, BT37 9LA.

DRUMGOOLAND and KILKINAMURRY: REV ANDY DOWNEY: (Drumgooland) Dr Alastair Chestnutt, 22 Fruitvalley Road, Ballyward, Castlewellan, Co Down, BT31 9RE. (Kilkinamurry) Mr Mervyn Copes, 43 Carnpark Road, Dromara, Dromore, Co Down, BT25 2HD. DUNDROD: REV R.C. KERR: Mr William McClure, 20 Thorndale Road, Dundrod, BT29 4UD. GARRYDUFF and DUNLOY: REV C.B. MULVENNY: (Garryduff ) Mr Stanley Lee, 12 Cambourne Park, Ballymoney, BT53 7PG. (Dunloy) Mr Jonathan Gault, c/o 26–28 Church Street, Ballymoney, BT53 6DL. 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.

RAPHOE and BALLINDRAIT REV R. EDGAR: Mrs Sylvia Cole, The Common, Raphoe, Donegal.

RATHGAR – CHRIST CHURCH: REV DR S. MAWHINNEY: Mr Paul Fry, 44 Monolea Wood, Firhouse, Dublin 24, D24 A2V3.

SCRABO: REV A. LITTLE: Mr John Doherty, 37 Ballymaleedy Road, Comber, Newtownards, BT23 5RD. TAUGHMONAGH (Church Extension) REV K.H. VINER: TULLYCARNET: REV R.S.J. McILHATTON: VINECASH: REV P.W.A. McCLELLAND: Mr Thomas Graham, 38 Richmount, Portadown, BT62 4JQ.

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

continued on page 50

Herald March 2024

49

CHURCH RECORD continued from page 49 WARRENPOINT and ROSTREVOR: REV J.S. MAGUIRE: (Warrenpoint) Mr Denis Brady, 28 Seaview, Warrenpoint, Newry, BT34 3NJ. (Rostrevor) Mr Terry O’Flynn, 15 Aurora Na Mara, Shore Road, Rostrevor, BT34 3UP. WATERSIDE: REV RICHARD TREGASKIS: Mr William McIlwaine, 19 Glenaden Hill, Altnagelvin Park, Londonderry, BT47 2LJ. WOODLANDS: REV J. MOXEN: Mr Ian Drysdale, 27 Windslow Heights, Carrickfergus, BT38 9AT.

TEMPORARY STATED SUPPLY ARRANGEMENT BALLYCAIRN: REV MORRIS GAULT: Mrs Lucy Mulholland, 32 Blenheim Park, Carryduff, BT8 8NN. BELLVILLE: REV D.S. HENRY: Mr Mervyn King, 29 Ardmore Road, Derryadd, Lurgan, BT66 6QP. GRANGE with CRAIGMORE: REV R.S. AGNEW: Mr Jamie Harris, 32 Portglenone Road, Randalstown, BT41 3BE. NEWTOWNSTEWART and GORTIN: 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. RASHARKIN: REV W. MOODY: Mr Norbury Royle, 96 Drumsaragh Road, Kilrea, BT51 5XR. SPA and MAGHERAHAMLET: REV DAVID BINGHAM: Mr Stephen McBride, 28 Ballynahinch Road, Castlewellan, BT31 9PA. (Magherahamlet) Mr David Whan, 74 Castlewellan Road, Dromara, BT25 2JN. WHITEHEAD: REV D. CROMIE: Mr Warren Heggan, 44 Middle Road, Islandmagee, Larne, BT40 3SL.

THE ELDERSHIP Ordained & Installed: DUNGANNON: Florence Ferry, Michael Kennedy, Peter Murray, Rachelle McMullan CARLAND: David Morrow FOURTOWNS: William Edward Henning, Mary Margaret Marks MOLESWORTH: Jonathan Coulter, Fergus Ferguson, Lawrence Knox, Edward Lennox, Darren McKee, Jonathan Marcus POYNTZPASS: John William Reaney, Richard Stewart Reid TANDRAGEE: Neale Ingram UPPER CLONANEESE: Nigel Condy, Michael Jones

CLASSIFIEDS 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 space permits. Advertising rates can be found on the website – www.presbyterianireland.org/herald – or telephone the Herald office on +44 (0)28 9032 2284 for more information.

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Installed: DRUM: David A. Hall Died: FIRST BALLYEASTON: Uel McCrea

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Services available throughout Ireland

Ordained & Installed: Matthew Kelso, as Minister of Ballynure on 12 January 2024 Paul Lutton, as Minister of Newtownbreda on 26 January 2024

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

Installed: Ben Johnston, as Minister of Gardenmore on 2 February 2024 Resigned: Scott Moore, as Minister of First Dromara on 12 January 2024 Ben Johnston, as Minister of Second Donegore on 1 February 2024 Retired: Robert Love, as Minister of Taughmonagh Ch Extension on 31 January 2024 Died: Girvan Christie McKay, Minister Emeritus of Tullamore and Mountmellick on 9 January 2024

50

Herald March 2024

Pianist/Organist is seeking part-time work in a church located in Belfast or an approx 10 mile radius.

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Presbyter an CHURCH IN IRELAND

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

Appointment of Conveners of General Assembly Committees

LILAC

Applications are invited for the convenerships of the following General Assembly Committees:

SKY

STATE EDUCATION COMMITTEE under the Council for Public Affairs

PINK

SPECIALIST SERVICES COMMITTEE under the Council for Social Witness

CITRUS

These positions are open to ministers, elders and communicant members of the Presbyterian Church in Ireland.

Further information for these posts can be obtained from the Deputy Clerk, David Allen, at the email address below or telephone +44 (0)28 9041 7204.

Application forms may be downloaded from the PCI website at www.presbyterianireland.org/convenerships Applications, using the pro-forma, should be forwarded no later than 5pm on Friday 29 March 2024 to: deputyclerk@presbyterianireland.org or by post to The Deputy Clerk, Assembly Buildings, 2–10 Fisherwick Place, Belfast BT1 6DW.

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