Minutes from Belfast and the International Airport, Colemans Garden Centre, Templepatrick is one of the largest centres of its kind in Ireland and steeped in 60 years of horticultural heritage. Widely used by coach parties, we are conveniently situated just a couple of minutes off the M2, on the main route to the North Coast. There is a designated coach set down and pick up point at the entrance ensuring easy access for those visitors with mobility difficulties.
We have a designated coach group dining facility and licensed restaurant with dementia friendly trained staff offering disabled access and is open 7 days a week all year round. Pay a visit to our unique Farm Shop with individually sourced local produce alongside speciality foods from Ireland and beyond, our Farm Shop turns shopping for food into one of life’s great pleasures. With its own butchery and deli counter, freshly baked breads, cakes and pies, fresh fruit and vegetables, amazing cheeses, pickles and preserves it really is a food lover’s paradise.
We bring you the best in Outdoor Living with quality products including Campingaz Barbeques, Coleman Outdoor Shelters, Palram Canopia Gazebos, Sheds and Greenhouse, Lugarde Luxury Outdoor Buildings, Rathwood Outdoor Furniture, Adman Metal Sheds and Zest for Leisure real wood garden furniture so you can enjoy your outdoor space at its best!
Our retail family includes Klass, Mountain Warehouse, Pavers, The Works, Menarys, Edinburgh Woollen Mill and Ponden Home who collectively will bring you great offers and products for you to enjoy. Book in advance and your party will enjoy the best visitor experience with passengers receiving a voucher entitling them to discount from our Garden Centre and participating retail outlets.
For further information or to book call 028 9443 2513 or email laura.west@colemansgardencentre.co.uk
at colemans farm shop irvine’s the butchers
CONTRIBUTORS
Rev Albin Rankin is convener of PCI’s Council for Congregational Life and Witness and minister of Stormont Presbyterian Church.
Cover illustration: Alison Soye
Editor: Sarah Harding
Subscriptions and Advertising: Edward Connolly; Hazel Gilliland
Design and Layout: Edward Connolly
Printing: W & G Baird Ltd
W: www.presbyterianireland.org
Rev Sam Bostock is minister of First Saintfield and serves on PCI’s Doctrine committee.
Ruth Bromley is PCI’s children’s development officer. She is married to Brendan, mum to Bess and is a member of First Holywood Presbyterian.
Rev Dr Martyn Cowan is vice principal of Union Theological College and lecturer in Historical Theology.
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 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 does not imply endorsement of the goods or services. Advertising will not be included if the product or service is deemed to be in conflict with the Church’s official views, or if it is inappropriate for a church magazine. It is not Herald policy to include any editorial content along with adverts. The editor reserves the right 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.
The Presbyterian Church in Ireland is a registered charity in Northern Ireland (NIC104483); registered charity in Republic of Ireland (20015695).
Exploring partnership p42
All aboard the textile train p12
Holding on to unity
The recent unrest across the UK and Ireland has been distressing to watch on our screens. The sickening violence and intimidation inflicted on communities has revealed the extent of the tension and racism which has been bubbling under the surface of our society.
PCI’s Clerk of the General Assembly, Rev Trevor Gribben, has been very clear on the Church’s stance. In a statement he said: “This cannot be excused or justified, only universally condemned as there is no right to intimidate and incite hatred, and certainly no right to riot.” He continued: “Seeking the peace and prosperity of the city sometimes means setting aside our right to protest, or counter-protest, for the common good.”
Unity in society is so important for peace and harmonious living, but it is also vitally important in the church. Jesus highlighted its significance when he chose to pray for us as the future believers in John 17. He asked “that all of them be one”. With all our different backgrounds, experiences and opinions, disunity seems like an inevitable consequence. Perhaps this is why Jesus prayed for us in this regard – knowing it to be the most difficult thing for us to adhere to. Holding fast to respect and unity, despite our differences, displays a true reliance on God’s grace, humility and love.
New columnist, Rev Niall Lockhart, discusses unity in his study on 1 Corinthians 1. He says “an unwittingly absorbed culture of individualism threatens the fabric of the church…as a way of doing things emerges that deems relationships to be expendable and unity to be a devalued prize…not worth striving for.” He instead points us to 1 Corinthians 1:9 which calls us as one “into fellowship” with Jesus Christ our Lord.
As always, one of the highlights of the General Assembly in June was the session on ‘Listening to the global church’. It is refreshing, humbling and challenging when we hear the stories of our brothers and sisters in Christ from around the world. This year, for the first time, we welcomed representatives from the National Evangelical Presbyterian Church of Guatemala. Suzanne Hamilton interviews the Moderator of the Church and learns of its difficult past. It is heartening to read of the encouragement brought to the Guatemalan delegation from being with us in Belfast, but it is equally encouraging for all of us to share in and learn from what God is doing in and through them in Guatemala.
At this unsettled time in our communities and wider society, Mr Gribben reminds us that we need to be united as believers and take a strong stand for loving our neighbours as ourselves: “[It] is a calling all of us need to hear and respond to.”
Topical Tweets
@News_Letter
The Presbyterian Church has strongly condemned violence which followed recent anti-immigration protests, while adding that ‘lack of social housing does need to be addressed’.
@christianorg.uk
Researchers found that between 2012 and 2024, at least 60 patients with eating disorders received medical help to kill themselves in Belgium, the Netherlands, and the United States. www.christian.org.uk/news/ eating-disorders-used-as-grounds-for-assistedsuicide/
@ChristianAidIrl
“We left everything behind under gunfire.” Helene’s family are among 1.7 million people who have fled the fighting in eastern DRC. With funds from @Bishopsappeal & @pciassembly our partner BOAD gave cash to more than 200 families now living in camps in Goma to pay for essentials.
@Stoxo
Shocked and very very saddened at the untimely death of Archbishop Noel Treanor… he was such a supporter of our 4 Corners Festival. Prayers for colleagues like Jim and his family. May Jesus be proved right when he called the Holy Spirit a Comforter…
@BallyhenryPres
Today it was a delight to welcome 1000+ of our neighbours along to Ballyhenry for our annual Meet the Neighbours Festival. Thank you @ANBorough for your help in enabling us to serve our community in this way.
@pciassembly
The Moderator will attend the Worldwide Missionary Convention on 17 Aug. Give thanks for the Convention as it seeks to inform & encourage interest in global mission. Remember PCI’s global mission workers, some of whom working in challenging circumstances.
@miketufnell
Great little insight into how Christian athletes like @adam peaty and Andrea SpendoliniSirieix are supported and encouraged in faith during the Olympics. Thanks @seenunseenmag @Letter to the Olympians | Seen & Unseen
Lmedals, the opening ceremony of the Paris Olympics certainly made a splash. Partly for the damp weather conditions that made the French capital look like it was experiencing an Irish summer. But also for the fuss over one segment that later became clear was confused with a depiction of the Last Supper.
The particular sequence in question occurred three hours into the somewhat tedious ceremony in the final minute of the chapter marked Festivité. Performers were positioned along two sides of a long catwalk built on a bridge. A giant silver cloche dome was lifted off the stage to reveal a man painted blue, with a yellow beard, sitting on what looked like an enormous plate of fruit.
The BBC commentary introduced the blue Smurf-like figure as Philippe Katerine who was “playing the part of the Greek god Dionysus who loved a good party.” Behind him stood a woman wearing a sunburst halo head piece. On either side she was flanked by 30 or so performers, some of them drag queens, most of them not. They danced as Katerine began to sing. It was this tableau behind Dionysus that was repeatedly compared to Leonardo da Vinci’s painted mural of The Last Supper.
Ordinary Christians as well as public figures quickly voiced their objections on social media. France’s Catholic bishops said it amounted to a “mockery of Christianity”. A Vatican statement referred to “ridiculous allusions to religion” and “deplored the offence” caused to Christians. PCI expressed its disappointment that the organisers had chosen to “parody” the Lord’s Supper, saying it was “unnecessary, insensitive and for many Christians, highly offensive”.
If Paris’ artistic director Thomas Jolly was parodying anything, it was Dutch artist Jan van Biljert’s 1635 painting Le Festin des Dieux (Feast of the Gods). Set at the wedding of Peleus and Thetis, the sun god Apollo has a halo and is positioned behind a table. Dionysus is sitting in front, scoffing a bunch of grapes while the other gods chat and cavort.
The ancient games were held in Olympic, Greece from the eighth century BC to the fourth century AD. The modern games are therefore always riddled with Greek themes, from laurel wreaths to references to mythological gods.
Back in September 2017, I attended a symposium on the theme of secularism across Europe organised by the Conference of European Churches (CEC). Hosted in Paris, the constitutional principle of laïcité (the formal separation of state and church) was examined in detail. The everyday French outworking of laïcité would make it very unlikely that religion
Alan Meban reflects on what’s been in the news recently….
would be featured in a secular sporting event. The opening ceremony debacle showed that the general public’s knowledge of Greek mythology is weak. With Classics long dropped from most schools’ curriculums, I include myself in the camp that might not be able to distinguish Dionysus from Hercules or Zeus.
Da Vinci’s late 14th century painting depicts the moment after Jesus announces that one of his apostles will betray him. The image is instantly recognisable. But is it accurate? The artist painted figures to resemble the people around him: white Italians. So it has a very Western gaze, with no sense of accurate ethnicity, never mind the artistic licence taken to place Jesus and the 12 disciples on just one side of the table!
While still images [or pictures] shared of the TV footage tended to be cropped in a way that limited the number of people visible, there were more than double the number of performers you’d expect if this was a reproduction of da Vinci’s painting. And unlike so many other secular parodies that failed to excite criticism – M*A*S*H, The Simpsons, television drama Shameless, the 2017 film Murder on the Orient Express – these performers were not choreographed to match the poses in da Vinci’s tableau.
Even before grasping that this was a case of mistaken identity, it felt very odd that Christians were so upset. The level of indignation seemed to be off the scale. Why did this misinterpreted image provoke so much offence? Some commentators went as far as to consider this as an example of Christianity being “persecuted”. Was it honouring to God to defend this supposed slight in the face of so many more serious examples of religious persecution around the world?
Philosopher Dallas Willard said, “I think a mature Christian is someone who is very difficult to offend.” Jesus didn’t demand an apology from the Pharisees, the Sadducees or the Romans. His life, his actions and his words could better counter any mockery and persecution he suffered at their hands.
1 Peter 2:12 says, “Live such good lives among the pagans that…they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us.” I’ll leave the last words to Josh Hinton from the London Institute for Contemporary Christianity (LICC) who recently reflected on that verse: “In other words, if we reflect God’s awesome goodness in our everyday lives, it won’t really matter what a few dancers are doing on a soggy Parisian bridge.”
Alan Meban is a freelance journalist and producer who attends Fitzroy Presbyterian Church.
NEWS | IN THE ROUND
Violence condemned
The Presbyterian Church in Ireland has condemned recent violence in Belfast arising from anti-immigrant protests.
Clerk of the General Assembly, Rev Trevor Gribben, called for an end to the protests and violence and said, “As a society, it is important to acknowledge that there are wider issues that do need to be addressed if all of our communities are to prosper. The lack of social housing and the underinvestment in jobs and community development in many areas must be faced up to. And the crisis in our health and social care services, which affect the day-to-day lives of so many people, has to be tackled. However, while lawful protest about such matters can be legitimate, much of what we have seen in recent days has been neither legitimate nor lawful.
“Neither has it in fact been protest – but rather we have witnessed racist, hate-filled, wanton violence and destruction that has no place in civilised society. This cannot be excused or justified, only universally condemned as there is no right to intimidate and incite hatred, and certainly no right to riot,” he added.
He called on anyone planning further street protests and those encouraging direct counter protests to think again. “This is a time to de-escalate the tension in our community, and not heighten it. Seeking the peace and prosperity of the city sometimes means setting aside our right to protest, or counter-protest, for the common good. This is surely such a time.”
Mr Gribben concluded by saying, “We should not demonise those who live amongst us just because they are new to our community, or because they are different from us. Nor should we demonise people who wish to raise genuine concerns in legitimate and lawful ways. Jesus Christ reminds us that our neighbours are not just those who look like us, or think like us, but includes those who are different from us and from whom we differ. His calling to love all of those neighbours as we love ourselves, is a calling all of us need to hear and respond to.”
New PM congratulated
The Moderator, Dr Richard Murray, has written to the new UK prime minister, Sir Keir Starmer, congratulating him on forming a new government.
In his letter, Dr Murray said, “The call to leadership, especially in the political sphere, is a challenging one. In all that you face and all that lies ahead, I hope that the needs of the poorest and most vulnerable people in our society will be at the forefront of your mind.”
Olympic opening ceremony response
The Presbyterian Church in Ireland has expressed disappointment at the controversial opening ceremony of this summer’s Olympic Games in Paris.
Responding to a request by the media, a press release was issued, which said: “Like many other Christians we were very disappointed that during the opening ceremony, the organisers choose to parody the Lord’s Supper in a way that was simply unnecessary, insensitive and for many Christians, highly offensive. This was clearly the reverse of the spirit of the Olympics.
“Yet, the Scriptures remind us that as believers we will face insults, challenges and hardships, and these are nothing compared to what our Lord Jesus faced when he was mocked, spat upon, flogged and died despised on a cross. Yet death didn’t defeat him and he rose again and today the living Lord offers a new and everlasting life to all who believe in him – a life that this world, with its sneering mockery, can neither give nor take away.”
Moderator at Dublin event
PCI Moderator Dr Richard Murray took part in the annual National Day of Commemoration, held during the summer in Dublin.
The event is an opportunity for the Republic of Ireland to remember Irishmen and Irishwomen who lost their lives in past wars, or on peacekeeping deployments with the United Nations.
Dr Murray, who said a prayer at the commemoration, called it a privilege and an honour to represent Irish Presbyterians at the ceremony.
He added, “Conflict is never far away and peacekeeping doesn’t come without cost. Today has been an opportunity to honour those who had paid the ultimate price, remembering him who made the supreme sacrifice.”
New CEO
Wilson Beare is the new chief executive officer of the Bible Society in Northern Ireland. He currently serves as national director of Urban Saints in Ireland, and will take up his new post in the autumn.
Historical meeting
Irish CE Convention
The Irish National Christian Endeavour Convention will be held in Lisbellaw, County Fermanagh for the first time.
On Saturday 21 September, starting at 7.30pm, the Convention will take place in Lisbellaw Methodist Church, with Rev John Beacom, minister of Ballinamallard Methodist Church, speaking on the theme ‘Jesus is King’.
Ken McGall, an elder in Second Broughshane Presbyterian Church, who is entering his second year as Irish CE president, will conduct the service.
The next meeting of the Presbyterian Historical Society takes place at Bannside Presbyterian Church, Banbridge on Thursday 17 October.
Starting at 8pm, David Huddleston, acting director of PRONI, will give a talk on ‘James Harshaw, Presbyterian elder of Donaghmore Presbyterian Church and diarist, c.1818–1865’.
PERSONAL VIEW
Life lessons
Robin Scott Chief executive of Prison Fellowship Northern Ireland
I am married to Joy, and we have two daughters. We are active members of Woodlands Presbyterian Church, where I serve as an elder. My faith journey began in Molesworth Presbyterian Church, Cookstown, where the gospel was presented to me by faithful Sunday school teachers and the preaching of God’s Word. In 1978, during a gospel mission at our church, I accepted Jesus as my Saviour. This decision changed my life. From those early days as a Christian, I was introduced to missionary work, inspired by visiting speakers, testimonies of missionaries, and my involvement with the local Young Life group. Professionally, I have worked in the management of a local supermarket, a role that allowed me to engage with and support the young people in our church.
During my employment and work in church, I had a deep desire to share the good news of the gospel that I had received from reading the Bible, especially with young people. I sought advice from friends and prayed earnestly about where I could learn more. This journey led me to a Bible college in England, where I studied for three years. During the holidays, I got involved with an organisation called Prison Fellowship. Little did I imagine then that this would become my life’s work. Despite the training I received at college, I initially felt that I was not particularly gifted to work in prisons. However, I have had the privilege of volunteering and working with Prison Fellowship for over 40 years. This journey has been both challenging and rewarding, reaffirming my belief that God guides us and uses the gifts we have to his glory.
Prison Fellowship, a global network of ministries, had its origins in the fallout of the Watergate scandal in the United States. Charles (Chuck) Colson, special advisor to President Nixon, was charged with Watergate-related offences. During the period he was awaiting sentencing, Colson read Mere Christianity by C.S. Lewis, leading to his conversion to Christianity. Following release in 1976, Chuck Colson began encouraging local church members to reach out to prisoners across the US with the message of the gospel. From these early efforts, Prison Fellowship has expanded significantly, with 122 ministries now operating worldwide.
The work of Prison Fellowship Northern Ireland began in 1981. The organisation is grateful for the opportunity to serve men and women in all prisons across the region. Volunteers and staff actively engage with inmates by visiting on the landings, having conversations in cells, running weekly Bible study meetings called Lifesplan groups, and delivering Sycamore Tree, our restorative justice programme, which helps participants understand the consequences of their actions and the impact of crime on victims. It extends its support beyond prison, to families, those released from prison, and individuals affected by crime. The organisation’s mission is to offer hope and a new beginning, grounded not in the organisation or its programmes, but in the person and work of Jesus Christ. This work reinforces for me that the gospel is for everyone, regardless of their past actions or current circumstances.
I believe that God takes us and moulds us into the people he wants us to be, if we are open and willing to be obedient to him. As a young Christian especially in the local church, I witnessed people who had a passion for those on the margins of society. Seeing others live out their faith through prayer and outreach inspired and encouraged me, while reinforcing the importance of fellowship, discipleship and spiritual growth.
It is difficult to identify one person who I admire most. Over the years I have had the privilege to have conversations with many people and hear stories from those who served in some of the highest positions in the world, to those who were written off by family and friends and overcame some of the greatest obstacles, despite the odds. However, Maud Kells from Molesworth served as a missionary for almost half a century. Her passion for the people of Congo and her willingness to set aside her needs and comforts to take the gospel to places that were difficult and challenging has been a real inspiration to me.
One of the greatest joys in my life is meeting regularly with those who know and love Jesus, joining together in worship of the One who sees and knows us as we truly are, and yet loves us unconditionally. This shared experience of worship brings delight as we come to honour and praise him.
Unpacking the Judicial Review of religious education Rebecca Stevenson
In 2022, the teaching of Religious Education and Collective Worship (RE and CW) in schools in Northern Ireland faced a serious challenge after Judicial Review proceedings (JR87) were brought on behalf of a child, whose broadly humanist parents objected to the teaching of RE and CW in the primary school they were attending.
A Judicial Review is a type of court proceeding in which a judge reviews the lawfulness of a decision or action made by a public body. In this instance the court was considering the lawfulness of the legislation on teaching RE and CW. The applicant in this case contended that the legislation providing for mandatory RE and CW in controlled primary schools in Northern Ireland were in breach of human rights. Specifically, Article 9 of the European Convention of Human Rights (ECHR), the right of “freedom of thought, conscience and religion”; and Article 2 of Protocol 1 which requires that the State in its provision of public education “respect the right of parents to ensure such education…is in conformality with their own religious and philosophical convictions.”
the classroom. Given the history and context of our society and education system, RE gives space for children to learn about faith within the Christian ethos of our schools, which encourages and promotes the importance of recognising and respecting the different views of those of other faiths and none.
PCI will continue to work together with the TRC and all relevant agencies to ensure that children and young people across NI have access to high quality religious education, however, this court decision may be appealed.
...this is an issue that should be of interest to everyone and that we should all be aware of the risk that this could pose to the schools with a Christian ethos in the future.
In 2022, Mr Justice Colton decided in favour of the applicants, that RE and CW was not conveyed in an “objective, critical and pluralist manner” in Northern Ireland, deciding that they had breached both the parents’ and child’s human rights. This decision was appealed by the Department of Education with an intervention brought by the Transferor Representative Council (TRC) representing the three major Churches. In April 2024 the Court of Appeal upheld that the RE curriculum in controlled primary schools was not sufficiently objective, critical and pluralistic. However, the Court also ruled that exclusively Christian-focused religious education taught at primary schools in Northern Ireland does not breach human rights law. This was due to the existence of the unqualified statutory right of parents to have their child excused wholly or partially from attendance at religious education or collective worship. Noting that in this case the parents had chosen not to exercise that right.
The teaching of RE is a vital component of the primary curriculum in Northern Ireland, and it was heartening that in the court view, there was no breach of human rights. RE provides an area in which children are able to explore and consider life’s big questions, in preparation for life outside
What does this mean for Christians? The Christian influence and ethos in schools is under scrutiny and there are likely to be more challenges.
One of the outcomes from JR87 is a review of the RE curriculum – this has been welcomed by the TRC and other Churches. However, collective worship and the Christian ethos of controlled primary schools is now facing new challenges. An organisation, ‘Parents for Inclusive Education’ has recently launched their report having completed research which examined the organisations which visit schools to conduct assemblies and are encouraging schools to seek alternatives to RE and CW. What can we as Christians do? There are several things I would suggest:
Awareness. There is a temptation to think that this is an issue that only impacts teachers or school-age children. I would contend that this is an issue that should be of interest to everyone and that we should all be aware of the risk that this could pose to the schools with a Christian ethos in the future.
Act. Stay informed, see where you can get involved, talk to school governors, parents, teachers; and inform others.
Pray. For teachers, officials and all those involved in education. Pray for schools as they reconstitute their Board of Governors, that they will appoint people with the necessary skills and expertise.
Rebecca Stevenson is PCI’s public affairs officer.
MY STORY...
Tom Clarke, an accredited preacher and member of Garnerville Presbyterian, talks about volunteering with the Royal National Institute for Deaf people.
Whoever has ears, let them hear
If I had a pound for everyone who has said to me, “I can’t hear anything in church” even though they wear hearing aids, I think I might be able to go on a decent holiday! I’ve been a volunteer with the Royal National Institute for Deaf people (RNID) for a couple of years now, and the fact that I’m completely deaf in one ear and wear a hearing aid in the other played a central role in making that decision – though there are plenty of RNID volunteers that have full hearing.
My main volunteering role is in hearing aid maintenance. That is, cleaning or replacing the tubes in NHS hearing aids, providing advice to help people get the best from their hearing aids – including using loop systems in church buildings and other places – and undertaking minor repairs.
It’s the immediacy of literally transforming someone’s life in an instant that appeals to me so much…
I have to say that it’s one of the most rewarding things I have ever done and that includes being a Boys’ Brigade officer for over 25 years and working as the general manager in AccessNI for 13 years.
Why is that? I often tell the story of visiting a very elderly lady in a care home whose hearing aids weren’t working at all. Her closest relative told me that she had become very withdrawn over a number of weeks and didn’t communicate well with both the staff in the home and visitors. So, I went to see her thanks to a referral to RNID, and after undertaking some minor work on her hearing aids, I handed them back to her. When she put the first one into her ear and I spoke to her, she immediately began to smile broadly and started talking to both me and her relative. Indeed, we couldn’t then get her to stop!
It’s the immediacy of literally transforming someone’s life in an instant that appeals to me so much about my volunteering with RNID. Having experienced these results for myself with both young and old hearing aid users, I get something of the idea of the impact on individuals that the miracles of healing performed by Jesus must have had.
Isaiah 35 tells us of a time that: “The blind people will see again and the deaf will hear. Crippled people will jump like deer and those who can’t talk now will shout with joy.”
I can’t help the blind or the disabled or those that can’t talk, but I can and do on a regular basis make people who previously could hear very little through their hearing aids, hear clearly once again. That’s one of the most joyful experiences I have ever had. In that way, I regard my volunteering with RNID as an integral and essential part of my Christian service for others. I just wonder how many people have ceased coming to worship in our churches simply because they can’t hear what’s being said. One in three adults are deaf or have hearing loss. Just think about how many people in your congregation that might include. Certainly, in our church, there are a significant number that wear hearing aids and probably some that don’t but would benefit so much from them.
Many of you will have loop systems in your church. They allow hearing aid users to connect their hearing aids directly into the church speakers so they can hear every single word being said. They also reduce background noise. To do this, users have to select a different programme on their hearing aids. But many folk, especially some of our older members, don’t know or find it difficult to switch their hearing aids to that programme. And so, they suffer on, hearing little of the service, maybe joining in familiar hymns and in the Lord’s Prayer, but missing out on so much teaching or the reading of God’s Word.
RNID can assist in many ways by providing advice, information and practical help both to PCI at a corporate, presbytery or even individual church level. It might even be something as simple as directing those who use hearing aids to their nearest RNID support session where they can have their aids checked.
Finally, if anything in this short article has whetted your appetite to perhaps get involved in this type of volunteering, just go to http://rnid.org.uk/volunteer and have a look at the opportunities there.
To find your nearest RNID drop-in service, visit http://rnid.org.uk, speak to our contact centre on 0808 808 0123 or email contact@rnid.org.uk
News
United Church gives thanks for PCI missionary
A service of thanksgiving for the life of Claire Trueman, one of PCI’s longest serving overseas missionaries, has taken place in Jamaica. She passed away on 21 June, aged 86.
Retiring in 1998 after nearly 40 years of service, she was once described by the Synod of the United Church in Jamaica and the Cayman Islands (United Church) as ‘a true ambassador of the PCI’.
Arriving in November 1962, the 24-year-old teacher from Rostrevor travelled by steamer from Southampton, and spent a lifetime serving God as she worked with children, young people and adults as a missionary to what is now the United Church. Unlike most mission workers, Miss Trueman decided to remain where she had served after retirement.
Summer teams
Two ‘Impact’ teams served in Londonderry and Belfast over the summer.
Those at the week-long Londonderry Hub worked along with a team from Kilfennan Presbyterian Church, serving the community with a holiday Bible club, teens events, afternoon tea and a fun day.
Young people representing PCI congregations, stretching from Tullamore to Limavady, took part in the Belfast Hub, serving the communities of Abbey Presbyterian in Monkstown, Friendship House on the Sandy Row and West Kirk Presbyterian, Shankill.
Representing PCI’s Council for Global Mission at the service of thanksgiving, Council Secretary Rev Uel Marrs said, “This is a tremendously symbolic occasion and a wonderful testimony to the impact of Claire’s life and ministry, to the love and esteem in which she was held, to the fellowship and sense of belonging that she enjoyed with her Jamaican family and the valued and the historic missional relationship between Presbyterians in Ireland and in Jamaica.”
New Council convener
Rev Ben Walker has been appointed as convener of the Council for Mission in Ireland. He has been the minister of Saintfield Road congregation in south Belfast since 2019 and also teaches as part of the Adjunct Faculty at Union Theological College. Ben has previous involvement in the Council for Mission in Ireland as a committee convener.
Blaze
Across PCI, children, leaders and families are being encouraged to pray for global mission through the ‘Blaze the bee’ initiative. In September, we are praying for Gary and Mary Reid, who serve in Kenya. To download the Blaze prayer calendar and other resources, go to www.presbyterianireland.org/blaze
Deadline approaches
Thursday 5 September is the last opportunity to sign up for Apprentice|Train 2024–2025 – a bespoke training programme for those who have been appointed to an Apprentice or intern position within a local PCI congregation. Delivered once a month between September and May, this learning community gives Apprentices the space to connect with one another, share stories, pray together and further explore essential ministry basics inside and outside of the classroom.
To find out more, visit www.presbyterianireland.org/apprentice
Events
Youth and children’s ministry
‘Foundations’ is an opportunity for volunteer leaders and helpers in children’s, youth and family ministry to come together for equipping, encouraging, sharing and resourcing for ministry.
The first event takes place on Thursday 10 October at Saintfield Road Presbyterian, Belfast, with the second on Tuesday 15 October at First Ahoghill. Both events run from 7.45pm to 9.15pm.
For more information and to book go to: www.presbyterianireland.org/ foundations
Event for leaders
The ‘Leading for a change’ morning will offer leaders the opportunity to explore how change comes in the life of a congregation.
Approaching your ministry of eldership
Building on the widespread participation in last year’s ‘Refresh’ events for elders, this year’s follow-on ‘Afresh’ evening on Thursday 24 October will explore what it might mean to approach the calling of eldership in ways that can become natural rather than forced; rhythm rather than routine; joyful rather than jaded.
Through a mix of Scripture, interview and prayer, the evening will encourage the taking of opportunities to exercise the gift of eldership in the ordinary moments of church life we share together with others, as well as doing so in a posture of prayerfulness that is a glad reminder of our dependence on God.
While encouraging in-person attendance, if possible, kirk sessions or individual elders will also be able to register to join a live stream of the event.
The evening runs from 7.45pm to 9.15pm. Find out more at: www.presbyterianireland.org/ afreshforelders
Through reflection, stories, discussion and signposting of appropriate resources, those attending will be equipped to lead for a change in congregational life and witness.
The event takes place at Assembly Buildings, Belfast on Thursday 17 October, from 10.30am to 12.45pm.
To book a place, visit www.presbyterianireland.org/leadingforachange
Resources
New prayer resource
‘Finding Our Voice in Prayer’ is a practical, stepby-step guide created to help members find and gain confidence in using their voice in prayer. Through six interactive sessions, as well as a set of simple, downloadable prayer practices, this small-group resource will help enable participants to find joy – and overcome fear – as they discover how the Bible invites us into the everyday experience of talking to God.
To find out more: www.presbyterianireland.org/ findingourvoiceinprayer
Training course
DIARY DATES
September
Entrusted to share
Assembly Buildings, Belfast –Saturday 7
Sharing God’s Word Lowe Memorial, Finaghy –Starts Monday 16
A ‘Confident to care’ pastoral care skills course starts at the end of October.
Delivered by Andrew Collins (Biblical Counselling UK) in conjunction with PCI’s Council for Congregational Life and Witness, the course is running at Union Theological College, Belfast on three Tuesdays: 29 October, 5 November and 12 November, from 7.30pm to 9pm.
Spaces are limited – to book, scan the QR code.
Youth ministry
‘PCI Stirs’ is a way of finding new starting places for sharing the gospel with young people.
The course is designed to stimulate gospel curiosity in young people on the fringes of congregations, and each session can be used with little preparation and can be adapted to the needs of each group. More information about the course, including stories from those who have used it and details of how to purchase it at a discounted rate for PCI groups is available at www.starttostir.com/pci
Special event for women
Kate Patterson, director of Gift of Blessing Trust, is guest speaker at a special event for women called ‘Entrusted to share’.
Taking place at Assembly Buildings, Belfast on Saturday 7 September, from 10am to 1pm, the event is an opportunity for women to come together to think biblically about being better equipped in knowing the gospel, and to explore how to effectively share this good news across the generations and in our communities.
To book for this event and your preferred seminar choice, please scan the QR code.
All aboard the textile train
Valerie Clarke, secretary of the Creation Carers group in First Portadown, tells how a recent event in the County Armagh church highlighted the environmental impact of textile waste.
First Portadown Presbyterian Church is situated at a busy intersection of the road, river and railway in Edenderry. In days gone by, the town became known as the ‘Hub of the North’ having all the right resources to feed several manufacturing industries, among them a thriving linen industry. So much has changed since then and community memories of the resources, both human and natural, required to produce fabric have faded. Earlier this year, the church’s Creation Carers group presented a pre-loved fashion event with the aim of increasing community awareness of textile waste and its impact on the environment. As group members chatted on their monthly litter pick, they recounted stories of the old train station that once stood proudly at the end of Watson Street; that was the boarding point for excited families as they set out on the annual Sunday school excursion. It was those memories that sparked the idea for our event. We invited visitors to get on board our ‘Textile Train’ and move between its various carriages, each providing inspiration to reduce, recycle, reuse and reimagine textiles.
Visitors needed a ticket to board the train, which they got from our ticket office prior to the event. The train journey took place in various carriages (situated in our various church halls).
In the ‘Main Carriage’ visitors received all the information they needed for the journey. Graeme Clarke, one of our accredited preachers and member of Creation Carers, outlined the biblical reasons for caring for God’s creation. Siobhan Parnell, from Keep NI Beautiful, highlighted the extent of textile waste on landfill and the impact on the environment. She reflected how the influence of mass media and the desire for fast fashion has fuelled this problem.
The keynote speaker was Angeline Murphy, a local fashion designer and previous candidate on the BBC’s Great British Sewing Bee, who demonstrated how to reimagine some items donated
For many people this was their first experience of looking at ‘nearly new’ clothing.
to our Fashion Swop. Her story was inspiring – she taught herself to sew and recycle clothes, both for herself and for her family. She has posted many simple tips on YouTube and had been working in the local Millennium Arts Centre in Portadown with young people, helping them to acquire adequate sewing skills so they could create fashion from items in the local charity shops.
With permission from these young people, we displayed some of their creations in our ‘Exhibition Carriage’. These showed how young people can be inspired to create ‘new’ fashion designed by using ‘old’ textiles. This display was accompanied by many other items on loan from members of the congregation, which demonstrated the potential for reuse of textiles to produce new and exciting items for fashion and furnishings.
We also had several stalls with creative and talented people from within the community showing numerous ways that they could reuse textile materials. This really got us thinking about how our congregation could play a part in teaching young people new skills while also increasing awareness of avoiding textile waste.
In the ‘Fashion Swop Carriage’, previously donated items of clothing were tastefully displayed as they would be in a high-end fashion shop. Fully equipped fitting rooms were provided and controls were in place so that everyone had the opportunity to view the best items and select those that would suit their needs. For many people this was their first experience of looking at ‘nearly new’ clothing and they remarked that it had been a very positive and enlightening experience.
No evening in a Presbyterian diary is complete without a delicious supper and this was provided in the ‘Dining Car’. Our catering team excelled in their organisation and quality of tasty treats.
All guests then returned to the Main Carriage to view the items that Angeline had been refashioning during supper and to hear from our experts about how everyone can continue on their onward journey to reduce textile waste.
Two hundred people attended our event and with their generous donations on the evening, we will be able to develop other ideas for community involvement in our work. Many people told us that it was a fun and enjoyable evening but also very informative and provoked much thought. Hopefully as a result of raising awareness of this issue, more people will consider not just
…as stewards of God’s creation we are challenged to grow in awareness of what we can do…to consider our environmental impact on the earth and reduce it.
donating clothes to charity shops but also buying items from them, and, if necessary, altering them. It will take time to change the attitude of ‘only new will do’, but as stewards of God’s creation we are challenged to grow in awareness of what we can do both individually and collectively to consider our environmental impact on the earth and reduce it.
While Creation Carers provided the impetus for this event, it needed a wide range of skills and expertise to make it happen and we were blessed with a willing band of helpers.
We also needed fashion advice which was readily available within the congregation and through partnering with One Mission charity shop in Lisburn. They willingly shared their expertise and received surplus items after the event. We needed to acquire space to receive donated items in advance for the evening; the clothes needed to be
First Portadown Creation Carers group
The church applied to Eco Congregations Ireland in 2022 and received its Basic Awareness Award in 2023.
The Creation Carers group was established in spring 2023 to provide a focus for improving the eco footprint of the church both inside and outside its walls and buildings.
It aims to raise environmental issues with all age groups; provide outreach by visibly demonstrating small efforts to
sorted, sized and displayed. We needed a wide range of skills for this, for example to acquire and adapt rails and to display clothes with flair. With over 1000 items donated, at times it was overwhelming but we got there.
We set ourselves a goal to provide a gift for everyone in the audience that would reflect the theme of the evening; to achieve this we had our very own ‘Sewing Saturday’ where ladies from the church made gift bags and pin cushions from recycled materials. We had a busy production line with machines humming and women chatting, probably much like the atmosphere within the linen factories of old, where many new friendships were made. We were amazed by how many women had sewing skills within our congregation and we trust that those skills may be channelled for the benefit of the community in the future.
What started out as a simple idea turned out to be a mammoth task, but like so many events within church life, it succeeded with effective team work. This is a new avenue for our congregation’s life and witness within Edenderry and hopefully other events will follow.
If you would like more information about running such an event or the work of our Creation Carers group please contact Anna Louise Shepherd at mail@firstportadown.org
improve the environment of the local community; and work in partnership with the local council by providing monthly litter picks on adopted streets and to increase biodiversity in the nearby Hoy’s Meadow.
The group is currently planning, in partnership with public agencies, to sponsor a roundabout and show how the church is a key part of the community.
Profile of a living church
Niall Lockhart
Studies in 1 Corinthians (1:1–9)
What would you say if you had the opportunity to write something that would be read by a whole mixture of people from within the church?
Imagine the Apostle Paul. It’s AD 55. Members of the household of a woman called Chloe have brought him an in-person report of life within the church in Corinth. Others from within the same church have written separately seeking a steer on a variety of complex and troubling issues.
The letter of 1 Corinthians contains Paul’s response to the church in Corinth, a church and a place that he knew well. In the opening verses of 1 Corinthians 1 (vv1–9) we find Paul addressing the church from three different angles.
Firstly, Paul addresses a church that was complete yet incomplete. We know, from later in the letter, that many things were not going well in the Corinthian church. Paul, however, does not begin his letter by identifying problems. Paul begins his letter with thankfulness. He is thankful for who the Corinthian Christians are; they are recipients of grace and peace that come from God and from the Lord Jesus Christ (v3). His thankfulness is not a mere preliminary remark, it is his settled attitude, as he constantly marvels at how Jesus himself has enriched this church in so many ways (vv4–5).
competition, self-promotion and self-sufficiency had come to define the culture of the city, but also it seems the culture of the church.
Paul pushes back against the unthinking absorption of this culture into the church. In 1 Corinthians God’s Word lands not with isolated individuals, but with a “people” (v2), called as one “into fellowship” with Jesus Christ their Lord (v9)
When Paul wrote this apostolic letter, the early church received it as the Word of God. It is a life-giving thing to receive his Word today.
It is a life-giving thing to receive his Word today.
What is our attitude towards the congregation in which we serve, or to which we belong? What is our attitude towards the Presbyterian Church in Ireland of which we are a part? God’s Word orientates ministers, elders and members in adopting an attitude of thankfulness for the church. God’s Word gives us the resource to be thankful for the church that we currently have, with all its incompleteness, and not simply for the church that we would like to have.
Paul lives with the tension that this church is not complete, picturing a church waiting for the day when Jesus will be revealed (v7). Only then, when history reaches its end, will this church be ‘blameless’ (v8). Only then will this church be the finished article.
Secondly, Paul addresses a church that has a particular identity yet is part of something much bigger. Paul wrote with apostolic authority (v1). Yet Paul is careful to ensure that even his unique calling should not eclipse the fact that every Christian in the church at Corinth has been called equally by God to be part of his holy people (v2).
Paul writes with the needs and concerns of a particular church in view. However, he also writes aware that the current opportunities and challenges they face can only be understood and addressed conscious of “all those everywhere who call on the name of our Lord Jesus” (v2).
Thirdly Paul addresses a church placed in a specific culture yet called to be different from that culture. First century Corinth was a cultural melting pot, a strategically located Roman colony where east met west, and where moral values were constantly in flux.
Home to the biennial Isthmian Games, a spirit of
What is our attitude to other churches? God has called us to be his people. However, it is a self-evident truth that in villages, towns and cities, across Ireland, God has called other people to be his people, who are not Presbyterians. It takes a selfawareness to talk about the life and mission of our church (be that at a local or denominational level), in a way that conveys a consciousness of, and thankfulness for, what God is doing in other churches.
A final question emerges probing our savviness when it comes to culture and how it can shape the church. We have an adversary who is subtle in his methods. A morally liberal culture can threaten the church and we do well to be wise to this. However, an unwittingly absorbed culture of individualism threatens the fabric of the church in a different way, as a way of doing things emerges that deems relationships to be expendable and unity to be a devalued prize, in any arena, not worth striving for.
As God’s Word lands afresh into our congregations and into PCI today it lands not with individuals in voluntary association with each other, but with a “people”, called as one “into fellowship” with Jesus Christ our Lord (v9). The Bible announces God’s present faithfulness to his church, as it is here and now, and that is good news for all of us.
Niall Lockhart is the minister of Ballyhenry Presbyterian Church.
GENERAL ASSEMBLY 2024
Incoming Moderator, Dr Richard Murray focused his sermon at his installation service on his theme for the year: ‘Mighty to save’.
He identified that one of the major problems the church is facing is ‘connection’: “How to connect the good news of what God has done for us in the person and work of Jesus Christ with a world that is at best uninterested and at worst hostile?”
Dr Murray posed the question: “Are we in PCI in danger of losing our sense of mission?”
He continued: “Could I ask those of us who preach, is Jesus Christ and him
crucified the sum and substance of your message?
“Too much preaching, it seems to me, is bloodless. Too many assume everyone in front of them are Christians already. There’s too much about the man Jesus and not enough about the divine Christ.”
Dr Murray quoted Isaiah 63:1 where the words of his theme come from: “It is I, speaking in righteousness, mighty to save.”
Using an analogy of a rope tangled around the propellor of a boat, Dr Murray continued: “How many people are living lives tangled with sin and their
dignity with God is gone? Their boat is going nowhere but destruction. But in Jesus Christ and him crucified, God cuts the rope of sin and says through repentance of sin and trust in Jesus, you will receive a clean slate. A new start. Christ in you the hope of glory. Why? Because our God is mighty to save!”
Outgoing Moderator, Dr Sam Mawhinney, reflected on his year in office. He and his wife Karen visited all 19 presbyteries and he commented: “I have been so encouraged by my visits to churches where we saw vibrant communities of faith, led by godly men and women, who love their people and who keep Christ and his Word central –in rural settings and in urban centres, in both small and large families.”
Dr Mawhinney also spoke of the presbytery tours he enjoyed and the “encouragement of seeing faith in the workplace”.
He continued: “We saw this very clearly in faith-based schools, in the care of the vulnerable, those with profound learning difficulties, those facing infirmity, and death in their old age, and those disabled in a variety of ways. It was great to see care of those on the margins, where government and society struggle or worse, do not appear to care. The Church is on the front line, caring for the poor, welcoming and integrating refugees and immigrants, caring for those with addictions, and after being released from prison…”
Referencing his theme for the year, ‘Confident in Christ’, Dr Mawhinney added: “I am more confident in Christ at the end of my year, than when I began.”
Assembly photography: Jamie Trimble
GENERAL ASSEMBLY 2024
Visiting delegates
Nepal, Poland, Malawi and Guatemala were the countries represented at this year’s Assembly.
During the opening session of the Assembly, the Moderator welcomed Dr Prem Subedi, CEO of The Cross Reformed Centre, Nepal; Rev Sashko Nezamutdinov, from the Evangelical Presbyterian Church in Poland; and from the Church of Central Africa Presbyterian, Blantyre Synod, Malawi, Rev Anderson Juma and Rev Catherine Ngoleka Makombe.
For the first time, there was a five-strong delegation from Guatemala, including Rev Laurence Cifuentes, Moderator of the Executive Committee of the General Assembly of the National Evangelical Presbyterian Church of Guatemala, and its Permanent Secretary, Rev Rosalío Hernández.
Visitors from nearer to home included: Rachel and Ian
Kirk-Smith from the Religious Society of Friends; and Bishop Sarah Groves and Rev Karen Campbell, from the Irish Council of Churches.
Representing the Church of Ireland were Judith Cairns, and Archdeacon Paul Thompson, who said: “Our shared although sometimes complex history and our common mission to serve Christ and spread the gospel unites us in a very special fellowship.”
The Methodist Church visitors were Thomas Wilson, and Rev David Turtle, who commended PCI for tackling the subject of reconfiguration of ministry. “You have rightly identified…so many of our current models of ministry are challenged in changing contexts in which we live and witness…You are to be applauded for courageously facing up to how to best minister where it’s needed, taking account of the reality of the resources that are in our hands.”
Decision making and dissent
At the 2023 General Assembly, one of the affirmations contained in the Decision Making and Dissent task group report was referred back to General Council for further consideration. General Council then decided to revise the wording of this affirmation, adding in a clause about liberty of conscience. The proposed affirmation presented to this Assembly was: “It would therefore not be appropriate for an ordained minister or elder to fail to implement a decision taken by the courts of the Church, or publicly to promote a view which undermines the Church or opposes the stated policy of the Church on any matter apart from when the General Assembly has by resolution recognised liberty in the exercise of conscience on a specific matter, which exercise should be characterised by grace and humility.”
An amendment, brought by Prof John Gillespie and Dr Tony Davidson, sought to remove the extra wording that was added by General Council (highlighted in italics). Prof Gillespie said the wording of the General Council “follows the principle of individual judgment” and could be a “recipe for disunity, distraction and disorder.”
Opposing the amendment, Rev Philip McClelland said the original wording from the task group would “fashion a totally blunt instrument which would allow no distinctions to be made… and would fail to acknowledge that the Assembly has in the past given liberty to exercise of conscience on a specific matter.”
Avril Heenan, a member of the original task group, spoke to oppose the amendment saying that the new wording was “not clear” and questioned if it created a hierarchy of conscience: “Does my liberty of conscience trump submission to the courts of the Church?”
After a standing vote, the amendment was lost. A second amendment was then brought by Dr Trevor Morrow and Dr Frank Sellar which re-worded the proposed affirmation brought by General Council, with the key phrase being that ministers and
elders “must not oppose or hinder the implementation of the policy and law of the Church.”
In seconding the amendment, Dr Sellar said this wording was about “maintaining harmony and good Church order.” He expressed concerns that the alternative affirmation could “lead to scenarios that would become a nightmare for Judicial Commission and worse a recipe for unnecessary conflict within the Church.”
Speaking against the amendment Philip McClelland said he believed it was “unhelpful and unnecessary,” adding that “it implies we do not have the right to express reasons for dissent unless sanctioned.”
Supporting the amendment Rev Mairisine Stanfield, said she believed it was “necessary to help us navigate through this very serious issue”. Referencing verbal and written abuse she had received from members of the House when she first allowed her name to go forward for Moderator, she said, “I respect those of you who don’t have a similar biblical position” on the issue of the ordination of women, but she asked for respect in return. Following her speech, Clerk of the Assembly, Rev Trevor Gribben, rose to say that any member of the House who had abused Mrs Stanfield in this way was “simply wrong” and should “confess their sin and repent”.
The amendment was carried by a card vote of 256 for and 163 against. The revised wording therefore became the accepted affirmation.
The wording in full is: “It would therefore not be appropriate for an ordained minister or elder to fail to implement a decision taken by the courts of the Church, or publicly to promote a view which undermines the Church or opposes the stated policy of the Church, however, when, by resolution, the General Assembly has recognised liberty in the exercise of conscience on a specific matter, office bearers may express their reasons for dissent with grace and humility but must not oppose or hinder the implementation of the policy and law of the Church.”
Future Assemblies
It was agreed that from the 2025 General Assembly onwards, business sessions shall normally no longer be held on Saturdays, unless because of exceptional circumstances and on the recommendation of the General Council. It was also agreed that the General Assembly be held in the week containing the second Monday in June.
GENERAL ASSEMBLY 2024
More information on nominees for Moderator
At the 2023 General Assembly, a memorial brought by Monaghan Presbytery, which was passed, asked for more information to be available on nominees for Moderator, to help those eligible to vote to make an informed decision.
The Assembly passed the recommendation made by the task group: “That in the material provided to presbyteries…information on each minister contained in the Church’s directory shall be clearly set out, with abbreviations removed and current charge/charges, presbytery, and any additional roles within the Church clearly stated.”
Baptism for children of unmarried parents
A memorial was brought to the Assembly by Rev John Hanson and Rev Alan McQuade which stated: “There is a lack of consistency in the approach taken by kirk sessions regarding the admission to baptism of the children of unmarried parents.”
The memorial stated: “That the prohibition on the baptism of the children of a same sex couple be extended to include the children of a heterosexual couple who are not married.” The ‘prayer’ of the memorial was to ask the General Council to appoint a task group to look into the matter and report back to the 2025 General Assembly.
The memorial was licensed by Monaghan Presbytery but with the
recommendation “that its prayer be not granted.”
Proposing that the prayer of the memorial be granted, Rev John Hanson spoke of the pressure he had been put under by families when he had declined to baptise their children. He said he had “personally suffered sleepless nights” as well as “symptoms of stress”. He also reported that other ministers had been “verbally attacked and threatened.” He appealed to the House to pass the memorial saying: “How can we facilitate a couple who are living in clear disobedience of the will of God and the teaching of the Church?”
Seconding the report, Rev Alan McQuade said, “…we see a lack of consistency in the approach of kirk sessions. One may have indifference to the unmarried circumstances of a couple, another may be thought of as too rigorous.”
Speaking to support the resolution, Rev Philip Poots said a task group could bring clarity: “Clarity from the centre… brings cohesion – cohesion which we are in such need of.”
Dr David Bruce, speaking as convener of the General Council, said that the memorial had not been supported by the Council because concern was expressed about the wisdom of regulating on pastoral matters, “particularly when both the law and the culture of our denomination is to devolve such discernment to local kirk sessions.”
A standing vote was taken and the memorial was granted.
Reconfiguration of ministry
The Church has been exploring the key principles and practicalities that would underpin a radical reconfiguration of ministry in the light of changing demographics and ministry and mission opportunities.
A green paper was brought to the General Assembly in 2023 and after much consultation with presbyteries, the final report was presented this year.
Dr David Allen highlighted three things pertinent to the report. Firstly, that PCI has a shortage of ministers –amounting to 75 vacancies in 2027. Secondly that the denomination is declining: “We’ve lost about 20% of our contributing families in the past 10 years.” And thirdly, that the Church has too many meeting houses.
He added: “…we may think that these are the main things about reconfiguration of ministry, and that our main priority is to manage the decline… But while we can’t ignore these things, we aren’t a business…we’re part of the church of Jesus Christ, and that means our most important job…is to be and do what the Lord Jesus wants us to be and do, on the island of Ireland, today, and in the future.”
The report brought nine recommendations. Significantly, some aspects of the previous report did not appear in this one. Namely, the idea of having a specified number of charges in each presbytery and also the proposal for immediate presbytery realignment, both of which proved unpopular during consultation. The report does, however, suggest that the General Council be asked to consider the issue of realignment again in 2032, with a possible realignment in 2034.
A key recommendation was for each presbytery to produce a reconfiguration of ministry and mission plan, which would include identifying any charges that have less than 60% of the presbytery average of contributing families, and where the 10-year decline in the number of contributing families is 140% or more than the presbytery average. The report stated that where a charge falls into this category, the ministry provision will be placed under
review with active consideration given to a change in provision. The report also indicated that the plan should identify areas of potential for new Presbyterian growth.
Two of the recommendations included two reviews to be carried out – one of the denominational-level structures, resources and buildings and another of the training of ministers of Word and Sacrament.
Dr William Henry, chair of the task group, highlighted that the remit was to provide a “radical” plan for reconfiguration of ministry, saying “For this process to be effective under God it must be radical.” He also highlighted the importance of reconfiguration being led at a local level: “The report says very clearly that each presbytery should shape and implement reconfiguration of ministry in its own area, and the Commission and Councils will enable and facilitate that…”
Debate on the report was largely positive, with a recognition that change is needed. Rev Norman Cameron, minister of High Kirk, Ballymena, quoted Tim Keller saying: “Different kinds of churches reach different people”. He continued: “We tend to be middle class, middle-aged and grey”. Highlighting the need to reach different kinds of people, he said: “We’re well beyond crisis now – we need something radical to happen.”
Rick Hill, Secretary to the Council for Mission in Ireland, said it was all about “pivoting from seeing problems to envisioning possibilities”.
Prof Michael McClenahan, principal of Union College, reminded the House that the issue was not about a specific number of ministers that are needed. He said: “We need the number that the Lord of the Harvest will give us” and urged people to pray for the raising up of ministers according to God’s will.
Rev Gareth McFadden, minister of Kilbride, spoke to the importance of the Holy Spirit, saying, “We must remember to rely on our ‘Radical Reconfigurator’”.
The recommendations in the Reconfiguration of Ministry report were all passed by the House.
New partnership
PCI has moved one step further to formalising a relationship with the Evangelical Presbyterian Church in the USA.
Commenting on a resolution towards formalising a fraternal, confessional relationship with the Church at next year’s General Assembly, General Council convener Dr David Bruce said, “Inter-church relations…has been a blessing to us, as we have learned together from each other, and sought to be of mutual support.”
Former Moderator Dr John Dunlop pointed out that PCI had benefited greatly during the Troubles from a long-established relationship with the Presbyterian Church USA. “I hope that in welcoming the Evangelical Presbyterian Church USA next year, that we will ourselves be determined to renew our relationship with the Presbyterian Church USA.”
GENERAL ASSEMBLY 2024
Lucan land sold Land at the Lucan Centre has been sold for €4 million.
The Clerk, Rev Trevor Gribben, informed the General Assembly that sale contract documents have now been signed, although it will take up to two years for the developer to receive the detailed planning permission he requires for a housing development in that area.
“He will have paid a deposit of €75,000 in good faith, which is nonrefundable, and he is taking on all the costs – which could be up to €500,000 – of the planning application process. Therefore, the €4 million proceeds from the sale will not be available to the Assembly until 2025 or probably 2026,” said Mr Gribben, explaining why there is no resolution at this Assembly as to how that money will be spent.
Rev Michael Anderson, chair of the Lucan Centre committee, spoke of the feeling of devastation at the decision to sell the entire site, and not just a significant portion, as recommended by the centre committee and Dublin and Munster Presbytery.
He said the centre had been an inspiration to thousands and was a place where many, including several ministers in the House, had been spiritually born.
In particular, he referred to the effort and sacrifice which has been made in the past two years, in partnership with 24/7 Prayer Ireland, to provide the denomination with a prayer retreat centre in addition to Lucan’s function as a residential centre for church groups and the home of Dublin and Munster Presbytery.
“To all who have given so much physically, intellectually, emotionally and financially to the centre over the years, I want to say thank you and I want to say sorry. Especially to the current committee, the current Lucan Centre staff, all the members of Lucan Presbyterian Church, the team leadership and staff, 24/7 prayer, several of whom left jobs, home and family to come to Dublin to make our vision a reality.”
Former Moderator Dr Trevor Morrow said he was overwhelmed with sadness
at the sale, and also that the decision to rescind a 2008 resolution was not brought to the General Assembly. That resolution had asked the then Board of Social Witness to investigate developing sheltered accommodation at Lucan, with the remainder of the site being transferred to Dublin and Munster Presbytery.
He continued, “I am sad too because I just think it’s so short sighted to do this for €4 million. You think that’s a lot of money? I live in a bungalow in Lucan…. It’s valued at a million. Four bungalows is what we’ve got for the sale of the Lucan site.”
Mr Gribben closed the debate by saying the General Council had thoroughly debated various options before taking the decision to sell. He also said he recognised the sense of pain felt at the sale, and the ministry that took place at Lucan, adding, “I benefited from that as many people in this House did.”
Code republishing
The project of republishing the Code has been ongoing since 2017, when the Assembly decided to revise it. The first draft appeared in the summer of 2022 and was sent down to presbyteries for comment. After much consultation, the final draft was presented to the Assembly this year.
Rev Norman Cameron, convener of Judicial Commission, thanked Dr Donald Watts for his immense amount of work on the project as convener of the task group. He also said, “We are confident that we will have a new Code that is fit for purpose, more accessible and easier to apply… By and large it is a revision rather than a complete redrafting, but the changes have been made where that has been deemed necessary to clarify current practice in the Church.” He also pointed out that the new Code “is not set in stone” and “can be amended in future”.
An amendment was brought by Rev Robert McClure about the change to one paragraph in relation to the oversight of congregations. The proposed text in the new Code no longer specified two services each Sunday as the optimum provision, but rather specified “an appropriate number” of services practical for the congregation. Mr McClure argued for the statement in the current Code to be included instead – that two services each Sunday be the aim. The amendment went to a standing vote and was carried by 175 votes to 147. Therefore the new Code was agreed with this paragraph reflecting the text of the current Code.
Pension scheme
A comprehensive report on PCI’s pension scheme will be brought to the Assembly in 2025 which will take into account the outcome of the latest statutory triennial valuation of the current scheme, which took place in December 2023 and was made available in May 2024.
United Appeal
Martin Hampton, convener of the United Appeal for Mission committee, sought to encourage congregations to support the 2024 appeal and set out the details of the 2025 appeal. He reported that congregations fell short of the 2023 target by £330,000, with 62 congregations paying nothing towards it. He recognised that there could be a number of factors for this, including issues from cost-of-living expenses and competing congregational expenses, but that it could also be due to a lack of awareness in congregations or a lack of motivation to support the Councils.
The grants approved to Councils for 2024 totalled £3,445,000, while the appeal is set at £3,400,000. Mr Hampton said: “Even if the appeal for 2024 is achieved in full, the committee will be reliant on either further use of reserves or
Present initiative
The Council for Congregational Life and Witness (CLW) launched a new denomination-wide initiative at Assembly. Entitled ‘Present’, the initiative will run for three years. Sparked from the Council’s ongoing conversations with congregations, Present will address the need to re-establish the value of spending intentional time before God; to rebuild community life; to refresh outward witness; and to encourage a positive mood in church life.
Centred around the idea of being actively present, the focus of the initiative will be on several areas: being present in this season of life and witness; being present to God; being present for one another and being present where God has placed us to be his witnesses.
Rev David Thompson, Secretary of CLW, said, “It is not a programme, or a plan, a blueprint, or the next big thing. It simply offers the invitation to be encouraged in expressing and exploring what it means to be church in your congregation’s setting and circumstances – right here, right now.” More information will be available in the Herald in the coming months. A video on Present can be viewed by scanning the QR code:
sustained high levels of interest on retained funds.”
He continued: “The work of the Councils is vital to the Presbyterian Church. They do so much more than, as individual congregations, we are often capable of, in order to show people across the world our risen Saviour… they need our support.” Mr Hampton appealed for representatives to go back and share this with their kirk sessions.
Presbytery listening exercise
CLW has been conducting a presbytery listening exercise to enable it to better resource the whole Church, as well as understanding the longer-term impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on individual congregations. The exercise is ongoing and is due to finish in 2026. Rev Albin Rankin, convener of the Council, said, “Engagement with congregations and presbyteries is at the heart of CLW… the presbytery listening exercise has demonstrated the importance of tailoring support and resources for the specific context and circumstances faced by congregations.”
Presbyterian Women
It was agreed that the constitution of Presbyterian Women be re-drafted. A reconstituted version of the Presbyterian Women panel will now oversee the support and development of all expressions of congregational ministry among women. It was recognised that the world of women’s ministry is changing and therefore this provides an opportunity for Presbyterian Women to reshape its constitution to harness the best of its features, while also gaining from the momentum and energy of the greater variety of ways in which women’s ministry is being expressed on the ground in congregations.
GENERAL ASSEMBLY 2024
Difficulty engaging young people
The Council reported that the Church is facing a particularly challenging season in terms of engaging children, young people and their families. This is evident at congregational level where numbers show a visible decline. Members of Assembly were asked to particularly remember this area of church life in prayer.
Welcoming those with intellectual disabilities
The 2023 General Assembly adopted principles intended to welcome, embrace and include those with intellectual disabilities into the Church. CLW was asked to provide guidance for congregations on how these principles might be adopted in practice, including suggesting vows for being accepted into communicant membership.
Lindsay Conway, a member of the task group that had worked on the principles, said he wanted to commend the Council: “The use of language of inclusion and welcome is exactly what we set out to do.” He added that the vows suggested are “far-reaching” and will “greatly facilitate ministers and kirk sessions”.
While the content of the report was broadly welcomed and endorsed as a faithful outworking of the task set for the Council, some concerns resurfaced about one element of last year’s Assembly decision. This surrounded the aspect of admission to communicant membership on the basis of a parental affirmation of vows they had previously taken at baptism. Consequently, the resolution went to a card vote in which the resource produced by the Council was approved by the Assembly with 244 for and 182 against. Therefore, the vows suggested for illustrative purposes will now be adopted and inserted as an appendix into the Book of Common Worship.
Education
The Assembly affirmed the nondenominational Christian ethos of controlled schools as a sound framework for developing the educational, emotional, mental and spiritual wellbeing of children and young people.
In her address, PCI’s public affairs officer Dr Bex Stevenson referred to the “enduring importance of education” and this was reflected in an extensive five-part resolution which considered matters ranging from the ongoing commitment of governors, the vital work of special schools to a court judgement relating to collective worship and religious education in Northern Ireland, and the delivery of Relationships and Sexual Education (RSE) in Northern Ireland’s post-primary schools.
Dr Stevenson, in particular, welcomed the Department of Education’s common-sense approach to implementing legislation on the delivery of RSE, saying it “minimises the impact of the RSE regulations on teaching the subject…and ensured that school ethos remained paramount.”
Turning to the ruling regarding JR87 (the Judicial Review concerning RE and collective worship), Dr Stevenson noted that the Court of Appeal upheld that the RE curriculum in Northern
Ireland’s controlled primary schools was “not sufficiently objective, critical and pluralistic”, but said the Council for Public Affairs (CPA) was heartened by the court’s decision that there was no breach of human rights.
“The teaching of RE is a vital component of the primary curriculum in Northern Ireland, an area in which children are able to explore and consider life’s big questions, in preparation for life outside the classroom,” she added.
Karen Jardine, outgoing interim convener of the State Education committee, also welcomed the court ruling, but pointed to a recent report which used Freedom of Information requests to discover who is going into primary schools to deliver RE and collective worship, and said, “While these actions haven’t been successful in changing the law, there is a danger that they create a chilling effect, where schools make their own decisions about who is allowed in.”
She said the non-denominational Christian ethos in schools shouldn’t be a threat to anyone – a view echoed by Judith Cairns, a Church of Ireland representative but who also works for Christian organisation Love for Life, who said, “We have a life-giving message to share with society.”
Assisted dying Moves to introduce assisted suicide and euthanasia across these islands has been greeted with dismay by the General Assembly.
Jersey politicians recently voted to allow adult residents to opt for assisted dying if they are diagnosed with a terminal illness, while the Isle of Man has voted in principle for both euthanasia and assisted suicide. The McArthur Bill on this issue is to be debated in Scotland in the autumn, and the Oireachtas Joint Committee on Assisted Dying has recommended a change in the Republic’s law.
Rev Daniel Kane, CPA convener, said, “We believe that any change to the law which permits assisted suicide and euthanasia, no matter how minimal in its initial form, raises the most fundamental of questions about the value we place on human life as a society.
“For people of faith, and indeed no faith, human life, its preservation, its dignity and its protection are moral and precious values, which we believe society casts off at its peril.”
The Council, instead, called for more investment in and the strengthening of palliative care services “to support those who are nearing the end of their lives as an urgent focus and priority for all jurisdictions across these islands.”
Considering Grace follow-up
Rev William Hayes warned of the need for urgent action, and called on those living in the Republic to contact their political representatives.
“They (the political representatives) are acting on this issue in a way that they think is caring and loving and compassionate. They are acting in completely the wrong direction and so we want to be able to encourage them not to go ahead with introducing what will be a huge mistake into the legislation in the Republic of Ireland, but instead, as we are proposing, that they would put the resources that would go into this into palliative care and into helping those who drawing towards the end of their life, to be able to die with dignity…”
Rev Jim Stothers said, “I think this is where society is going – you’re a burden, you’re costing money, it’s cheaper to finish you off than to spend money on you if you have an illness or disability – and we need to make sure we put our voice against that.”
The Assembly passed a number of resolutions affirming the innate dignity of human life, expressing concern at the recommendation from the Oireachtas Joint Committee to legislate for assisted suicide/euthanasia, and encouraging the Council of Public Affairs and its Assisted Suicide and Euthanasia task group to engage proactively and with the utmost urgency.
There is to be a follow-up to the 2019 book Considering Grace, which records the stories of 120 Presbyterians’ experiences of the Troubles.
Rev Karen Campbell has been commissioned to undertake its production, and the new resource will express both lament and a hope-filled future.
Rev Tony Davidson, convener of the Peace and Reconciliation panel, explained that eight focus groups will each do a Bible study on a psalm of lament, which will lead to the production of eight hymns.
“We trust these hymns will give us biblical words to use in expressing our anguish and pain as well as pointing us towards a better future,” he added.
Bishop Sarah Groves, president of the ICC, said the resource will not just be for PCI but for all Churches here, adding, “The Churches are in a unique position to work on this area, and work on the idea of lament and binding up the broken hearted.”
GENERAL ASSEMBLY 2024
Contentious issues
The Council for Public Affairs seeks to demonstrate “the power, truth and beauty of the gospel across a wide range of highly contentious moral and ethical areas of public life”. That was the message from its convener Rev Daniel Kane.
He referred in particular to two motions passed by Northern Ireland MLAs at Stormont which give cause for concern, regarding hate crime and conversion therapy.
While deploring the “alarming prevalence of hate-motivated crimes in all their forms”, Mr Kane said it is hard to anticipate what the impact of proposed legislation will look like in practice.
“We fear there’s a grave risk of such future legislation straying into the freedoms we have of proclaiming the uniqueness of Christ and freedom to practise our faith,” he said.
MLAs also passed a motion calling on Northern Ireland’s Minister for Communities to bring forward legislation on an effective ban on conversion practices.
“As a Church we’re on public record expressing our opposition to harmful, coercive interventions to bring about changes in a person’s sexual orientation. Some campaigners, however, want to go much further and criminalise repentance as well as preaching, prayer, pastoral care and even parenting that fails to endorse the rights of gender self-determination.
“We’re clear that any future legislation shouldn’t criminalise ministers, church workers and parents as they walk alongside those who struggle with their sexuality, pastorally and prayerfully,” added Mr Kane.
Mica concern
The Assembly passed a resolution stating its concern about the distress caused by the ongoing issues with Mica concrete in the Republic of Ireland.
The Council for Public Affairs is encouraged to engage with the Republic’s government, and raise awareness of the issue and the struggle of those affected.
Asylum housing
Concern at the collapse of the Asylum Seeker Housing System in the Republic of Ireland was expressed during the Council for Public Affairs session.
Council convener Rev Daniel Kane called on “both the Irish and UK governments to work together to find a sustainable solution to this human tragedy”.
Middle East
The General Assembly passed a resolution giving thanks to God for the resilient and faithful witness of Christian communities in the Middle East.
Recommendations by the Middle East task group were also adopted, which called for prayer, presence, partnership and practical support as a way of fulfilling a plan of work commended at the 2022 Assembly to “show solidarity with, provide support to, and learn from Christian communities in the Middle East”.
Council for Global Mission (CGM) Secretary Rev Uel Marrs said PCI representatives who have visited the Middle East over the years have been “deeply impacted by meeting many who are like the cedars of Lebanon. People who have grown and matured often in the face of adversity, testifying to God working powerfully through their times of fragility and weakness, even in the midst of the gravest of circumstances.”
Former Moderator Dr Trevor Morrow referred specifically to the situation in Israel and Palestine. Having previously been part of a reconciliation group working in the Middle East between Messianic Jews and Palestinian Christians, he said he felt “deeply” about what is taking place in the area.
He described both the Hamas attack on 7 October and Israel’s response in the killing of thousands of Palestinians in Gaza as “evil”.
“The goal is not to seek Israeli justice or Palestinian justice, but to pursue the righteousness and the justice of God, and I think we need to pray for our brothers and sisters – Messianic Jews and Palestinian Christians… Give voice to the voiceless. Let’s pursue what is just according the principles of God.”
Creation care conference
A conference looking at the theological basis of creation care and featuring scientific material is to be held in 2025.
It is hoped it will be as accessible to as many people as possible, in particular, those aged under 35.
During a debate on creation care, Mark Welsh, an elder in New Mossley, said the Church should take a leadership role in this matter, and the
conference is an opportunity to suggest possible solutions that local churches can engage in, such as the installation of solar panels.
The importance of action was stressed by Rev Cheryl Meban, who highlighted the impact of climate change on the poorest, and Professor Stephen Williams, who said that even if we are uncertain of what the science says on the matter, “We should certainly act as if humans are responsible for climate change.”
Rev Allen Sleith, convener of the Stewardship of Creation task group, spoke of the “urgent and universal challenge to all of us to be good stewards in God’s good, blessed but beleaguered creation.”
To find out responses from the Presbyterian climate change survey, go to p46.
Global mission workers
Thanks was given for the dedication and creative endeavour of PCI’s global mission workers.
CGM Secretary Rev Uel Marrs said, “Twenty-three years. That’s the average length of service of PCI’s 21 global mission workers, engaged in nine countries and in three continents.
“That statistic highlights how long-term commitment to the Great Commission of Jesus Christ is a distinctive characteristic of our missionaries.”
World Development Appeal
The 2023 World Development Appeal has so far raised £486,605, supporting projects in Sierra Leone, Bangladesh, South Sudan, Haiti, Kenya, Nepal, Syria and Lebanon.
Dr Prem Subedi, chief executive officer of The Cross Reformed Centre in Nepal, said PCI’s generosity was helping expand God’s kingdom, by meeting the needs of the needy, training church leaders and helping prepare for disasters. This has helped “bridge the gap between the community and the church”.
GENERAL ASSEMBLY 2024
Listening to the global church
‘Treasure in jars of clay’ was the theme of this year’s ‘Listening to the global church’ session.
Those gathered heard three presentations from PCI’s partners in Malawi, Poland and Nepal.
Rev Catherine Makombe, minister of Ntonda parish in Blantyre Synod of the Church of Central Africa Presbyterian, spoke of the challenges of hunger and political instability currently experienced in Malawi.
Last year’s harvest was destroyed by Cyclone Freddy, while drought has ruined this year’s, meaning, as Rev Makombe explained, “The people are in critical hunger, to the extent that the president of Malawi declared Malawi, especially the southern region, as an area of disaster, which needs food, aid and support.”
The death of the country’s vice president in a plane crash has also led to political instability, but Rev Makombe said her Synod is trying to bring a message of hope to the people, adding, “We believe that God shall never leave us alone.
One shoot of hope is the youth, with young people making up about 70% of Blantyre Synod. Not immune to their country’s difficulties and also facing challenges such as unemployment and limited access to education, Rev Makombe says they are resilient and resourceful.
She is hopeful that working with the youth, along with technological advances, will allow her Church to engage in many areas such as maintaining the environment, and improving the status of young people.
Representing the Evangelical Presbyterian Church in Poland, Rev Sashko Nezamutdinov outlined the situation in his country, where 90% of the population say they are Catholic, and the number of evangelicals per head is the same as in Saudi Arabia.
“Nevertheless, this is a very interesting time in the Polish history. Under the strong wave of secularisation, the younger generation is getting disillusioned with the Catholic Church...Most people, especially younger people, write off faith and spirituality completely. But then there are those that are looking for alternative churches, and we’re
trying to appeal to them.”
Through a strong online presence and flourishing publishing ministry, the Evangelical Presbyterian Church in Poland is seeing people coming to faith, with most in their 20s and 30s. Currently there are only four congregations worshipping in rented accommodation, but there are seven ministry candidates studying in different seminaries in Poland, Scotland and America.
“We don’t have churches for these young people, and they will have to go out and start new churches across the country,” explained Rev Nezamutdinov, adding that, “If Poland had another 12 churches in all the larger cities, we would be at a much better place, because then nobody would need to drive longer than two hours to the nearest Presbyterian church.”
Another place where the number of believers is increasing is in Nepal, where 5% – or 1.5 million – are Christian.
A congregation recently planted in the east is reaching those from the low caste background and untouchables, and now numbers over 60 adults and 25 children.
Dr Prem Subedi, chief executive officer of The Cross Reformed Centre, Nepal (an arm of the Nepali Reformed Church), told the Assembly how he is working with believers in local churches to see transformation of the poorest communities.
He explained how groups are formed within the congregation to start small-scale businesses such as chicken farming. This helps lift those members out of absolute poverty, but it is also a way of being “salt and light”.
Other non-believers see this, and ask for similar initiatives to be set up in their community. “So we can come together…something can be done for the betterment of the community in general.”
Another way of reaching out is by preparing church members on how to respond in event of emergency in this disaster-prone area of the world.
“We are here to help those people, not just inside the walls of the church, but outside in the community, so they can see the light, so that they can see the salt in their neighbours,” said Dr Subedi.
Shoots of growth
Rev Ker Graham, convener of Linkage Commission, reported: “We have much to be thankful for as a denomination. There are many places where we see encouragements and real shoots of growth.” He referenced new ministry opportunities in Fahan congregation in Donegal and also in Wexford.
Identifying that tight budgets “can hinder the work of the gospel and our desire to reach out into new areas”, Kenny Belshaw, secretary of the Commission, encouraged all congregations to meet, if not exceed, their United Appeal targets of honour.
Congregation changes
The Assembly agreed that the congregation of Second Ards be merged into the congregation of First Ards on 31 December 2024, or on another suitable date set by the Commission.
It was also agreed that the recently merged congregation of Windsor and Great Victoria Street now be known as ‘South Kirk’.
Training at Union
In the autumn of 2023, 10 students commenced training for ordained ministry. There are currently 28 ministerial students at Union Theological College. Eight applicants were recommended and approved by Assembly to begin training in autumn 2024.
A successful Ministry Taster Day was held at Union in March 2024 and around 70 prospective applicants attended. It is hoped that the success of this event will translate into applications for ministry in future years.
Deaconess training for a new cohort, due to begin in September 2024, has been deferred until September 2025 to re-advertise the opportunity and widen the pool of applicants.
Retirement at Union
Rev Prof Gordon Campbell will retire in August 2024. Prof Campbell, who took up his post at Union in 2007 and was principal from 2021–2023, was thanked for his faithful service.
Property needs
A report has indicated that renovations of Union College are needed to the cost of approximately £3m (£25,000 of which is required urgently). As part of a wider remit, under the General Council, it was agreed that the Church will take forward a detailed review of denominational-level structures, resources and buildings, including those at Assembly Buildings and Union College.
Handling the Word
A new course has been devised, to replace the original ‘Handling the Word’. A pilot for this new course, called ‘Sharing God’s Word’, will be carried out in autumn 2024. It is hoped that this course will be helpful to a wide variety of people who share God’s Word in lots of different settings, not just those who might be moving towards the Accredited Preacher Scheme, or ordained ministry.
GENERAL ASSEMBLY 2024
Importance of IMP work stressed
Developing new International Meeting Point centres is of the “utmost and urgent importance”, according to a Council for Mission in Ireland report.
The IMP Future task group has reviewed the future direction of migrant ministry within Ireland. Statistics suggest the need regarding migrants and those seeking asylum continues to grow significantly, not just in Belfast –where the two current IMP centres are based – but across the island.
In response, the Assembly approved a resolution to affirm the Church’s call “to love those who are foreigners” (Deuteronomy 10:19) as a missional principle and a prophetic sign to the wider Irish society, and that the Council “be encouraged to collaborate with presbyteries where need might be greatest in proactively seeking to develop new IMP centres elsewhere in Ireland.”
Rural chaplaincy pilot to continue
The rural chaplaincy pilot scheme has been recommended to continue, following the adoption of a resolution by the Assembly.
Started in 2021, the scheme was initially to run for three years with Rev Kenny Hanna engaging with farmers and rural organisations in the Armagh, Down, Iveagh and Newry presbytery areas.
In the report to Assembly, the Rural Chaplaincy Review panel referred to how positively the pilot had been received and recommended the current post of rural chaplain be made permanent.
The passed resolution noted the review and referred the matter to the Priorities Reference panel, which will report to the General Council for a final decision.
Student chaplaincy in Dublin
PCI is looking into how to develop its student ministry provision in Dublin. It is over 15 years since a Presbyterian chaplain has served full-time there, but a task group has been looking into a possible hybrid model, initially for Trinity College Dublin, which could be replicated in other universities. Recommendations have been agreed by the Council for Mission in Ireland to action, following consultation with Dublin and Munster Presbytery.
Mission pioneers
The first five PCI ‘mission pioneers’ are expected to have finished their training by the autumn. On completion of their assigned pathways of apprenticeship and training, the new mission pioneers will be available to work in the sphere of evangelistic outreach or church planting.
Church planting
The Assembly has agreed to a greater focus on major population centres in Ireland, particularly with regards to resourcing and new church development.
It endorsed a resolution which affirmed the Council for Mission in Ireland’s desire to respond to the rapid expansion of major cities and towns through new church development, the calling of ministers and the development of suitable mission projects and roles, in collaboration with relevant presbyteries.
CMI’s report referred to recent developments in the north west and south east of Ireland, with Dr Martin McNeely being called to Fahan with additional missional duties, with a view to church planting in Buncrana, and Rev David Curran’s installation in Wexford to initiate new church development.
Social Witness resolutions passed
The General Assembly passed a resolution, commending the Council for Social Witness (CSW) managers and staff for their commitment to delivering excellent care throughout 2023.
Further resolutions adopted included welcome for the Council’s continuing work to place its finances on a long-term sound footing, and the start of updating and streamlining PCI’s safeguarding arrangements.
GENERAL ASSEMBLY 2024
Crossing boundaries
One of the highlights of each year’s General Assembly is the evening celebration. The theme for this year was ‘Crossing boundaries with Christ and for Christ’, and was hosted by the outgoing Moderator, Dr Sam Mawhinney. He was joined by three people who are crossing boundaries for Christ: Rev David Moore, serving the people of west Belfast; David Templeton from Safe Families UK; and Noah Bartlett from Intercultural Worship Ireland.
The evening’s keynote speaker was Rev John Risbridger, who currently serves as council chair of the Evangelical Alliance. During his talk, Mr Risbridger shared that if we are serious about crossing boundaries for Christ, our starting point needs to be building bridges of authentic friendship – to invite people who are very different to us into our lives. He also reminded those gathered that the gospel “is able to cross the most impermeable of boundaries”.
Mission Connect
Building bridges and sowing peace
Mission news from workers around Ireland and the world.
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.
Firm foundations
Gary and Mary Reid
Creating space for conversation
Alan Duddy
Making connections
Sylvia Santos Bryce
Football fever
Csaba and Ilona Veres
Feeding and maturing together
Rev Jean Mackarel
Building bridges and sowing peace
Abbi White
Including September prayer diary
Firm foundations
Gary and Mary Reid Global mission workers, Kenya
“For we are God’s fellow workers; you are God’s field, you are God’s building” (1 Corinthians 3:9).
On 30 July 2006, our Lord so wonderfully granted that the first Presbyterian Church of East Africa (PCEA) service would be held at Isintin. After meeting with the nursery school committee, permission was kindly given to use the school as a place to meet together and worship.
only have the foundation put in place, with all materials, including water, having to be transported to the site, but also to have the walls built up to roof level.
It was a privilege to see God’s Word going forth amongst the beautiful Maasai…
How we blessed our Lord when some members of the community came together with our dear guests, Gary’s mum and Jean Farlow (lovingly known as Granny Jean), to worship and praise him. It was a privilege to see God’s Word going forth amongst the beautiful Maasai, and indeed amongst a few men from other tribes.
Over the following years, God’s Holy Spirit worked and God’s children prayed. During this time the body of believers underwent stresses, and that which could have been deemed instrumental for its crumbling was used by our Beloved to not only build a stronger church family but to add to its numbers.
During these years, the church family moved physically from the nursery classroom to a less confining building made from corrugated iron sheets, where the larger numbers gathering continued to worship our Beloved. However, as the years progressed, the church family wanted to have a larger stone building in which to meet – one that would certainly be cooler in the dry season – and so the people began to bring in their offerings of money, animals etc., to enable its construction.
The work then began, and it was quite an achievement to not
Our Father then helped his children through the contributions of his wider church family, and these were used to help with the purchasing of the roofing materials, and other materials to help complete the work. In April this year, the work began on the roofing of the building, and, at the time of writing, the remaining work is ongoing.
It is our heartfelt prayer that just as the building has risen from its foundations and stone has been laid upon stone for the unification of this building, so also our Beloved’s church will rise up from being founded on him and remain unified together in him, encouraging one another and building each other up.
Unless the Lord builds the house, the builders labour in vain. Please pray with us that Christ’s beautiful church, because of its love for him, will continue to pray and wait on him. Pray it will reach out to those both near and far: seeking and serving, proclaiming and preaching, teaching, discipling and shepherding for his glory and the extension of his kingdom.
Please pray:
• That the work on the new church building will be completed soon.
• For the church to continue to be a blessing on the community.
Creating space for conversation
Alan Duddy
Community outreach worker, Glendermott Presbyterian
Having previously worked in First Holywood Presbyterian Church, I have recently taken up post in Glendermott as a community outreach worker. We have enjoyed our holiday Bible club with a great bunch of leaders, helpers and volunteers engaging in fun-filled Bible-based activities for our incredible children.
…we are hoping there will be a positive response and future development.
Leading into the summer holidays, I was glad to be able to join with our Bible class for a few sessions and am grateful for the opportunity to get into the two local primary schools which I hope to work more closely with in the future. Youth club continued into July and our family fun day and vintage rally was a real highlight.
At the time of writing, I am joining with an Impact team, based in Kilfennan Presbyterian Church, sharing in devotions and offering some help with a range of activities, from dancing (which I am terrible at) to eating pizza (which I am particularly good at). The team are doing a fantastic job, both the locals and those from further afield, and I hope this paves the way for more partnership, interaction and connection between local churches in outreach and discipleship.
The next item on our agenda is a day of serving locally –primarily focusing on the areas of Ivy Mead and Tullyally. We’ll gather as a team on the Friday evening and enjoy the three ancient essential components of ministry: prayer, planning and pizza! In advance of this, we will have jobs lined up such as washing cars, cutting grass or litter picking and then on Saturday we’ll hit the streets in our matching t-shirts. We hope to set up a base camp, not at the church, but the community centre where we should have face-painting, tea and coffee, a crèche and some tech
support. This is a pilot project, but we are hoping there will be a positive response and future development. This is a practical way that we can make our church more visible in the local area and an opportunity to witness and create space for conversation. This will enable future outreach, discipleship and recruitment to the various organisations within church. We hope to reach families and young people and help connect them to a church, but also, more importantly, to Jesus in a real and personal way.
Please join us in praying for the residents in Ivy Mead and Tullyally, the local primary schools, Ashlea and Drumahoe, and the other exciting opportunities that can be presented through delivering positive, practical support and working on the ground, consistently and intentionally.
Please pray:
• Give thanks for the position of Glendermott and the community we have an opportunity to impact.
• For the people in Ivy Mead and Tullyally, that strong relationships will be built and the good news will be spread effectively.
• For Drumahoe Primary School and Ashlea, for the pupils, parents and staff.
• For insight and opportunity for Alan with young adults, men’s ministry, youth and the local football team.
Making connections
Sylvia Santos Bryce Deaconess, West Church, Ballymena
This year has been a blessing to our church family. As we continue to serve God and the people in our congregation, we desire to see folk deepening their faith in God and grow as a disciple of Christ. We pray that: “Nor height, nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will ever separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Romans 8:39).
During the summer we continue to meet for prayer every Wednesday evening and everyone is welcome. My focus this summer is on pastoral visits, supporting and helping our children’s church, and creating a mural of Noah’s Ark in the crèche space. The summer is also a time to reflect on my role as a deaconess and seek God’s guidance for the rest of the year. I have also been spending some time painting which helps me to relax and reflect on my journey.
I…feel blessed by all the people who are willing to share their passions, skills, gifts and time…
Our friendship club starts in September, and we already have an exciting programme planned. This year we will be reflecting on hymns we love, and are delighted that Rev Gabrielle and her husband Maurice Farquhar are coming to speak in October. We are also looking forward to our winter holiday Bible club, which takes place during half-term. Last year, a mum who holds a deep desire to reach out to our younger generation and share the love of Jesus with the little ones, organised a Bible club which was a blessing for many children from the community that attended. We will continue to support her this year and look forward to what God will do through this.
West Church has partnered with Kells Presbyterian Church, County Meath for over 60 years. This year, for the first time, an all-age team from West Church ran a Bible holiday club in Kells. It was a blessing for everyone, especially those who travelled from Ballymena to be part of what God is doing in County Meath. We hope it was an encouragement to the members of Kells, especially the children and young people who attended and we hope to continue to offer support in the future.
As a congregation we are also looking forward to our family fun day at the beginning of September, which will be a great opportunity to connect with our surrounding community. This will be followed with our back-to-school Sunday which has become an annual event to encourage children and support families as they prepare for school.
We are looking forward to reconnecting our weekly activities.
I am thankful to God for our church family and feel blessed by all the people who are willing to share their passions, skills, gifts, and time in many ways so that the kingdom of God will be expanded throughout our church family and community.
I feel blessed by the support and encouragement I receive from the Council for Mission in Ireland. We had a great time at our last retreat back in May in Carlingford. This gave us the opportunity to encourage one another, be refreshed, enthused and stronger to serve in our congregations.
Please pray:
• Give thanks for God’s unfailing love, mercy, guidance, and goodness.
• For our church family, especially young families.
• For those in nursing homes and those waiting for medical treatment and receiving treatment.
Football fever
Csaba and Ilona Veres
Global mission workers, Hungary
This year, many in Hungary had high hopes for the Euro football championship. Liverpool’s best Hungarian player, Szoboszlai, provided the goal to give hope for the national team to get through the group stages, and the country were united cheering them on.
However, hopes were shortlived with Hungary eventually not getting through to the knock-out stages. In spite of this, in one small corner of Hungary, football fever continued and hopes were still high.
The goal is to glorify God, to draw people to the cross, to win them for Christ.
Many boys and girls in Bodaszőlő are passionate about both watching and playing football and this summer were eager to get in training for the annual gypsy mission national championship in July.
In the Bodaszőlő church plant, youth and children’s outreach are in the very early stages, so in aiming to connect with young people, using the thing which they are most passionate about was a natural choice. It was obvious that part of our children’s summer ministry would include football training for two age groups.
As we met with the teams, we focused on the valuable life lessons which can be taught through football – discipline, bonding, loyalty, self-control, ambition, integrity, and perseverance etc. But much more than this, in our church plant, football is all about building Jesus-centred relationships and being passionate about following Jesus on or off the pitch.
During our Bible week in mid-July, an Exodus team from Northern Ireland helped by holding football training each day, teaching new skills and techniques. The children also heard a Bible lesson and personal testimony on themes inspired by football. We talked about identity in Christ, biblical values and goals in life.
During the Bible teaching, the teams listened and interacted well and had open hearts for the message.
Football can be a uniting sport in the Bodaszőlő intercultural church plant and it is something which can be used as a tool for the gospel message in evangelism, discipleship and the growth of God’s kingdom. Football is never the goal itself. The goal is to glorify God, to draw people to the cross, to win them for Christ. In our Bodaszőlő youth work, football can be a tool for the good news, it can be a bridge between the young person and the living truth, to win to Christ those who love football.
After weeks of training, on 20 July we took our two teams to the gypsy mission championship. We are delighted that both teams performed so well, playing with integrity, promptly making peace when there were knocks and shoves on the pitch, quickly offering the hand of friendship after nasty tackles. Their skills were on display and they played with passion. We were delighted to bring home the cups in both age groups, rejoice in the friendships formed, sportsmanship being developed, good teamwork and a sense of passion and hope. More than this, we continue to pray that each youngster would find hope in Jesus and a passion to live for him.
Please pray:
• For continued open doors for the gospel using the medium of football.
• That many boys and girls would become passionate followers of Jesus.
• For the youth group which will start to meet regularly from September.
• For our first family service on 8 September.
Feeding and maturing together
Rev Jean Mackarel Minister, Drumkeeran, Killeshandra, Cavan and Bellasis Presbyterian Churches
Assembling in the meeting house, for corporate worship of our Triune God, is the highlight of each week for God’s people who hunger and thirst for his righteousness, seek first his kingdom in the prayerful desire that his will be done on earth as it is in heaven, and spur one another on towards love and good deeds (Hebrews 10). The Lord’s people cherish and will not want to miss the privilege of being called together to praise the Lord, as the psalms command, and to be fed at the King’s table on the absolute truth of his words, in a world where “truth is nowhere to be found and whoever shuns evil becomes a prey” (Isaiah 59:15).
The
minister’s solemn task and delight… is to prepare well, pray with compassion, and preach with passion.
The minister’s solemn task and delight, as the teaching elder, is to prepare well, pray with compassion, and preach with passion the Word that equips and edifies the Lord’s people in their various circumstances. “Unto me, who am less than the least of all saints, is this grace given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ” (Ephesians 3:8). When such a privilege as ‘preaching Christ’ is in our hands, we must handle it with careful correctness, and joy! After 40 years of walking alongside the Lord’s dear people in County Cavan, the feeding and maturing together in his Word is still my great and increasing joy. Visitors are welcome to join our worship services, which are on the first and third Sundays in Bellasis and Drumkeeran; and on the second and fourth Sundays in Croghan and Cavan, with additional shared services on fifth Sundays. Services are recorded for those unable to attend. Further edification in God’s Word and hymn singing is available by tuning in to Airs and Praises after the 10pm news, every Sunday on Shannonside/Northern Sound radio (online listening at www.shannonside.ie).
Youth fellowship and children’s club members excel themselves in attendance and participation in Bible study and Sunday school learning, including catechisms, creeds, commandments, prayer and hymn books. These meetings take place in two centres, on Fridays and Saturdays, and include a variety of sports and games to finish, as well as refreshments. The ability of the young to engage in new learning and to take it in, is a joy to behold. And when young communicants present their written personal confession and summary of their learning so far, before elders and congregation, in preparation for the sacrament of Communion, and when they gladly assist with the Bible readings, prayers and hymns at the Youth and Children’s Day services each summer, their parents and the rest of the church welcome and surround these young folk with prayer and nurturing pride.
We are in thanksgiving to God for the power of his Word and Spirit, holding his covenant community together in faith and fervour, strengthening them in his truth and in his service, standing firm in today’s world.
Please pray:
• For continued encouragement, engagement and spiritual growth within these congregations.
• For all those who attend the youth fellowship and children’s club, that they would continue to grow in knowledge of the Lord and his Word.
• For the Cavan School of Theology, particularly as it organises an anniversary conference in 2025.
Building bridges and sowing peace
Abbi White Children’s worker, South Belfast Friendship House
Afew months ago, I began a maternity cover role at South Belfast Friendship House after learning about the centre through volunteering at the nearby International Meeting Point. There is golden thread woven together in both of these mission projects through the service of committed followers of Jesus Christ and God’s kingdom vision for the community.
We cannot run from our gospel declaration, but the task requires us to be courageous and obedient.
During our regular programmes, I have enjoyed seeing children listen to Bible stories with a sense of curiosity. Children in the estate that would rarely have the opportunity to hear the good news of Jesus were asking questions about some of the toughest and relevant issues in life that point to our faith. As a team, we have been blessed to be able to share our lives and testify to the unfaltering character of God as seen in Scripture.
Over the summer, we have seen the benefit of beginning streetbased provision in the local parks. Getting out of our building and into the community where the children we regularly minister to walk the streets is a witness we believe we are commissioned to. We have seen God lead us into conversations that have connected us with new areas of the community that had previously gone unnoticed.
In God’s perfect timing, we had the joy and honour of serving alongside a PCI Impact team that ran a summer scheme in the Sandy Row community with such diligence and integrity. Their love for Jesus was felt amongst the community with a local mother commenting, “I don’t know what it is, the atmosphere just changes for the better when you guys are here.” An encouragement we can only give glory to God for.
Sadly, the night after the Impact team left, Friendship House would find itself at the centre of a community that had businesses torched, windows smashed, and hearts broken. Growing tensions between foreign nationals and the local people of Sandy Row saw our neighbouring migrant families have their livelihoods destroyed and sense of safety drastically compromised. I have been reflecting on two biblical characters that I think speak into our situation.
Moses: his courage to stand in the presence of his oppressor to lead the Israelites out of their captivity. Also, Jonah: his fearful obedience to call the people of Ninevah to repentance. In the moment we find ourselves in at Friendship House, we cannot run from our gospel declaration, but the task requires us to be courageous and obedient. In the face of those seeking to divide our communities and allow evil to prosper, we are to be the very hands and feet of Jesus, building bridges and sowing peace. We hope that God will mightily use the ministry of Friendship House to bring about the multicultural message of the gospel and the good news of his coming kingdom.
Please pray:
• For the provision of positive male role models for the children we serve.
• For the division in the community surrounding the integration of immigrants and asylum seekers. For those with hatred in their hearts to encounter the love of the living God.
• Give thanks for those committed to serving God’s mission in Sandy Row.
n DIANE CUSICK – Pray for Diane currently on home assignment, that she may enjoy a time of rest and reconnection, be sustained in good health, and be blessed with a fruitful time of deputation.
n RURAL CHAPLAIN – For planned events, including a mission in Rathfriland Livestock Market (14–17 November), Hilltown Hotel Bible study group night of Christmas carols and gospel talks (5 December), and a carol service at Rathfriland Livestock Market.
n IRISH MISSION – For Tom Dowling (Kilkenny), that God will continue to work in the lives of the children who attended summer camps, and that the Spirit of God will move greatly in Bible studies, street outreach and door-todoor visitation as the new term begins.
n URBAN MISSION – For the congregation of Strand as they navigate this time of vacancy and look to God for guidance in their next steps.
n SOUTH BELFAST FRIENDSHIP HOUSE – Give thanks for the relationships built during the summer activities, and pray that as activities start back, people would meet Jesus in Friendship House.
n SPECIAL MINISTRY IN WEST BELFAST – For the monthly worship services being held in west Belfast, commencing this month. Give thanks for Rev David Moore serving in this part of the city.
n DEACONESS – For those who have applied for deaconess training, as applications are considered and the process moved forward.
n DEACONESSES – Give thanks that Heather Healy and Cathy Smith have completed their training, and pray for guidance in their next steps.
n POLAND – Give thanks for the ministry of Christ the Saviour Reformed congregation and pray for Rev Sashko Nezamutdinov as he seeks to provide visionary and faithful leadership. Remember especially the congregation’s literature ministry as it seeks to translate and publish key Christian texts for the building up of believers.
n FORCES CHAPLAINS – PCI forces chaplains are invited to a conference in September. Pray for those who will attend, that this will be a time of spiritual refreshment and pastoral encouragement.
n BRAZIL – For the work and witness of the Presbyterian Church of Brazil, especially for efforts to plant new congregations among those communities facing hardship and deprivation.
n THOMPSON HOUSE – Give thanks for the work and witness of Thompson House, the Church’s supported housing scheme for offenders. Pray for David Farrow, the director, and his team as they get alongside residents and show them the love of Christ through simply showing that they care. Give thanks for the Bible study that takes place among residents, and pray that residents’ lives may be changed.
n CSABA AND ILONA VERES – Give thanks for the camps that have taken place over the summer in Hungary. Pray that God’s Spirit would speak into the hearts of all who attended and that many would be challenged to respond positively to the gospel.
n COMMUNITY OUTREACH – For Gavin Doyle, who is commencing a new role as community outreach worker in Trinity, Cork this autumn.
n STEPHEN AND ANGELINA COWAN – For Stephen and Angelina who are on home assignment until November, that they may have a quality time of rest and reconnection while undertaking a schedule of speaking engagements. Pray for the staff taking forward the work of Samburu Awareness and Action in Kenya during these months, that they would be blessed with steady progress.
n HEALTHCARE CHAPLAIN – Rev Norman Harrison is PCI’s lead chaplain in the Northern Trust/Royal Group of Hospitals/Belfast City Hospital. Pray for him and his team as they continue to provide support and comfort to patients, families and staff.
n COMMUNITY OUTREACH – For Alan Duddy, a new community outreach worker serving in Glendermott Presbyterian.
n SCHOOL LIFE – For our children as they return to school. Pray they will be eager to learn and settle in well to their new surroundings. Pray also for those families that may be struggling with the return to routine and the financial burden that goes along with it. Give thanks for those churches and groups who offer support to families in need.
n AARON HOUSE – A residential care home in Dundonald for people with a profound learning disability, Aaron House offers permanent and respite care for people from the Belfast and South Eastern Social Care Trusts. Pray for the manager, Julie Gibson, and staff who provide exceptional care.
n UNIVERSITY CHAPLAINS – For PCI chaplains in universities as they begin the academic year. Pray they will have opportunities to make contacts.
n MALAWI – Give thanks for the 100th anniversary celebrations of the Church of Central Africa Presbyterian that took place in Lilongwe on 25 and 26 August. Pray that this special gathering would prove to be a catalyst for fruitful witness and effective discipling for many years to come, especially among children and young people.
n INTERNATIONAL MEETING POINT – For the new project leader, Rev Colin Dickson, as he begins in September and for Keith Preston as he retires from this work.
n PRISON CHAPLAIN – Remember Rev Graham Stockdale as he returns to his role after a period of sabbatical, giving thanks for the opportunity he has had to carry out research and planning for future work.
n COUNCIL FOR MISSION IN IRELAND – For the Council’s new convener, Rev Ben Walker, as he takes on this role, thanking God for his willingness to serve in this way.
n HOME MISSION – Give thanks for the new church building to be officially opened in Maynooth and pray that God would continue to bless the work of the congregation there.
n DEREK AND JANE FRENCH – Give thanks for a period of rest and reconnection in Ireland over the summer months. Pray for Derek and Jane as they return to Bilbao and engage in a busy autumn programme of ministry and outreach with Bilbao International Church and Grupos Biblios Unidos.
n ADDICTION – For those suffering from addiction. Pray specifically for Carlisle House in Belfast, which provides addiction support. Pray service users will use their time in Carlisle House to rebuild their lives.
n STRESS – For those suffering from the effects of stress, and pray especially for staff within PCI’s services, often working under pressure. Give thanks for the dedication staff show. Pray that those dealing with stress may find a way to switch off and recharge.
Tom Dowling
Derek and Jane French
TALKING POINTS
Character matters
Norman Hamilton ponders the importance of good character in public life.
Elections are never very far away in our Western world. The UK had an election in June; Ireland must have one before the end of March next year; and of course, there is already massive coverage of the November election in the United States. And across the world, in this year alone, elections have been – or will be – held in more than 60 countries (as well as the European Union), home to nearly half of the world’s population.
The hype that accompanies elections may largely pass you by, or you may be fascinated or irritated (or worse!) by what you hear and see. Whatever your reaction, it is very important to acknowledge that our opportunity to vote in open democratic elections is a very special privilege, and most certainly not to be taken for granted.
For it is estimated that one billion people around the world lack official proof of identity, which is critical to register to vote.
the public for their decisions and actions and must submit themselves to the scrutiny necessary to ensure this.
Openness. Holders of public office should act and take decisions in an open and transparent manner. Information should not be withheld from the public unless there are clear and lawful reasons for so doing.
Honesty. Holders of public office should be truthful.
Leadership. Holders of public office should exhibit these principles in their own behaviour and treat others with respect. They should actively promote and robustly support the principles and challenge poor behaviour wherever it occurs.
I see voting...as a responsibility...
Of these one billion people, more than 80% live in Sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia. For example, in Chad in Central Africa, more than 60% of people aged over 15 don’t have proof of identification, while in Indonesia it is almost 10%. We are much blessed to even have the opportunity to vote, are we not?
Yet, as we know only too well, democratically elected governments are often mired in scandal and alleged or real corruption. For Christian people, this must be a source of deep concern, for as the Amplified Bible puts it: “Righteousness [moral and spiritual integrity and virtuous character] exalts a nation, but sin is a disgrace to any people” (Proverbs 14:34).
It is often forgotten that in the UK, every elected representative from the newest local councillor to the Prime Minister must subscribe to a written code of conduct known as ‘The Seven Principles of Public Life’, in order to take up their responsibilities. These principles actually grew out of a major scandal in Westminster, and are officially set out by the government as follows:
Selflessness. Holders of public office should act solely in terms of the public interest.
Integrity. Holders of public office must avoid placing themselves under any obligation to people or organisations that might try inappropriately to influence them in their work. They should not act or take decisions in order to gain financial or other material benefits for themselves, their family, or their friends. They must declare and resolve any interests and relationships.
Objectivity. Holders of public office must act and take decisions impartially, fairly and on merit, using the best evidence and without discrimination or bias.
Accountability. Holders of public office are accountable to
In a word, character matters. Politicians almost always promote policies, manifestos, their parties and themselves. Few speak publicly about character. But, for the follower of Jesus, character really does matter.
Yet there is even more to good government. I have been engaged in some research on this topic recently, and there are at least four ingredients of quality government.
Firstly, the character and the competency of those elected. Secondly, good policies that seek to balance competing needs and priorities. Thirdly, adequate resources in both people and money to make those good policies actually happen. Finally, real accountability that commends good work and calls out what has failed.
Given the huge responsibilities that come with politics, I suggest that when we next go to the polling booth, we think very carefully about to whom we should give our support. As a committed Christrian, I see voting not only as a privilege, but as a responsibility before God... not least because of the blessing that comes with that righteousness in public life proclaimed in Proverbs.
My allegiance and my identity are first and foremost rooted in Christ and what he has done for me – and crucially that is not up for negotiation or change. My political preferences and opinions are much further down the priorities list, coming after being a husband, father, and other God given privileges.
I long for national righteousness, biblical principles and personal commitment to Christ to play a much bigger role in our politics than they currently do. Am I being too optimistic? You tell me!
Hamilton
Very Rev Dr Norman Hamilton is a former Moderator of the Presbyterian Church in Ireland.
Norman
Being present in the ordinary
Albin Rankin explores what it is to be truly present, the theme of a new three-year PCI initiative to encourage congregations and their members in the ordinary walk of faith.
My earliest memory of the word ‘present’ involves sitting in a primary school classroom. ‘Present’ was the response you made when you heard your name read out by the teacher. Twenty-five years later I discovered that this was still the response expected when your name was read out by the clerk of presbytery at presbytery meetings!
In both cases, all it indicated was physical presence. Being present in this sense was nothing more than being in a certain place at a certain time. Your thoughts, your attention, your heart may have been focused somewhere else entirely.
Being present, however, is so much more than attendance. It is about attention; it is about attitude and it is about activity. In Genesis 3:8 we read: “Then the man and his wife heard the sound of the Lord God as he was walking in the garden in the cool of the day, and they hid from the Lord God among the trees of the garden. But the Lord God called to the man, ‘Where are you?’”
God is present but Adam and Eve are not. They are hidden. Though they occupy the same physical space, the garden, they
are not present to God as God seeks to be present to them.
In Revelation 21, John’s vision of the fulfilment of God’s kingdom provides another picture of ‘being with’/ ‘being present’: “And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, ‘Look! God’s dwelling place is now among the people, and he will dwell with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God.’”
What lies between these two pictures is a story that reveals the relationship, the being with, being present, that God seeks to invite us into. Through story, metaphor, dialogue, instruction, exhortation and example, the Scriptures reveal not only the obstacles to such a relationship and the offering God has made in Christ to address the obstacles, but also the open invitation to enter into this relationship and experience God with us.
Being present to God is more than just showing up. As one commentator has
Being present…is about attention; it is about attitude and it is about activity.
noted, the central promise in the Bible is not ‘I will forgive you’, although of course that promise is there. It is not even the promise of life after death, although that is extended through Christ to all who will trust and believe in him as Saviour and as Lord.
The central and most frequent promise in the Bible is ‘I will be with you’. This is the promise God made to Jacob in Genesis 28:15: “I am with you and will watch over you wherever you go.”
This is the promise Moses looked for as he responded to God’s instructions to lead the people in Exodus 33:15: “If your presence does not go with us do not send us up from here.”
This is the promise David celebrates in the shepherd psalm, Psalm 23:4: “Even though I walk through the valley of darkness I will fear no evil for you are with me.”
And this is the promise Jesus makes in Matthew 28:19–20: “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptising them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely, I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
This promise ‘I will be with you’ means
that in our everyday lives, God is present.
At the General Assembly in June, the Council for Congregational Life and Witness launched ‘Present’. It is first and foremost an invitation. Instead of offering a programme, or a set of studies, or even a project to work on, Present invites us to look around and see what or who is right in front of us. Present invites us to get comfortable with the ordinary.
A few months ago, I joined in a pursuit of the aurora borealis, or Northern Lights. It was a surreal experience sitting in my car on the Craigantlet Hills outside Belfast waiting and watching for this spectacular sight. Unfortunately, I didn’t get to witness this extraordinary display but the next day and every day since I have witnessed the daylight, the ordinary light that drives away the darkness, promotes life and growth and brings rhythm and shape to the life I live. My failure to experience the spectacular prompted me to look again at the ordinary and to see it as vital and just as transformational as the hilltop experience that never was.
In Romans 12, Paul writes: “So, here’s what I want you to do, God helping you: Take your everyday, ordinary life – your sleeping, eating, going-to-work, and walking-around life – and place it before God as an offering. Embracing what God does for you is the best thing you can do for him.” (The Message) It is tempting to look for, or even
…embracing what God does for you is the best thing you can do for him.
hanker after, the hilltop experience. When Peter, James and John witnessed Jesus’ transfiguration their first instinct was to preserve it. In our day and generation, we would film it, take a selfie, create a TikTok. The gospel writers, on the other hand, follow this extraordinary event by describing how Peter, James and John returned to the ordinary, as indeed did Jesus. What is more, Jesus’
John Calvin highlighted in the third volume of his Institutes: “a Christian ought to be disposed and prepared to keep in mind that he has to reckon with God every moment of his life.” Romans 12 reminds us that our whole lives are to be our sacrifice of worship to God, not only our gathering on a Sunday or our quiet times. We therefore need to pause, or at the very least slow down. John Mark Comer, in his book The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry, notes: “Attention is the beginning of devotion.”
The invitation that comes with Present requires no additional resources, or instructions, or guidelines. Everyone can participate right where they are. Everyone can contribute through their stories and experiences. Present is not about the spectacular or the extraordinary. It is not the hilltop, but the path we travel each day.
You and your congregation are invited to be part of this initiative, to embrace what God has done and is doing right where he has placed you. There is nothing polished or packaged about this initiative. Present is not a PR exercise for PCI or indeed our attempt at a PR exercise for Jesus. The stories that will emerge will reveal our struggles, our brokenness and our failure every bit as much as our joys, celebrations and faithfulness. Present is not an answer to all our problems but a call to see, appreciate and value God in the ordinary.
commission and instruction to the disciples, and through them to us, is to pursue the ordinary. You and I are to live where God has placed us as salt and light. In the 16th century, Martin Luther faced a pastoral crisis. His parishioners were looking for more exotic forms of discipleship. They roamed all over the country and beyond, believing that their local church did not have all that they needed. Luther counselled, “Let every man stay in his own parish. There he will find more than in all the shrines. In your own parish you will find baptism, the sacraments, preaching, and your neighbour.” Get comfortable with the ordinary.
As Present unfolds over the next three years, we will explore what it means when we gather before God, how it translates into community as we live with one another, and the way it shapes our engagement where God has placed us to be his witnesses in our neighbourhoods and networks.
Being present begins by taking our everyday ordinary life and placing it before God as an offering. In so doing we respond to what God has done, and is doing, because embracing what God does for you is the best thing you can do for him.
Rev Albin Rankin is minister of Stormont Presbyterian Church, Belfast and convener of PCI’s Council for Congregational Life and Witness.
Exploring partnership
In a first for PCI, a delegation from the National Evangelical Presbyterian Church of Guatemala attended this year’s General Assembly. Suzanne Hamilton interviewed its Moderator, Rev Laurence Cifuentes, about his Church’s turbulent past, and the challenges and opportunities it faces.
‘Global disciples sharing God’s heart for the world, declaring good news and demonstrating God’s love’ is the strapline for PCI’s Council for Global Mission.
This emphasis on the Great Commission and the call to authentic fellowship with brothers and sisters in Christ around the world is reflected in PCI’s long history of sending missionaries and global mission workers across the globe, but also in its many partnerships spanning Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Asia and South America.
A new partnership currently being explored is with the National Evangelical Presbyterian Church of Guatemala, and a five-strong delegation travelled over 5000 miles to attend this year’s General Assembly.
Explaining the reason behind the visit, Moderator Rev Laurence Cifuentes said it was an opportunity to “see what you have, what the Lord has built here,” adding, “That challenges us and it’s a great inspiration to us.”
The National Evangelical Presbyterian Church of Guatemala is looking to the future, having endured turbulent times in its 140-year history.
Gaining a foothold in a country heavily influenced by the Roman Catholic Church and Mayan culture has not been easy. Indeed, religious freedom only became a possibility following the liberal revolution of 1871, which brought Justino Rufino Barrios to power.
first Presbyterian missionary, John Clark Hill, into the country.
“We believe the Lord used the president,” said the Moderator. Not a believer himself, but wanting to dilute the power of the Catholic Church, Barrios went to the United States and invited the
The Bible has been translated into six languages, but the rest remained to be reached.
“The church growth, at the beginning, was frustrating and the first missionary almost failed in his task. Poverty at the time was really bad in the country, and he started helping out many of the poor people, but that ended up being a kind of paternalistic help, and when the help stopped, the movement almost died out,” explained Mr Cifuentes.
An American school founded at the time also floundered, leading the first Presbyterian missionary to return to the US, to be replaced by Edward Haymaker, who established what is considered the foundation of the mother church.
“As a sign of God’s blessing, the president at the time gave him a piece of land next to the government palace. To this day, the Presbyterian church stands in this – it has become a symbol of Presbyterian work in Guatemala,” explained Mr Cifuentes.
Photographs by Jamie Trimble.
Dr Sam Mawhinney with Rev Rosalío Ortega Hernández (Permanent Secretary of the National Evangelical Presbyterian Church of Guatemala).
Despite fierce opposition from the Catholic Church and Mayan culture, it grew and the National Evangelical Presbyterian Church of Guatemala was formed in 1882, with the first presbytery – called West –established in 1923.
Such was the opposition that the Presbyterians, Baptists, Methodists, Quakers and the Nazarene Church formed an interdenominational synod, which lasted until 1956, when the National Evangelical Presbyterian Church in Guatemala was formally recognised as a Church by the state.
“This was a big step forward for the Church. It also allowed the Catholic Church to understand there was actually freedom of religion in the country, and they had to respect that,” explained the Moderator.
The influence of the Catholic Church still runs deep in the Central American country today though, with many identifying as Catholic simply because their parents and grandparents were before them.
“It’s more of a tradition than an informed decision…and so many people that convert haven’t fully understood the gospel. They try to bring their Roman Catholic traditions into the Presbyterian Church. And so that’s the battle of thought that we have,” he said, adding, “We need to present the gospel not as a religion, but as a way of life that every child of God, every true child of God, needs to live out...that’s our greatest challenge nowadays.”
It has not just been external forces which have threatened the Church throughout its history. A 30-year civil war created tensions within, leading ultimately to a split in the 1990s, due to the involvement of many church leaders in this conflict.
“When that division happened, those of us who left started growing exponentially, and those who were left within the Church started decreasing.
“In a way, the influence of the US (Presbyterian) Church worked for the best here because they conditioned their
If you have good teaching, you’re going to have good results. If not, then the results are not going to be there.
help to the churches that remained within the official Church, to look for reconciliation with those churches that had separated from the denomination. It brought them back together and started the reconciliation process, and the majority of churches that went out, returned,” he explained.
Since then, new presbyteries have been established, and the General Assembly was formed on 31 October 2017 –Reformation Day.
There are still many challenges, and opportunities, for the Church to navigate, however. Despite having around 470 congregations, the Church has only reached a handful of Guatemala’s ethnic groups, of which there are over 20.
“The Bible has been translated into six languages, but the rest remained to be reached,” said Mr Cifuentes.
Theological education is also a pressing issue. There are few young candidates aspiring to the ministry due to a number of reasons. Better opportunities in countries such as the United States leads many to emigrate.
Furthermore, universities often offer classes at the weekends, so many invest their time there instead of going to church.
There are theological seminaries throughout the country, but Mr Cifuentes says many
of the courses are superficial. He would like to see the seminary of the National Evangelical Presbyterian Church in Guatemala take the lead in raising standards to its level.
“We need to standardise theological education through the whole country. A lot depends on this, on the right theological education. If you have good teaching, you’re going to have good results. If not, then the results are not going to be there.”
There is also a recognition within the Church that the principles of the Reformation weren’t taught well when the first missionaries first preached the gospel in Guatemala all those years ago.
“They won many people over, but they didn’t teach them any theology. They wanted the national church in Guatemala to come up with their own theology, so many customs were brought over into the life of the Church and many good things from the Reformation were lost,” explained Mr Cifuentes, adding that the interdenominational synod also created issues, for instance, Presbyterians were forced to stop baptising infants by the other Churches.
The National Evangelical Presbyterian Church of Guatemala now hopes to move forward through partnerships, like the one currently being explored with PCI. “Our hope is to establish fellowship bonds with Reformed Churches that hold true to the true principles of the Reformation,” said Mr Cifuentes.
Joel Méndez, Rev Laurence Cifuentes and Suzanne Hamilton.
Starting strong EVENT
Ilove the Olympic Games – the celebration and excitement of all the different sports that are on display. It is incredible to watch those who run, jump and throw higher, faster and stronger than ever before. The Games only last for a couple of weeks though, a fraction of the time that the athletes and teams have been training, preparing and sacrificing, in order to be their best.
One of the athletes whose story I have followed is that of Helen Glover. Helen is an Olympic rower who already had two
Olympic gold medals (2012 and 2016) for rowing, and amazingly, at the age of 38 and after previously announcing her
…it would take children’s ministry leaders 421 years to spend the same amount of time [with children] that parents have up to the age of 10.
retirement, headed to the Olympics for one last time. She is married to Steve Backshall and is the mum of three small children.
As she headed to Paris, Helen said, “It takes a village to get to the Olympic village. As friends and family watch our final session on home soil, we look forward to seeing them waving and cheering in Paris. The support of our families has been the backbone of this Olympic campaign… school teachers, nursery teachers, class parents, my old
Ruth Bromley highlights an upcoming PCI event designed to support parents and churches as they nurture and disciple children and their faith.
team mates, coaches, and our lovely friends and all of you that have been in touch and supporting me, thank you for being on our team.”
Becoming an Olympic athlete may focus on the individual, but there are other people – family, friends, coaches and many others – who together make the road to the Olympic Games possible. And it is no different, in fact it is even more essential, that this is the case for children on their faith journey within our congregations.
Research by Faith Journeys found that 72% of Christians in the UK come to faith before the age of 19. Yet only 50% of children who grow up in a Christian home keep their faith into adulthood (Church Growth Research Programme Report). Children’s ministry across our denomination has been involved for decades in encouraging and nurturing the faith of children. Many volunteers have spent time preparing and sharing with children in congregations north and south, teaching and discipling them in many ways and in different situations to help them to follow Jesus. And yet, many children, even those from Christian homes, leave the church.
Why?
I think part of the problem is that we have relied heavily on these volunteers to shoulder the majority of the discipling process and yet they only spend one or two hours a week with the children – and that is not enough. Some churches see children as the church of tomorrow and spend the majority of their time and resources on the adults of the congregation. And this is also not enough.
Other congregations see children as a vital part of the church of today as well as tomorrow. Those congregations see children as young disciples and want to see their faith develop and thrive.
Author and speaker Andy Frost, director of Share International, says: “The vision is to help them follow Jesus for themselves, becoming resilient disciples now and for the decades to come. Our role is to give them the best start in helping them develop faith that can thrive.”
This cannot be the role of volunteers alone though. To give children’s faith the
…this is a partnership where parents are at the centre of their children’s discipleship, cheered on by the church…
best opportunity to grow and thrive we need the whole community of the church to be a part of it. Caroline Bradley, Care for the Family’s national representative in NI, said in the April edition of the Herald: “We’ve discovered that the most effective family ministry takes place where churches: intentionally put parents at the centre of children’s faith development; create an environment where intergenerational relationships can develop; and build a culture where there’s a place for children to serve and belong.” Caroline’s article highlighted a new resource to help congregations think about a whole church approach to family ministry which can help children’s faith thrive, a resource which Andy Frost has been heavily involved in.
Now, I am both a parent and a children’s ministry volunteer in my congregation. I know that as a volunteer my time with the children who I get to teach and disciple is limited. I may only have 45 minutes each week, which is not long to build relationships and disciple them in their faith. But as a parent, I have a huge amount of time to spend in the ordinary parts of our day and week. Parents have on average 30 hours a week with their children. It is calculated that it would take children’s ministry leaders 421 years to spend the same amount of time that parents have up to the age of 10. Wow! So, it seems a bit of a no-brainer to link the two together.
In November, we are planning an event to think about how to do this. Often events on children’s and family ministry are either for parents or for leaders but we are going to do something different. We are going to do one for both. Andy Frost is coming to encourage children’s ministry and church leaders to think about how they can utilise the one or two hours a week that they have to influence, teach and disciple the children in their congregations. It’s amazing what can happen when you put faith-driven adults
and groups of children being discipled together. It’s a privilege to be part of that. We also want parents to be there to hear what the leaders are being encouraged and challenged to do with their time.
Then Andy will speak to the parents and encourage them to take up the challenge of discipling their children – to simply look, in Andy’s own words, at how they can weave the things of God into the everyday. And we want the children’s ministry and church leaders to hear what parents are being encouraged and challenged to do.
The idea of hearing both sides is to see that this is a partnership where parents are at the centre of their children’s discipleship, cheered on by the church, which surrounds them with intergenerational relationships and makes space for children to belong and serve.
Helen Glover is the one who held the oar and who ended up with a medal around her neck at the Paris Olympics but she couldn’t have even got on the plane to France if she didn’t have a support network to help with her kids. How much more important is what we are aiming for as the church! To see children loving Jesus, not just in our churches, but loving him for themselves and being discipled in a place where they belong, that allows their faith to thrive.
Ruth Bromley is PCI’s children’s development officer.
Starting Strong
Thursday 14 November 2024
7.45pm–9.15pm High Street, Holywood Presbyterian Church
This is an evening for parents, children’s ministry leaders and church leaders to come together and think about the part that each play in supporting parents and discipling children to encourage their faith to thrive.
For more information or to book a place, go to www.presbyterianireland.org/ startingstrong
What do we think about climate change?
Andrew Soye outlines the results of a recent climate change survey conducted by PCI.
Respondents articulated a desire for biblical teaching relating to creation care…
In view of the ongoing challenge of being good stewards of God’s creation, PCI, through its Council for Global Mission, wanted to hear from its members regarding climate change and to gain an understanding of the range of thinking, perceptions and positions within the denomination. The Stewardship of Creation task group, under the leadership of Rev Dr Allen Sleith, was asked to take into account specific groups, including ministers, young people, and those (particularly farmers) likely to be most impacted by climate change and measures taken to address it.
The 2024 report follows on from the 2018 Stewardship of Creation panel report which sets out biblical principles for good stewardship, stating that “caring for God’s creation and loving one’s neighbours are core discipleship principles which must be reflected in Christian lifestyles” and recognising that “those in poverty are most likely to bear the brunt of adverse climate conditions.”
The main aim of this listening exercise was to help shape the next steps in PCI’s engagement with the issue of climate change (the term ‘climate change’ was used broadly to refer to human induced changing weather patterns, global temperature rises, and related issues including sea-level rises, species decline and forced migration).
Listening
An online survey was carried out to hear from members across the island of Ireland. Where possible, support was provided to those without digital skills or online access. A total of 1,196 responses from across 209 congregations were submitted in September and October 2023. Along with specific questions, the survey provided space for comment and for suggestions of possible action and useful resources. Focus group discussions were carried out with farmers and young people, who had been identified as groups of particular interest. A number of semi-structured interviews were also carried out.
What was said
A large number of respondents (263) put forward suggestions for action at individual, congregational, presbytery and denominational levels. These ranged from reducing, recycling, repurposing or reusing resources to engaging with government. Various ideas for energy use, conservation and generation were put forward, as well as suggestions for reducing polluting road and air travel. Ways of using church-owned buildings and land in more eco-friendly and sustainable ways were put forward.
Respondents proposed changes to shopping habits such as buying more second-hand, eco-friendly and Fairtrade products; demanding the use of less plastic packaging; and exchanging rather than buying goods. Some advocated eating local, seasonal and homegrown food and, more controversially, less meat. Others suggested negotiating discounts on bulk purchases of both food and energy. Further suggestions included avoiding investment in fossil fuels, and using eco-friendly office supplies and internet servers. Encouraging litter picking was a recurring theme.
A number of respondents pointed to how awareness of, and involvement in, creation care might be increased at congregational and presbytery levels: by offering training to leaders, signposting resources, appointing a ‘congregational champion’ or ‘PCI resource person’, or through the formation of ‘eco-groups’.
The formation of an ‘expert advisory body’ was also suggested. Suggestions were made of potentially useful resources including sources of information and helpful organisations. Respondents articulated a desire for biblical teaching relating to creation care, for help in navigating the science involved, and for signposting to practical action. It was suggested that information around creation care should be integrated into existing means of communication rather than ‘siloed’ within separate, additional resources.
Comments ranged from those appreciative of the survey and encouraging denomination-wide action, to those which questioned the balance and usefulness of the survey. While many comments expressed deep concern about man-made climate change, none could be said to be alarmist. Scepticism focused primarily on theological and scientific objections: climate action was seen by some as a dangerous distraction from saving souls; others pointed to the complexity involved and questioned the scientific consensus on the causal link between climate change and human activity. A mistrust of ‘mainstream’ media was sometimes expressed and there was a reliance on online sources of information. It was striking that those who dismissed human-induced climate change often underlined their commitment to creation care and protecting the environment.
Do you hold any of the following leadership positions in your congregation?
A strong majority understand creation care to be an important part of their Christian discipleship.
In summary
Reflecting on the survey responses, interview comments and focus group discussions, the following conclusions can be drawn:
The majority are concerned about climate change (slightly less concern was noted amongst those aged under 35 years old).
Most, including those who are sceptical about human-induced climate change, accept the need to care for God’s creation and are making lifestyle choices that reflect this. A strong majority understand creation care to be an important part of their Christian discipleship.
A significant minority state that creation care is regularly taught in their church but fewer believe that their church family is doing enough to address climate change.
A minority believe that a focus on climate change within the church is a distraction from evangelism.
Significant numbers within PCI have not yet formed an opinion about climate change and the degree of human responsibility for it.
Further engagement with those aged under 35 may be helpful to better understand their lower levels of concern and to help refine PCI’s response.
It is clear from these findings, and in particular from the numerous suggestions and comments received, that there is a need for credible biblical teaching relating to God’s creation and human responsibility for its care. There is also a strong demand for well-grounded information that will generate awareness of, and involvement in, creation care at both individual and congregational levels. PCI could equip people in this regard by helping them to access, recognise and navigate scientific research that is peerreviewed and trustworthy.
What next?
Recommendations, based on the learning from the research, were brought to the General Assembly. These included the Council for Global Mission ensuring the promotion and awareness-raising of creation care is integrated into its communication strategy. It is also to liaise with other Councils on a collaborative approach across PCI, with a report being brought to the 2025 General Assembly. One key event is likely to be a Creation Care conference, suitable for everyone in PCI and offering input regarding the theological
My understanding of biblical faith underpins my concern for the environment
35% Strongly agree 40% Agree
18% Neither agree or disagree 5% Disagree
2% Strongly disagree
Making environmentally sustainable life choices is part of my Christian life 28% Strongly agree 47% Agree
17% Neither agree or disagree
Disagree
3% Strongly disagree
Select the age group you belong to
2% Under 18
16% 18-35 20% 36-50
51-65
Over 65
basis of creation care, and relevant scientific material. It is hoped that this event will take place in 2025. The full report including appendices can be downloaded from the webpage www.presbyterianireland.org/ stewardshipofcreation or accessed via the QR code below:
Andrew Andrew Soye is a member of Waringstown Presbyterian Church and a member of the Stewardship of Creation task group. He’s a retired geologist and he and wife Debbie served with PCI in Malawi from 2003 to 2007.
Looking back to move forward
Sam Bostock finds out how the history of the church in Ireland can help us gain perspective on our present and also help us look to the future.
Gladys Ganiel, a sociologist, and Andrew Holmes, a historian, are both academics at Queen’s University and are part of PCI churches. They have recently edited the The Oxford Handbook of Religion in Modern Ireland. Sam Bostock sat down with Gladys and Andrew to talk about what the book can tell us about Christian faith in Ireland today. What follows is an edited transcript of their conversation.
SB: Some Herald readers might be surprised that a book on religion in modern Ireland starts as far back as 1800. What’s the value of all that earlier material?
AH: Looking at something over 200 years reminds us that the situation we have today is not what it was 200 years ago, and that change over time matters. That’s important for how we think about our position in the modern world. I don’t think this handbook could have been
compiled in the way that we did it 20 or 30 years ago during the Troubles. Being able to talk about everyday religion and the idea that religion might be apart from political identity is a product of changes in the last 20 or 30 years when people have realised we can think about religion in Ireland other than in terms of politics.
GG: In an ideal world we would have started with Elizabeth I, but we didn’t have the scope for that! Andrew mentioned change over time, but there’s also continuity, as well, which is important. You can’t understand the present without some grasp of the past, and you could have gone back much further in modernity. But you have got to draw a line somewhere.
You
can’t understand the present without some grasp of the past…
SB: Why did mainline Protestant churches decline in the second half of the 20th century?
GG: Across the board, the main reason religion declines is because parents aren’t passing it on to their children. The churches are worried about whether there is religious education in schools, but if the parents aren’t socialising their children, that’s where the whole thing falls apart, basically. Of course there are wider macro-level processes related to modernity, such as increased economic prosperity and standards of living, the rise of individualism and consumerism, and so on. These also have contributed to declines not only in the Protestant churches on this island but in almost all religious organisations in Western Europe.
AH: If you’re thinking about mission, the breakdown of that socialisation process is really significant. For Protestant churches, this means that the
people who remain are going to tend to be more committed to them, and they’re probably going to hold more conservative views. In the south, there has been a falloff of church attendance, but there is still a strong sense of being culturally Catholic. Which means that people buy into certain rites of the church, but not necessarily its teachings. For Protestants in the north, it’s slightly different. Instead of becoming culturally Protestant, they just give up.
GG: That tends to happen crossnationally. In historically Catholic countries, people tend to hold on to religious culture and identification, whereas in historically Protestant countries people are more likely to abandon it. That’s a very common international trend.
SB: Would you make a case for saying that missionally one of the things that the Catholic Church has done, perhaps better than the Protestant Churches, has been a higher emphasis on ritual?
GG: I think the importance placed on sacraments is key. It wasn’t that long ago in the Catholic Church, you had to have a really good excuse to not receive Eucharist every week. So I think the sacramental nature helps the religious practice.
AH: I’m sceptical about a division between Protestants who focus on concepts and ideas and Catholics who focus on ritual. Looking at what PCI was publishing in the early to mid-20th century – it was the Shorter Catechism and study aids on the Catechism and the Bible – alongside an insistence on going to Sunday school and church every week. That points to the importance of set forms and patterned behaviour within Presbyterianism, which is on the face of it very anti-ritualist.
SB: That all continued until very recently.
AH: Absolutely. In addition, the singing of the psalms was a defining feature of Presbyterianism. But if you go to a Presbyterian church today, if you sing a psalm, it’s the exception, not the rule. I think there possibly is a broader point there. Singing psalms and being catechised into a language and a way of thinking and of talking mattered in terms of forging a Presbyterian identity.
Churches are weaker than they were. But it’s not a disaster narrative.
SB: Gladys, your chapter has lots of detailed statistics about the persistence across contemporary Ireland of belief in God, belief in heaven and hell. These things are kind of a few notches down in the south, but there are still quite high levels of those beliefs. What does that mean for us today?
GG: I think one of the narratives you get with churches now is that everything’s a disaster – there’s secularisation, the media is out to get us, nobody’s a Christian anymore. That’s just not true. Compared to the rest of Europe, especially, this is still a society that has really high levels of belief, and practice, and strong institutional religion. Churches have as much or more resources than any other civil society group on this island. Churches are weaker than they were. But it’s not a disaster narrative.
AH: I think that the mainstream churches in Northern Ireland are, as Gladys says, in a much better
environment than anywhere else in the UK and Ireland as they are able to rely upon at least some residual knowledge of Christianity. However, in the 19th and early 20th century, the challenges to Christianity were primarily intellectual threats. Or if there were moral threats they were things like alcohol and drunkenness, which you could identify relatively easily and deal with. The moral and ethical issues churches are dealing with at the moment, particularly around sexuality and gender, are just so complex and so very human. From that perspective, it’s just a much more difficult set of circumstances and issues to deal with.
GG: Evangelical Alliance NI recently commissioned a survey by Savanta ComRes. If you look at the younger group, age 18–24, it’s very evangelical – and most surprising about this is that more 18–24-year-old Catholics call themselves evangelical than Protestants. Quite often, the evangelical package includes the conservative moral beliefs around some of the issues Andrew has talked about. So if that’s the young people who are going to be leading the churches in a generation, and it’s very conservative, what are the implications of that?
…one of the things that historical awareness should do is it to make people more humble and more wary about saying we have all the right answers.
SB: Women’s involvement is something that comes out really clearly in the book, particularly in everyday religion. Do you see any sort of sense of change over time in terms of how women versus men’s contributions have shifted in the church?
GG: In Western Christianity women usually show higher levels of religiosity in terms of higher levels of belief and going to church more often. But especially in the Republic of Ireland, women are now showing levels of equality with men in terms of religiosity. Previously, I thought that Northern Irish women were holding to the international pattern, but it’s looking a bit murkier now on that too. There’s something really interesting happening on this island in terms of women deviating from that Western Christian pattern. In terms of women’s contributions to religion, the problem is that the thing that academics and the public think of as religion is the ministers and the priests and the leaders doing stuff. But actually that is such a small part of religion. The big part of religion is the everyday and women have done most of the hard work for that for centuries.
AH: This comes back to the point about socialisation. Historically, it is women who were crucially important in that regard. The essential argument in Calum Brown’s book The Death of Christian Britain is that the death of Christian Britain happened whenever women stopped buying into the teaching and rituals of the church.
GG: Yes, stopped going to church and had to go out and work, or wanted to go out and work!
SB: Ivan Illich has this idea of ‘shadow work’ – a kind of work that is not counted by economists. And often it falls on women to do the shadow work. It sounds as though you are saying
there’s a religious version of shadow work which has often been done by or led by women that’s often not picked up on because of a focus on ordained leadership.
GG: Yes, and it’s actually a form of leadership but women don’t recognise it as leadership. I come across this all the time. When you want to interview someone for your research and talk to a woman about Christian leadership, they’re always like, “Oh, I’m not a leader.” [Whispers] Yes you are!
SB: Final question. You are both active members of PCI churches. Are you hopeful about the prospects for the church in Ireland in the 21st century?
GG: I think the church is in a better place than it was when it had all the power it had. One of the really encouraging things from that Evangelical Alliance survey is that evangelicals are much more likely to say we should be welcoming to asylum seekers and refugees. Evangelicals were much, much higher than the general
population on that. Things like that encourage me. If we could just get over this hang-up that the world has ended and we’re no longer in control, I think we’re actually in a much better place than for most of the last century, really.
AH: Historians make bad prophets! I think one of the things that historical awareness should do is it to make people more humble and more wary about saying we have all the right answers. Whenever people look back in 50 to 100 years’ time, they will think to themselves, “Goodness, the church was absolutely obsessed about those particular issues. But there were other really significant issues at the time. Why weren’t they worried about those?” We ought to find comfort and hope in the promise, “I will build my church and the gates of hell will not prevail against it.” If Presbyterians are being Presbyterian, they believe in the sovereignty of God.
Rev Sam Bostock is the minister of First Saintfield Presbyterian Church.
New directions in John Owen studies
Martyn Cowan reports on Union Theological College’s recent John Owen conference.
At the end of June, Union Theological College hosted what proved to be a really fruitful conference devoted to the 17th-century pastor and theologian John Owen. He is frequently regarded as one of the leading English early modern theologians and his diverse writings attract both scholarly and popular interest from those interested in history, theology, biblical studies, and pastoral theology.
Owen was born in the year that William Shakespeare died (1616). Having left Oxford, he began his pastoral ministry in rural Essex and came to prominence during the late 1640s. A supporter of the new republican regime, he served as a chaplain to the Cromwellian forces in Ireland and Scotland before becoming the dean of Christ Church and vice-chancellor of the University of Oxford. With the restoration of the monarchy and the imposition of religious uniformity, Owen lost his positions in church and state and became one of the most significant leaders among the Protestant dissenters. He died in 1683, leaving behind works totalling some eight million words which covered major doctrinal topics, pastoral theology, biblical exposition, and more.
In the past few decades Owen has been the subject of many books, articles, and dissertations, but even with this we are only beginning to explore the life, thought, impact, and legacy of this most formidable, inspiring, and sometimes controversial figure.
The convention began with a two-day academic conference which attempted to assess the current state of Owen scholarship and identify new directions of exploration. There were three keynote sessions by leading scholars working in this area. Prof Philip Alexander FBA (emeritus professor of Jewish Studies at the University of Manchester) addressed Owen’s relationship to Judaism, particularly his Hebraism and his significant engagement with Jewish texts and learning. Dr Alison Searle (associate professor of Textual Studies at the University of Leeds) gave the second plenary lecture on the significance of letter writing in pastoral caregiving in
John Owen…is frequently regarded as one of the leading English early modern theologians…
the 17th century. The final keynote paper was delivered by Dr Ty Kieser (assistant professor of Theology, Criswell College, Texas) who compared and contrasted the theological vision of Owen with that of Karl Barth.
One of the most important aspects of a conference like this is the opportunity to interact with others involved in related areas of research. In this the conference did not disappoint: in the seminar programme over 20 30-minute papers were read and discussed. These covered a wide range of topics about the formation, contextualisation, and reception of Owen’s ideas. It was very encouraging to see a number of current and recent graduates of Union’s postgraduate degree programmes presenting in these seminars.
There were several other highlights. Delegates visited the Reading Room of the Special Collection at the McClay Library of Queen’s University to view a range of relevant works by Owen and other theologians, many of which were drawn from the Antrim Presbytery collection. The publisher Crossway (which is currently producing a new 40-volume edition of The Complete Works of John Owen) screened a new short documentary produced as part of this
…we are only beginning to explore the…legacy of this most formidable, inspiring, and sometimes controversial figure.
project. I am editing five of the volumes in this series and the first of these will shortly be published as Sermons and Tracts from the Civil Wars (1646–1649) Union College provided the ideal venue for the 50 or so delegates in attendance. The Gamble Library hosted a display of some of its extensive collection of early editions by Owen and other relevant authors. The academic conference came to a close with a dinner in the college’s historic dining room for attendees and invited guests.
The second part of the Owen convention was designed to introduce Owen to new readers under the title of ‘John Owen: Theology for life and ministry’. Delegates were joined by ministers, current students, recent graduates and others in order to consider some of the lessons that Owen might be able to teach us today as they listened to five addresses.
Prof Crawford Gribben (Queen’s University Belfast) explored the various contexts of Owen’s ministry to individuals, families, the church, and the nation. Dr John Tweeddale (Reformation Bible College, Florida) looked at some of the priorities of Owen’s pastoral ministry, particularly the goal of seeing people grow in the knowledge of God. Union principal Prof Michael McClenahan offered a critical assessment of the strengths and weakness of one of Owen’s important works on pastoral theology. I explored why, some 300 years later, Owen’s sermons remain relevant for today. Finally, Dr Lee Gatiss, one of the series editors of the new edition of Owen’s works, considered Owen’s pastoral guidance on how to respond to the ministry of God’s Word in an appropriate manner.
Events like this are hugely important for developing
partnerships, both individually and institutionally. A residential conference also provides an opportunity for establishing and building the networks of relationships which are essential for future work and collaboration.
One particular delight was that Union
students in online programmes were able to travel to Northern Ireland to meet their peers and lecturers face to face. The conference was made possible through the generous support of our partners at Crossway and BibleMesh. Thanks to this partnership, delegates received a bundle of free books and digital resources. Furthermore, nine scholarships were provided to help postgraduate students and early career researchers to attend. Recipients of these scholarships were accommodated in the Presbyterian chaplaincy’s Derryvolgie Halls of Residence. An event like this aligns with the college’s mission statement. First, it plays a part in the college’s teaching being underpinned by ongoing research, further developing what a recent independent review described as a “well-embedded culture of research and scholarly activity”. Secondly, it is orientated towards what our mission statement describes as “life, work, and service in both local and global contexts”. Please do join us in praying that these would continue to be distinctives of the work of the college.
Rev Dr Martyn Cowan is vice principal of Union Theological College and lecturer in Historical Theology. He was involved in organising the three-day John Owen event alongside principal Michael McClenahan and two Owen scholars: Prof Crawford Gribben (Queen’s University Belfast) and Dr John Tweeddale (Reformation Bible College, Florida).
REVIEWS
Jesus, Then and Now in 30 Minutes
United Christian Broadcasters
PODCAST «««««
This podcast by UCB is hosted by Bible teacher and church pastor Mike Beaumont and David Taviner (UCB’s director of broadcasting).
Spanning 52 episodes, the podcast covers the history of Jesus, from his birth right up to his death, resurrection and departure as well as his second coming. UCB provides a short and snappy 30-minute discussion on each of these topics while at various historical biblical sites where events took place, such as the ruins of the temple of Jerusalem.
As is to be expected, the last episode in the series considered both how and when to expect Jesus’ second coming. Particularly interesting were discussions around how many Christians have provided predictions throughout the ages for the second coming, in response to world events – all have been wrong.
The hosts conclude that in biblical times when Jesus was explaining this to his disciples and when he was asked, even Jesus didn’t know; only God the Father truly knows.
The discussion then moved to how is it going to happen. Various theories were discussed, including the rapture, when all Christians will be swept away, versus the theory that his coming will be known by all believers and non-believers. They concluded by saying that Jesus’s second coming will happen without warning, so Christians must be ready.
This podcast is insightful and theological whilst being short enough to listen to at any time of the day, whether while commuting to work, during a break or winding down at night.
Unless otherwise stated all resources are available from your local Faith Mission Bookshop or online www.fmbookshops.com
Swan Song
Jo-Anne
Berthelsen
AUTHENTIC MEDIA
£10.99
This book looks at the power of words, and how they have the power to build up, or destroy.
Generally, I skip introductions, or at best scan them, but this one was worth re-reading. “The words we speak… have such a potential to make a difference, to bring understanding, to communicate love and acceptance, to challenge, to encourage, to instruct.”
The main body of the book examines how words are used in different situations, for example, words of encouragement, comfort, forgiveness etc. I found some chapters interesting and helpful but others a bit of a struggle. I felt that the writer’s reflections were weighted towards her interactions with other women. That said, there were some very good chapters containing sound advice. “Yet building others up by words of encouragement is surely one of the greatest gifts we can bestow on them,” echoing Paul’s words in his letter to the Thessalonians, exhorting the church to encourage one another and build each other up.
Another example of sage advice is found in the ‘Words of comfort’ chapter where it suggests, “Sometimes it may be best to remain silent. To hold an arm, give a hug or just be present rather than some bland platitude that may cause more hurt than healing.”
I would recommend this book for those with a heart for pastoral care; where our choice of words is critical, and as the writer reminds us, “May we each remain firmly connected to Jesus… and allow his love to flow unimpeded through the words we share with others...”
Keeping the Faith Alf McCreary
MESSENGER PUBLICATIONS
£12.95
Award-winning journalist Alf McCreary has a long career in journalism, reporting on Northern Ireland’s Troubles, conflicts in countries in the developing world, as well as writing reports and commentaries on faith issues and current affairs.
In his latest book, Keeping the Faith, he marks 60 years as a professional writer by reflecting upon the influences that shaped his life, and highlighting the stories of those who have made the greatest impression upon him.
Many of the stories he tells show how deep religious faith can change lives for the better. However, during his long career, McCreary has also seen how the debasement of religion can cause immense pain and he doesn’t flinch from sharing his experiences of this. Of particular interest to Presbyterian readers will be an account of Ian Paisley’s protest outside PCI’s 1966 General Assembly and the tribute to Dr Ray Davey, who founded Corrymeela.
Of all the stories, the one I found particularly moving is McCreary’s retelling of the Kingsmills atrocity, when a minibus carrying 12 workmen was ambushed in south Armagh in 1976. The only Catholic on board was told to leave, and the remaining 11 Protestants was shot – only one survived.
Having occurred near his boyhood home of Bessbrook and knowing some of the victims, covering this story was particularly difficult for McCreary. Even with the passage of almost 50 years, it is obvious that it still has a profound effect on the author. “It remains one of the most searing memories of my lifetime,” he writes. SH
REVIEWERS
AH – Andrew Hamilton belongs to St Andrew’s, Bangor
RD – Ruth Dalzell is coordinator of youth ministry and congregational discipleship in Second Presbyterian Church, Comber
Abigail and the Big Start Over
Bethany McIlrath
THE GOOD BOOK COMPANY
£5.94 «««««
Finding Christian novels for this age group is not always easy so I was delighted to be given this book for my eight-year-old daughter. She immediately started reading it and looked at me with delight as she declared, “Mummy, Abigail believes in Jesus too!”
Having a novel about a girl in school who believes in Jesus is a really helpful tool for any Christian parent or children’s ministry leader who wants to help children visualise what it is to live out their faith in front of their friends.
In this story, Abigail is starting a new school – her big start over – and is very excited about new adventures, new friends and everything going perfectly. Very quickly, things go wrong on her first day and she is miserable. Making a friend on day two begins the big turnaround though and although life is not perfect, Abigail remembers that God is with her. She recalls stories from the Bible when people trusted God when things are hard and she prays for help.
This is a great novel for children of this age, relating living out their faith to a normal part of life – going to school, making friends and working out how to navigate the world when things are not always easy.
This a definite recommendation for children age seven and above, and there’s another Abigail adventure due out in the autumn too. We are looking forward to reading it in our house.
SH – Suzanne Hamilton is an administrative assistant for the Herald
RB – Ruth Bromley is PCI’s children’s development officer
JC – Joy Conkey is librarian at Union Theological College
CH – Craig Hutchinson is a member of Ravenhill Presbyterian
Sound of Heaven
Danny Gokey
AVAILABLE VIA STREAMING SERVICES «««««
In Revelation 7:9, we read that in John’s vision of heaven, there was “a great multitude that no one could number, from every nation, from all tribes and peoples and languages…”
Danny Gokey’s fifth studio album tries to showcase what this might be like.
He writes, “I believe heaven will be full of diverse sounds and music, which
Edited by Andrew M. Leslie CROSSWAY
£25.74
John Owen (1616–1683) is one of the most significant theologians England has ever produced, whose combined works total over eight million words. Interest in Owen has been on the rise, especially since the mid-20th century reprinting of several of his works.
Crossway plans to release the complete works of John Owen in 40 volumes over a six-year period, including some never-
is why this album has everything from worship to pop and Latin, to Afrobeats. No matter who you are or what you’ve done, there’s room for you inside this joy-filled celebration of God’s love that everyone is invited to!”
Danny rose to fame on American Idol and has gone on to win multiple Christian music awards and nominated for three Grammys, while also leading music at his church, The Belonging Co in Nashville.
If you have listening to Gokey’s music in the past, this will sound a little different as he brings different genres of music together. One of my favourites on this album is Lean on Me which features Evan Craft alongside English and Spanish lyrics. It reminds us that no matter what is going on in life, we can always rely on God.
Other great songs are Todo El Mundo, Can’t Help but Worship and the title track, Sound of Heaven. Have a listen to this album and be filled with joy!
RD
before published material, edited for modern readers with new introductions and other resources to facilitate reading. To create these volumes the editors returned to the original editions of Owen’s works.
The two main treatises in volume 28 concern the Scriptures while the remaining text consists of sermons organised by common themes, short letters, and tracts. Andrew M. Leslie does an excellent job of providing clear outlines of Owen’s works, footnotes, historical, theological, and personal context to support the reader.
It is not an ‘easy read’ but if you want to read Owen, this volume, or one of the other Crossway volumes which have been published to-date, would give an authentic experience of his works.
This volume also considers practical issues such as church discipline and marrying after divorce. The reader must take time to think through, and reflect on, Owen’s arguments.
JC
The complete works of John Owen, Volume 28
LIFE IN PCI
Ballybay bakers raise funds for world’s poorest
The Presbyterian community of Ballybay, County Monaghan has raised an incredible €9,000 with a coffee morning and bake sale to support the work of international development agency, Christian Aid Ireland. With donations still coming in, the total is set to rise.
Around 200 visitors from the wider Ballybay community enjoyed a coffee and sweet treat in exchange for a donation to support the aid agency’s work, and there was also the opportunity to buy cakes, jam, plants and flowers to take home.
The annual fundraiser was held in Second Ballybay to mark Christian Aid Week, and was organised by a team of people drawn from four Presbyterian churches in the area: First and Second Ballybay, Rockcorry and Drumkeen, which have a combined membership of around 160 families.
The proceeds of the coffee morning were boosted by a number of large donations, making Ballybay one of the charity’s most generous fundraising communities on the island of Ireland.
Christian Aid Week began in the 1950s and this year focused on the charity’s work in Burundi, one of the most densely populated and poorest countries in Africa. Heavily reliant on agriculture, it’s also one of the least prepared to combat the effects of climate change, including droughts, floods and landslides. The global cost-of-living crisis has intensified the challenges, leaving more than 70% of the population living in poverty and more than half of children chronically malnourished.
Top right: Four of the bakers who helped to organise the annual Ballybay coffee morning, bake sale and plant sale: Nan Bradford, Ena Gilliland, Roberta Ross and Wendy Sloan. Bottom right: One of those supported by Christian Aid’s local partner in Burundi is Aline Nibogora. With the profits she made selling her avocados and peanuts, Aline bought a bicycle to transport her goods further afield. Credit: Christian Aid/Ndacayisaba Epitace.
Celebrating Knock’s 10 years of friendship in Uganda
In 2013, Knock Presbyterian Church embarked on a 10-year partnership with the Diocese of Muhabura, one of Tearfund’s partners in Western Uganda.
Earlier this year, a team from the Belfast church and Lois Bailie (Tearfund’s NI church and supporter engagement team leader) travelled to Uganda, to celebrate the partnership face-to-face. What was being celebrated was more than a transactional relationship: it was a friendship.
Helen McNeely, from Knock Presbyterian, said, “God has used the partnership to bless our congregation in so many ways and given us a meaningful relationship with Christians in a very different context to our own.”
Tearfund has worked in Uganda for more than 50 years. Through local church partners, such as the Diocese of Muhabura, entire communities have experienced whole-life transformation: that means that people’s lives have been changed physically, socially and spiritually too.
Knock Presbyterian has supported various projects, including a water, sanitation and hygiene programme and in doing so, has helped to transform communities. This transformation comes about by encouraging local churches to study God’s Word to inspire them to become agents of change in their communities. It encourages the restoration of people’s relationships with God, each other and creation.
“The partnership has helped us play our part in the global church and respond to God’s call to partner with brothers and sisters to help those in poverty – this has been a privilege and a blessing,” says Helen.
“Throughout the world, including in Northern Ireland, churches are partnering together to bring about lasting change. What a wonderful testament to the power of the gospel. Thank you to all at PCI for your partnership,” says Lois.
Top left: The team from Knock Presbyterian Church. Bottom: Lois Bailie, Tearfund’s NI church and supporter engagement team leader.
Presentation in Ballycastle
A presentation has been made to former Moderator Dr Godfrey Brown on the occasion of his 60 years of ministry to Ballycastle Presbyterian Church by Pat Shirley (clerk of session in the County Antrim church). Also pictured is Rev Noel McClean (clerk of Route Presbytery) who assisted in the service.
Prizes presented in Trinity, Omagh
Sunday school and Bible class children are pictured with the prizes they received at the annual Children’s Day service in Trinity Presbyterian Church, Omagh. During the service a cheque for £200 was presented to Colin Tinsley, of Hope for Youth Ministries, who was guest speaker on the day.
To share good news stories from your congregation please send your photographs and details to heraldeditorial@presbyterianireland.org
Minister installed in Enniskillen
Rev Steve Kennedy was installed as minister of Enniskillen Presbyterian Church recently. Mr Kennedy, his wife Rosie and daughters Julia and Lucy have returned to Ireland having served as PCI global mission workers in Romania since December 2020. The Kennedy family are pictured with Kate Doherty (clerk of session in the County Fermanagh church) and vacancy convener Rev Günther Andrich.
New elders in First Castleblayney
Three new ruling elders have been ordained and installed in First Castleblayney. Pictured are the joint kirk session of First Castleblayney and Frankford. Back row: Robert Smyth, Rev David Hagan (minister of the County Monaghan churches), Thomas McBirney (clerk of session, Frankford). Front row: Ruth McBride, David Lockhart, Stuart Henderson (the three new elders) and Daphne Holmes-Greer (clerk of session, First Castleblayney).
New communicant members in
Bloomfield
Bloomfield Presbyterian Church in Belfast recently welcomed a number of new communicants. Peter McIntyre, Ruby Browne, Isaac Chambers, Eva Chambers, Margaret Gregg, Sam Galbraith, Bobby Richmond, Ben Hamilton, Ben Taylor, Paul Hill, Martha Roberts, Abigail Kennedy, Lyn Rodgers, Ella McIntyre and Felix Loebnau are pictured with minister Dr Frank Sellar (left) and clerk of session Andrew Shott (right).
Celebrations in Muckamore
Muckamore had a weekend of celebrations to mark the 50th anniversary of Jane Hill as the musical director in the church family. Current members of the choir and praise group held a dinner in the Dunadry Inn Hotel including a presentation and musical entertainment. The following day, gifts were given on behalf of kirk session of the County Antrim church to show their heartfelt gratitude, and everyone was able to enjoy a slice of the celebration cake. She is pictured with Rev Stephen McNie (minister of Muckamore).
New elders in Portstewart
Samantha McPeak, Helen Davies and Julie Watters have been ordained as elders in Portstewart Presbyterian Church. They are pictured with Rev Stuart Morrow (minister of the County Londonderry church) and Rev Gary Aitcheson (moderator of Coleraine and Limavady Presbytery).
New elders in First Drumbanagher and Jerrettspass
Andy McComb and Ian Copeland have been ordained and installed as elders in First Drumbanagher and Jerrettspass Presbyterian Church. They are pictured in the front row with Rev Jamie Maguire (minister) and George Moffett (clerk of session). In the back row are commission members William Mitchell, Philip Johnston, Rene Faloon, Rev Ker Graham, Rev Brian Colvin, Rev Stuart Finlay (moderator of Newry Presbytery), Rev David McCullagh (clerk of Newry Presbytery), David Smyth and Andy McNiece.
Elders installed in Granshaw
Jonny Bailie, Alison Bovill, Matt McKee and Roy McKee (pictured in the front row) have been installed as elders of Granshaw Presbyterian Church. Back row: Rev Mark Brown (minister of the County Down church), Rev Robert Beggs, Margaret Grayson, Rev Jonny Frazer, Rev Stephen Moore and Rev Stewart McCrea (members of presbytery commission) and clerk of session Lynda Bethel.
First Rathfriland welcomes new communicants
The congregation of First Rathfriland was delighted to welcome seven new communicant members recently. Pictured in the back row are members of kirk session with the minister of the County Down church, Rev Rodney Moody. Front row: Laura Bronte, Jordan McDowell, Aimee McDowell, Lynsey Jones, Mark Jones, Zander Burrows and Catherine Hanna.
Golden milestone in Aughnacloy and Ballymagrane
Three members of the present kirk sessions in Aughnacloy and Ballymagrane Presbyterian Churches in County Tyrone recently shared a meal to mark 50 years as elders. They were ordained in Aughnacloy Presbyterian Church on Sunday 24 March 1974 under the ministry of the late Rev George Dickson. The present minister is Rev Roger McElnea. Pictured are: David Allen (Ballymagrane), Dr Cecil Givan (Aughnacloy) and Murray Robinson (Ballymagrane).
Presentation in Ebrington
A presentation was made to Samuel Harvey recently in recognition of his outstanding service as ruling elder in Ebrington Presbyterian Church for 19 years. He was also granted elder emeritus status by the Derry and Donegal Presbytery. Pictured are: Alan Rowan (clerk of session), Mr Harvey and Rev Paul Linkens (minister of Ebrington).
Tag good news stories from your congregation on Twitter with #lifeinpci and @pciassembly
New communicants in Rathfriland
New communicant members were recently introduced into the church family of Second and Third Rathfriland Presbyterian and then partook in their first Communion together with the church congregation. Front row: Uel Moorhead, Thomas Bell, Jennifer Johnston, Ellen Whiteside, Rebekah Graham, Katie Bell and Ben O’Kane. Back row: Rev Seamus Burke (minister of the County Down church) and Kenneth Bready (clerk of session).
Elders ordained in Kingsmills
The ordination and installation of new elders took place in Kingsmills Presbyterian Church in Newry Presbytery recently. Pictured in the front row are: Raymond McCormick (clerk of session), Kenny Herron, Alan King, Andy Cartmill and David Ferris (newly ordained and installed elders) and Roy Harpur. Back row: Bobby Hamilton, Andy McNiece, Rev Brian Colvin, Rev Ker Graham, Rev Stuart Finlay (moderator of Newry Presbytery), Rev David McCullagh (clerk of Newry Presbytery), William Mitchell, Rev Jamie Maguire (minister of Kingsmills) and Robert Harpur.
New
communicants in
First Saintfield
Twenty-one new communicants were admitted to the Lord’s table in First Saintfield recently, some of whom are pictured with the minister of the County Down church, Rev Sam Bostock.
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CROSSWORD
A date for your diary
Flower Festival
Celebrating the 200th Anniversary of the Church building
Friday 30, Saturday 31 May and Sunday 1 June 2025
Artistic Directors: Mr Alan Beatty and Mr James Burnside
Contact: Miss Ruth Connell 07775 596085
compiled by Harry Douglas
Collage
Ruth Sanderson
Last week, I was tidying away some things upstairs. My daughter was sitting on the landing floor just outside our bedroom door as I folded clothes and made beds. As I went about things, I could hear her ripping something over and over.
It is always alarming when you hear that – was it an important piece of post? A bill? A photograph? A passport? Both my children have form in shredding things which turn out to be quite important.
Either way, the sound of ripping is always worrying when you don’t know what it is. I popped my head out.
She was lying in the thick green carpet on her tummy, tearing up a painting we had made earlier in the day. To be precise, it was three small paintings – one of a cat, one of a princess and one of a little girl on roller skates. I had drawn the outlines on scraps of paper and she had sloshed the paint over them, outside the lines, smudging blues and yellows together with brush and finger marks. To her they were something to help kill two minutes while the milk was heating for her Weetabix. To me, of course, her slapdash slip-slop painting was a total masterpiece. We think that about our kids, don’t we? That everything they do is totally brilliant? That every painting is a masterpiece?
Now she was ripping it up! I was aghast.
Even though every child does it, collage was only really appreciated by the ‘Art World’ in the late 19th and early 20th century, when artists like Georges Braque and Pablo Picasso began to experiment with it in formal art works. Amazing as it might seem now, it caused quite a hoo-ha at the time, with critics calling it both a revolution and an abomination.
It paved the way for other artists – Hannah Höch, a pioneer of the Dada movement subverted reality in her collages. Robert Rauschenberg who paved the way for Pop Art – using collage, painting and drawing, all on the same canvas – found objects were as valid to the overall piece as oils, paints or line drawing.
If we trust him with the shards of ourselves, he will cut, paste, rearrange and make beautiful the things we assumed were ripped up and ruined.
As I rushed to stop her, I suddenly realised what she was doing. She was happily taking the dry ripped pieces of picture and rearranging them in concentric circles. The blues and yellows and reds more pronounced than they had been in the mish mash of bled paints in the original. A little pair of roller skates isolated in their own ripped circle, a princess’ crown, the whiskers of a cat. A new pattern; little paintings completely transformed into something new, surprising and beautiful. It made me think about the interchanged nature of collage – making something new and different out of something else. When I was in school, I spent hours making collages for various GCSE and A-level art works. When I was growing up, my mum kept stacks of Saturday newspaper magazines, so that we could cut and glue and make new creations out of old pages. I loved it, the possibility that each page would bring. I would cut out the various colours and place them in untidy piles, then start pasting them together to make a brand-new creation.
John Stezaker created collage from old photographs and postcards, creating statements about identity and history. The list goes on. I ended up studying many of these collage artists at university, drawing a line between their practice and the piles of magazines in our garage at home.
The thing I love about collage – and what’s counter intuitive – is the ability to create something new by destroying something else. Out of disjointed, ripped up, cut-up bits, emerges an image which is often more exciting, challenging and thought provoking than the originals.
Isn’t this like our life with God? He takes our fragmented, fractured lives and rearranges them into something beautiful and original. If we trust him with the shards of ourselves, he will cut, paste, rearrange and make beautiful the things we assumed were ripped up and ruined. He will take what we are and make it so much better. We will be new creations.
My daughter looked up at me proudly as she finished her piece of art, arranging again and again the bits of the former paintings into different configurations. It made me think, if we are willing to give those shattered bits over to God to create something new, we should allow him free licence to arrange them as his will intends and to keep refining, reconfiguring and remaking us.
He will always create something much more wonderful than we can anticipate.
Dipping into the archives to take a look back at what was making Presbyterian headlines and news in history.
The right to die?
Dr Stafford Carson
The deaths of Sir Edward Downes and his wife Lady Downes at Dignitas clinic in Switzerland reignited the debate over the so-called ‘right to die’. The case was particularly controversial since although Lady Downes, 74, was suffering from terminal illness, Sir Edward, 85, was not…
Currently aiding and abetting suicide is a crime punishable by up to 14 years’ imprisonment. Figures show that at least 115 people from the UK have travelled abroad to die since 2002 with the rate increasing every year…
It is important to maintain a clear distinction between killing a person and letting someone die…In cases where it is clearly known to be the patient’s wish to be allowed to die, and where there is no reasonable hope of recovery, and where death seems imminent, then it does not seem wrong to allow the person to die rather than prolonging the natural dying process by artificial means.
But where the matter becomes complicated and worrying is when people claim that it is their right to determine the time and circumstances of their death…
Baroness Finlay is professor of palliative medicine at Cardiff University School of Medicine and chair of the All Party Parliamentary Group on Dying Well. She says, “…‘medically assisted death’… poses very real risks to the safety of the overwhelming majority of terminally ill people…”
She is right to point to the imperfection of this world as sufficient reason to oppose arguments for assisted suicide. Nevertheless, the Christian worldview offers a stronger argument. This world is not just imperfect; it is fallen.
The reality of human sinfulness explains why no human agent is morally equipped to determine who should live and who should die. But human sinfulness also explains why humans will try to act as if we are God... The culture of death seems to be making significant advances in our society and it must be recognised for what it is, a frightening assault upon human dignity.
Presbyterians attend Lyon Assembly of European Churches
In July, 750 representatives of Protestant Churches from across Europe gathered in Lyon, France, for the 13th Assembly of the Conference of European Churches (CEC).
Delegates from some 120 member Churches, including the Presbyterian Church in Ireland, meet every six years to review and plan the work of the conference and its commissions, which seek to influence and lobby the decision-making institutions across Europe from a church perspective…
Six issues, covering migration, climate change, economics, nuclear disarmament, human rights and the plight of Roma people in Europe, were addressed in statements overwhelmingly endorsed by delegates…
From Stormont to Paris
Jane Savage and Jenny Stewart, members of Stormont Presbyterian Church, cycled 300 miles over four days from London to Paris and in doing so raised over £8000 for Christian Aid…
Boxer Muhammad Ali was made an honorary freeman of Ennis
American actor Patrick Swayze dies
Vera Lynn becomes the oldest artist to top the UK album charts at 92 years old
MINISTRY SUPPORT & DEVELOPMENT WORKER
Full-time (37½ hrs/wk) 3-year contract
Salary: PCI APP Band B post, starting at £26,798 (+ pension plan)
This unique opportunity will attract a dynamic, experienced and spiritually mature person ready for a fresh, varied and challenging role as a key member of a ministry team seeking to implement an unashamedly ambitious and intentional mission plan based on thorough planning and effective communication strategies.
The nature of this post will require evening and weekend work.
Obtain a full job description and application form from the congregational website or from:
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.
BALLYLINNEY:
REV MARK RUSSELL: Dr Michael McBrien, 24 Lylehill Green, Templepatrick, BT39 0BF.
BALLYWILLAN:
REV STUART MORROW: Mr Robert Wilson, 13 Millbrook Avenue, Portstewart, BT55 7DZ.
REV T.D. KANE: Mr Ian Johnston, 48 Springmount Road, Ballymena, BT44 9RB.
CORBOY and MULLINGAR: (Reviewable Tenure – 7 years)
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.
DONABATE: ASSOCIATE (Reviewable Tenure – 3 years)
REV ANDY CARROLL:
DONEGAL TOWN and STRANORLAR: (Reviewable Tenure – 7 years)
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.
REV CORRINA HERON: Miss Aileen Irvine, 5 Aberdelghy Park, Lambeg, Lisburn, BT27 4QF.
LOUGHBRICKLAND 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.
LUCAN:
REV A. CARROLL: Mr Ian Scott, 22 Willsbrook Avenue, Lucan, Co Dublin, K78 AP57.
LECKPATRICK: Louise Buchanan, Patricia Jones, Elizabeth Keys
Died:
BALLYGILBERT: Terence McKeag
FIRST ARMAGH: Leslie Faris
THE MINISTRY
Installed:
Gary Ball, as Minister of Scrabo, on 27 June 2024
James Cochrane, as Minister of Ravenhill, on 26 June 2024
Norman Smyth, as Minister of Cladymore, on 15 March 2024
Died:
Derek Drysdale, as Minister Emeritus of Belmont, on 1 July 2024
Jack Richardson, as Minister Emeritus of Hillhall, on 1 June 2024
Licensed:
Daniel Ballantyne, by the Armagh Presbytery, on 23 June 2024
Jonathan Boyd, by the Coleraine & Limavady Presbytery, on 16 June 2024
Andrew Ferguson, by the East Belfast Presbytery, on 9 June 2024
Ellis Hanna, by the Down Presbytery, on 23 June 2024
Ryan Higgins, by the Newry Presbytery, on 14 June 2024
Jordan Jones, by the Armagh Presbytery, on 23 June 2024
Francine Magill, by the Ards Presbytery, on 23 June 2024
Stephen McCleery, by the Carrickfergus Presbytery, on 9 June 2024
John McKee, by the Newry Presbytery, on 28 June 2024
Stuart McKimm, by the Iveagh Presbytery, on 16 June 2024
Samuel Scott, by the North Belfast Presbytery, on 30 June 2024
Myles Tyrell, by the Carrickfergus Presbytery, on 23 June 2024
Steven Woods, by the Dromore Presbytery, on 16 June 2024
CLASSIFIEDS
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Dr. BRUCE GORE (Spokane, Washington) comes to Ireland in mid-June 2025 as Conference Speaker on the theme: “Postmillennial Hope – Dispensational Despair” Enquiries about Courses, and expressions of interest in the Conference, with offers of assistance on the organising team, are continuing by email to cavanschooloftheology@gmail.com
For details of CST free Courses of Study and venues (Autumn to Spring), in preparation for this Conference, visit https://jeanmackarel.wixsite.com/cavanpresbyterian/courses or enquire by Text to 00353 86 8079 165.
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