Presbyterian Herald April 2018

APRIL 2018

He is risen...

...all has changed

HEBRON SCHOOL

Teaching Opportunities in India Hebron School is a Christian co-educational residential school founded in 1899 to support the children of families in mission. There are 360 students of nearly 30 nationalities studying from Preschool right through to IGCSE and 'A' Level examinations.

Hebron School is located on two attractive campuses in the beautiful Nilgiri Hills of south India - home to a diverse multi-cultural community. More than half the teaching staff are from other countries around the world representing the UK, Australia, NZ, the USA, Kenya, South Korea & several countries of Europe and South America. Hebron is a lively, busy community in which gifts and talents of staff have ample opportunity for expression and development.

As a boarding school the residential care provided at Hebron is personal and endeavours to create a home away from home. The school provides remuneration at local Indian rates, as well as full board and accommodation for resident staff. Staff at Hebron School have a high degree of job satisfaction and a strong appreciation for the School's aims and purpose Requirements: We are looking for staff to come who have a sense of calling and service.

Volunteers: Usually referred to as International Guests. For people of all ages (school leavers, those just

finished university, those wanting a career break and retirees) with a willingness to visit the school for six months or one year at a time to help in a voluntary capacity in various aspects of school life.

Teaching staff needed for August 2018 : Math's, Geography, Science, Modern languages, Chemistry, Spe-

cial needs, EAL/ESL, Physical Education, Dorm parents, Religious Studies, Music (Brass/Woodwind), Outdoor Education and Junior School.

Applicants should have the following skills, qualifications and attributes: Highly committed, practising Christians, Fluent in English, Relevant degree plus education degree/diploma, Preferably prior experience of A level / IGCSE or comparable curriculum, Be willing to participate fully in the life of a busy boarding school.

Residential staff should be willing to do duty outside working hours, including dorm parenting or dorm support.

Note:- Positions listed above are accurate as per the time of printing. Applicants interested in other subjects please check the website for latest vacancies.

Please contact the Human Resources Secretary (Ian A McCabe) for further details.

Email: hr@hebronooty.org

Phone: (+91) 423 2225820

Web: www.hebronooty.org Fax: (+91) 423 2441295z

CONTENTS | APRIL 2018

FEATURES 14 Disciple-making ministry A strategic role in one congregation

16 Recasting the net

An Easter reflection from the Moderator

18 Pastoral life in three dimensions

The changing scene of pastoral care

20 20 years on…

Anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement

32 Looking forward to resurrection

A reflection on our resurrection after this life

34 Kitchen table faith

Care for the Family’s new resource for parents

20 years on… p.20

36 The Heidelberg Disputation

500th anniversary of a foundational event following the Reformation

REGULARS 4 5 6 8 9 12 13 23 31 38 40 44 45

Letters In this month…

News Life lessons My Story As I see it Arthur Clarke Mission Connect Talking points Reviews Life in PCI Crossword Betsy Cameron

Disciple-making ministry p.14

CONTRIBUTORS

Cover illustration: Barry Falls April 2018 No. 810 £1.00 (€1.20) Published by: The Presbyterian Church in Ireland, Assembly Buildings, Belfast BT1 6DW. T: +44 (0)28 9032 2284 E: herald@presbyterianireland.org W: www.presbyterianireland.org

Kitchen table faith p.34

Editor: Sarah Harding Subscriptions and Advertising: Elaine Huddleston; Lisa Skinner; Suzanne Hamilton Design and Layout: Edward Connolly Printing: Nicholson and Bass Ltd.

Alan Meban attends Kilmakee Presbyterian Church and writes about culture and politics as Alan in Belfast on his own blog and Slugger O’Toole.

Rebecca McConnell manages Purple Rain, a public relations company (www.purple-rain.co.uk).

She is also a member of First Rathfriland Presbyterian Church.

Andy Frost is director of Share Jesus International and is working alongside Care for the Family on the Kitchen Table Project and supporting resources.

Rev. Alistair Bill is minister of Saintfield Road Presbyterian Church and convener of the Pastoral Care Committee of the Council for Congregational Life and Witness.

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 be laid down only by the General Assembly. Acceptance of advertisements does not imply endorsement of the goods or services. 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 non-publication of advertisements or letters.

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

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EDITORIAL

LETTERS Specific prayers

Everything has changed

Discipleship is of paramount importance to Jesus. Before He ascended into heaven, His final command to His followers was to “go and make disciples of all nations”. This is a key focus for us as Christians and has been highlighted throughout this year by our Moderator.

In this edition, we hear of one congregation’s strategy to encourage and equip the leaders of its organisations.

Claire Ebbinghaus from Kirkpatrick Memorial has been employed as a ministries facilitator, to liaise with and care for leaders. She says, “It​ ​is​ ​about​ ​trying​ ​to lead​ ​people​ ​into​ ​ godly​ ​leadership​ ​and​ ​to​ ​disciple​ ​those​ ​coming​ ​after​ ​them.”

Being mindful of those who will follow after us is imperative for our churches and our society as a whole.

At the 20th anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement, we acknowledge and give thanks that young adults in Northern Ireland have no living memory of the atrocities that their parents and grandparents experienced through the Troubles.

However, their reality is far from the idyllic scene that was hoped for 20 years ago. In reflecting on this Alan Meban says, “…our impasse and our continued social segregation make it all too clear that we remain thoroughly unreconciled.” At a time when divisions seem too wide to overcome, Alan quotes Rev. Steve Stockman, speaking at a 4 Corners Festival event when he says, “Doors are open for us if we will only go through those doors. The church has a voice in the wider society.”

If it is true that we have a legitimate voice, then we need to be sure of what we want to say and make the most of the doors that are open to us. In this world of complex and confusing issues, full to the brim of grey areas, it is tempting to withdraw, either because we don’t know what to say or are fearful of saying the wrong thing. But withdrawing was never what we were called to do.

Moderator, Dr. Noble McNeely, writes a challenging Easter reflection, encouraging us to ‘recast the net’ as Jesus told His disciples to do in order to catch fish. Dr. McNeely highlights that for their striving to be successful, the disciples had to stop and listen to Jesus and we need to do the same: “…so often [we] leave Christ on the shore and avoid hearing His voice challenge us.”

Easter is the perfect season to refocus and reflect on our lives and our world. When Jesus rose from the dead He changed everything. We are powerless to affect any kind of change in ourselves or our society unless we seek first His voice and obey.

Wishing you a blessed Easter, full of seeking, finding and listening to the King.

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Dear Editor Having spotted a steady stream of prayer booklets (either given to all parishioners or in the charity shops I frequently visit), may I suggest that we print off specific prayers within our Sunday orders of service and invite everyone to read out the prayers all together. After all, everyone is happy to recite the Lord’s Prayer out loud and corporately.

Also, it might be a connecting moment for those who would like to be personally prayed for, to be able to drop an anonymous or identified prayer into a ‘ballot’ box. This could give some committee members even more work, but if we want praying churches wouldn’t that be a worthwhile training?

We were, last year, requested to pick out a name of a Sunday school child to be prayed for.

This gave greater involvement to our congregants who might not normally pray either. All – saved or as yet unsaved – need reminding to continue with a specific prayer. After all, Jesus and St. Paul tell us to make our requests specific.

Gilly Scott Belfast

Loneliness Dear Editor I refer to the article by Norman Hamilton on loneliness in the March Herald. According to some studies, loneliness in Northern Ireland has reached chronic proportions. The survey by the Co-op and British Red Cross found that 1 in 5 adults in NI are always or often lonely.

This research also found that life transitions are ‘key factors’ for loneliness. These were identified as becoming a new mother at a young age; people facing empty nest syndrome or retirement; people with longterm health mobility problems; bereavement; homelessness; and family breakdown through divorce/separation. Loneliness is on the increase as more people live alone.

Research by Queen’s University NICOLA Study, with a large sample size of 8,309 people aged 50 years or over, found that a quarter of all those taking part in the survey lived alone; with over half of those over 75 years of age living in single person households. It was concluded that these findings have serious health implications for the future.

PCI has churches all over the province who conduct some great ministries which tackle loneliness in their communities and congregations – like friendship clubs and coffee mornings; bus trips and annual outings; car boot sales; pastoral teams; and DVD/CD ministries.

God loves people because people matter to God. Jesus invites us to come to Him all who are tired, weary, and heavy laden and promises us rest. He gives us His peace when our hearts are troubled and afraid. God loves us unconditionally and shows us His agape love through the act of ultimate sacrifice on the cross

by Jesus, simply, for you alone.

As Romans 8:15 tells us for we have received the Spirit of adoption by whom we cry out “Abba Father”.

Hugh K. Henderson Carrickfergus

Letters to the Editor Write to: Presbyterian Herald, Assembly Buildings, Belfast BT1 6DW Email: herald@presbyterianireland.org Please note: Letters are limited to 300 words and may be edited for clarity and length. They will only be published in the Herald if the author’s name and address have been supplied to the editor. On request these will be withheld from print. Anonymous letters will not be considered for publication. The views expressed in the letters are not necessarily those of the Editor or PCI.

IN THIS MONTH...

April 1965

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

Protestants and the Irish language Risteard O Glaisne

In the Republic, a Government White Paper on the restoration of the Irish language has awakened new thought and new feeling on a hot subject.

The majority of Irish Presbyterians have no great interest in it, I am told.

All the same, history, the homely, unconsidered language of the community, your evangelical outreach and your responsibilities to certain members of your own flock all make the Irish language of concern to Presbyterians as well as to those of us in the other reformed churches…

Protestants of all denominations have used Irish Gaelic. In 1710, for instance, the Presbyterian Synod of Ulster sent out a number of ministers and licentiates capable of speaking in it. Up to the 50s of the last century candidates for the Presbyterian ministry had to do a year’s study of the language…

Individual Presbyterians using Irish, or interested in it, have been many... Jimmy Hope had books in Irish. The distinguished Orangeman, Dr. R.R. Kane, was extremely proud of his knowledge of Irish…

That Irish is of the very texture of our common life in Ireland in 1965 can readily be seen even in the English we use… in the middle of Belfast people might term a green sod a ‘scraw’ (scraith), mud ‘clabber’ (clabar), a drain along a fence or ditch a ‘shuk’ (seoch)…

A few years ago, the Irish Mission of the Presbyterian Church…indicated that it would be glad to have a colporteur with a knowledge of Irish. That may have surprised some people, but I felt it was the right approach…

“But”, you may object, “surely the Irish language is impregnated by Roman Catholicism?” Some of its literature, and certain common greetings are undoubtedly strongly marked by Roman Catholic attitudes; however, there is much else in Irish literature to delight…

As one who has written many hundreds of thousands of words in Irish for publication over the last 15 years, I have never found my position as a Protestant distorted by the language I have chosen…

This abstract sculpture on the theme “I am the vine: you are the branches” has been presented to the Presbyterian Community Centre, Queen’s University

by Mrs. Cherith McKinstry. It stands in the courtyard of the Centre, which was designed by her husband, Mr. Robert McKinstry.

Also in April ’65

My Fair Lady wins eight Academy Awards

Sean Lemass’ Fianna Fail wins the first Irish general election to be covered on TV

Cover topic

The Church’s long tradition of medical, educational and social work bears witness to its belief that if Christ is not relevant to all aspects of human life, He is not relevant at all.

But, it may be asked, haven’t many of the traditional aspects of Christian service been taken over by the Welfare State? The answer is obviously ‘Yes’, and we should be glad that it is so, for the State is able to undertake services on a scale which the Church could not contemplate.

The existence of a Health Service, however, does not remove the Church’s responsibility to heal the sick.

There are still opportunities for the Church’s ministry of healing, of making men whole…

Closed churches

When presenting the State of Religion report to the Carrickfergus Presbytery, the Rev. A. Orr expressed concern at the number of Presbyterian churches in seaside towns which were closed from one Sunday to the next. This, he said, was a disappointment to visitors who would like to have visited these churches.

But why only seaside churches? Is it not time that all our churches tried to keep their buildings open during the week?

Ticket to Ride by the Beatles spends three weeks at number one

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NEWS | IN THE ROUND Tributes to Billy Graham Following the death of Billy Graham, Presbyterian Moderator Dr. Noble McNeely has described the US preacher as “one of the greatest evangelists of the modern age.”

Dr. McNeely said, “Billy Graham was a remarkable man. Obedient to God’s call on his life, he was one of the greatest evangelists of the modern age. With a passion for Jesus and a genuine love for people, he brought the good news of the gospel of Jesus Christ to millions of people around the world in a ministry that spanned the best part of six decades.”

Evangelical Alliance director Peter Lynas said, “History will recall that Billy Graham was one of the most influential men of his generation. In large auditoriums and through broadcasts, or watching him on TV, one could not help but be impacted by his passion for God, his commitment to the truth of the gospel and his life of integrity lived under intense media scrutiny.”

New interactive Herald The Presbyterian Herald has launched a new fully interactive version of the magazine through Issuu, a digital media platform.

The new digital edition can be accessed through any web browser at https://issuu.com/presbyterianireland or through the free Issuu app which is available for iOS or Android.

The interactive version allows for features that should enrich the user’s experience such as the use of video and weblinks to further information.

This new edition complements the PDF version of the magazine already available and which can be purchased and downloaded to your computer, tablet or phone from www.presbyterianireland.org/herald

Illustrated faith competition Winners have been chosen for the Herald’s ‘illustrated faith’ competition, for which readers were encouraged to illustrate their favourite Bible verse. Winners will receive a Hodder & Stoughton journaling Bible, which has extra wide margins for illustrations and notes.

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Norma Lockingto

n

Congratulations to the following: Norma Lockington (Main Street, Garvagh); Lynsey Logan (First Ahoghill); May Ross (Crossgar); Rosemary Clarke (Craigavon); Leanne Robinson (Glenhoy); Cherith Robinson (Aughnacloy and Ballymagrane).

PLC welcomes two new polls on abortion The Pro Life Campaign has welcomed two new opinion polls on abortion showing a shift in support towards keeping the Republic’s Eighth Amendment.

The polls published in the Sunday Independent and Sunday Times both show a drop in support for the government’s proposal to introduce abortion on wide-ranging grounds.

In the Sunday Independent poll 48% of respondents supported allowing unrestricted abortion up to 12 weeks, while 33% say it goes too far and a further 19% were undecided.

The Sunday Times poll shows a broadly similar result. 43% of respondents support the government’s proposal with 35% opposed to abortion up to three months and a further 22% undecided.

Caroline Simons, legal consultant to the Pro Life Campaign, has expressed concern about the specific details of what new abortion laws could mean.

“The proposals on abortion announced…by the government are more extreme than England’s

abortion laws where one in every five pregnancies now end in abortion.

If the Eighth Amendment were repealed, Ireland would go from being a country that protected and respected unborn human life to one of the most extreme and unjust abortion regimes anywhere in the world.

This is not overstating the reality of what repeal would mean. It is a stark, sad fact.”

Meanwhile, CARE has reacted to a UN committee’s findings that the UK breaches the rights of women in Northern Ireland by unduly restricting their access to abortion.

CARE Chief Executive Nola Leach said, “CEDAW (the Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women) has no legal status and only provides advisory opinions…The laws on abortion in Northern Ireland must always be framed in a way that provides the best possible outcome for both the mother and the unborn child. We cannot ignore one to the detriment of the other.”

New restrictions in China Release International is warning that new regulations in China could lead to the most severe crackdown on the church since the Cultural Revolution.

The new Regulations for Religious Affairs are intended to clamp down on extremism. They forbid religious organisations from using religion to “harm national security or disrupt social order”.

Release International, which supports persecuted Christians around the world, warns the new regulations will drive more churches underground and make life much harder for those already under strict government control. It is thought the tough new rules will lead to a rise in religious persecution in China over the next decade.

Support in Armagh for bereaved parents Every year, some 730 families in Northern Ireland experience the devastation of the death of a son or daughter. Anam Cara is an organisation that affords bereaved parents a safe and comfortable place where they have an opportunity to meet with other bereaved parents.

Anam Cara’s next meeting in Armagh will take place on 25th April in the Armagh City Hotel from 7.30pm-9pm.

The meeting is open to all bereaved parents regardless of the age or circumstances of their child’s death. All Anam Cara services are provided free of charge and for as long as they are needed.

For more information see http://anamcara.ie or call the information line on (028) 9521 3120.

IN THE ROUND | NEWS Historical Society lectures The Presbyterian Historical Society has two upcoming lectures in its programme.

The first is entitled: ‘Lasting Legacy – a celebration of the life and work of Amy Carmichael’. It will be held on Thursday, 26th April at 7.30pm in the Welcome Church, Cambrai Street, Belfast.

The lecture will focus on Amy as a young adult in Belfast and her work among women in the mills, as well as looking at the mission she founded in what is now the Welcome Church.

On Thursday, 3rd May at 8pm in Union Theological College, the Society will hold its annual Robert Allen Lecture. This year it will be given by Dr. Robert Whan on the subject: ‘The shape of ministry in the early 18th century’. The lecture will provide a portrait of Presbyterian ministers in the province of Ulster at this time – their origins in terms of geographical, social and academic background, their role within the church, how they obtained and spent their income, and their status within the community.

All are welcome to both events.

Moderator on annual Westminster visit Last month the Moderator, Dr. Noble McNeely, had a two-day informal visit to Westminster to undertake a number of meetings in the Houses of Parliament. During the visit, Dr. McNeely met local Members of Parliament, including his own MP, and a cross-section of peers appointed to the House of Lords from Northern Ireland.

In visiting the Palace of Westminster, Dr. McNeely continues the annual practice of meeting local members of the House of Commons and peers. Dr. McNeely said, “My visit is very much a pastoral visit and I approach it very much from this perspective.

“As Christians we are called to pray for those in authority regardless of party or political colour. Praying for those in authority is a biblical command that we should all take seriously, especially in these uncertain times. As my predecessors have done, my short visit will be an opportunity to listen, encourage and to talk privately about a range of issues.”

IN BRIEF Plea for politicians to keep talking The Moderator, Dr. Noble McNeely, has called on politicians to renew their efforts to find an agreement in Northern Ireland.

Commenting after the breakdown of talks, he said, “Along with many others, I am very disappointed that we are not in a position for devolved government to be restored, and I continue to be concerned about the vacuum of good and stable government, which, of course, impacts most profoundly on vulnerable people in our society.

“I urge all involved in the talks not to walk away, but to renew their efforts to find an agreement for the good of all.”

Irish CE Convention Pictured with the Moderator at the House of Lords are some of the peers Dr. McNeely met: (left to right) Lord Hay of Ballyore, Lord Browne of Belmont, Lord Morrow and Lord Kilclooney.

CARE appointment Tim Martin has been appointed as the new director of CARE in Northern Ireland.

The organisation is the Northern Ireland branch of the social policy charity Christian Action Research and Education, and Tim’s role will include promoting CARE’s work, and equipping and encouraging churches and individuals to get involved in supporting the most vulnerable in society by actively engaging positively in public life.

Tim was previously pastoral care pastor at Bangor Elim and is a qualified counsellor, holding a bachelor’s degree in Theology and various certificates in counselling. He lives in Donaghadee and, along with his family, worships in Shore Street Presbyterian Church.

Hundreds of thousands of people worldwide supported and prayed for the Martin family through the #prayforjosh campaign when their teenage son, Joshua, was diagnosed with cancer. He sadly passed away last year aged 15, Tim Martin with CARE CEO Nola Leach. but his courage, testimony and faith continue to inspire and encourage people of all ages and walks of life. Over the past year, Tim and his family and friends have raised almost £30,000 in memory of Joshua, the funds being donated to the NI Children’s Hospice and to local families in need via social services, Surestart and Barnardo’s.

‘Jesus First’ is the theme of the 104th Irish National Christian Endeavour Convention to be held on 21st and 22nd September in Ballygawley Presbyterian Church.

The main speaker is Rev. Andrew Faulkner, minister of Sloan Street Presbyterian Church in Lisburn, and there will be various activities for seniors, young people and juniors at the event. Further information may be obtained from conventioninformation@ gmail.com

Peace-building degree Applications are now being considered for the Irish School of Ecumenics’ Belfast-based MPhil in Conflict Resolution and Reconciliation. This is a creative and innovative course which examines the theory and practice of peace building in Ireland and around the world.

The course can be taken full-time over one year or parttime over two years. Online applications are open now until 30th June 2018 (www.tcd.ie).

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PERSONAL VIEW

Life lessons Dr. Zachary Cole

Dr. Zachary Cole is Lecturer in Biblical Studies at Union Theological College.

I am an American living in Northern Ireland, now in my second year of teaching New Testament at Union Theological College as Lecturer in Biblical Studies. I’m an active churchman as well. I love to teach and preach at local congregations, especially on the subject of the reliability of the Bible. I’ve also brought my family along with me. My wife’s name is Kayla and we have two daughters, Fiona and Ivy. The Bible came alive to me when I learned how to read it in its original languages, Greek and Hebrew. I’m especially interested in how the New Testament has been transmitted through history, and how God has providentially safeguarded His Word for the church.

My wife and I knew what we were called to do, we just didn’t know where that would take us. We were living in Florida when we saw the teaching job at Union advertised online. It was exactly the kind of job we were looking for but happened to be in Belfast, a place we knew very little about.

Comparing students in the States to students here, they are similar in many ways: in academic aptitude, level of interest, and heart for the gospel. The biggest difference I’ve seen is in the classroom. Here in Northern Ireland, students are bit more cautious and hesitant to speak up in class.

A time in my life when I felt closest to God was during and after the birth of both of our daughters. It was our faith that got us through.

Books were everywhere in my house growing up. History, theology, biography, novels – all kinds. My parents created a home for me and my brothers that turned us into lifelong learners.

The person I most admire is my dad. He does it all: great father and husband, tireless worker, honestly loves God and people.

Now that I’m older I can see how rare that combination of virtues truly is.

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I love that in the church we have a partnership in the gospel. When we moved to Northern Ireland, our new home congregation – First Portadown – was overwhelmingly generous and helpful. At the time, we had nothing in common with them except a shared love for Jesus Christ and His kingdom. But that shared love was enough for them to welcome us with open arms.

I have recently begun to appreciate how Luke’s Gospel describes the kingdom of God as a great feast. We tend to think of heaven as a solemn, cloudy abode, but in Luke 14 Jesus tells us that the kingdom is more like a noisy dinner table surrounded by unlikely but grateful people.

My idea of relaxation is comfy slippers, a glowing fire, hot coffee, and a great book. Either that or a cheesy action film from the 1980s.

My most character-building experience was getting through seminary. I was studying, working a part-time job, and serving as an assistant at a church. We barely had enough money to get by. That experience tested both our marriage and our resolve to pursue the life that God has called us to.

The best advice I’ve been given is: ‘What God has done in the past is both a model and a promise of what He will do in the future, though He is too creative to do the same thing the same way twice.’ This was advice given by a seminary professor of mine. The longer I live, the more it proves to be true.

If I could offer the Presbyterian Church in Ireland a piece of advice it would be: stay the course. There are tough days ahead, but hold fast to Christ and Christ alone.

The hardest lesson I’ve had to learn is that people don’t care what you know until they know that you care.

Most summers we visit my wife’s extended family in Priest River, northern Idaho. The combination of beautiful scenery and entertaining people makes it hard to forget.

MY STORY...

Rev. Molly Deatherage, minister of Ballina, Ballymote and Killala, shares the story of an exciting new initiative between the churches in Ballina.

The Big Blue Bus

A

bout 10 years ago, the church leaders in Ballina were The Big Blue Bus will be able to travel to the estates as a mobile bemoaning the fact that there were so many social drop-in centre. needs in town and none of them had the resources to Many of the events that have taken place in those estates have do effective outreach into those kinds of needs. An been for children, bringing children from many backgrounds occasional evangelistic push, perhaps, but not addressing longtogether – the neighbourhoods are already sensing a difference. term social problems.

Sports and activities always bring kids out and we get them into So ‘Ballina Churches Together’ (BCT) came into being. The mixed groups to play. vision is about all the churches pooling resources, supporting it One bright Saturday afternoon, the BCT team went to an with prayer and fundraising, and building teams of folks from all estate and did arts and crafts with the children and youth there their congregations who could be trained – 40 came. Many of the parents came The Big Blue Bus will be and stood chatting to each other as their to show God’s compassion to those who struggle in town. children played and worked together. The able to travel to the Nothing really happened for several mother of one little girl asked, “When are estates as a mobile years, until an evangelist was hired to you coming back? We would like to have spearhead the outreach. Emma Rodriguez, you here every week!” drop-in centre. from Trinity Presbyterian Church in As you can imagine, waiting for good Cork, came to Ballina and has been exploring various needs and weather in Mayo can be an exercise in frustration. Having the Big opportunities for ministry, calling folks to prayer, offering Bible Blue Bus will mean less dependence on a dry day. It may mean study, and organising outreaches during the last two years. smaller groups, but ministry will be able to go forward.

We always thought we’d have a drop-in centre or some kind One of the keys to BCT’s success will be the training of local of home base to work from, but the costs were prohibitive. congregation members in such areas as friendship evangelism, That’s when a used mobile library bus came on the radar, and we listening skills, praying for people, and working with people from purchased it. other backgrounds.

Almost immediately, the bus became a ministry point. Emma Some members of Ballina are already actively involved on found a place to park it, and shared with an onlooker about teams. One of our members went prayer walking with Emma the vision. He said, “You need to talk to that young man over and a few others and said, “I couldn’t believe how different a place there.” So, she went over to chat with him, and in the course of looks when you are praying as you walk. Before, I might not have the conversation, found out that he was really depressed and wanted to go to some of the estates, but now that I have prayed struggling with suicidal thoughts. They had a good conversation there, I feel differently about it. I met a woman there one day – he let her pray with him, and he has now pulled out who needed someone to talk to, and I feel like we of that dark place. are friends now. We meet for coffee sometimes.”

In the following months, we fitted and kitted it out, Other folks from our congregation have promised and launched the ‘Big Blue Bus’ in January. There is to provide plates of goodies when the Big Blue still a little paperwork, but otherwise, it is ready to go.

Bus is a drop-in centre in the evenings or at local Over the last two years, Emma and a small team community events. of volunteers have been working in several estates In many ways, the Big Blue Bus is the signpost around town. Ballina has a large settled traveller Ballina Churches Together is putting out to population in many estates, who don’t mix with their say, “Christians are here and we care about our neighbours or with the travellers in other estates. community.”

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NEWS | PCI

Events My Place Ballygawley Presbyterian will host My Place on Wednesday, 2nd May, from 7.30pm to 9pm.

This is the third in a series of evenings arranged to help congregations think about how they can help families dealing with special needs to know that church is a place where they are always welcome and where they can find support.

The evenings are a mixture of biblical teaching, insights from parents and practical suggestions from those working in the field of special education. It is open to ministers, children’s ministry leaders and all members of congregations.

This event is free to attend but please register your interest online at www.presbyterianireland.org

Mission in Ireland evening A further Mission in Ireland evening has been arranged, and will take place in Monaghan Presbytery.

Second Ballybay Presbyterian Church will host the event on Sunday, 6th May. Former deaconess Doreen Draffin and Lachlan Webster (minister in Craigavon Presbyterian) are the speakers.

The event starts at 7.30pm.

Worship in the Discipleshaping Church day conference Assembly Buildings will host a Worship in the Discipleshaping Church conference on Wednesday, 25th April.

Taking place between 10.30am and 3pm, the event aims to explore how our worship on Sunday can empower us for the lives we long to live for Christ out in the world, Monday to Saturday.

Guest speakers Sam and Sara Hargreaves are authors of the Whole Life Worship book and

News

Summer teams Ten denominational teams will be travelling the length and breadth of Ireland this summer.

Ballyweaney, Mullingar, St. Andrew’s in Bangor, Dungannon, Seaview, Whitehouse, Co. Cavan, Friendship House in Belfast, Grange in Ballymena and Abbey, Monkstown are all venues where teams will work alongside and in support of local PCI congregations as they reach out to their local communities.

Team membership is open to everyone over the age of 16 years.

More information and application forms can be found at www.presbyterianireland.org/ summerteams

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Whole Life Worship Journey Pack about which you can find out more at www.licc.org.uk/resources/ whole-life-worship They will offer biblical foundations, practical frameworks and a wealth of usable examples

to fire the imagination of those who lead Sunday services with a disciple-shaping emphasis in PCI congregations.

The price of conference is £5, which includes lunch.

Amy Carmichael

Kids’ crew needed Are you 14 years or older, funloving, committed, motivated and able to assist with the kids’ programme and zones?

If you are, please consider registering to be part of the kids’ crew at the Kids’ Big Day Out and use your gifts and talents for Jesus.

Kids’ Big Day Out takes place on Saturday, 21st April at Wellington Presbyterian in Ballymena.

Please contact clw@presbyterianireland.org for more information.

An event marking Amy Carmichael’s lasting legacy will take place in Millisle and Ballycopeland Presbyterian Church on Thursday, 19th April.

One of the world’s best known and inspirational missionaries, Amy was born 150 years ago in Millisle and attended Ballycopeland with her family.

Starting at 7.30pm, the Amy Carmichael event will include four short presentations: ‘The Millisle Years’ by Rev. John Flaherty (minister of Millisle and Ballycopeland); ‘The Early Years’ by Jonathan Clarke (Welcome Church, Belfast); ‘Dohnavur Then and Now’ by Alison McCaughan with Jacky Woolcock (former missionary to Dohnavur); and ‘The Challenge Today’ by PCI’s Global Mission Secretary Uel Marrs with Ruth Cooke (International Justice Mission).

There will also be a small exhibition, bookstall and refreshments.

Everyone is welcome.

For more information contact the Mission Department by telephoning +44 (0)28 9041 7266 or by emailing global@presbyterianireland.org

Find out more on www.presbyterianireland.org

Events

DIARY DATES April Family Holiday

Castlewellan Castle – Tuesday, 3rd to Friday, 6th

Simple Worship in the Smaller Church PW to hold annual meeting ‘Beautiful’ – the new PW theme for 2017/18 – will be officially launched at the organisation’s annual meeting, which takes place in Belfast’s Assembly Buildings on Thursday, 10th May. Around 1,500 members are expected to attend the event, which has Kate Patterson as its guest speaker. Based in west London, Kate is a writer, speaker and part-time school chaplain. She is mum to Jonny (23), Connor (20) and Ben (18).

Kate studied English at Oxford and Theology at Bristol and is passionate about making God’s Word accessible and relevant to all ages.

Kate is on the leadership team at Holy Trinity Richmond and is author of the book entitled The Promise of Blessing, described by Canon J. John as “not just a book on blessing but of blessing” and by Eddie Lyle as “Compulsory reading for those who want to be blessed to be a blessing.” Kate loves to help people encounter the God who changes lives.

The annual meeting will be held at 2pm when Kate will speak on the theme Beautiful. During the evening celebration at 7.30pm Kate will give her second talk, further unpacking God’s Word to look at the true meaning of beauty. Praise will be led by Erin McBride and Emma Smyth.

Both events are open to all women and everyone will be made most welcome.

Two regional venues will host Simple Worship in the Smaller Church events on Thursday, 26th April.

The two events aim to help those who organise and lead worship in the smaller church. They will offer simpler ways to worship that move us away from the pressures of trying to put on a good outward show to genuinely leading others to meaningfully engage with our Father as the family of God. The guest speakers, Sam and Sarah Hargreaves, head up Engage Worship.

Union Road Presbyterian in Magherafelt will host the first event, from 10.30am to 12.45pm, while Ballydown Presbyterian in Banbridge is the venue for the evening session, which runs from 7.45pm to 9.45pm.

The price is £5 and further information is available by contacting the CLW office on +44 (0)28 9041 7246 or by emailing clw@presbyterianireland.org

Taking Care training for designated persons Ballymena – Thursday, 12th

Taking Care foundation training

First Saintfield – Thursday, 12th

Taking care refresher training

Lisnabreen – Monday, 16th Waringstown – Thursday, 19th Magherafelt – Monday, 23rd Ballycrochan – Wednesday, 25th First Ballymena – Thursday, 26th

Celebration of 150th anniversary of Amy Carmichael’s birth

Millisle and Ballycopeland Presbyterian – Thursday, 19th

Kids’ Big Day Out

Wellington Presbyterian, Ballymena – Saturday, 21st

Worship in the Discipleshaping Church conference

Assembly Buildings, Belfast – Wednesday, 25th

Simple Worship in the Smaller Church

Union Road Presbyterian, Magherafelt – Thursday, 26th Ballydown Presbyterian, Banbridge – Thursday, 26th

Resources Thirty Days of Prayer The vision of the 30 Days of Prayer information booklet and prayer guide is to call Christians to pray with love and respect for Muslims around the world during Ramadan (15th May to 14th June).

In addition to guiding our prayers, the booklets also seek to help Christians gain a better understanding about Muslim people, their faith and diverse cultures; and see an increase in efforts to respond with love and compassion to the needs of Muslims around the world.

Copies of the booklet can be purchased directly from www.30daysprayer.org.uk for £2.50 per copy.

Alternatively, PCI’s Mission Department has a limited number of copies for congregational use available at a reduced cost of £1 per copy. These can be purchased from the Mission Department in

May My Place

Ballygawley Presbyterian – Wednesday, 2nd

Taking Care refresher training

Assembly Buildings, on a first come, first served basis.

To place your order, contact the Mission Department by telephoning +44 (0)28 9041 7266 or emailing global@presbyterianireland.org

First Ballymena – Thursday, 3rd First Broughshane – Tuesday, 22nd

Herald April 2018

11

AS I SEE IT...

Consent and dissent in discipleship Stanley Millen

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t is instructive to consider Joseph of Arimathaea as a him in taking the body of Jesus down from the cross. disciple of Jesus. Matthew tells us that he had become Dissent can strengthen us, not weaken us and it can a disciple (Matthew 27:57). John tells us that he was a strengthen the witness and devotion of others. Jesus, earlier, disciple, but secretly for fear of the Jews ( John 19:38). As had praised the devotion of Mary in the use of perfume for a disciple, he had consented to the terms of discipleship in the day of His burial ( John 12:7). Now Nicodemus supplies Luke chapter 14. This was despite riches (Matthew 27:57) and spices and strips of linen while Joseph provides his newly-cut despite being a member of the Jewish Council (Mark 15:43). tomb (Matthew 27:10). The final act of Joseph in this phase of His consent to the terms of discipleship had not been withheld discipleship was to roll a big stone in front of the entrance to despite his fear of the Jews. the tomb as physical effort is not excluded from discipleship.

Nowadays discipleship is rarely viewed in these terms. In Then he went away (Matthew 27:60).

Romans chapter 10 the emphasis is on We are not told in Scripture whether confession with the mouth and belief in …the label of dissenter Joseph went away back into Jerusalem or the heart, but these aspects do not rule out back to his home town of Arimathaea. has moved from the consent of the mind and determination Disciples of Jesus have different spheres of of the will. Discipleship includes all service and different phases of service. religious and Christian these aspects, including dissent when Nowadays, the label of dissenter has decisions are taken that are not in line with sphere to the political moved from the religious and Christian discipleship. sphere to the political sphere. We need to sphere. We need to We see dissent come to the fore as restore it to its rightful place as one aspect restore it to its rightful Joseph, a good and upright man, does of Christian discipleship. It is possible not consent to the decision of the Jewish to be both a consenting and dissenting place as one aspect of Council (Luke 23:51). This refers to disciple of Jesus as Joseph of Arimathaea Christian discipleship. their decision to put Jesus to death after shows us in the Scriptures. their meeting in Luke chapter 22. They had interrogated Him: “If you are the Christ tell us” (Luke Rev. Stanley Millen is minister emeritus of Dundalk Presbyterian 22:67). He had replied, “If I tell you, you will not believe.” This Church. obviously referred to the Council in general, not to Joseph in particular. It seems safe to say that Joseph understood and consented to the terms of discipleship in Luke 14:27: “Anyone who does not carry his cross and follow me cannot be my disciple.” Joseph was identifying with the One about to be crucified by dissenting from their decision to crucify Him. Furthermore, we should regard his dissent not as a futile attempt to reverse the inevitable but a genuine act of discipleship.

It seems at this point that the fearful disciple had become a bold witness as we are told from Mark 15:43 that he went boldly to Pilate and asked for Jesus’ body. Earlier Joseph had been afraid of the Jews; now he had no fear of approaching Pilate. In addition, his witness in the Council seems to have encouraged Nicodemus to assist

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REFLECTIONS

Stand guard Arthur Clarke Study in 2 Timothy 1:14

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t was at Rome, on the 15th October 1764, as I sat Living the gospel is the church’s constant challenge. musing amid the ruins of the Capitol, while the Alongside declaration there has to be identification. This barefooted friars were singing vespers in the temple ministry was well expressed by Michael Ramsey: “We go out of Jupiter that the idea of writing the decline and and put ourselves with loving sympathy inside the doubts of the fall of the city first started to my mind.” So wrote Edward doubting, the questions of the questioners and the loneliness Gibbon in a snatch of autobiography. of those who have lost their way.” A while ago we heard a lot In researching this massive undertaking, Gibbon travelled about ‘the non-church-going masses’ and that is so, but what extensively in Europe and came eventually to Ephesus and, about the ‘non-masses-going churches!’ studying her plight in the third century, wrote: “In the loss The politician and the salesman must win their converts by of Ephesus, the Christians deplored the fall of the first angel, force of argument and even by emotional manipulation. But not the extinction of the first candlestick, of the Revelations; the so the messenger of the gospel. The apostle assured Timothy: desolation is complete; and the temple of “Guard it with the help of the Holy Diana, or the church of Mary will equally Spirit who lives in you.” The Holy Spirit Living the gospel is the elude the search of the curious traveller.” empowers the messenger, prepares the What Paul warned young Timothy about church’s constant heart of the hearer and brings to faith the had sadly come to pass! trusting, who call upon the Saviour’s name. challenge. Alongside The apostle wrote: “Guard the good Gordon Rupp, a Methodist scholar, in deposit that was entrusted to you – guard declaration there has to his Six Makers of English Religion gives it with the help of the Holy Spirit who a vivid illustration of God bringing in lives in you” (2 Timothy 1:14). Here is the be identification.

His kingdom in His own time and way. pastor’s challenge; “guard the gospel” and, Covering the period 1500-1700, Rupp thankfully, alongside it is the pastor’s resource; “with the help of argued that the forces which crucified Christ sought to finish the Holy Spirit.” off His church, yet in that period God gave His church William The Christian community in Ephesus was highly favoured.

Tyndale, Thomas Cranmer, John Fox, John Milton, Isaac Watts Saint Paul ministered there for a year and a half, zealous and John Bunyan. young Timothy pastored them and the apostle sent them a Rupp goes on: “Above all they witness that, despite the sins of deeply spiritual epistle. Our Lord’s commendation (Revelation Christians and the failings of the church, despite the shouting 2:1-7) of them included a long list of noble responses to life’s and clamour of schism, the clouds and thick darkness of the challenges, but somewhere along the line declension set. But days of judgment, the Lord of the church has always stood in that was all in the future. In his generation, Timothy was to the midst devising good gifts beyond our hope, deserving and ‘guard the gospel’ and pass it on to faithful followers. Paul understanding.” employed the image of the relay runner; Paul to Timothy, then The evangelical prophet (Isaiah 55:11) gave the church this Timothy to faithful witnesses who in turn would hand on the assurance; speaking on God’s behalf: “My word that goes torch of the apostolic evangel (2 Timothy 2:2). out from my mouth; it will not return to me empty, but will The guardian of the gospel must define it, display it and accomplish what I desire.” declare it! William Temple’s assertion still holds: “The gospel is “I have to write, insisting – begging – that you fight with true always and everywhere, or it is not a gospel at all. It is the everything you have in you for this faith entrusted to us as a gift presentation of the gospel, not its content that changes with to guard and cherish.” ( Jude 1:3, The Message). succeeding generations and their varying conditions.” On the day of Pentecost, Peter outlined the essentials of the evangel as recorded in Acts 2.

Herald April 2018

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CONGREGATIONAL STORY

Photos by Jamie Trimble

Disciple-making ministry Claire Ebbinghaus, the ministries facilitator of Kirkpatrick Memorial Presbyterian Church in east Belfast, tells Rebecca McConnell a little about her unique role.

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n recent times there’s been a growing recognition throughout PCI of the need to make disciples of Jesus Christ. For many congregations, who’d love to give a greater emphasis to disciple-making, the existing programme of activities seems like an insurmountable obstacle. When we find ourselves struggling to do what we’re already doing it’s natural to ask: “How could we possibly take on any more?” One congregation’s answer to that question is: “Don’t do more… do everything differently. Reimagine every ministry into a disciple-making ministry.”

Kirkpatrick​ ​Memorial​ ​Presbyterian​ ​ Church​ ​is​ ​located​ ​in​ ​the​ ​busy​ Ballyhackamore area​ ​of​ ​Belfast.​ ​Known​ ​ to​ ​the​ ​locals​ ​as​ ​Ballyhack,​ ​it​ ​has​ ​become​ ​ a​ ​popular​ ​area​ ​due​ ​to​ ​a multitude​ ​of​ ​ eating​ ​establishments​ ​that​ ​have​ ​opened.​ ​ The​ ​church​ ​has​ ​grown​ ​rapidly​ ​in​ ​the past​ ​ decade​ ​but​ ​has​ ​been​ ​offering​ ​spiritual​ ​ nourishment​ ​and​ ​food​ ​since​ ​1914.

From​ ​the​ ​spring​ ​of​ ​2015,​ ​Claire​ ​ Ebbinghaus​ ​has​ ​worked​ ​as​ ​the​ ​ministries​ ​ facilitator, and part of the wider staff

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team at Kirkpatrick. ​W hilst​ ​trained​ ​ as​ ​a​ ​physiotherapist,​ ​Claire​ ​sees​ ​many​ ​ similarities​ ​to this​ ​role​ ​she​ ​is​ ​now​ ​ enjoying.​ ​“Physios​ ​work​ ​as​ ​teams​ ​to​ ​help​ ​ rehabilitate​ ​patients. My​ ​role​ ​here ​also​ involves ​working​ ​as​ ​part​ ​of​ ​a​ ​team, and​ ​ seeing how​ ​all​ ​the​ ​pieces​ ​fit​ ​together​ ​for​ ​ the​ ​best outcome.”

The​ ​need​ ​for​ ​the​ ​role​ was identified by ​ the​ ​minister.​ ​Claire explains, “A​ ​minister’s​ ​ role​ ​is​ ​wide​ ​and​ ​varied​ ​and virtually​ ​ impossible​ ​to​ ​do​ ​everything​ ​well​ ​–​ ​from​ ​ preaching​ ​to​ ​teaching,​ ​leading​ ​public worship,​ ​dealing​ ​with​ ​all​ ​of​ ​the​ ​pastoral​ ​ responsibilities​ ​as​ ​well​ ​as​ ​looking​ ​after​ ​ and​ ​pastoring the​ ​leaders.​ ​There​ ​was​​ an awareness​ ​that​ ​if​ ​leaders​ ​aren’t​ ​supported,​ ​ we​ ​end​ ​up​ ​with​ ​people who​ ​feel​ ​very​ ​ disconnected,​ ​alone and let​ ​down. The

…if​ ​leaders​ ​aren’t​ ​ supported,​ ​we​ ​end​ ​up​ ​ with​ ​people who​ ​feel​ ​ very​ ​disconnected,​ ​alone and let​ ​down.

minister rarely feels satisfied with these arrangements or outcomes.”

Claire​ ​knows​ ​the​ ​demands​ ​as​ ​she​ ​ is​ ​married​ ​to​ ​the​ ​minister,​ ​Christoph ​ Ebbinghaus.​ ​“Right from​ ​the​ ​start​ ​of​ ​our​ ​ marriage,​ ​we​ ​were​ ​shaped​ ​together​ ​in​ ​a​ ​ shared​ ​vision​ ​for​ ​ministry.​ ​At Kirkpatrick,​ ​ I​ ​could​ ​see​ ​the​ ​ways​ ​in​ ​which​ ​the​ ​leaders​ ​ could​ ​be​ ​supported​ ​better.”

A similar post was first established in Kirkpatrick, back in 2009. Then, when​​ the​ ​post​ ​became​ ​vacant​ ​a​ ​few​ ​years​ ​ago,​ ​ the​ ​recruitment​ ​process​ ​was​ ​outsourced,​ ​ as the​ ​kirk​ ​session​ ​knew​ ​Claire​ ​was​ ​ interested​ ​in​ ​applying.​ ​A ​team​ ​made​ ​ up​ ​of members​ ​from​ ​other​ ​churches​ ​ took​ ​charge​ ​allowing​ ​Christoph​ ​and​ ​ the​​Session​to step back t​ o​​ensure an impartial appointment process. ​Claire describes​ ​her​ ​role​ ​as​ ​threefold:​ ​ “Firstly,​ ​I​ ​am​ ​there​ ​to keep​ ​leaders​ ​on​ ​ vision.​ ​Secondly​, ​I​ ​ensure​ ​we​ ​are​ ​all​ ​ working​ ​together,​ ​as​ ​a​ ​collective.​ ​And thirdly,​ ​I​ ​support​ ​our​ ​leaders​ ​pastorally​ ​ and​ ​practically.”

Whilst​ ​contracted​ ​for​ ​around​ ​19​ ​ hours​ ​per​ ​week,​ ​Claire​ ​admits​ ​the​ ​nature​ ​

of​ ​the​ ​role​ ​often leads​ ​to​ ​overtime,​ ​as​ ​ liaising​ ​with​ ​leaders​ ​usually​ ​takes​ ​place​ ​in​ ​ evenings​ ​when​ ​they​ ​aren’t working.

“At​ ​Kirkpatrick,​ ​we​ ​try​ ​to​ ​work​ ​on​ ​ a​ ​‘rule​ ​of​ ​one’​ ​for​ ​our​ ​ministries.​ ​We​ ​ encourage​ ​our members​ ​to​ ​be​ ​at​ ​public​ ​ worship​ ​on​ ​Sundays,​ ​to​ ​be​ ​part​ ​of​ ​a​ ​ discipleship​ ​group​ ​and​ ​also​ ​to be​ ​involved​ ​ in​ ​one​ ​organisation.​ ​Part​ ​of​ ​my​ ​role​ ​ is​ ​to​ ​watch​ ​out​ ​for​ ​that,​ ​to​ ​pick​ ​up​ ​on potential​ ​leaders​ ​and​ ​also​ ​to​ ​free​ ​people​ ​ who​ ​perhaps​ ​have​ over ​committed​ ​ or have been committed to​v​ arious organisations​ ​for​ ​a​ ​long​ ​period​ ​of​ ​time.​ ​ It​ ​is​ ​important,​ ​where​ ​necessary,​ ​to​ ​give​ ​ people permission​ ​to​ ​walk​ ​away​ ​before​ ​it​ ​ gets​ ​too​ ​late​ ​and​ ​they​ ​collapse​ ​under​ ​the​ ​ pressure​ ​of​ ​trying to​ ​do​ ​too​ ​much.”

Claire​ ​has​ ​built​ ​up​ ​a​ ​strong​ ​relationship​ ​ with​ ​all​ ​the​ ​leaders-in-charge​ ​of​ ​the​ ​ various organisations​ ​and​ ​operates​ ​an​ ​ open​ ​system,​ ​gauging​ ​the​ ​level​ ​of​ ​contact​ ​ on​ ​an​ ​individual basis.​ ​“I​ ​am​ ​in​ ​regular​ ​ email​ ​contact​ ​and​ ​they​ ​know​ ​they​ ​can​ ​ pick​ ​the​ ​phone​ ​up​ ​at​ ​any​ ​time​ ​if they​ ​ need​ ​me​ ​as​ ​well.”

Where​ ​possible,​ ​Claire​ ​encourages​ ​ leaders​ ​via​ ​coffee​ ​dates​ ​to​ ​discuss​ ​their​ ​ vision​ ​for ministry,​ ​plan​ ​ahead​ ​if​ ​there​ ​may​ ​ be​ ​a​ ​future​ ​need​ ​for​ ​extra​ ​leaders​ ​and,​ ​if​ ​ times​ ​are​ ​tough, simply be​ ​‘someone​ ​to​ ​ listen’.

As​ ​a​ ​sounding​ ​board​ ​for​ ​other​ ​people’s​ ​ issues,​ ​it​ ​is​ ​vital​ ​for​ ​such​ ​a​ ​role​ ​to​ ​be​ ​cared​ ​ for pastorally​ ​and​ ​Claire​ ​is​ ​grateful​ ​for​ ​ three​ ​assigned​ ​elders​ ​who​ ​pray​ ​with​ ​and​ ​ for​ ​her.​ ​“Being Christoph’s​ ​wife,​ ​kirk​ ​ session​ ​in​ ​their​ ​wisdom​ ​were​ ​keen​ ​to​ ​ put​ ​support​ ​mechanisms​ ​in place​ ​for​ ​me.​ ​ We​ ​meet​ ​regularly.​ ​They​ ​are​ ​interested​ ​in​ ​ what​ ​I​ ​am​ ​doing​ ​and​ ​they​ ​care​ ​about​ ​the​ ​ impact​ ​on​ ​our​ ​family.”

The​ ​leaders-in-charge​ ​meet​ ​once​ ​a​ ​term​ ​ –​ ​everyone​ ​from​ ​creche​ ​to​ ​Sunday​ ​school,​ ​ BB,​ ​GB, and​ ​Converse,​ ​the​ ​Friday​ ​night​ ​ youth​ ​group​ ​–​ ​to​ ​share​ ​what​ ​it​ ​means​ ​to​ ​ be​ ​in​ ​leadership together.​ ​“ What​ ​has​ ​been​ ​

most​ ​interesting​ ​has​ ​been​ ​the​ ​impact​ ​on​ ​ our​ ​creche​ ​leaders​ ​–​ ​they get​ ​to​ ​see​ ​their​ ​ part​ ​in​ ​the​ ​whole​ ​picture​ ​of​ ​a​ ​child​ ​from​ ​ 0​ ​to​ ​18​ ​in​ ​our​ ​church.​ ​The​ ​contribution ​ creche workers​ ​make​ ​is​ ​significant​ ​and​ hopefully ​through​ ​this​ ​contact,​ ​they​ ​feel​ ​ more​ ​valued​ ​hearing​ ​how​ ​the young​ ​ people​ ​develop​ ​in​ ​their​ ​faith.

“Once​ ​a​ ​month,​ ​I​ ​send​ ​Session​ ​a​ ​list​ ​of​ ​ the​ ​new​ ​leaders​ ​for​ ​approval.​ ​I​ ​also​ ​liaise​ ​ with​ ​the committee​ ​and​ ​let​ ​them​ ​know​ ​ of​ ​issues​ ​regarding​ ​space​ ​and​ ​capacity​ ​of​ ​ our​ ​halls,​ ​and​ ​I connect​ ​with​ ​the​ ​child​ ​ protection​ ​officer​ ​to​ ​make​ ​sure​ ​the​ ​new​ ​ leaders​ ​get​ ​the​ ​training​ ​they need.

largely​ ​from​ ​young​ ​people​ ​bringing​ ​their​ ​ friends​ ​along. Numbers​ ​have​ ​doubled​ ​at​ ​ the​ ​Friday​ ​night​ ​youth​ ​fellowship,​ ​posing​ ​ extra​ ​leadership demands. ​is​ ​sending​ ​these​ ​young​ ​people​ ​ It​ ​is​ ​about​ ​trying​ ​to lead​ ​ and​“God​ ​God​ ​will​ ​send​ ​the​ ​leaders.​ ​The​ ​ discipleship​ ​group Christoph​ ​and​ ​I​ ​lead​ ​ people​ ​into​ ​godly​ ​ is​ ​specifically​ ​for​ ​new​ ​members.​ ​As​ ​soon​ ​ leadership​ ​and​ ​to​ ​ as​ ​people​ ​come​ ​and​ ​express an​ ​interest​ ​in​ ​ joining​ ​us,​ ​I​ ​can​ ​have​ ​that​ ​conversation​ ​ disciple​ ​those​ ​coming​ ​ with​ ​them​ ​about​ ​where​ ​and​ ​how​ ​they after​ ​them. may​ ​wish​ ​to​ ​serve​ ​when​ ​the​ ​time​ ​is​ ​ right.”

“Last year we ran an event for So​ ​what​ advice​ ​does​ ​Claire​ ​have​ ​for​ ​ leaders of all our youth and children’s other​ ​churches​ ​who​ ​may​ ​be​ ​thinking​ ​of​ ​ organisations, entitled ​‘Together’​​. This was ​ having​ ​a​ ​similar role? an​ ​opportunity​ ​to​ ​thank​ ​them​ ​for their​ ​ “The​ ​key​ ​word​ ​is​ ‘​facilitator’. Often​ ​we​ ​ work​ ​as​ ​well​ ​as​ ​envision​ ​them​ ​and​ ​share​ expect​ ​the​ ​people​ ​in​ ​paid​ ​church​ ​roles​ ​to​ ​ the ​strategy​ ​the​ ​church​ has ​developed​ ​for​ ​ deliver​ ​the​ ​ministry​ ​– ​my​ ​role​ ​is​ ​about young people​ ​and​ ​children’s​ ​ministry, and​ ​ developing​ ​people,​ ​realising​ ​that​ ​I​ ​cannot​ ​​ off​ ​the​ ​back​ ​of​ ​that,​ to ​get​ ​them​ ​to​ ​engage​ ​ be the​ ​answer​ ​myself.​ ​For​ ​example,​ ​ in​ ​the​ ​strategy and​ ​identify​ ​what​ ​they​ ​ where​ ​training is needed,​ ​my​ ​role​ ​is​ ​to​ ​ need​ ​to​ ​fulfil ​the​ ​vision.” source​ ​it,​ ​not to believe​ ​I​ ​can​ ​deliver​ ​ One​ ​example​ ​of​ ​the​ ​leaders-in-charge the​ ​best​ ​training​ ​myself. ​Knowing​ ​your​ ​ of the organisations ​working​ ​together​ ​is​ ​ limitations​ ​is​​ ​key. the​ ​joint​ ​weekend​ ​away​ for ​youth ​from​ ​ “Often​ ​in​ ​church​ ​settings,​ ​we​ ​jump​ ​ the​ ​different​ ​organisations,​ ​showing​ ​ at​ ​trying​ ​to​ ​be​ ​the​ ​answer​ ​to​ ​a list​ ​of​ ​ the​ ​collaborative​ ​working.​ ​“It​ ​really problems.​ ​I​ can end up being ​the​ ​‘go​ ​ impacts​ ​the​ ​youth​ ​to​ ​see​ ​their​ ​leaders​ ​ to​ ​person’​ ​if​ ​someone​ ​has​ ​a​ ​problem​; working​ ​in​ ​this​ ​way,​ ​sharing​ ​life​ ​together​ ​ people​ ​tell​ing ​me how​ ​things​ ​should​ ​be,​ and​ ​not​ ​being territorial.​ ​We​ ​are also and ​where​ ​the​ ​church​ ​is​ ​going​ ​wrong.​ ​ going to​​see h ​ ow ​leadership​across the You​ ​have​ ​to​ ​not​ ​take​ ​things personally!​ ​ organisations can ​be a bit more​​fluid.​​ I’ve​ ​learned​ ​that​ ​it​ ​is​ ​about walking​ ​the​ ​ We are encouraging the​ ​leaders​ ​of​ ​Bible​ ​ journey​ ​with​ ​equal​ ​measures of grace and class​ ​on​ ​a​ ​Sunday morning​, who maybe truth – being able to be honest and​​be​ don’t get the same opportunity to play hugely gracious​ ​at​ ​the same​ ​time.​ I don’t games as the Converse leaders​​, to switch​​ always get it right! Ultimately the role is teams​ ​for​ ​a​ ​week.​ ​Likewise,​ ​the female​ ​ about growing disciples, and seeing folks leaders​ ​of​ ​the​ ​Bible​ ​class​ could go along​ ​ being transformed as they step up into to​G ​ B some evening​a​ nd​​have a chance leadership. to​hang out with ​the older​​girls​​without​​ “Discipleship​ ​is​ ​the​ ​heartbeat​ ​of​ ​ the​ ​boys​ ​being​ ​there,​ allowing more Kirkpatrick​ ​and​ ​that​ ​permeates​ ​all​ ​that open and honest conversation about the we do​. So at the end of the day my role things they struggle with. Ultimately this is to encourage​ ​those​ ​in​ ​leadership​ ​to approach gives opportunities for ​stronger​​ faithfully​ ​‘pass​ ​on’​ ​the​ ​faith to those relationships​​to be built.” coming after, so they in turn can pass it Recent​ ​growth​ ​statistics​ ​have​ ​come​ ​ on to others.”

Herald April 2018

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EASTER REFLECTION

Recasting the net In his Easter reflection, Moderator, Dr. Noble McNeely, suggests that sometimes we need to take stock of whether we are truly following the voice of Jesus and have the courage to change course if we aren’t.

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T

he most significant and earth shattering narrative we can read on Easter Sunday is found in John 21:1: “Afterwards Jesus appeared again to His disciples.”

The gospel of John records the third appearance of Jesus to the disciples after He was raised from the dead. As the Apostles’ Creed states, Jesus “was crucified, died and was buried…(but) on the third day He arose again.”

Following the shocking and disturbing events of Good Friday, the disciples were resigned to the fact that the venture with Jesus was over. Simon Peter, possibly to reduce the stress and his grief, decided he was going to fish. Six of his fellow disciples with him at the time decided to accompany him on the boat, but they caught nothing. They were experienced fishermen; they knew that fishing on lake Galilee at night often resulted in a productive and generous catch. Hence a full night out on the lake without hauling in a good quality catch was painfully frustrating.

They slowly approached the beach very disappointed. However, before they landed they noticed someone standing on the shore. It was too dull to see clearly who it was. The man on the beach called out to them, “Friends haven’t you any fish?” “No,” they answered. He replied, “Throw your net on the right side of the boat and you will find some” ( John 21:5-6).

Simon Peter, James, John and the other four men in the boat were lifelong fishermen. How would the man on the beach who seemed to be unfamiliar know where to fish? Peter, James and John were experts and knew the lake as well as any Galilean; they knew how to catch fish!

Nevertheless, they dropped the net on the starboard side and after only a few minutes they were astonished, because the boat almost capsized with the weight of vigorous fish caught in the net. They struggled to shore with the catch. They were unable to haul the net into the boat and had to tow the net 90 metres to the beach.

This fishing story is worth our contemplation and makes a very pertinent point and lesson.

Tom Wright compares the story to how we work for Christ in the mission we are called to. He writes, “How dreadfully easy it is for Christian workers to get the

impression that we’ve got to do it all…

If we don’t tell people the Good News they won’t hear it. If we don’t change the world, it won’t be changed. ‘He has no hands but our hands’ we are sometimes told.” And Wright completes his comments by concluding they are “a load of rubbish”.

Let us be everyday disciples in the church, who listen for the voice of Christ and respond when He calls us to cast another net.

The disciples laboured all night, however, they were only successful when they responded to Jesus’ voice. As disciples, many of us will work hard for church growth. We may have tried a variety of ministries and we may have built expensive facilities, however, we so often leave Christ on the shore and avoid hearing His voice challenge us.

We will see results through the miraculous power of Jesus when we hear and respond to the voice of the risen Lord and anticipate transformation and growth in our churches. A BBC programme, The Battle for Christianity, presented by Prof. Robert Beckford, demonstrated that despite the reports of fewer people attending church, despite the issues that are taking Christians to courts; there are churches growing and flourishing in the UK. The programme reported congregations of up to 8,000 people meeting in London theatres each Sunday.

In our churches, if we continue casting the net through the activities we offer with limited results then I believe we have to respond to the voice of Christ and do things differently. Surely when

We may have tried a variety of ministries… however, we so often leave Christ on the shore and avoid hearing His voice challenge us.

we see a decline in attendances, fewer interested younger people and minimal new members, we must be prepared to hear the voice of Jesus instructing us to cast the net differently. When radical change is required and the net is cast on the right side, Jesus can surprise us. The nets may be full again someday.

Bruce Milne writes, “Today a massive vindication of the claims of Jesus Christ is taking place before our eyes, for whenever He is freed from the graveclothes of Western cultural perspectives and allowed to stand in His own authentic reality within the biblical witness to Him, Jesus Christ exercises an incomparable attraction. There is no need of the human heart which Jesus Christ cannot meet…that is why the Christian faith belongs to east and west, and why no greater than Jesus will ever come...no one else is required. The fields can rarely have been whiter. The world waits to hear of, and respond to its Redeemer.”

Like the disciples who celebrated on the shore in the presence of Jesus, we should never be dismayed or frustrated that the work we do is fruitless. I have had the privilege in the past few months of visiting numerous congregations and observing the state of life and witness in the church. It has been heartening to see churches listening to the voice of Jesus and have recast the net metaphorically on the other side of the boat. I believe there are still some who may have to listen and be willing to alter their course of direction.

The Easter narrative is about resurrection and transformation beyond the disciples’ expectations. The Good News story always offers hope and drives out despair. We trust in the risen Lord who died and rose again for our salvation and will bring about a harvest – He is able!

Let us be the fishers of men and women that Christ has called us to be. Let us be everyday disciples in the church, who listen for the voice of Christ and respond when He calls us to cast another net. We must never allow disappointments that might overshadow some of the elements of church life to dishearten because there is always hope when we are prepared to change direction. Let us never cease to have expectations of Christ transforming our churches and of growth.

Herald April 2018

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Pastoral life in three dimensions

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Herald April 2018

y: nit mu ip om wsh l c llo ra g fe sto rin Pa A ca

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verybody hurts. Everybody needs pastoral care at some time or another. It’s part of being human: illness, stress, loss, broken relationships, frailty of older age, disability, uncertainties… As a minister for almost 40 years, in town and country, north and south, smaller and medium congregations, I’ve experienced most of it. I seek to give care; and I receive it.

Everybody needs pastoral care but the setting in which it happens is changing, both in society and in church. We live in an age when people have to move to follow their jobs. We also live in an age of constant communication, especially through social media. Because of these and other changes, community doesn’t mean the same as it did previously.

As a consequence, most of us know that ‘top down’ pastoral care isn’t effective any more – if it ever was. Neither ministers nor elders nor pastoral care teams are sheepdogs! The role of elders is becoming more focused on leadership, whereas in the past it was largely about visiting.

This leadership includes responsibility for the pastoral care of the congregation.

Many kirk sessions have made changes, for example, forming a pastoral care team and/or increasing the emphasis on

Ch Pas rist to lik ra e lo l c ve are in : act ion

Rev. Alistair Bill looks at the changing nature of pastoral care in congregations.

Pastoral

life

Pastoral core: Biblical foundation pastoral care in small groups.

As we reflect on our congregations’ pastoral needs we have to consider that there are different types of people and their needs are different. We need to consider what the Bible says about pastoral care, what it might look like for us as a community of believers in our

Everybody needs pastoral care but the setting in which it happens is changing, both in society and in church.

local congregation and what pastoral care involves in practice. The ‘pastoral life triangle’ illustrates the need for these three dimensions of pastoral care.

Pastoral core

(Key verse: 2 Timothy 3:14-17)

Pastoral core is our biblical foundation.

It’s what makes sense of life. Think of the building block truths of the faith: Creation – God exists, and is interested in us. Men and women are made in the image of God. We can summarise this as ‘life is good’.

Fall – we are also fallen beings. As part of the fall of humanity, relationships with each other and with creation are fractured, and often broken. We can summarise this as ‘life is broken’.

Redemption – God offers salvation and help in and through Jesus. In Jesus we are offered new life, a new start, and are promised the infilling of the Holy Spirit. He is the One who makes us more like Jesus as we live for Him. We can summarise this as ‘life can be mended’.

Restoration – Jesus will come back in God’s good timing. He will make all things new. Through this, God offers us hope, even in the most desolate or despairing of situations. However, our

hope is not just for the future. When we have this hope today it determines how we might pray for people. We can summarise this as ‘life can be lived with hope’.

Having this ‘pastoral core’ equips us. It sets people up in advance for when life goes dark, and gives us a foundation for Christian living in the present. It is all about spiritual nourishment; it’s about bringing the Scriptures to bear on reallife situations.

How can we help to be intentional in building up our ‘pastoral core’ strength?

I believe that all leaders, elders, staff members, pastoral care teams need to understand these spiritual truths more than the average person in the pew. This can happen in the following ways: • learning to apply the Bible to our own situations; • leaders in the congregation bringing suggestions about topics that should be addressed for the help of our people; • equipping God’s people for times when they should speak God’s truths into people’s situations.

Pastoral community

(Key verses: Galatians 6:2; John 15:9-12)

During the almost 40-year span of my ministry, the church has rediscovered the importance of community. This is an important correction to the rampant individualism in Western society. People have a basic need for community and care. If they don’t receive it in church they will look elsewhere. This tells us as a church that we need to provide pastoral community centred on Christ.

To build up our pastoral communities we need to be intentional and proactive.

It’s about living out the ‘one another’

statements in the New Testament in our congregational life. Verses like “love one another”, “practice hospitality”, “encourage one another”, “greet one another”, “carry each other’s burdens” and “instruct one another”.

In Saintfield Road Presbyterian Church when we began planning an expansion of our halls 15 years ago, our architect asked as a first priority what we wanted our church to look like in 20 years’ time. One of the aspects we spoke about as being vital was ‘fellowship’. So he designed for us a large space just inside the halls door, and adjacent to the church – it’s now called ‘The Hub’, a space for people to meet after morning worship, a place where we hold worship on Sunday evenings, where we hold training events,

…most of us know that ‘top down’ pastoral care isn’t effective any more – if it ever was. and where parents can wait for their children to finish organisations. The Hub has changed the culture of our congregation’s life.

Not every congregation has the resources to make such a major change to the physical architecture, but to develop pastoral community we can seek to answer the basic question: how can our congregation create regular times to be together, including all the generations?

We might also think about how we as a congregation encourage people to be praying for each other as well as wider concerns.

Pastoral care

(Key verses: Matthew 9:36, James 1:27)

Pastoral care as the third side of the triangle is the reactive, rather than proactive, part. It’s about how we feel towards others. Pastoral care involves responding to a spectrum of needs: • companionship for those on their own; • in time of ill health, in hospital or following discharge; • loss of health, job, relationship, financial security; • bereavement; • practical help – a lift to worship, a meal for a family where a baby has just been born, or flowers delivered from the church service.

In all of this we need to remember that there will be areas beyond our skill level and capacity when we need to refer to expert help elsewhere. Some examples are: abuse, addictions, debt, depression, divorce/separation and relationship difficulties. The Presbyterian Church in Ireland can offer extra help through the ministry of Fresh Light (see PCI’s website www.presbyterianireland.org for more details). Other organisations, such as Christians Against Poverty, also provide specialised help.

Everyone in our congregations needs to be part of its pastoral life. Sometimes it will be receiving; more often it will be giving. This pastoral life needs to be rooted in the pastoral core and it is best delivered through the pastoral community to the glory of God at work in the body of Christ.

Rev. Alistair Bill is minister of Saintfield Road Presbyterian Church and convener of the Pastoral Care Committee of the Council for Congregational Life and Witness.

Three short videos are available on the PCI website, each illustrating one side of the pastoral life triangle and followed by discussion questions: www.presbyterianireland.org/pastoral-life Video one: pastoral care – mental health and pastoral care.

Video two: pastoral community – four different aspects of pastoral community (one-to-one, fellowship time on Sunday, small group and mentoring).

Video three: pastoral core – using the Bible in pastoral conversations.

These videos and discussion questions are intended to help members of congregations, kirk sessions, pastoral care team members and others with specific roles in pastoral care to develop their understanding of the pastoral life of the congregation. A video could be used at the start of kirk session or pastoral care team meeting, in a small group, for individual reflection or even in a Sunday service for the whole congregation.

Herald April 2018

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20 years on...

Twenty years after the signing of the Good Friday Agreement, Alan Meban looks back on the new-found hope that had been born, and following a 4 Corners Festival event, he reflects on where we are now and the role of the Churches in moving forward.

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wenty years ago on the evening of Friday, 10th April 1998, I drove up to Ballycastle from Lisburn with four teenagers crammed into my VW Polo. I was about to spend five days with 100 or so other teens and 20-somethings sleeping on the floor of a Ballycastle primary school, listening to teaching from a visiting evangelical speaker, and heading around the coast for the annual ‘surprise’ trip to the Giant’s Causeway on the Sunday afternoon.

“Can you turn that rubbish off?” pleaded one child. The car radio was tuned to Radio Ulster and I was straining to hear the extended news coverage of the historic signing of the Belfast Agreement over the din. “This is important,” I countered.

“It could affect the rest of your lives.” The consensus from the back seat was clear: “It’s boring.”

I listened for another half hour before throwing in the towel and hitting the preset button for a music station, resolving

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to buy a Saturday morning paper to catch up with what I was missing.

In the lead-up to the final signing in Castle Buildings, current affairs had never felt so current, while simultaneously giving off a whiff of instant staleness as the seemingly constant dialogue stretched long into each night, teasing out constructive ambiguities, casting accusations and filling airwaves with bluster.

Smaller parties rejoiced that their ideas had made it into final draft.

Unionism was divided over aspects of the negotiations and while the majority

…our impasse and our continued social segregation make it all too clear that we remain thoroughly unreconciled.

of the UUP’s ruling council voted to support the agreement, a number of high profile figures stood with the DUP and the Orange Order to oppose it. Sinn Féin’s endorsement of the agreement was delayed until consultations took place across the island of Ireland and their membership voted at a special ard fheis to remove the party’s policy of abstentionism in northern institutions of government.

A referendum was to be held six weeks after the agreement was signed by the British and Irish governments. In the lead-up to the poll on both sides of the border, the Presbyterian Church in Ireland issued a four-page leaflet to congregations urging participation in the vote. The denomination took no stance on how people should vote – history shows that Presbyterians often flourish on both sides of an argument. The leaflet referenced some of the difficulties that the agreement might present, including discussion about the early release of prisoners.

71.1% of those who voted in Northern Ireland supported the agreement. 94.4% of those voting in the Republic of Ireland approved the changes to Articles 2 and 3 of the Constitution that removed the territorial claim over Northern Ireland.

Progress towards the implementation of the agreement was slow at first and the institutions were relatively unstable. The UUP and SDLP were the largest parties and nominated the first and deputy first ministers. It wasn’t until the winter of 2006 that the St. Andrews Agreement committed the DUP (now the largest unionist party) to power-sharing with Irish republicans in the Northern Ireland Executive. The events of the last year have proven that that partnership was not as secure as it once looked.

I’ll be driving up to Ballycastle again this Good Friday, passing by the primary school before turning right at the roundabout and heading out of town for Carafest, a festival of faith and reconciliation at Corrymeela. Twenty years on, I’ll have my own teenager in the back of the car. I wonder what she’ll think about the news on the radio?

Doors are open for us if we will only go through those doors. The church has a voice in the wider society. or in computers and clipboards, or in absoluteness, severity, greed, and cynicism. But the peacemaker is dressed in righteousness, justice, and faithfulness – dressed for the work that is to be done.”

Author and academic Dr. Gladys Ganiel chaired the discussion. “While we’re all thankful for the relative absence of violence in the 20 years since the Belfast Agreement, our impasse and our continued social segregation make it all too clear that we remain thoroughly unreconciled.”

So how are Churches promoting reconciliation, healing division or ending sectarianism?

Churches: promoting reconciliation, healing division and ending sectarianism Now in its sixth year, the 4 Corners Festival seeks to promote unity and reconciliation in the midst of Belfast’s troubled past. Three nights after hosting a wide-ranging conversation featuring loyalist voices with politicians, activists and ex-prisoners as well as ministers and the PSNI chief constable, the festival turned to examine the role of churches in peacemaking.

A panel of clerics from four Christian denominations sat in front of a packed audience in the Skainos Centre in east Belfast. Is it correct that the Churches have retreated from the public sphere and done little to promote peace or reconciliation since the Good Friday Agreement?

In his introduction, Methodist minister Rev. David Campton quoted Walter Brueggemann who said: “People notice peacemakers because they dress funny.

“We know how the people who make war dress – in uniforms and medals,

Rev. Dr. Heather Morris, a former president of the Methodist Church and currently the denomination’s Home Mission Secretary, highlighted the contribution of “quiet peacemakers” who

over generations have built relationships through “covenants of friendships” (a term used by Archbishop Eamon Martin) between Churches and parishes.

She called on Church leaders and members to become “involved in projects in their local communities which are for the common good”. Working together around issues like unemployment or addiction, “there should be nothing that stops us as Churches being involved.”

Minister of Fitzroy Presbyterian, Rev. Steve Stockman noted that “the work done by Fr. Alec Reid, Rev. Harold Good, Very Rev. Ken Newell, Fr. Gerry Reynolds SJ, Rev. Dr. Gary Mason and others over the years has given us respect in some political communities. Doors are open for us if we will only go through those doors. The church has a voice in the wider society.”

The cofounder of the 4 Corners Festival had been encouraged by a prayer chain around Belfast City Hall in December 2012. “Young church leaders who were in their late 20s decided that because of the flag protests they would get Christians from all denominations around the City Hall to pray…To see some of the denominational barriers being broken down by younger church leaders was very encouraging.”

Fr. Brian Lennon SJ, a Jesuit priest and founder of Community Dialogue, spoke of being encouraged by strong statements issued by Church leaders in recent months. When the Stormont institutions collapsed, Archbishop Eamon Martin reminded politicians that “your call to public service will sometimes mean making sacrifices, offering compromise and building bridges to overcome barriers as they arise...Do not resort to predictable, wearisome slogans or denigrating, divisive language.”

The audience chuckled when Lennon explained that as “a good Jesuit, I want to quote from the Presbyterian General Assembly last year!” He read out a portion of the Vision for Society Statement: “We believe that the good news of Jesus Christ challenges and equips us to develop radically new attitudes and relationships with our neighbours throughout the whole of Ireland... We seek a more reconciled community at peace with each other, where friend and foe, working together for the common good, can experience healing and the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ.”

“That’s a good statement,” he added.

Asked how to overcome obstacles standing in the way of Churches promoting reconciliation and healing divisions, Lennon suggested that Churches “set up a body to receive confidential stories about killings during the Troubles and communicate to those Herald April 2018

21

who lost loved ones and want to hear these.” It wasn’t an easy option, but he felt it was worth exploring.

Karen Sethuraman is an ordained Baptist pastor and leads the Down Community.

“When it comes to being a peacemaker, one of our greatest obstacles is ourselves.

There’s something within our own hearts that sometimes cannot lay down our own thinking and our own theological convictions to be able to work with the other.

“We can talk about peace but we tend to go to groups where we think the same, worship the same, have the same kind of understandings of theological texts, and the danger in that is we become peacekeepers. We try to keep the peace but don’t want to rock the boat…

Peacemakers need to step out of their comfort zones.”

She asked whether an emphasis on “eschatology, soteriology and ecclesiology” was really the way to help people connect with Jesus? “We may not agree about all aspects of our theology, but when a world looks on and sees that different people and denominations can come together because we want them to know Jesus and know about His love, that is the greatest peacemaking that we can do in this divided country.”

The discussion about divisive theological differences continued. Morris called on Christians to differ well. “Theology matters deeply. Engagement doesn’t demand theological compromise…Some of the best relationships that we have are those in which we can differ really well, have really good conversations, and be friends.”

Applying this at an institutional level, she quoted John Wesley who wrote “give me your hand if your heart is with my heart.” He said to those with whom he differed theologically: “Be the ones who provoke me to good works, make me

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Are we driven by ‘correct’ theology that pushes away? Or are we driven

by Jesus’ theology…? think, and join with me as we do these things together that we can do together.”

Having spoken at the 2015 Sinn Féin ard fheis, Stockman was aware that some people felt it was a “betrayal of your people” if you crossed boundaries to meet those who hold different beliefs or political perspectives.

“Grace moves first and breaks down barriers, embraces, and is inclusive and unconditional. Are we driven by ‘correct’ theology that pushes away? Or are we driven by Jesus’ theology of the Samaritan woman, the story of the Good Samaritan, the Roman centurion of whom Jesus had not found anyone in Israel with such great faith?”

An audience member asked, “How can we continue to engage in reconciliation and peacebuilding without the theology getting in the way?”

“Can I be a bit of a nuisance to you in that?” replied Morris. “I don’t want us to run from theological engagement and throw out the theological baby with the bathwater. It’s theology that drives me and drives us as church to engage with those with whom we differ.

“It’s theology that drives us to love, to make room for those who feel ‘other’ or marginalised, to ask what do we mean when we talk about forgiveness. So I don’t want us to demonise theology. I do want us to be people who are unafraid to engage theologically and who have the courage to…think about the theology that we’re carrying, reflect, and change.”

Stockman explained that for him, “The 4 Corners Festival is missional. I’ve been amazed at the people who have no faith or have lost faith who every year say to me, ‘That’s great what you’re doing at 4 Corners: it would make me go back to church again.’

“C.S. Lewis said that ‘people reject the Jesus they’ve been given’ and I think we have a generation that has rejected the Jesus they were given rather than the Jesus of the gospels. So peacemaking for me is missional.

“I find that when I’m involved in peacemaking, it’s the chance I get to talk about the Jesus of grace and the Jesus of peacemaking that a lot of people can really relate to.”

The evening finished with a prayer asking for “the quality of soul and character and mind and heart that enables us for the long haul to bring people together in peace and justice.”

APRIL 2018

Mission Connect

Life in Malawi has many challenges

Finishing well Alan and Tracey Johnston

Mission news from workers around Ireland and the world.

All in a day’s work Lyn (and Johnny) Dowds Changing scene in Kildare William Workman Everyday disciples in Greystones Rev. Gary McDowell Creative Wellbeing Rev. Norman Harrison

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.

The shipyard church Rev. Mervyn Gibson

Including April prayer diary

Finishing well

Alan and Tracey Johnston Global mission workers, Italy

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ince announcing in February that we intend to leave Tracey worked very hard to have the Coram Deo and Sola Italy sometime before 31st May, we have been greatly Grazia books all finished in time for the accountant. Tracey is now encouraged by many of you who have got in touch with also doing some audio-typing for a new Coram Deo project in us to express your understanding and support. It has not been a conjunction with Simeon Trust to provide the ‘First Principles for decision which we have made lightly. We are very gently pushing Women’ course to be available in Italian for the first time. some doors back home to see if they might open so that we might The English class is ticking over, sometimes with encouraging discern the Lord’s will in this move. Deciding to stop one thing numbers, other times not so. without having anything else to move on to is not a comfortable Sadly, a couple of weeks ago Leo and Antonella announced place to be in, but we trust at a staff meeting that they that what the Lord has are resigning from their work planned is far greater than we …we are now talking at staff meetings about with Coram Deo because they can hope for. believe that the Lord is calling things that will happen after we leave Italy.

Things continue to go on them to work independently. here in Porto Mantovano.

They still plan to serve in the This has been a strange sort church for the time being. of winter. Since Christmas there has been a lot of sickness in the All this continues with a strange feeling that we are now talking church. Almost everyone has had the flu and many have had at staff meetings about things that will happen after we leave Italy. lingering coughs for weeks afterwards. Some have had bronchitis Slightly surreal and yet things must continue on. We would really and serious chest infections and all this has seriously affected our appreciate your prayers for these last couple of months as we numbers both at church and at other events. seek to finish well and that we get a very real sense of the Lord’s The numbers in the services on Sunday have been fairly low. leading.

The men’s and women’s Bible study groups now meet every three Please pray: for the continuation of our work here in these last weeks and on separate days. Unlike the winters of the last couple two months – to not lose momentum and that we might finish of years, the mid-week Bible study group has kept strong and is well; for the numbers at Porto United; for Andrea and Manu as working well. they need to begin to prepare for ministry without a team around Porto United football outreach has been disappointing since (Karise, Leo and Antonella and soon ourselves will all be leaving after Christmas. Numbers have been very low and the two Syrian within a six-month period); and please pray for doors of ministry to boys who had been coming along have moved to Germany. open up at home for Tracey and myself.

Mission Connect | Herald April 2018

All in a day’s work

Lyn (and Johnny) Dowds Global mission workers, Malawi

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live in a small rural community in northern Malawi. This is the corridors as space is now at a premium. The last woman to a place I refer to as home as we make our way through the deliver had excessive bleeding and needed urgent transfer to struggles of living here. Life can have many challenges with theatre to assess and manage the situation further. both good and bad outcomes; we see ourselves growing and The children’s ward is always full of children with a variety of maturing in our characters illnesses. With the ongoing as we continue to serve our we have many cases Life is never quite as it could be and the years rains, Lord here. Life is never quite of malaria being admitted, as it could be and the years most of them are doing well. in medical school really didn’t prepare me for in medical school really Other children with respiratory life in Livingstonia! didn’t prepare me for life in conditions require oxygen or Livingstonia! have cardiac conditions and Our days start early and much of the time, like today, it started are in need of referral to the main hospital once they are stable for with an emergency call from the hospital. The senior clinician transfer. wanted to discuss the management of a seriously ill patient, Much of my time is spent in the office or at meetings as we try whether to keep him here and treat him with the drugs, blood to clear the outstanding debts and make plans for the future. This and skills we can provide, or to take the chance to transfer him means hours of debates and reviewing the details of drawings and to the larger government hospital in town. Seems an easy call to plans to ensure the best outcomes are brought. make, but I had to consider the poor road network. Was there any In many cases we wonder how we can manage to get all the rain in the past few days? Are the roads safe and passible? Are work done, as well as deal with the emergencies we face. Many the vehicles running well enough? Many additional thoughts go times, I am reminded of the psalms as I walk home tired from work through our minds as the ambulances are basic Land Cruisers with and see the beauty of the Nyika Plateau behind us: “I look up to no medical equipment – no ability for us to give oxygen if we need the hills but where does my help come from? My help comes from to for a sick patient. the Lord, the maker of heaven and earth” (Psalm 121:1-2).

I am never sure what a day will bring – no doubt emergency We will continue to work to bring healthcare and God’s love calls from the maternity ward which is unseasonably busy. Many to the people of Livingstonia, not in our power, but through the patients awaiting labour are having to endure the mattresses in power of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Mission Connect | Herald April 2018

Changing scene in Kildare William Workman

Irish mission worker, Athy and Carlow

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thy is a small rural town in south Kildare, 50 miles south local youth centre when about 15 children come to sing songs, of Dublin with a population of approximately 10,000. The hear Bible lessons, learn Bible verses, do arts and crafts and games.

River Barrow and the Grand Canal runs through it and Visitation is also a vital part of my work when I follow up on people there is only one main road through the town due to a lack of that I meet. bridges. It can take 20 to 30 minutes to get from one end of the I also run special outreach events such as missions, praise town to the other during peak traffic times. evenings, Christianity Explored courses, video evenings, etc. At The cultural and religious scene has changed tremendously present I am planning a monthly fellowship meeting in Athy in Athy over the years. The Roman Catholic convent has closed, church starting on 14th April. the Methodist church was handed over to the council and is I normally have a stand at the Kildare County Show in June which now used as an arts centre. There is still a Methodist service on I use to advertise the summer outreach. This year, from 2nd to 6th Sunday mornings. The Roman July in Carlow there will be a Catholic Dominican church holiday Bible club for children The cultural and religious scene has changed has closed and was sold to the and special outreach events council and has just opened in the evenings. The following tremendously in Athy over the years. as a library. The Church of week we will be in Athy, again Ireland, Roman Catholic church with a holiday Bible club for and the Presbyterian church remain. The influx of non-nationals children in the afternoon and evening activities for teenagers. has resulted in three new African churches in the town and Carlow church is just 11 miles from Athy, and it has been non-nationals attending the other main churches has boosted encouraging to see how that church has grown from a monthly dwindling congregations. Apart from the non-nationals, who tend afternoon service of six people when I first moved here, to a to come and go, the congregation of Athy is made up of elderly weekly Sunday morning service with approximately 60 of a people. Rev. Stephen Rea is the minister of Carlow and Athy. I congregation, with a Sunday school and midweek meeting. support the church, but most of my work is in the community, Please pray for the outreach in Athy and Carlow. I am always reaching out with the good news of the gospel. looking for praise groups and people to help with the visitation I host a Bible study on Sunday nights in my house. On Tuesdays, etc. Feel free to get in touch if you would like to come for a visit.

I have a book stall in the open-air market in Athy. This is an opportunity to meet people – I tend to give away more books than I sell. On Friday afternoons, I run a children’s meeting in the Mission Connect | Herald April 2018

Everyday disciples in Greystones Rev. Gary McDowell

Greystones Presbyterian Church

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sn’t it good to stop and reflect? As I write this I am so grateful for all that God has done in and through the congregation at Greystones. In May, I will have been here three years and so much has happened during that time in our little church – the building and the people.

with their words and with their actions. It is a privilege to be the minister here.

At Christmas, as usual, we had our carol service. We formed a choir who sang like angels and our soloists were outstanding.

We filled every corner of the church with chairs and still some people were standing. The atmosphere was very special; it was a The building celebration of a wonderful birth.

If you come along to Greystones Presbyterian Church sometime, Our Holy Week services have been particularly moving and we you will probably be impressed by our newly-painted building have established a dawn service on Easter morning; last year with a newly-erected sign. around 90 people from our It looks really well. The church and other churches We are simply trying to be, as the Moderator congregation like it and came along and then we had passers-by can now clearly breakfast afterwards in the has encouraged us, everyday disciples. see who we are. We are also church hall. (and have been for some time) We have a monthly evening looking at plans to redevelop some rooms and toilets at the rear of praise service which attracts people from the wider Christian the building. This is a much-needed development as currently this community. People come because it is a little different from part of the building is cold, damp and not conducive to the work traditional services. we are trying to do. We have a lovely hall at the rear of the church Finally, we are in the middle of an Alpha course. We ran an Alpha which is well used for lots of church events, and it is also frequently course this time last year and a group of five people have met used by the community for things like children’s birthday parties every week since then. It is a most wonderful group of diverse and Pilates. people who have grown to love each other and who are hungry to Greystones is a growing vibrant town and on a sunny day it is learn more and more about faith in Jesus. buzzing with visitors. The church building lies right at the heart This kind of thing is happening in our home groups and in other of the town and, hopefully, right at the heart of God’s plan for areas of church life too; people learning about Jesus, learning Greystones. There are six churches here and the leaders enjoy about faith and learning to pray. We are simply trying to be, as the each other’s company – we regularly meet to talk, share and pray Moderator has encouraged us, everyday disciples. together.

The people Our little church is a happy place. I love Sundays. I love our congregation. There are so many good people who encourage us Mission Connect | Herald April 2018

Creative Wellbeing Rev. Norman Harrison

Chaplain, Royal Group of Hospitals

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n conjunction with Belfast Trust’s Arts in Health Project Awards the form of a daily devotional, to add to packs, and thus enhance Scheme, the Royal Group of Hospitals has launched the Artsour offering to patients.

Pack pilot project under the brand name ‘Creative Wellbeing’.

The packs include a survey for patients. We aim to gather The Arts-Pack is a basic arts platform which is intended to research from both patients and staff on the effectiveness of this provide patients with material to encourage artistic endeavour: project, and use these outcomes as a basis to launch a Trust-wide drawing, colouring, poetry and journal keeping. The idea is that art and poetry competition, with an exhibition and performance in patient experience is enhanced, and outcomes improved, by the Royal main foyer to follow. offering a service which provides diversion, fulfilment, a means A debt of gratitude is owed to Wards 6A, B and C and Wards 6E of expression, and, simply, something to do to pass the time. The and F in the Royal Victoria Hospital for hosting the pilot project, initiative is also intended but I must also acknowledge as a means to demonstrate the interest from Meadowlands Initiatives such as this serve to enhance our to the whole healthcare Ward 3 (Musgrave Park community that chaplaincy Hospital) and from the Ward F credibility as professionals and this, in turn, is endeavouring to operate in the Mater Hospital who are will help ensure our role and our work is taken now enquiring about gaining to the highest professional standard, engaging with all access to this material. all the more seriously… disciplines, and working for Initiatives such as this serve the good of all patients and to enhance our credibility as staff, whilst seeking to fulfil the aims of Belfast Trust. professionals and this, in turn, will help ensure our role and our One such aim is the improvement of patient and user experience. work is taken all the more seriously when it comes to critical areas It is envisaged that the scheme will not only benefit patients, but and situations. It is also a way in which, as Christians, our witness it is hoped that staff will notice fewer demands upon their time in the workplace is enhanced – in that we must exemplify the best as patients become more gainfully occupied and less anxious, and highest of professional standards, and display a work ethic leaving time for important clinical responsibilities. that says to those around us that our words are in line with our A basic Arts-Pack format could be adapted to assist with, for actions. example, motor skills recovery, the improvement of visual acuity, My thanks go to all who have contributed thus far, even in small coordination and so forth. It is also envisaged that Creative ways, in getting to the stage of publication and launch. Right now, Wellbeing packs can be developed for particular specialities, such over a hundred packs have been distributed. Why don’t you look as elderly care, mental health, children and youth, dementia, out for the Creative Activity Journal coming to a ward near you! neurological, as well as spiritual and religious care. Some chaplains have already agreed to, and are preparing additional material in Mission Connect | Herald April 2018

The shipyard church Rev. Mervyn Gibson

Westbourne Presbyterian Church

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estbourne continues to meet in East Belfast Network Outreach and evangelism are centred around the key milestones Centre, pending work being carried out in the church. of the Christian calendar and annual holidays and festivals. These We moved out of the church building in October 2014 provide opportunities to engage with people on a personal level because of dry rot, which has since been addressed. However, we and to build meaningful relationships, hoping that they will await work to begin to adapt the church into a tourist attraction glimpse the light of Christ in those they meet. At least 20% of our under the auspices of ‘Titanic People’. This project evolved as a attendees on a Sunday morning have never worshipped in our response to serious street violence; to help increase footfall to church building, therefore returning will make for an interesting the area, and to enhance dynamic. community confidence and Not worshipping in the At least 20% of our attendees on a Sunday pride. church building had initially The building project has an attitude of ‘let’s wait morning have never worshipped in our church created been beset with bureaucratic until we’re back in the church red tape and issues outside building, therefore returning will make for an before we do that’. However, our control that have delayed we turned that around and interesting dynamic. progress, but this year, God seek to use the Network willing, we hope to see the Centre for activities that would required building work commence. not have been conducive to our traditional church building.

Congregational life continues with an active PW and men’s One reality, that I continue to share, is that we are hindered group, and special Sunday services attract large numbers. It is from progressing church growth through the age profile of the out of such services that we seek to reconnect those attending congregation. There is no lack of enthusiasm, commitment, to church. Congregational members play an active role in the life willingness or heart for the gospel on the part of those attending, of the community, such as ‘Row On Row’, a remembrance project but it is difficult for them to connect meaningfully to the culture of that encourages and facilitates good relations. Two members of the millennial generation. Quite simply, four or five young families the congregation were recently recognised by the congregation joining Westbourne would enhance our church life and witness for their contribution to the area through their political activity. substantially. Ask yourself, is God calling you to board the ‘shipyard Sammy Douglas stood down as an MLA and Tom Haire completed church’ as a crew member? a term as High Sherriff of Belfast.

Mission Connect | Herald April 2018

APRIL 2018

Please pray for...

1st BRAZIL – Naomi Keefe as she continues her work in church-based community development and evangelism in the Olinda area in north-east Brazil.

11th HOME MISSION – The home mission congregations of Sligo and Boyle, and Rev. David Clarke as he settles into ministry there.

12th DEACONESS – Heather McCracken, serving at the Royal Victoria Hospital and Belfast City Hospital as the assistant to the chaplain. Pray that many will benefit from her visits and pastoral support.

2nd HOME MISSION – The elders and members of First Bailieborough, Corraneary and Ervey congregations (vacant at present), as they pray and plan for the future.

3rd CHAPLAINS – Wisdom and guidance for Rev. Brian Hughes serving at Belfast City Hospital as he talks to patients and their families at the hospital; that he will be an encouragement to them, and help them to trust in the Lord in all circumstances.

13th SPAIN – Steve Anderson as he prepares to conclude his assignment in Torre del Mar at the end of June and return to Ireland.

14th TAKING CARE – Give thanks for our Taking Care child protection programme and for the privilege of working with children and young people. Pray that God will equip our leaders with the skills to be prepared and organised, understanding, compassionate, fair and consistent.

Steve Anderson

4th MIDDLE EAST – Peace and justice in the Middle East, especially in Syria and Iraq. Pray for all suffering as a result of conflicts, including the minority Christian communities. Pray too for PCI’s partner, the National Evangelical Synod of Syria and Lebanon, as it seeks to support people both spiritually and practically.

15th INDONESIA – The Christian Church of Sumba; for its leadership, theological school and the development of newly established congregations.

5th HOME MISSION – The home mission congregation of Sandymount and the minister Rev. Katherine Meyer. Pray especially for experiments with a truly all-age Messy Church, and for creativity in embracing the gifts and needs of all.

16th HOME MISSION – The home mission congregation of Fahan, and for the minister, Rev. Knox Jones. Pray that the congregation will be salt and light in their local community and farther afield.

17th CHAPLAINS – Forces chaplains posted overseas, especially those on deployment with service personnel.

6th INTERNATIONAL MEETING POINT – Henry Coulter, assistant project leader at the Meeting Point, as he serves there. Pray for the Meeting Point as it continues to help and share the Good News with many refugees, asylum seekers and other local people on the Lisburn Road in Belfast.

7th HOMELESSNESS – Pray for organisations who meet the needs of homeless/roughsleepers, providing round-the-clock shelter, warmth, food and support.

8th HOME MISSION – The home mission congregations of Cahir and Fermoy, and for the minister, Rev. William Montgomery.

Pray that they will make the most of every opportunity God gives them.

9th CHAPLAINS – Rev. Jim Lamont in his chaplaincy work in Letterkenny General Hospital as he seeks to provide pastoral support to patients and their families.

10th ZAMBIA – God’s wisdom and guidance for the Church of Central Africa Presbyterian Synod of Zambia. Pray that it may be strong in its faith and witness.

18th DEACONESS – Pray for Evelyn Whyte as she continues to serve in First Lisburn Presbyterian Church.

Pray for wisdom and the guidance from God’s Holy Spirit as to how the congregation can effectively reach out to their local community.

21st HUNGARY – The work and witness of the Hungarian Reformed Church, both in Hungary and in the Hungarian-speaking regions in Romania and Ukraine.

22nd WILLOW BROOK, COLERAINE – Pray for the nine tenants who live in Willow Brook Supported Living Scheme in Coleraine and for the three families living in the Topley Terrace Scheme.

23rd HOME MISSION – The home mission congregation of Rathmullan (linked with Kerrykeel and Milford) and for Rev. Susan Moore as she settles into ministry there.

24th COMMUNITY OUTREACH – Eddie Spence, evangelist in Ballygomartin Presbyterian Church, and others in the congregation as they live out the Christian life and witness to each other and the community.

25th MALAWI – The Student Christian Organisation of Malawi and Scripture Union Malawi as they share the Word of God with children and young people across the country. Give thanks and pray for the staff and volunteers who run the meetings locally, and pray that children will grow in their knowledge of and love for the Lord.

26th URBAN MISSION – Rev. William Harkness and the congregation of Great Victoria Street. Pray for William’s involvement in community outreach projects in the area, including South Belfast Friendship House.

27th CHAPLAINS – Pray for Rev. Michael Anderson, part-time chaplain at Musgrave Park Hospital in Belfast. Pray that as chaplains minister to people, many will see Christ and be encouraged to investigate the Christian faith for themselves.

28th HUMAN TRAFFICKING – Pray that we will be more aware of the signs of someone being trafficked and pray for the safety and wellbeing of these people and ask God to help them in their situation.

Evelyn Whyte

19th SOUTH SUDAN – Peace, justice, political stability and food security for all the people of South Sudan. Pray for the Presbyterian Church of South Sudan, especially for its leadership as they seek to lead the church and promote peace and justice.

20th HOME MISSION – Rev. David Conkey and the home mission congregations of Enniscorthy and Wexford. Pray especially for their children’s ministry.

29th INDIA – The Church of North India (CNI) as it faces many challenges in being an effective witness in a predominantly Hindu culture, where Christians are a small minority. Pray for CNI’s leaders and members as they seek every opportunity to build Christ’s kingdom.

30th HOME MISSION – Rev. Jean Mackarel and the home mission congregations of Drumkeeran, Killeshandra, Cavan, Bellasis in Monaghan Presbytery, as they continue to witness to their faith in Christ.

www.presbyterianireland.org/prayer

TALKING POINTS

Praying for politics

At the 20th anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement, Norman Hamilton reflects on the disappointing failure to restore a devolved government at Stormont.

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haotic; shambolic; grim. Just three of the words used speaking in Bristol, said this (using the language of his time!): to describe the failure of the recent talks aimed at “Parliament is not a congress of ambassadors from different restoring a devolved government in Northern Ireland. and hostile interests; which interests each must maintain, as Yet it was not followed by a public outpouring of an agent and advocate, against other agents and advocates; but either anger or grief. The electorate has become tired of repeated parliament is a deliberative assembly of one nation, with one failures, and so had low expectations of this latest round of interest, that of the whole; where, not local purposes, not local negotiations. prejudices, ought to guide, but the general good, resulting from Reflecting on the failure, the Moderator said: “Along the general reason of the whole. You choose a member indeed; with many others, I am very disappointed that we are not but when you have chosen him, he is not member of Bristol, but in a position for devolved government to be restored, and I he is a member of parliament.” continue to be concerned about the vacuum of good and stable This alternative view means that those we elect will use their government, which, of course, impacts most profoundly on best judgment to work for the ‘one interest’ and the common vulnerable people in our society.” good of everyone – and in so doing, they may well set aside His words about ‘good and stable some views that matter to those who government’ are an important insight. It elected them in the first place. This can Is it not true that we is, I think, very important to understand be very risky, for they might not be rethat devolution must never be seen as an elected, but that is part of what it means spend much more time end in itself. The Belfast Agreement in to give real leadership. Personally, I find listening to the news 1998 was designed to bring good quality this an attractive approach in our deeply government to Northern Ireland, though than we do in prayer for divided society. I also believe that it is fully as we approach the 20th anniversary of it consistent with a high view of what the those in the news? being signed, it is hard to argue that its Bible teaches. core aim has been achieved.

Finally, and much neglected, is the Rather than simply lament the current situation, there are biblical call for all of us who are committed Christians to three things that we can – and should – take on board for the remember our land, our leaders and all our people in our future. prayers, and to do so regularly. It is all too easy, and deeply One important lesson is that good government requires good dishonouring to God, to work on the assumption that relationships. Elected representatives themselves have spoken of deliverance will come mainly through politics and politicians. ‘toxic relationships’, ‘mistrust’, and ‘bad blood’. Christ’s words in Paul’s instruction to Timothy could not be clearer: “I urge, then, Mark 3 seem extraordinarily appropriate: “If a house is divided first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving against itself, that house cannot stand.” It is significant that be made for all people – for kings and all those in authority, the Bible often calls for relationships to be healthy and to be that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and restored where they are broken. Jesus’ call to ‘love your enemies’ holiness.” is important for many reasons, not least because the failure to Is it not true that we spend much more time listening to the do so corrodes both mind and soul, and darkens the future for news than we do in prayer for those in the news? I am often everyone. guilty of this in my own life. That needs to change, and with the A further, and perhaps crucial, lesson is that those of us Lord’s help it will. But perhaps the key lesson of the failure in who are ordinary voters need to change our expectations of Stormont is that the thinking that has got us into this mess isn’t what we expect from those we elect. Given that we live in a going to get us out of it. ‘representative’ democracy, we vote for a government and our representatives to make laws, and rule the country on our behalf.

So we give our vote to those who will look after ‘our side’. We expect their primary role to be that of ‘representing’ our views, our needs and our hopes. Since there is so little agreement across Rev. Dr. Norman Hamilton our community as to what those actually are, then it is almost impossible to govern well.

Norman Hamilton is the convener of the There is, however, another compelling view of what we could Council for Public Affairs and minister expect from those we elect. As far back as 1774 Edmund Burke, emeritus of Ballysillan Presbyterian Church.

Herald April 2018

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Looking forward to resurrection Alan Russell explores what the resurrection of our earthly bodies will mean and how that should shape our lives today.

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he climax of the Easter accounts is the resurrection of Jesus; for His followers the ultimate personal promise is resurrection for ourselves. As Paul tells us in Philippians 3:10-11: “I want to know Christ – yes, to know the power of His resurrection and participation in His sufferings, becoming like Him in His death, and so, somehow, attaining to the resurrection from the dead.” However, just what are we looking forward to?

Does resurrection mean some kind of replication of the way we are now minus all the sin and inevitable defects that accumulate in our human lives?

Or should we be looking forward to a transformed future in continuity with our history as earthly human beings, but on a higher plain of being which is beyond our capacity to describe or imagine?

In the words of 1 John 3:2 “…we are children of God, and what we will be has not yet been made known. But we know that when Christ appears, we shall be like Him, for we shall see Him as He is.” Our human stories continue to be part of our identity, but who we will be will only be complete when our lives are truly hidden with Christ in God (Colossians 3:3).

Let’s reflect on the resurrection appearances of Jesus. What happened in the tomb was much more than the simple restoration of life to a human body. This is very different from the restoration of the bodies of Jairus’ daughter, the son of the widow from Nain, or Lazarus. The risen Jesus could appear through locked doors and disappear after breaking bread at Emmaus. He was obviously coming to

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His disciples from some greater reality – certainly not some hiding place in the basement of the temple or an isolated location in the desert! On the other hand, we are told how He ate a piece of fish, how Thomas was invited to explore the physical wounds of His crucifixion and that He prepared breakfast beside the lake. Yet these seem more like gestures of reassurance and fellowship for His disciples rather than an insight into the nature of resurrection life. The drama of the Ascension is perhaps best interpreted as a declaration to the disciples that these kinds of physical interactions must come to an end. The apostles must reach the understanding that the resurrected Christ occupies a reality transcending our physical world.

In 1 Corinthians 15 Paul speaks of our dead bodies as the seeds of a future spiritual body and emphasises that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God. Again, for him, the resurrection promises much more than some kind of renovated physicality. What we look forward to is a whole new order of being that will absorb our physical past into a sphere of existence we cannot imagine.

How do those thoughts relate to the years of our earthly lives? It is natural for us to see our identities in terms of our development from childhood to the final moments of physical life. We focus on our abilities and interests, our work and achievements, our place in family and society and the things for which we will want to be remembered. We are impressed by a blue plaque on a house where someone famous once lived, a book that will still be read and discussed generations later, a work of art or music established as a human heritage, or what it is to have our name forever associated with a scientific discovery or a great engineering invention.

Of course, all of these are wonderful and to be appreciated. But I suggest that Paul is telling us that even the greatest human achievements in culture, science and engineering will be insignificant and trivial in the great environment of the resurrection future. Essential as our human relationships are for our earthly life, even these will be engulfed and superseded by what it finally means to be a community in Christ. As we read in 2 Corinthians 5:4, we long for what is mortal to be swallowed up by life.

Surely this has to be true of what is close to our most personal ideas of our human identity – our sexuality and

...all distinctions that divide, including sexuality and gender, are swept away in the unity we have as members of the body of Christ. gender. Currently we are in the middle of a social revolution as to how people consider sexuality and gender as vital to the essence of what it means for them to be themselves. Consequently, we’re repeatedly confronted with the experience of those who will go to any length to express the sexuality or gender that they passionately believe is an essential part of who they are.

As a Christian community, we’re called upon to respond to the issues of samesex relationships, transgender identities and arguments that gender and even sexuality are mere social constructs that are obstacles to the right for people to assert who they are. We find ourselves under considerable pressure to accept and endorse what so many strongly believe

…even the greatest human achievements in culture, science and engineering will be insignificant and trivial in the great environment of the resurrection future. and feel. Almost daily we have examples of how the strength of their convictions has captured support of public opinion and the mainstream media.

Surely we need to start our witness by discovering how we can express resurrection values as a Christian community. TV dramas, documentaries, chat shows, magazines and all the rest can influence us unconsciously to accept the values and thinking that the surrounding world considers as normal.

We must follow Scripture in stressing that even sexuality and gender are part of

the “flesh and blood” that “cannot inherit the kingdom of God”, “the perishable” that cannot inherit “the imperishable” or the “mortal” that cannot inherit “immortality” (1 Corinthians 15:53).

As a follower of Jesus my sexuality and gender cannot be essential to who I am. Indeed, it would appear that while sexuality and gender are firmly part of our history and present and whatever years are left for us, they will not be part of our resurrection future. Jesus’ reply to the Sadducees in Luke 20 eliminates the idea of marriage after the resurrection with His assertion that the people of the resurrection will be like the angels in heaven. Galatians 3:28 implies that all distinctions that divide, including sexuality and gender, are swept away in the unity we have as members of the body of Christ. The role of sexuality and gender in our present human living will be overwhelmed by what is unimaginably better.

The New Testament writings are clear that our Christian living includes eating and drinking, relationships and sexuality, work and our place in surrounding society. We recognise earthly pleasures and fulfilments as God’s gifts and are called to give thanks: “For everything God created is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving...” (1 Timothy 4:2-5). Yet, this has to be balanced by what Paul also writes in 1 Corinthians 7:29: “What I mean, brothers and sisters, is that the time is short. From now on those who have wives should live as if they do not; those who mourn, as if they did not; those who are happy, as if they were not; those who buy something, as if it were not theirs to keep; those who use the things of the world, as if not engrossed in them. For this world in its present form is passing away.”

Our challenge is how we can make the most of the wonderful resources that God has given us for our human living while recognising that our relationships, achievements, what we own, the social recognition and status we have achieved and everything else in our earthly lives are part of a temporary passing scene.

As always we must pray for grace and guidance.

Dr. Alan Russell is minister emeritus of Ballywalter Presbyterian Church.

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Kitchen table faith Andy Frost highlights a new project from Care for the Family that seeks to equip and help parents pass on faith to their children.

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remember that moment leaving the hospital lobby carrying this tiny baby.

I was sure someone was going to stop me.

I was with my wife, carrying our daughter out of the ward, and I felt that we were complete imposters. We had this tiny life in our arms and yet we had no idea what to do as parents. We felt completely unqualified.

I now have two daughters, aged three and five, and I still feel so underqualified. I want to help them physically, to grow up healthy and active. I want to help them academically, to ask good questions and to understand how to interact with the world. I want to help them emotionally, to be able to deal with their feelings. I want to help them socially, to be able to make good friendships. And then there is their spirituality. I want them to find faith in a God who loves them, a God who is more committed to them than I can ever be.

Throughout Scripture, there is this continual reminder of the importance of passing on the stories of God’s

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faithfulness to the next generation.

Psalm 78 talks about teaching our children about why God can be trusted.

In the New Testament, Paul writes that Timothy, one of the young leaders of the church, had been taught the Scriptures as a child and that it was significant in him understanding what the gospel was all about (2 Timothy 3:14-17).

In Proverbs 22:6, there is this concept: “Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.” Now that’s not a guarantee but it is a general principle, that if we help our kids learn to make good decisions, to love others and know God when they are young, then these things tend to stick with them.

We all have a role in helping the next generation understand the promises of

…we can’t just rely on the great children’s work that happens in our churches.

God but, in particular, the Bible would suggest that we as Christian parents have a responsibility to live out and share our faith with our children. With so many areas in which to help our children develop, amongst the already hectic daily schedule of making packed lunches, tidying away toys and doing enough laundry to make you feel like you work in a launderette; it can be difficult to work out how we create time to help them understand the Christian faith.

The temptation is that we, as parents, end up feeling guilty and try to dodge our responsibility. In the same way that we might delegate football tuition and ballet classes to a professional, we can try and delegate the passing on of the Christian faith to the one hour a week at Sunday school and a yearly kids’ club.

The heart of the Christian faith is about being in a relationship with God. The Christian faith is best modelled in

our daily lifestyle. Each week as parents, we have at least 30 hours of contact time, lots more than the average Sunday school teacher! The reality is that we, as parents, are the most influential people in our children’s lives. They look to us for how to understand and navigate the world, and they watch our actions closely. We have an opportunity to introduce them to faith in the everyday – in the successes, as well as in the mistakes we make; in our certainties, as well as in the questions we still wrestle with.

I’m challenged that as parents, we need to take this responsibility seriously.

Research shows that for every 10 children who grow up with Christian parents, only five will grow up to have a Christian faith of their own; and that many kids, before they have even reached the age of 10, have already made up their mind to stop going to church as soon as they can.

Recent research from Care for the Family suggests that 92% of Christian parents felt they should be doing more.

Kitchen Table Project In response to these statistics, Care for the Family has developed the ‘Kitchen Table Project’ – a growing movement of mums, dads and carers who want to inspire a faith that lasts in their children.

We want to encourage and support each other, sharing stories and ideas of small, simple, everyday things we can do that will help build faith in our children.

The Kitchen Table Project aims to raise awareness among parents about just how important they are in a child’s spiritual development, and that we can’t just rely on the great children’s work that happens in our churches.

A great starting point is the ‘Inspire’ session, a 90-minute small group discussion that helps parents get together to start talking about how important it is to introduce our children to God; how we feel about it and what the challenges are. It’s an opportunity to look at simple ways to bring God into conversation, whether during the walk to school, the dinner table or bedtime.

The session comes with a step-by-step leader’s guide and a short 10-minute video to help start the conversation; everything is free to download from http://kitchentable.org.uk. There’s also a pack of discussion cards that can be used

anytime, to help parents think about ways to bring faith into the home in a way that suits their own individual family.

Parents and church workers can sign up to receive a monthly email with stories, encouragement and ideas, as well as reviews of resources that are helpful as we all travel on this journey together.

It’s never too late to be more intentional in sharing our faith with our children…

The book Raising Faith, written with Katharine Hill, UK director of Care for the Family, is being published in April.

This is a great supporting resource, designed with bite-sized chapters that parents can read on the go in a busy household. It’s full of practical tips and stories to encourage mums, dads and carers as they become more intentional about sharing faith at home.

If you’re a church leader and want to help equip the parents in your church to nurture faith at home, then have a look at the church toolkit with sermon outlines and ideas that you can use to help everyone in your congregation work together to see the children you know grow up to love Jesus.

Also, don’t miss our big event in Belfast on Thursday, 15th November where Katharine Hill and I will be presenting a fresh, practical look at how we can seize the opportunity that God has given us to point our kids to Him in everyday life.

all know that with regards to our children knowing faith that there are no guarantees – God has no grandchildren.

We also know how easily that parents can fall under a weight of false guilt in this area – ‘if only we had…’ And yet even God, the perfect parent, has trouble with His children. Nevertheless, we believe that we can learn from each other in this area – so that we can help one another foster homes, families, churches where our young people can see vital expressions of faith that will influence their lives forever.”

Whether you’ve been intentionally living out your faith with your kids for years or whether this is all new to you, the truth is that each day is a new beginning. It’s never too late to be more intentional in sharing our faith with our children whilst remembering that, actually, we are just stewards and ultimately, as with all things, we have to trust our children to God. Andy Frost is director of Share Jesus International and is working alongside Care for the Family on the Kitchen Table Project and supporting resources. Find out more at http://kitchentable.org.uk

Each day is a new beginning The longer I’ve been a parent, the more I am aware of the mistakes I make. I don’t always represent Jesus brilliantly to my kids. I have to say sorry regularly, but the good news is that there are very few situations that are irredeemable. Jesus loves them more than I do.

Rob Parsons says, “We Herald April 2018

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The Heidelberg Disputation “Isenmann and Brenz in conversation with Luther in Heidelberg” by Gustav Baumann, 1854 ©Katharinenkirche

“Brother Martin Luther, Master of Sacred Theology, will preside and Brother Leonhard Beier, Master of Arts and Philosophy, will defend the following theses before the Augustinians of this renowned city of Heidelberg in the customary place. In the month of May, 1518.”

Opening phrase of the Heidelberg Disputation

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he 26th April 2018 marks the 500th anniversary of ‘The Heidelberg Disputation’. As we marked ‘Luther 500’ last year, it was disappointing that so little attention was given to this seminal event which reveals the depth of Luther’s spirituality.

Carl Truman called it: “One of the theologically foundational events for later Lutheranism.”

This discussion, organised by Luther’s Augustinian Order, is therefore, in many ways, more significant than the

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Brian Kennaway draws attention to the 500th anniversary of the Heidelberg Disputation, which he argues was just as significant as Martin Luther’s 95 Theses the previous year.

95 Theses. They advanced Luther’s growing realisation that the theology of late medieval Roman Catholicism was fundamentally and essentially at odds with biblical theology.

Jonathan Kleis says of it: “It was at this event that Luther laid the foundation and set the trajectory for his later reforming work. In the scheme of things, the 95 Theses penned in Wittenberg took aim at a fairly narrow set of issues, whereas the theses composed for Heidelberg set forth, in seminal form, Luther’s comprehensive vision for the church reformed under the authority of the Word of God.” The Heidelberg Disputation contains a total of 40 statements laid out for discussion: 28 were theological and 12 were philosophical.

At this meeting, Luther put forward a ‘theology of the cross’ as opposed to a ‘theology of glory’. A theology of glory, according to Luther, always leaves the will in control. The theology of the cross

At this meeting, Luther put forward a ‘theology of the cross’ as opposed to a ‘theology of glory’.

assumes that the will is bound and must be set free.

These 28 theological statements are much more cogent than the 95 Theses and obviously represent a reflection of Luther’s biblical study. They also reflect Luther’s personal spiritual journey. The 95 Theses were concerned purely with the sale/misuse of indulgences and therefore contained a strong element of ‘pope bashing’. When Luther visited Rome in 1510, on behalf of the Augustinian Order, he was shocked by the immorality and corruption of the Church. This experience influenced his approach.

There is a progressive nature in these 28 theological statements discussed at Heidelberg, the later ones take us to the heart of the gospel. Let us look at some by way of illustration: 18. It is certain that man must utterly despair of his own ability before he is prepared to receive the grace of Christ.

The Lutheran theologian Gerhard Forde comments: “For the alcoholic, the humility to confess, ‘I am an alcoholic,’ is not a mark of despair but of hope…

Utter despair of our own ability, however, looks to the grace of Christ and so leads to life.”

In many respects this statement is the key to the entire discussion, and is what Luther is developing with the previous 17. There is nothing good in us because of sin, and any trust in our own abilities or our own works is damning. We must be brought low before we can be exalted; we must be put to death before God makes us alive.

21. A theology of glory calls evil good and good evil. A theology of the cross calls the thing what it actually is.

In proof of this Luther quotes “enemies of the cross of Christ” from Philippians 3:18. Luther declared: “It is clear: he who does not know Christ does not know God hidden in suffering. Therefore he prefers works to suffering, glory to the cross, strength to weakness, wisdom to folly, and, in general, good to evil. These are the people whom the apostle calls, ‘enemies of the cross of Christ’, for they hate the cross and suffering and love works and the glory of works. Thus they call the good of the cross evil and the evil of a deed good.”

This affirmation of Luther reminds us that it is only through suffering and the cross that sinners can come to know God. 25. He is not righteous who does much, but he who, without work, believes much in Christ.

This thesis is simply nothing more that the Reformation affirmation that justification is by faith alone without the deeds of the law. Luther quotes Romans 3:20 in support: “Therefore no one will be declared righteous in God’s sight by the works of the law.”

Luther stated in the debate: “Therefore I wish to have the words ‘without works’ understood in the following manner: not that the righteous person does nothing, but that his works do not make him righteous, rather that his righteousness creates works. For grace and faith are infused without our works. After they have been imparted, the works follow.”

26. The law says, ‘do this’, and it is never done. Grace says, ‘believe in this’, and everything is already done.

In the debate Luther pointed out: “For through faith Christ is in us, indeed, one

We do not make our peace with God – God has made peace with us via the cross of Christ. with us. Christ is just and has fulfilled all the commands of God, wherefore we also fulfil everything through Him since He was made ours through faith.”

As Gerhard Forde put it: “That is why he can make the claim that faith doesn’t have to be prompted to do good works because in faith everything is already done.”

This is reflected in Philip Doddridge’s hymn Oh Happy Day: “Tis done the great transaction’s done; I am my Lord’s, and He is mine.”

28. The love of God does not find, but creates, that which is pleasing to it. The love of man comes into being through that which is pleasing to it.

The proof of this thesis Luther finds in Matthew 9:13: “For I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners.” In defending this particular thesis he stated: “Therefore sinners are attractive because they are loved; they are not loved because they are attractive.”

Here Luther takes us to the very heart of the gospel of salvation. We cannot make ourselves acceptable to God – all our works are of no value whatsoever. We do not make our peace with God – God has made peace with us via the cross of Christ. As Luther said: “That is the way things are… The cross shuts down all alternatives.”

During ‘Luther 500’ much has been made of the five solas: Scripture alone, faith alone, grace alone, Christ alone, to the glory of God alone. Perhaps we should add a sixth – sola crux – the cross alone. First and foremost, Martin Luther was the ‘theologian of the cross’. In the midst of all the celebrations of Luther and the Reformation, this should not be forgotten.

Hymns that focus on the cross This theology of the cross is reflected in many of our reformed hymns: My hope is built on nothing less Than Jesus’ blood and righteousness; I dare not trust the sweetest frame, But wholly lean on Jesus’ name.

Edward Mote, My Hope is Built on Nothing Less Not the labour of my hands Can fulfil Thy law’s demands…

Nothing in my hands I bring, Simply to Thy cross I cling; Augustus Montague Toplady, Rock of Ages But not for works which we have done, Or shall hereafter do, Hath God decreed on sinful men Salvation to bestow.

Augustus Montague Toplady, How Vast the Benefits Divine I need no other argument, I need no other plea; It is enough that Jesus died, And that He died for me.

Eliza E. Hewitt, My Faith has Found a Resting Place Till on that cross as Jesus died, The wrath of God was satisfied For every sin on Him was laid Here in the death of Christ I live.

Keith Getty and Stuart Townend, In Christ Alone

Rev. Brian Kennaway is minister emeritus of Crumlin Presbyterian Church.

Herald April 2018

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REVIEWS

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

Uncovering Joy Hilary McDowell

PROJECT EVANGELISM Copies can be purchased from Jo Moxen (+44 (0)28 4375 1259) priced at £6.50 (includes P&P)

«««««

Many within the Presbyterian Church and beyond will remember Hilary McDowell. She was a dynamo of a lady who, despite suffering with seven disabilities, never saw that as a hindrance but rather a challenge.

Before she was born the doctors predicted a life expectancy of three weeks and said she would never walk and likely never talk. How wrong they were! In her lifetime Hilary was a deaconess, a pastoral worker, a dramatist, a broadcaster, journalist and a poet. She travelled the world encouraging and inspiring others.

Uncovering Joy was Hilary’s sixth and final book.

Each chapter of this short book averages three pages and contains anecdotes to help us to uncover the joy of the Lord in our lives.

It is of note that Hilary was writing this book about joy while she herself was dying. There is some helpful discussion given to the topic of forgiveness, with Hilary reminding the reader that “joy is a by-product of love.”

This book highlights the promises of God throughout, His love for us, and the freedom and joy that is available to you. It is written with both wit and wisdom.

Uncovering Joy includes a lovely foreword

by Rev. Mark Brown who worked alongside Hilary for some years. He comments: “Before Hilary died, she told me that she hoped, by her books, that she might still be useful to God beyond the grave.” This book is testimony to that.

LS

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Herald April 2018

The Freedom of Years: Ageing in Perspective Harriet and Donald Mowat THE BIBLE READING FELLOWSHIP

£8.99

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Discussion of the ‘ageing problem’ seems to be everywhere these days.

We can’t watch the news without hearing about pressures on emergency services, bed blocking or the rising cost of care homes. Implicit in much of these reports is the criticism of the older generation for taking up too much of the nation’s resources. Too often in our society, instead of old age being celebrated and honoured it is diminished and even despised.

Drawing on long careers as, respectively, sociologist and psychiatrist, Harriet and Donald Mowat offer a Christian perspective.

They present a more positive view of ageing and suggest what ‘successful ageing’ looks like. The book is written both for professionals and for spouses and relatives, and anyone concerned to consider their own ageing.

They examine the issue of ageing and spiritual growth. They also look at the personal difficulties we may face as we age and suggest how we can handle these.

Crucially they want people to age positively, nurtured by their Christian faith.

This book is the most recent title in an excellent series of books which the Bible Reading Fellowship has been publishing at intervals since 2014. It is part of their series entitled ‘The Gift of Years’, which is designed to enrich the spiritual journey of older people.

For too long, ageing has been an issue that was brushed under the carpet. It’s an invigorating experience as we age to take time to give some thought to the issue.

This is an excellent book to assist us in our consideration of the subject.

JC

Divine Comedy Glen Scrivener 10PUBLISHING £2.99

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“You know how they categorise Shakespeare’s plays, right? If it ends with a wedding, it’s a comedy. And if it ends with a funeral, it’s a tragedy. So we’re all living tragedies, because we all end the same way, and it isn’t with a… wedding.”

Divine Comedy opens with this quote from Robyn Schneider’s The Beginning of Everything. This is the question that Glen Scrivener has set out to answer – what is life: a tragedy or a comedy?

Arguing that Schneider has perfectly articulated the overwhelming opinion of our culture (life is a tragedy; it all ends in death, so enjoy it while you can), Scrivener then turns our eyes to another perspective.

“Against all the odds and in distinction to all its competitors,” he says, “the Bible comes along and dares to tell a different story.” Examining the early Christian hymn in Philippians 2, he boldly attests how the Easter account holds up to critical investigation, and how in Jesus, God provides an answer to the tragedy of sin and death.

This is not primarily a book for believers, but for sceptics, seekers, and those considering the nature and purpose of life.

A short read, it nonetheless articulates the truth of the gospel message in a relevant and engaging way, countering the cultural message of tragedy with a proclamation of hope. Buy it, and give it to someone you know who is asking this same question. Pray that through it, they would see the flaw in Schneider’s opening statement – there is a wedding coming, and the bridegroom is calling us to be ready!

PA

REVIEWERS

JC – Rev. Dr. Jim Campbell is minister emeritus of Cooke Centenary Presbyterian Church

LS – Lisa Skinner is an administrative officer for the Herald PA – Phil Alcorn is an administrative officer for PCI’s Creative Production Department SH – Suzanne Hamilton is an administrative officer for the Herald

Mary Magdalene UNIVERSAL PICTURES 2018

Broken Works Best Catherine Campbell 10 OF THOSE.COM £7.99

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The sub heading of this book is ‘When God turns your pain into gain’ and that is a concise and accurate synopsis of what this latest offering by Catherine Campbell is about.

The author is no stranger to trials and tribulations, having lost two beloved daughters to the same life-limiting disability.

In the book, she talks openly about the pain she felt, but also shares with the reader about how God reached out to her in different ways.

In turn, her faith has deepened and her trust in God has grown, recognising that when the storm hits, He “is ready to put His master disaster plan into action on our behalf.”

She doesn’t just use her own story, though, to show how God can transform what is broken in our lives. She uses biblical examples as well as the poignant experiences of others, such as Andy Cardy, whose nine-year-old daughter was murdered by serial killer Robert Black.

Instead of being consumed by hate, he feels no malice and instead sees the opportunity to tell others about the Saviour.

As Campbell says of him, “His life declares what his lips have not yet said. Forgiveness for Andy is living as Christ intended him to live, unhampered by negative, destructive emotions.”

Whilst the message contained in this book is not a new one, I found it beneficial to take time out and consider how faith in God is strengthened in difficult times and situations. This would be a good read for anyone who is suffering or who is trying to provide support to the broken-hearted.

SH

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In recent years, I have been grateful to Hollywood for its continued fascination with Bible-based characters as the subjects for films, not least because it opens doors for us as Christians to talk freely about God and His people in the public arena. What has also been encouraging is the willingness of A-listers to star in these roles.

The most recent biblical biopic to hit our screens is Mary Magdalene, a retelling of the gospel narrative from the perspective of a woman. We are introduced to Mary, played by Rooney Mara, within the context of her family. A strong-willed woman who refuses to conform to the expectations of her father and brothers, she is a not afraid to challenge the hierarchies of the day.

While artistic licence is exercised to set the scene and create a backstory for Mary, it does help to set in context the limitations of women at that time. It also emphasises the shocking and counter-cultural decision of Jesus to have Mary join and travel with Him and His disciples – as a disgruntled Peter comments, “People will judge us”. At that time, Jewish men did not speak to women outside their kinship circle in public, let alone permit them to travel with them in a mixed gender entourage. This tension between Mary and Peter (played by Chiwetel Ejiofor) over gender and Jesus’ affection runs right through the film. It is also implied throughout that Mary has more spiritual understanding than the male disciples, another source of annoyance for Peter.

While I enjoyed Rooney Mara’s sensitive interpretation of Mary, I was left questioning the choice of Joaquin Phoenix in the role of Jesus. He lacked a gentleness that I felt was required. He did succeed in demonstrating the impact that Jesus’ divinity had on His physical form, so we see Him drained when people are coming to Him for teaching and touching Him for healing. Phoenix also achieves a heightened state of anger and passion in the scene where Jesus rebukes the moneychangers in the temple.

The interpretation and focus given to Judas was something I found puzzling, with his betrayal attributed to his desire to force Jesus’ hand and bring forth the coming of the kingdom sooner rather than later.

What this movie does do well is that it emphasises that mission was meant for women as well as men, and Mary’s inclusion in Jesus’ group of disciples opened doors for women to come to Him. Mary is very much established as a disciple in her own right, equal to the others. The film also conveys the sheer desperation of the Jewish people at that time for the coming of the Messiah, in light of the horrifying oppression that they were subjected to under Roman rule.

My understanding is that the scriptwriters have been heavily influenced by extracanonical texts, and for this reason much of the story seemed unfamiliar to me.

While artistic licence is something of a prerequisite for scriptwriting in Hollywood, having Mary Magdalene at the Last Supper was a step too far for me.

Due to the current zeitgeist and the empowerment of women in the public sphere, this movie is probably timely and will no doubt be received well by audiences at large. While I left the cinema with a greater appreciation of Mary Magdalene, I felt somewhat confused about the other disciples and with no deeper an understanding of Jesus.

LS

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LIFE IN PCI Busy year continues for PW Around 1,500 PW members will gather at Belfast’s Assembly Buildings next month for the organisation’s annual meeting.

While the May event is the highlight of the year for many members, groups across Ireland have been busy throughout the past 12 months with a packed programme of speakers and activities.

For some, the past year has been particularly memorable as they have celebrated special anniversaries. Ryans PW marked 100 years with a centenary dinner, while Donemana and Loughaghery groups both held special events in recognition of their 60 years in existence.

Groves PW, meanwhile, celebrated its 50th anniversary with a special dinner in Garmany’s Grove Church hall and a service of thanksgiving in McKelvey’s Grove.

Top left: Susan Nesbitt (deputy leader), Hazel Dickson (treasurer), Norma Graham (leader), Myrtle McKee (secretary) and Valerie Stewart (guest speaker) are pictured at an event celebrating Groves PW’s 50th anniversary.

Top right: Donemana PW members held a praise service to mark the Co. Tyrone group’s 60th anniversary.

Bottom left: Loughaghery PW has celebrated 60 years of mission interest and support. Pictured with a special anniversary cake is Jean Weir (past PWA president) and Laura Patterson.

Bottom right: Ryans PW recently held a centenary dinner. Members of the Co. Down group are pictured with guests Moyna McCullough, Rev. John Noble (former minister), Lynda Noble, Rev. Frank Gibson (convener of Ryans) and Linda Gibson.

Lowe reaches out with ‘Narnia’ experience Lowe Memorial Presbyterian’s ministry to unchurched people continued with a ‘Narnia’ experience in December, at which over 1,000 people attended.

The event was the latest outreach by the Belfast church, which sees relationship bonding as key to gospel-bridging the gap between unchurched west and south Belfast culture and the church.

Lowe has hundreds of young people attending its youth organisations and ministries weekly. A number of years ago, the leaders decided to create a café space called The HUB so that mainly unchurched parents and relatives could enjoy a positive experience, including free coffee, soft seats, Wi-Fi and music.

To progress the work already being done, Lowe’s ministry staff joined forces with Pophouse Arts, a performing arts group from west Belfast which uses the church halls. Lowe provided the script, production, casting and costumes; Pophouse Arts provided 25 eager actors, a professional choreographer and director.

It was decided to bless the community, especially families, at Christmas by providing a walk-through Narnia experience, using 30 Christmas trees, fake snow and an antique wardrobe, followed by a 40-minute play Narnia, based on The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe.

As none of the cast had heard of C.S. Lewis, Lowe gave them each a free copy. The whole audience was offered one too.

Rev. James Burnett, minister of Lowe, said, “Blessing a local community out of love for people goes hand in hand with speaking the gospel. Gospel without goodness, or goodness without gospel compromise a genuine witness to the love of God in Christ.

“How might you bless your community as you tell them about Jesus? This is a question we ask ourselves at Lowe.”

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Herald April 2018

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

New minister for Regent Street Members of Ards Presbytery vacancy commission attended a service which saw Rev. Colin Jones installed as the new minister of Regent Street Presbyterian Church in Newtownards. Pictured are: Ian Macdonald (clerk of session), Kathleen Hinds, Anne Murray, Rev. John Flaherty (clerk of Ards Presbytery), Mr. Jones (Regent Street’s new minister), Rev. Norman McAuley, Dr. Maurice Wade (moderator of Ards Presbytery), Rev. Gareth Aitcheson, Rev. Colin Megaw (convener of vacancy), Rev. Robert Hamilton and Rev. Samuel Castles.

New elders in Ballygilbert Five new elders have been ordained in Ballygilbert Presbyterian. The new elders, Ian Schofield, Sarah Schofield, Natalie Alcorn, Sharon Lockhart and Andrew Davison, are pictured in the front row along with clerk of session John Adamson (left). Members of a commission of Ards Presbytery are pictured in the back row.

Brookside ordains and installs new elders Richard Cromie, Richard Petrie and Jonathan McCartney have been ordained and installed as ruling elders in Brookside Presbyterian Church, Ahoghill by a commission of Ballymena Presbytery. They are pictured with Rev. William Moody (minister of the Co. Antrim church).

Long service recognised in Moira Moira Presbyterian Church recently presented Bibles to three members in recognition of their many years of service in the church choir. The Bibles were presented to Essie Nelson, who has over 60 years of service, and Emma Fairley and Rosemary Henderson, who have both served for over 40 years. Pictured, from left, are: Mrs. Nelson, Rev. Howard Gilpin, Mrs. Fairley, Mrs. Henderson and Sam Brockbank.

Craft evening at Co. Monaghan PW Members of Ballyalbany and Glennan PW in Co. Monaghan enjoyed an evening with Geraldine Casey from The Craft Farm, Glaslough. The ladies took a simple coat hanger and transformed them with napkins and other accessories. The PW leader Glennys Pollock (second from left) set the scene by sharing from Jeremiah 18 about the clay in the potter’s hand.

Herald April 2018

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LIFE IN PCI

Ordination of elders in Banagher Pictured along with a commission of Coleraine and Limavady Presbytery are three newly ordained elders at Banagher Presbyterian Church. Front row: Rev. Ashley Graham (minister), Neill McBeth, George Haslett, Jeffrey Baird (new elders) and Ivan Montgomery (clerk of session).

Unbroken attendance at Terrace Row Bethany Pollock has achieved 10 years’ unbroken attendance at Terrace Row, Coleraine. She is congratulated by Dr. Andrew Brown (minister) and Donna Scott (League of Church Loyalty coordinator).

Due to the increased use of small digital and phone cameras we are having to reject some of the photos due to their quality or size. Digital images should have a minimum resolution of 2000x1500 pixels (approx. 7x5 inches) at 300dpi and be the original, unedited image.

Further information can be found in our submission guidelines at www.presbyterianireland.org/herald

Celebrating 170 years of Christian witness in Cargycreevy Rev. Leslie Patterson presents the Moderator, Dr. Noble McNeely, with a plaque to mark 170 years of Christian witness in the congregation of Cargycreevy. Also pictured are Rev. David McConaghy (minister emeritus of the Lisburn church) and his wife Maxine, and the Moderator’s wife, Florence.

Birthday milestone in Co. Down Eleanor Gunning, the oldest member of Millisle and Ballycopeland Presbyterian, recently celebrated her 100th birthday. She is pictured with Rev. John Flaherty (minister of the Co. Down congregation), her nephew Tom Gunning and Mary Startin (clerk of session).

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Herald April 2018

Anniversary marked in Castlederg and Killeter Members of First Castlederg and Killeter kirk sessions are pictured with Rev. Roy Neill (front row, second left) who celebrated the 60th anniversary of his ordination recently.

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

New elders in Lecumpher and Union Road Ian Francis (Union Road), Warren Gregg (Lecumpher), Robert Taylor (Lecumpher) and David Badger (Lecumpher) were recently ordained and installed as ruling elders in Tyrone Presbytery. They are pictured with members of the presbytery commission who conducted the joint installation service. Back row: Rev. David Leach (minister of Lecumpher and Union Road), Rev. Tom Greer (acting clerk of presbytery), Keith Gilmour, James Thompson, David Fulton, Rev. Glen Jordan and Rev. John Mullan. Front row: Mr. Francis, Mr. Gregg, Rev. Jackie Spence (moderator of presbytery), Mr. Taylor and Mr. Badger.

New elders in Killead Four new elders have been ordained in Killead Presbyterian. The new elders in the Co. Antrim church – Samuel Hyde, David McClenaghan, Vanessa Lorimer and Dennis Minford – are pictured in the front row along with Rev. David Steele (acting moderator). Pictured in the back row are: William McClure, Rob Griffiths, Rev. Desi Paul (acting clerk), Rev. John Murdock (minister of Killead), James McClurg (clerk of session), Rev. Derek Weir and Professor Laurence Kirkpatrick.

Retirement in Kilkinamurry New minister in Ballynahinch Rev. Dario Leal has been installed as minister at First Presbyterian Church in Ballynahinch. Pictured in the front row are: Rev. Hiram Higgins, Rev. Mark Spratt (moderator of Down Presbytery), Mr. Leal, Jill McKee (clerk of session in the Co. Down church), Rev. Ian Abraham (clerk of Down Presbytery). Members of Down Presbytery are in the back row.

After 33 years of service, Doreen Boyd has retired as church officer at Kilkinamurry Presbyterian Church. She was presented with a beautiful wall clock by Rev. Philip Cleland on behalf of the Co. Down congregation.

Also standing down from office were Alastair Bingham (after 17 years as committee member), Jim Bennett (23 years as committee member) and Gary Cowan (26 years as church secretary). They were each presented with an inscribed Bible. Pictured are: Mervyn Copes (clerk of session), Mr. Bennett, Mr. Bingham, Mrs. Boyd, Mr. Cowan and Mr. Cleland. Photograph

by Gary Cowan.

Gilnahirk Brownies raise charity cash Members of 155th Belfast Brownie unit, based at Gilnahirk Presbyterian in Belfast, have been collecting loose change for WaterAid and Toilet Twinning. With the money raised they have been able to twin seven of the church toilets with toilets in places such as Uganda and Cambodia. The Brownies also held a charity coffee evening and raised £1,250.

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Flower Festival

info@glenada.co.uk www.glenada.co.uk P: 028 4372 2402

Artistic Director Mr James Burnside

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St John’s Church, Woodschapel 138 Ballyronan Road, Magherafelt, BT45 6HU

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‘Stroll through the Woods, thanking God for the past, trusting Him for the future’ Friday 8th June Saturday 9th June Sunday 10th June Closing Praise Service Sunday

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2pm - 9pm 10am - 8pm 2pm - 6pm 6pm

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89X125 Presp. Herald Ad Glenada.indd 1

10/02/2017 19:10:52

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Herald April 2018

ACROSS 1 This post is held for one year (9) 7 This can bring out the worst (5) 9 Sweet from Ballycastle (9) 10 Too much of 9 across will make you this (3) 11 Definitely not weaker (8) 13 More than one (3) 14 North African desert (6) 17 Disturbing (9) 18 A meadow (3) 19 The Magic Dragon (4) 21 Paul caused this in Ephesus (4) 22 One who mills (6) 24 A popular female name (3) 25 The command of the Great Commission (2) 26 Used at Calvary (5) 27 Hold up a horse? (5)

DOWN 1 County in west of Ireland (4) 2 Old Testament hair stylist? (7) 3 Castle by another name (4) 4 Fruit or veg? (6) 5 Paid for us on the cross (6) 6 Thorny bush (5) 8 A group of troublemakers (4) 11 Fair exchange (4) 12 An Anglican service (8) 13 An elephant does this (8) 14 A very wise man (7) 15 Home of the Titanic (7) 16 For ever (7) 20 Ancient home of Abraham (2) 23 Garland of flowers (3)

REFLECTIONS

M.L.K.

Betsy Cameron

I

never thought it would happen, but it is now official. I but otherwise, we continued to live completely separate lives. I am history! My teenage daughter has confirmed this after had no black friends. I had never been in the home of a black enquiring if I was alive when JFK was shot. Apparently, this person or shared a meal with a black person. There were no is highly unseemly, or as my daughter put it, and I quote, black children in my after-school activities and no black people “That’s horrible!” I’m not sure if ‘horrible’ is exactly the right in my church. Unless you counted the caretaker. word, but even I find it strange to consider that I was alive When Dr. King was killed on 4th April 1968, it was one more when history was happening. violent event in a maelstrom of chaos, and it was clear to me, Though I was too young to remember the assassination even as a small child, that my world was not right. One day of JFK, I do remember the turmoil of another year, 1968, in school, we were instructed to go up to the science table in through the kaleidoscope lens of childhood: the Tet offensive pairs to observe a display the teacher had created, and I made a in Vietnam, the black power salute by the American athletes in quick decision. I went up to a very quiet black boy, a boy I had the Mexico City Olympics, the rioting in cities across America never spoken to before, to ask if he wanted to be my partner. and, especially, the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King.

In one way, the gesture was almost meaningless, a mere drop of My eight-year-old self, of course, would goodwill in a nearly empty bucket when an not have been able to give a name to all When Dr. King was killed entire sea change was required. But I was those events or understand their contexts, trying to make up for something even if I on 4th April 1968, it was didn’t know what that thing was. but I do recall how dangerous and frightening the grown-up world seemed in one more violent event in Many years would pass before I would those moments when I surfaced from my begin to grapple with the power of racism, childhood preoccupations to pay attention a maelstrom of chaos… the insidious hold it had on our hearts and to it. the terrible price we paid for it. I turned Racism and the everyday tension it engendered, though, was a to black writers – Langston Hughes and Ralph Ellison, Alice different dynamic, one that we lived every minute of every hour. Walker and Toni Morrison, amongst many others, to learn It was the air we breathed. It was the only grown-up thing I about the experiences of black people. I socialised with black paid proper attention to because it shaped absolutely everything colleagues and sought out a church in which black and white about the lives of black and white people in my small town: people worshipped and worked together. I examined the legacy where we lived, where we went to church, who our friends of Dr. King, his prophetic voice as an orator and as a writer, his were, where we worked, what opportunities we had, how we commitment to non-violence and social justice. spoke and acted in public, what we believed about ourselves and Recently, I was listening to a radio programme about the life others. of Dr. King as we mark 50 years since his death. The presenter Though race dominated every aspect of our lives, it was, marvelled at the power and poetry of his words: “Let justice ironically, something we never talked about. Nobody in my roll down like waters and righteousness like a mighty stream” all-white circles ever questioned why we lived as we did. No but didn’t recognise the reference to the prophet Amos. Like black person ever spoke to me about what their lives were like.

Amos, Dr. King dreamed of a world in which injustice has been The church itself remained silent. I cannot ever recall hearing a overcome, and all are valued as children of God. sermon about the idolatry of race or the demands of the gospel How far have we come since Dr. King’s death? Much has to seek reconciliation. I was left alone to sort out the difficult been gained, but we know the work is far from finished in feelings I had – pity towards others, guilt and insecurity about hastening that day when justice flows, not like drops in a my unearned privilege. bucket, but like a powerful force for good that can never be As it turns out, I started school the year that black and stopped. white schools were integrated in my small town, 12 long years after the Supreme Court declared segregated schools unconstitutional. Laws can change practice but not hearts and minds; the law may have required us to be educated together,

Herald April 2018

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Glastry Presbyterian Church is seeking to appoint a

Praise Coordinator

Youth and Family Worker We are looking for a youth and family worker to join in our mission of making Christ known by engaging, equipping and mobilising young people to be active advocates for Christ.This position is full-time for 35 hours per week (including evenings and weekends) for a fixed term of 3 years.

This position will have a focus on Bible-based ministry.

Salary: £19,726 per annum plus expenses, based on PCI guidelines.

A commitment to the Christian ethos of the Presbyterian Church in Ireland is essential.

Details of the job description, personnel specification and application form can be obtained from: The Clerk of Session, Newcastle Presbyterian Church, 39 Main Street, Newcastle, BT33 0AD, or email: office@newcastlepresbyterian.org

This ad is being seen by over 30,000 people.

It could be yours!

To advertise in the Presbyterian Herald contact Lisa on +44 (0)28 9032 2284 herald@presbyterianireland.org www.presbyterianireland.org/herald

First Carrickfergus Presbyterian Church

First Carrickfergus Presbyterian Church

seeks to appoint a

seeks to appoint a

Family and Community Development Worker

Youth and Children’s Development Worker

to engage in all activities associated with the development of ministry to families, women and the elderly.

to engage in all activities associated with the development of youth and children’s ministry.

This is a part-time permanent position

(20 hours per week which may include evenings and weekends).

Salary: £22,849 p.a.

(pro rata, in keeping with PCI salary scale B and B1).

(20 hours per week which may include evenings and weekends). (pro rata, in keeping with PCI salary scale Band B1).

Closing date: Friday, 20th April 2018.

For further Information, please contact Rev. Dr. Cecil Grant Email: cgrant@presbyterianireland.org Tel: 07989 353732.

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We are looking for someone who enjoys traditional and contemporary praise played on piano, organ, and other instruments and who will lead the development of all aspects of praise within the church.

The successful applicant should have a passion for leading and encouraging worship with all ages and must share the kirk session’s vision for the congregation and wider community.

Please contact Mr. Will Taylor (clerk of session) for an application pack. Email: glastryfarm@btconnect.com Closing date for applications is Monday, 16th April 2018.

Herald April 2018

This is a part-time permanent position Salary: £22,849 p.a.

Closing date: Friday, 20th April 2018.

For further Information, please contact Rev. Dr. Cecil Grant Email: cgrant@presbyterianireland.org Tel: 07989 353732.

Greystone Road Presbyterian, Antrim invites applicants for the position of

Music Coordinator and Organist

We are looking for a someone who is sympathetic to the Christian ethos of the Presbyterian Church with passion for worship, someone who will lead and develop our music ministry. Presently we have a faithful choir, organ and a variety of instruments with potential to develop a praise band.

For further information and an application pack please contact: Mr. James Warwick (clerk of session) johnjwarwick@gmail.com Completed application forms to be returned by Friday, 20th April.

Second Presbyterian Church Comber seeks to appoint a

Youth and Family Worker

This is a full-time position for 37 hours per week (including evenings and weekends) for a fixed term of three years. Salary: £22,849.

Applicants must be willing to work within the Christian ethos of the Presbyterian Church in Ireland (and the particular ethos of Second Presbyterian Church Comber congregation).

Details of the job description, personnel specification and application form can be obtained from the congregational website: www.secondcomber.co.uk Closing date for applications is 12 noon on Friday, 20th April 2018.

Carlisle Road Presbyterian Church

(incorporating Strand and Buncrana congregations)

invite applications for the position of

Organist and Music Coordinator

We are looking for a competent part-time organist to lead and develop the praise within our congregation. We have a faithful choir and a Wells Kennedy pipe organ and wish to develop the musical talent of instrumentalists.

For further information please contact: Mr. David Burke (Interim Clerk) info@crpci.org.uk Tel: (028) 7130 1666; Mobile: 07860 160480.

Closing date for applications is Friday, 27th April 2018.

Newtownstewart Presbyterian Church

WEDDING DRESS FESTIVAL A celebration of marriage Wedding Dresses over the ages Friday, 25th May – Sunday, 27th May 2018 OPENING TIMES Friday 4pm-8pm Saturday 10am-7pm Sunday 2pm-6pm Closing Service on Sunday at 7pm

Teas will be served in the Church Hall during opening times.

Why not also enjoy a visit to Mr. Uel Henderson’s Garden Opening (26th/27th) on Moyle Road, Newtownstewart (only 100 yards from Church).

Free parking available in Church Car Park

Traditional Irish Bread making in an 18th century barn on the shores of Strangford Lough Would you like to learn how to make local Irish breads in a very relaxed atmosphere within a small group?

If so, join Tracey in her thatched barn on the edge of Strangford Lough in County Down.

Over the course of the morning you will be taught to make a selection of delicious breads – soda, potato and wheaten (brown bread). To accompany our breads we will have an impressive selection of local jams, dulse (seaweed) butter, smoked butter etc. and local Belfast Brew or coffee.

The session runs from 10.30am to 1pm. If you’re looking for something a bit different to do then this is the perfect experience!

Tracey looks forward to welcoming you to this beautiful part of the Ards Peninsula – the Kitchen Garden of Northern Ireland!

Cost per person: £50. This is inclusive of morning coffee with local foods served twice / a bag of four different freshly made breads / a copy of all recipes.

07711 484850 www.nifoodtours.com info@nifoodtours.com Herald April 2018

47

CHURCH RECORD VACANT CONGREGATIONS, MODERATORS AND CLERKS OF KIRK SESSIONS (Information supplied by Clerks of Presbyteries, Conveners of Assembly Commissions and Councils).

1 LEAVE TO CALL GRANTED

2 LEAVE TO CALL DEFERRED

ANNALONG: REV. S.S. JOHNSTON: Mr. Jim Hanna, 209 Kilkeel Road, Annalong, Newry, BT34 4TW.

GORTNESSY: REV. P.E. LINKENS: Mr. Ross Hyndman, 32 Temple Road, Strathfoyle, Londonderry, BT47 6UB.

BAILIEBOROUGH, FIRST; BAILIEBOROUGH, TRINITY, CORRANEARY & ERVEY: (Reviewable Tenure - 7 years) REV. D.T.R. EDWARDS: (Bailieborough, First) Mr. Fred Gilmore, Lisgar, Bailieborough.

(Bailieborough, Trinity) Mr. Bert Coote, Kells Road, Bailieborough. (Corraneary) Mr. Eddie Martin, Ardmone, Canningstown, Cootehill. (Ervey) Miss Jean Archibald, Largy, Drumcondrath, Co. Meath.

BALLYGOWAN: REV. DR. A.F. NEL: Dr. Roy Harper, 31A Drumreagh Road, Ballygowan, Newtownards, BT23 6LD. BANGOR, HAMILTON ROAD (ASSOCIATE): REV. T.W.D. JOHNSTON: Mr. Tom Clarke, 85 Churchill Park, Bangor, BT20 5RW. CARRICKFERGUS, DOWNSHIRE: REV. J.W.D. ROGERS: Mr. Graeme Ritchie, Rose Cottage, 287 Upper Road, Carrickfergus, BT38 8PW.

BALLYBLACK: REV. R.J. STEVENSON: Mr. Alex Warden, 92 Bowtown Road, Newtownards, BT23 8SL. BELVILLE: REV D.S. HENRY: Mr. Jack Parks, 95 Dromore Road, Hillsborough, BT26 6HU.

SETTLED STATED SUPPLY APPOINTED BALLINDERRY: REV. W.J. HENRY, Minister of Maze BLACKROCK – ST. ANDREWS: REV. DR. K.P. MEYER, Minister of Sandymount – Christ Church

CLOUGHWATER: REV. J.A. BEATTIE: Mr. I Davison, 19 Rockstown Road, Ballymena, BT43 6QS.

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

COLERAINE, FIRST: REV. R.S. McMULLAN: Mr. Joe Cassells, 25 Queen’s Park, Coleraine, BT51 3JS.

BOYLE: REV. D.J. CLARKE, Minister of Sligo

COOKSTOWN, FIRST: REV. D.S. BROWNLOW: Mr. Gordon Black, 21 The Dales, Cookstown, BT80 8TF.

BRAY – ST. ANDREWS: REV. C.W.P. KENNEDY, Minister of Dun Laoghaire

CORBOY & MULLINGAR: (Reviewable Tenure - 7 years) REV. DR. K.D. McCRORY: (Mullingar) Mr. Wilson Porter, Joristown, Raharney, Killucan, Co. Westmeath.

CAHIR: REV. WILLIAM MONTGOMERY, Minister of Fermoy

CREGAGH: REV. S.P. MOORE: Mr. Dennison Mahood, 229 Cregagh Road, Belfast, BT6 0LD. DROMARA, FIRST: REV. K.W.J. HANNA: Mr. I. McCullagh, 10 Mullaghdrin Road, Dromara, BT25 2AF. HARMONY HILL: REV. JOHN BRACKENRIDGE: Mr. Derek Alexander, 24 Downshire Park, Hillsborough, BT26 6HB. HOLYWOOD, FIRST (ASSOCIATE): (Reviewable Tenure - 3 years) REV. A.C. RANKIN (Acting Convener): Mr. Joe Campbell, 2a The Esplanade, Holywood, BT18 9JG.

KATESBRIDGE: REV. N.J. KANE, Minister of Magherally KILREA SECOND: REV. S.A. MORROW, Minister of Moneydig TYRONE’S DITCHES: REV. J.K.A. McINTYRE, Minister of Bessbrook

3 DECLARED VACANT BALLYCAIRN: REV. ROBERT LOVE: Mr. J.B. Milligan, 19 Glenarriff Drive, Dunmurry, BT17 9AZ.

IRVINESTOWN, PETTIGO & TEMPO: (Home Mission) REV. R.S.G BEACOM: (Irvinestown) Mr. John Dickey, Ardmore House, 47 Pound Street, Irvinestown, BT94 1HF. (Pettigo) Mr. Noel Baxter, Flowerdale, 80 Sydare Road, Ballinamallard, BT94 2DU. (Tempo) Mrs. Carole Trimble, 5 Tullyreagh Road, Edenmore, Tempo, BT94 3GJ.

BALLYHOBRIDGE, CLONES, NEWBLISS & STONEBRIDGE: REV. C.G. ANDERSON: (Ballyhobridge) Mr. David Jordan, Drumboghamagh, Newtownbutler, BT92 8LL. (Clones) Mr. Tom Elliott, Bellmount, Newtownbutlerm BT92 6LT. (Newbliss) Mr. Thomas McConkey, Killyfuddy, Newbliss, Co. Monaghan.

(Stonebridge) Mr. Gerald Mackarel, Roughfort, Clones, Co. Monaghan.

MONAGHAN, FIRST & SMITHBOROUGH: REV. G.A. MITCHELL: (Monaghan, First) Mr. David Hamilton, Aughnaseda, Monaghan, Co. Monaghan. (Smithborough) Mr. John Bole, Glenlough, Smithborough, Co. Monaghan.

BALTEAGH & BOVEVAGH: REV. J.G. JONES: (Balteagh) Mr. William Robinson, 46 Drumaduff Road, Maine South, Limavady, BT49 OPT. (Bovevagh) Mr. Boyd Douglas, 279 Drumrae Road, Dungiven, Co Londonderry, BT47 4NL.

ORANGEFIELD: REV. DANIEL RANKIN: Mrs. Ruth McConnell, 36 Raffrey Road, Crossgar, BT30 9NW.

BELVOIR: REV. B.J. McCROSKERY: Mr. Brian Dunwoody, 19 Drumart Drive, Belfast, BT8 7ET.

NEWRY, FIRST: (Reviewable Tenure - 7 years) REV. S.A. FINLAY: Mr. Stanley Bond, 31 Drumcashel Villas, Newry, BT34 1PT.

BURT: REV. JAMES LAMONT: Mr. James Buchanan, Heathfield, Burt, Lifford, Co. Donegal.

RAVENHILL: (Reviewable Tenure - 5 years) REV. W.A. McCULLY: Mr. Denis Marriott, 216 Orby Drive, Belfast, BT5 6BE.

CAIRNALBANA & GLENARM: REV. W.F. DICKEY: (Cairnalbana) Mr. T. Montgomery, 133 Doury Road, Ballymena, BT43 6SR. (Glenarm) Rev. W.F. Dickey, 6, Ambleside, Cullybackey, BT42 1RQ.

RICHVIEW: (Part-Time (60%); Reviewable Tenure – 5 Years) REV. N.S. HARRISON: Mr. Victor Garland, 25 Abingdon Drive, Belfast, BT12 5PX. WARINGSTOWN: VERY REV. PRINCIPAL J.S. CARSON: Mr. David Crawford, 148 Avenue Road, Lurgan, BT66 7BJ. WOODVALE: (Reviewable Tenure – 5 Years) REV. C.J. GAMBLE: Mr. Paul Beggs, 93 Farm Lodge Drive, Greenisland, BT38 8XN.

48

TEMPORARY STATED SUPPLY ARRANGEMENT

Herald April 2018

CALEDON & MINTERBURN: REV. A.D. DAVIDSON: (Caledon) Mr. Joseph Lawson, 51 Derrycourtney Road, Caledon, BT68 4UQ. (Minterburn) Mr. Alan Campbell, 46 Rehaghy Road, Aughnacloy, BT69 6EU. CLOGHER & GLENHOY: REV. L.M. KEYS: (Clogher) Mr. David Boyd, Knockmany, Augher, BT77 0DD. (Glenhoy) Mr. Rowland Mulligan, 3 Knockgreenan Park, Omagh, BT79 0DD.

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 CRUMLIN ROAD: VERY REV. DR. T.N. HAMILTON: Mr. J. Coleman, 2 Abbeydale Parade, Belfast, BT14 7HJ. DONEGORE, SECOND: REV. JONATHAN BOYD: Mr. Samuel Gawn, 120 Parkgate Road, Kells, Ballymena, BT42 3PQ. DRUMBANAGHER, FIRST AND JERRETTSPASS & KINGSMILLS REV. B.D. COLVIN: (Drumbanager, First and Jerrettspass) Mr. George Moffett, 16 Glen Road, Jerrettspass, Newry, BT34 1SP. (Kingsmills) Mr. Raymond McCormick, 119 Kingsmills Road, Bessbrook, Newry, BT35 7BP. FORTWILLIAM & MACRORY: REV. J.K. DOHERTY: Ms. Carolyn Crowe, 84 Somerton Road, Belfast, BT15 4DD. GLENDERMOTT: REV. K.A. JONES: Mr. George Walker, 3 Beverley Gardens, Londonderry, BT47 5PJ. INCH: REV. JAMES LAMONT: Mr. James Buchanan, Heathfield, Speenoge, Burt, Co. Donegal, F93 W3K6.

KEADY, FIRST & ARMAGHBRAGUE: REV. S.M. HAMILTON: (Keady, First) Mr. Ronnie Boyd, 113 Keady Road, Armagh, BT60 3AD. (Armaghbrague) Mr. William Henry, 39 Dungormley Estate, Newtownhamilton, Newry, BT35 0HY.

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

THE ELDERSHIP Ordained & Installed: KILMORE: David Rea, Ian Spratt Died: BELMONT: Betty Dunn BROUGHSHANE, FIRST: Robert (Bertie) John Armstrong DUNDONALD, CHRIST CHURCH: Tom Anderson FITZROY: Denis Boyd GRANGE WITH CRAIGMORE: James McNeilly McQUISTON MEMORIAL: Wilfred Patterson, Brian McCartney NEWTOWNARDS, STREAN: Tom McCluggage

THE MINISTRY Installed: Clarke Herbert Deering, as minister of Fintona and Ballynahatty & Creevan, on 3 March 2018 Died: Rev William Caughey, Minister Emeritus of Kircubbin & Portaferry, on 11 March 2018

KEADY, SECOND & DRUMHILLERY: REV. D.J. HUTCHINSON: (Keady, Second) Mr. David Coulter, 1 College Glebe, Killylea, Armagh, BT60 4GL. (Drumhillery) Mr. George Mitchell, 55 Drumhillery Road, Middletown, Armagh, BT60 3QB. MOSSIDE & TOBERDONEY: REV. A.J. BUICK: (Mosside) Mrs. Mabel Morrison, 284 Moyarget Road, Mosside, Ballymoney, BT53 8EH. (Toberdoney) Mr. Hugh Hill, 5 Castle Park, Deffrick, Ballymoney, BT53 8EW. NEWTOWNHAMILTON, SECOND & CREGGAN: REV. J.K.A. McINTYRE: (Newtownhamilton, Second) Mr. Jim Copeland, 2 Old Mount Road, Newtownhamilton, Newry, BT35 0DS. (Creggan) Mr. Cyril Feely, 20 Cloughogue Road, Cullyhanna, Newry, BT35 0LS. RYANS & BROOKVALE: REV. F.J. GIBSON: (Ryans) Miss Nora Hamilton, c/o Bronte Fold, Rathfriland, BT34 6LU. (Brookvale) Mr. Norman McCrum, 49 Ballynamagna Road, Rathfriland, Newry, BT34 5PA. WHITEHOUSE: REV. A.V. STEWART: Mr. Maurice Finlay, 12 Whitethorn, Greenisland, BT38 8FH.

TEMPORARY STATED SUPPLY ARRANGEMENT DUNDALK: (Home Mission) REV. T.D. HAGAN: KELLS: (Home Mission) REV. DAVID NESBITT: Ms. Ruth McCartney, Shancarnan, Moynalty, Kells, Co Meath.

A82 PF60.

MAY STREET: REV. G. FOWLES: Mr. Arthur Acheson, 56 Quarry Road, Belfast, BT4 2NQ. TOBERMORE & DRAPERSTOWN: REV. DR. J.A. CURRY: (Draperstown) Mr. G. Dickson Jnr, 7 Strawmore Road, Draperstown, BT45 7JE. VINECASH: REV. DR. M. McCLENAHAN: Mr. Thomas Graham, 38 Richmount, Portadown, BT62 4JQ.

Herald April 2018

49

CLASSIFIEDS Accommodation Northern Ireland PORTSTEWART LET: Luxury 3 bedroom townhouse in private development. View property on www.northcoastholidaylets. co.uk, for more info telephone 028 90401745 or 07800 802662.

PORTSTEWART: Five bedroom semidetached chalet bungalow overlooking sea coastal road. OFCH. Non smokers. WiFi available. Tel: 028 25582525.

PORTSTEWART: Luxury 4 bedroom cottage and 5 bedroom townhouse available June-Sept. Call: 07513 826551, Email: pabloguy50@gmail.com Facebook: @campbellandcorentalproper ties Web: www.millcottages.com FERMANAGH: Fermanagh Lakeland.

‘Muckross Lodge’ Bed & Breakfast, Muckross Quay, Kesh. Situated overlooking Lough Erne. All rooms en-suite, TV, tea/coffee making facilities. Open all year. B&B £25pps, £5 single supplement. Tel: Caroline Anderson 07739 910676.

PORTSTEWART: Sea Holly Lodge. Modern luxury bungalow, presented to the highest standard, 3 bedrooms (1 en-suite) in quiet cul-de-sac. Ten minutes’ walk from promenade, garden front and rear, TV/ video, washing machine, dryer, microwave.

No smoking, no pets. Available high and low season. Tel: Tommy or Hannah Collins 028 29540645. Mobile: 07989 397942.

W I L L A N LO D G E, P O R T R U S H: Picturesque log cabin set among gardens located in quiet residential area. Three bedrooms (one en-suite). Fully furnished and equipped. Reasonable rates. Telephone 07989 815312.

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

MODERN 3 BEDROOM bungalow in Portstewart with all mod cons in quiet cul-de-sac, with parking for up to 3 vehicles.

Enclosed garden to rear suitable for elderly and children. Contact Mob: 07896 352221 or 07771 962651.

P O R T S T E WA R T/S T R A N D R OA D : Penthouse apartment, 4 bedrooms (2 double, 1 en-suite, 2 twin) sleeps 8. Sea views to Mussenden Temple/Donegal Hills.

TV/DVD, washing machine, tumble dryer, microwave, electric showers. No smoking, no pets. Town centre 2 minutes’ walk. £395 pw. Tel: 028 90826986 evenings.

FOR RENT IN PORTSTEWART: Modern semi-detached 4 bedroom family house, sleeps 8. WiFi, parking, enclosed garden, patio, BBQ – Jun/Sep £375, Jul/Aug £450 /per wk. Ring for other dates. Tel Andrew: 07973 886351.

HOUSE IN PORTSTEWART for rent.

Lovely 5 bedroom (one en-suite) semidetached house. Downstairs bedroom and cloakroom. Cost £400 per week which includes oil heating and electricity. Contact Fiona 07920 016326.

ATLANTIC CIRCLE PORTSTEWART: Luxury 2 bedroom apartment can sleep up to 6. Harbour and sea views with balcony.

Master bedroom with en-suite. Non smokers only. Contact mob: 07721 776100.

PORTSTEWART HOLIDAY LET: Spacious family home on the coast road with beautiful uninterrupted sea view. Tel: 028 40630294.

Self Catering SELF CATERING ACCOMMODATION: FLORIDA (villa/apartments) lake views, large swimming pool complete with sun loungers, 10 minutes’ from Disney. SPAIN (apartments) coastal location, sea views available. N. IRELAND (apartment) north Antrim coast, sea views/minutes from beach. Contact Gerald 07971 194211 or www.christiancoastalapartments.com

Catering HILLSBOROUGH PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH will cater for groups coming to visit Hillsborough Castle, the forest park, Dobbies, Sprucefield etc. Morning coffee, lunch, afternoon tea, high tea. Contact Helen 028 92682664 or the church office 028 92683502.

ST. JAMES’S PW, BALLYMONEY will be happy to cater for groups planning to visit the scenic north Antrim coast.

Morning coffee, lunch or high tea provided.

Contact Barbara 028 27663409 or Pamela 028 27665216.

MOIRA PRESBYTERIAN will cater for groups coming to visit Hillsborough Castle, the forest park, Dobbies, Sprucefield, Lisburn etc. Morning coffee; lunch; afternoon tea; high tea. Contact: Mrs. Dorothy Cantley 028 92692454.

B A L LYG AW L E Y P R E S BY T E R I A N CHURCH “At the end of the motorway not the world.” Is your group heading west for a trip? Why not avail of the excellent facilities and food provided by our ladies in aid of Ballygawley and Ballyreagh Church Projects in Moldova. Menus and prices available.

Contact Catherine on 028 85557839 or 07519 089895 after 7pm.

T H E L A D I E S O F AG H A D O W E Y Presbyterian Church would again be willing to cater for groups (minimum 25) and those visiting the Causeway coast. Choices available:- morning coffee, brunch/lunch, speciality afternoon teas, turkey and ham salad buffet. For fuller details please contact Mrs. Olga Cunningham: 028 70868300.

Proceeds for the church building project.

T H E L A D I E S O F G L E N W H E R RY Presbyterian Church would be delighted to cater for your group (minimum 15).

Morning coffee, lunch, afternoon tea, high tea or supper. Situated between Ballymena and Larne. Please contact Wylva on 028 25892446 or 07918 105537.

Services VIDEO RECORDING – Professional service for interviews, website videos, short stories, appeals, events, weddings, corporate, church, charity. Tel Phil 07531 779502 www. reelimpressions.com

MODERN 3 BEDROOM end terrace in Portstewart available for holiday let June – end of August. Close proximity to beach and town centre. Contact Denise 07738 632366.

PORTRUSH HOLIDAY LET: Modern 3 bedroom house, 1 en-suite, WiFi, off Coleraine Road. Easy walk to town/West Strand. Tel. 07769 744816.

Republic of Ireland

CROSSWORD Solution to No. 240

ACROSS 1 Moderator 7 Anger 9 Yellowman 10 Ill 11 Stronger 13 Two 14 Sahara 17 Upsetting 18 Lea 19 Puff 21 Riot 22 Miller 24 Ann 25 Go 26 Nails 27 Stall

50

DOWN 1 Mayo 2 Delilah 3 Rook 4 Tomato 5 Ransom 6 Briar 8 Gang 11 Swap 12 Evensong 13 Trumpets 14 Solomon 15 Belfast 16 Eternal 20 Ur 23 Lei

Herald April 2018

GREYSTONES HOLIDAY HOUSE: Quiet area in Co. Wicklow, 8 minutes’ walk to sea, village and DART to Dublin. Special reductions for clergy. Tel: 00353 012876805 / 0044 118 9787018.

To Let Spain HOLIDAY RENTAL: Beautiful 3-terraced, 2-bedroom villa in Torrox Costa, southern Spain. Sleeps 4-6. Fantastic sea views, pool open all year. Very reasonable rates. Good availability spring and autumn 2018, but summer is booking up fast. All proceeds to help local missionaries and youth work. For brochure email juliechitty@hotmail.co.uk or phone 0034 651653838.

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

Piano Tuning Services available throughout Ireland

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

Church AV Specialists

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

07855 450887

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