JUNE 2026
In this together SAFEGUARDING FIRST
Update on new procedures
FORGING YOUNG LEADERS New initiative in east Belfast
A FIRM FOUNDATION
Importance of marriage preparation
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CONTENTS | JUNE 2026
FEATURES
12 Present together for youth ministry A Presbyterian partnership
14 Grasping God’s love
Interview with PCI’s new Moderator
18 Safeguarding first
Update on PCI’s new procedures
21 Mission minded
Enabling mission through PCI grants
30 Forging young leaders New initiative in east Belfast
34 Coming alongside
Supporting families throughout PCI
37 PCI’s Creation Hub
Stewardship of creation resources
38 A firm foundation
Forging young leaders p30
The importance of marriage preparation
REGULARS
4 5 6 7 11 24 41 42 43 47
Letters Culture Watch News My story Apostles’ Creed Mission articles Reviews Reflections Life in PCI In this month
Mission minded p21
A firm foundation p38
CONTRIBUTORS Will Leitch is a Christian journalist, broadcaster and podcaster. He serves as an elder at Knock Presbyterian in east Belfast.
Ken Swarbrick is PCI’s Director of Operations and an elder in Whiteabbey Presbyterian Church.
Clare Smith is Operations Director at Christian Guidelines. She is married to Michael, has three sons and worships at St Andrew’s Church, Bangor.
Ruth Bromley is PCI’s children’s development officer. She is married to Brendan, has one daughter and is a member of First Holywood Presbyterian.
Cover photo: Josh Preece June 2026 No. 879 £2.20/€2.60 Published by: The Presbyterian Church in Ireland, Assembly Buildings, Belfast BT1 6DW. T: +44 (0)28 9032 2284 E: herald@presbyterianireland.org W: www.presbyterianireland.org
Editor: Sarah Harding
The views expressed in the features, news reports, letters and book reviews of this magazine are not necessarily those of the editor. Editorial comment and signed Subscriptions and Advertising: articles do not necessarily contain the official views of the Church, which can only be laid down only by the General Assembly. Acceptance of advertisements Edward Connolly; Leah Jones does not imply endorsement of the goods or services. Advertising will not be Design and Layout: included if the product or service is deemed to be in conflict with the Church’s Edward Connolly official views, or if it is inappropriate for a church magazine. It is not Herald policy Printing: to include any editorial content along with adverts. The editor reserves the right W & G Baird Ltd to decline any advertisement or letter without assigning any reason. Letters may be edited for publication. No correspondence can be entered into regarding nonpublication of advertisements or letters.
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Herald June 2026
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