Presbyterian Herald September 2019

SEPTEMBER 2019

Enjoying God in Kenya

NEW TERM, NEW HOPE

Reaching out through school uniforms

ELECTION TIME

How do you choose new elders?

TIME TO INITIATE CHANGE

The dark side of university sport

CONTENTS | SEPTEMBER 2019

FEATURES 12 Speaking up

Highlighting imminent changes to NI law

14 New term, new hope

Reaching out through school uniforms

16 What do you want?

Moderator reflects on a recent mission trip to Kenya

18 Growing together in Spain New Youth and Children’s Project

20 Election time

How do you choose new elders?

31 Getting behind the smiles New video highlights the work of the Presbyterian Children’s Society

32 Time to initiate change The dark side of university sport

New term, new hope p14

34 95 years young

Celebrating 95 years of the BB Ganaway site

REGULARS 4 6 7 8 9 13 22 23 36 38 43

Letters News Arthur Clarke In this month…

My Story Life lessons Talking points Mission Connect Reviews Life in PCI Betsy Cameron

Election time p20

CONTRIBUTORS

Cover photo: Amy Shepherd September 2019 No. 824 £1.50 (€1.80) 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

Time to initiate change p32

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

Cecil Graham is married to June and is an elder in Windsor Presbyterian Church and former clerk of South Belfast Presbytery.

He has a long association with the Boys’ Brigade movement.

Ruth Bromley is PCI’s Children’s Development Officer. She is married to Brendan, mum to Bess and is a member of First Holywood Presbyterian.

Tom Finnegan is the Training Development Officer for PCI. In this role, Tom develops and delivers training and resources for congregational life and witness.

Mairisine Stanfield is minister of First Presbyterian Church, Bangor. She is married to Rev David Stanfield and they have two sons.

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).

Herald September 2019

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EDITORIAL

LETTERS Dissenting voices

Back to porridge

Sometimes September can feel more like the start of a new year than January. Whether it is beginning a new school or university year, or launching into a fresh church calendar of activities, it is a busy time. For the parents of school-age children, the organisation of new uniforms and stationery (as well as making sure that absolutely everything is named!) can be a stressful task. For some, the high level of cost involved can take this stress to new levels.

One congregation seeking to help those struggling to afford the new school year is St James’ in Ballymoney.

A dedicated team from the church has recently started an initiative to offer used items of school wear to those who need them. Tracey Nicholl explains that central to this project is outreach and mission: “At St James’ we pray that…we will reflect God’s glory and love.”

If you have children, grandchildren or even teenagers in your congregation heading off to university for the first time, it is well worth reading Rev Mairisine Stanfield’s article on the dark side of university sports. Although a grim read about the initiations often inflicted, it is important to be aware of the potential dangers ahead.

Mairisine is sure that at the heart of the issue is identity, saying, “Young people need to be taught about the truth of who they are and whose they are.”

Moderator, Dr William Henry, in describing a recent mission trip to Kenya, applauds the passion and energy of the young people who accompanied him. “Here are young adults who hunger and thirst after God and crave to be part of a world where he is all in all.” He encourages congregations and ministers to get alongside young people and help ignite their passion for God and mission.

The new Youth and Children’s Project is all about the importance of teaching and nurturing young people.

Focusing on the work of Derek and Jane French in Spain, the project will support the publication of resources in Spanish, which will greatly help families and churches there to disciple children. Ruth Bromley explains more and provides an update on past projects.

For those of you who might feel drained already by the school preparations, I encourage you to take a moment to read Betsy Cameron’s column, in which she highlights the ups and downs of family and school life with a wonderful anecdote that is sure to put a smile on your face. And whether this month signifies for you lots of change, or none, I pray you will know God’s peace and blessing as you venture into all that September brings.

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Herald September 2019

Dear Editor Alan Meban’s article on the history of dissent within our denomination (July/August) refers to the 1873 General Assembly and those of subsequent years banning the use of organs in worship. He reports that these resolutions were ignored by many congregations, with no action being taken, until, in 1891 the Assembly decided to “pass from the question”.

The congregational minutes of Knock for 20 May 1892 has the following entry: “The Revs F. Martin, Dr Watts and Wm. Park attended as a deputation representing the Assembly’s committee on instrumental music to confer with the Session and committee in reference to the use of an instrument in the church, and to ask the congregation to give it up…” After consideration the following decision was recorded: “Having heard the arguments so kindly and forcibly put by the Revs F. Martin, Dr Watts and Wm. Park, we regret exceedingly that we cannot agree to their request to withdraw the instrument.”

It would seem then that in 1891 the Assembly gave up debating the matter though it was some time later that they gave up pursuing it. More than a century later we can consider the legacy of this dissent, to what extent the introduction of instruments and hymns enriched worship and helped us to grow in faith. And yet

we often fail to make best use of that legacy. Anna Hallett, a 14-year-old organ student, has produced a report, ‘Inspiring Organists of the Future’, that has much to say on this.

Meticulously researched, it is full of thoughtful analysis and recommendations far beyond anything that might be expected of someone her age. It can be found on her website http:// pipeskeysandchords.com Peter Gray Belfast

Being Presbyterian Dear Editor I see from one of the letters in the July/August issue that some people have set up a ‘Being Presbyterian’ group with a conference in October.

What a great and exciting idea! So many of us have benefited from the wisdom of Scottish Presbyterians like Eric Alexander and Sinclair Ferguson. American Presbyterians like Tim Keller and Ray Ortlund have been greatly influential. And even that rarer breed – English Presbyterians – have been a blessing in the form of the International Presbyterian Church (founded by Francis Schaeffer) and their wonderful Catalyst conference. There is much we could learn from other Presbyterians.

I was surprised therefore to see that in the pursuit of being Presbyterian, the eponymous

Dissenting voices

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

group have asked Rev Dr Sam Wells to come and speak. Dr Wells is an intelligent man and an erudite speaker, but he is no Presbyterian – he is in fact a high church Anglican who holds and promotes views which have been the cause of much division and heartache in Presbyterian denominations. Last year he preached at the ‘Service of Hope for LGBTI Equality in the Church of England,’ calling for the blessing of same-sex marriages. As chaplain of Duke University in America he was lauded by some for establishing Muslim and Hindu chaplaincies and vilified by others for appearing to condemn students who were wrongly arrested by the police.

What sort of Presbyterians would such a man help us to be? He sounds more like the sort of figure who would promote further division and departure from the beliefs that should bind us together.

Perhaps the organisers could explain their thinking, but with their identity shrouded in secrecy such conversations are closed down before they can begin.

Rev Jonathan Boyd Hyde Park and Lylehill

Singing psalms Dear Editor I refer to the letter of John Faris (July/August) in relation to psalm singing in our worship.

Having learnt many psalms as a child and used them in weekly worship, it grieves me to note their decline. I welcome the knowledge that the Council for Congregational Life and Witness is to help congregations to re-engage with the singing of psalms in congregational worship.

I know many people think that the language of the psalms is out of date, but there are now more modern

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.

versions. May more psalm singing soon play a part in our weekly worship.

Beth Keown Dundrum

Climate change Dear Editor I was somewhat alarmed to see the issue of climate change drop off the Letters page of the July/August edition. Surely this is not the time or place to let the subject go. Until recently I was unaware of the body of work on eco-theology.

I am sure many readers are similarly unaware. One of the seminal texts from 2008 by Celia Deane-Drummond was indeed titled Eco-theology.

In chapter seven, she argues for a re-reading of the Bible from the perspective of the earth: “Principles of intrinsic value, interconnectedness, custodianship, voice, resistance and purpose serve to promote eco-justice. As well as the book of Genesis, the biblical wisdom traditions (Psalms, Proverbs, Isaiah, Jeremiah, Job) are also important to consider in this context. Finally, biblical themes such as that of the Sabbath are instructive in providing a way of shaping theological commitments to give space and time for creation and for liturgical celebration in building up an ethos that fosters ecological sensitivity.” (DeaneDrummond, 2008).

More than a decade on, I want to move past ecotheology and protests involving peaceful civil disobedience (Extinction Rebellion) to focus on practical solutions. I would welcome Christian readers engaging with the following: renewable energy generation and wind farms; home heating and solar panels; transport and travel; consumerism and fashion; diet

and seasons; land, sea and air; sea levels and forests.

Each needs ecological sensitivity and prayer as we move from change to crisis!

Mark Dick Ballymena

Time for action Dear Editor I am writing to inform your readers that we face a moment of crisis for abortion law in Northern Ireland. Come October, if we do not have a restored NI Executive or a change of law in Westminster, we will have the most liberal abortion regime in Europe. This drastic change comes without consultation, flies in the face of public opinion, and ignores the fact that every sitting Northern Ireland MP voted against the amendment. More concerningly, it completely disregards the value of unborn lives who are known by God and knit together by him in their mothers’ wombs (Psalm 139:13).

In protest at this situation, I and some others are asking all

concerned citizens of Northern Ireland, irrespective of religious or political affiliation, to gather at Stormont on Friday 6 September at 7pm.

We will wear black and carry electric lights (mobile phone or torch) as we walk slowly and silently up the hill from the gates on the Newtownards Road to the Carson statue where we will stand in silence for six minutes to represent our six counties. We have chosen the name NI Voiceless (Facebook and Twitter @NIvoiceless) for this gathering as an expression of two facts: the electorate of Northern Ireland is voiceless because we were not asked for our opinion and the unborn are voiceless because they cannot speak for themselves.

This will be a dignified protest without images, except our logo of a black outline of Northern Ireland, or speeches.

Its impact depends on large numbers joining us. Please join us to make our voices heard through silence.

Dr Paul Coulter NI Voiceless organiser

Topical Tweets @RightToLifeUK Baroness O’Loan sums up. There is a huge discomfort in Northern Ireland about abortion being imposed on NI. This is a life and death issue. This is not good to do this to a people that don’t want it. @rookie_minister “I tell you that men will have to give account on the day of judgment for every careless word they have spoken.” Matthew 12:36 – all of us who profess Jesus as saviour and Lord should pay careful attention to this, especially on Twitter. @PCIModerator Joy to be with PCI Cavan outreach team today. Praying for opportunities to share the good news this week

Herald September 2019

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NEWS | IN THE ROUND Disappointment at Bill

SAT-7 campaign

The Presbyterian Church in Ireland has expressed its deep disappointment and dismay at the inclusion of provisions within the Northern Ireland (Executive Formation) Bill, which will pave the way for liberalisation of abortion law and the introduction of same-sex marriage in Northern Ireland.

Moderator Dr William Henry said, “Our Church’s position has always been that decisions on abortion and same-sex marriage should remain the responsibility of our locally elected MLAs. “At a time when courageous and compassionate leadership is required to find a balanced accommodation that can serve the common good in Northern Ireland, it is deeply disappointing that parliamentary process has been used to bypass the devolution settlement agreed over 20 years ago.

“This legislation blatantly disregards our deeply held Christian values which for centuries have provided a positive and cohesive framework for the protection of individuals and the benefit of society at large. We will continue to speak out in particular for the rights of unborn children who are among the most vulnerable in our society, and to encourage support and compassion for those expectant mothers who find themselves in difficult circumstances.”

Christian broadcaster SAT-7 wants believers to see the Middle East through new eyes with the launch of its Choose Joy campaign.

Those joining the campaign will receive a free copy of Joy in the Midst photobook containing inspiring true stories. Along with regular updates, this will lift the lid on how SAT-7’s programmes help the millions who watch to discover joy and hold confidently to their faith.

Church State Dialogue PCI representatives attended the latest Church State Dialogue plenary meeting, which was held in Dublin Castle and chaired

by An Taoiseach, Leo Varadkar.

The Structured Church State Dialogue initiative was established in February 2007 as an opportunity for the state to formally engage with churches, faith communities and non-confessional organisations. Those attending the latest plenary meeting discussed three themes: effective structured dialogue, inclusive and diverse communities, and education.

Representing PCI were the former Moderator and minister emeritus of Lucan Presbyterian Church in County Dublin, Dr Trevor Morrow, and the denomination’s Public Affairs Officer, Karen Jardine. During the plenary, Dr Morrow warned against creating an environment where public debate is so neutralised that faith-based contributions are no longer regarded as valid.

However, he welcomed the idea of a civic public square where everyone can make a contribution, including those of Christian conviction.

Dr Morrow said, “As an all-Ireland church, Presbyterians may be a small minority in the state, but our distinctive witness and influence continues to be recognised in the public square, and we welcome the opportunity to participate in today’s plenary meeting.

“PCI has a specific purpose and an active role to play in 21st century Ireland and is doing a considerable amount of work in the name of Jesus across the island as it reaches out and serves the community in different ways,” Dr Morrow continued.

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Herald September 2019

IN BRIEF Let’s Pray now available on PrayerMate As well as receiving the weekly Let’s Pray email to your inbox, you can now get prayer points for the work and witness of PCI via the PrayerMate app on your smartphone or tablet.

This allows you to integrate central prayer points with your own prayer needs for your family and/or community.

Simply visit http://praynow4. org/presbyterianireland and follow the links. A new prayer will be added automatically each day.

Persecution report The UK government has pledged to accept in full all the recommendations made by the Bishop of Truro in his report on Christian persecution.

Welcoming the news, Release International CEO Paul Robinson said, “We are grateful that the UK government is saying that the world will no longer be able to turn a blind eye to discrimination and violence against Christians.”

Moderator issues congratulations On behalf of the Presbyterian Church in Ireland, Moderator Dr William Henry has congratulated Boris Johnson and Julian Smith on their new roles as UK Prime Minister and Secretary of State for Northern Ireland.

Mr Henry and Rev Trevor Gribben (Clerk of the General Assembly) sent a joint letter to Mr Smith, saying that his appointment came at a ‘challenging time’.

Referring to the passing of the Northern Ireland (Executive Formation) Bill, they said, “It is extremely important that a local Assembly is in place before 21 October so that locally elected politicians are in a position to take decisions on devolved matters and that the people of Northern Ireland do not have these decisions imposed on them by Westminster.”

Knitting appeal Church Action on Poverty is appealing for knitters and crocheters to help the End Hunger campaign.

During the Week of Action to End Hunger in the UK on 11-18 October, supporters will be meeting their MPs, asking them to call for a government commitment to halving food poverty in the UK over the next five years.

Church Action on Poverty wants to leave every MP with a gift to remember the campaign – a knitted foodstuff.

Further information and patterns are available at http://endhungeruk.org/ weekofaction2019/knitfood/

Tour of Holywood churches The Ulster Historic Churches Trust will be hosting a walking tour of churches in Holywood, Co Down on Thursday 26 September 2019. Starting at 2.30pm, the walk will include St Colmcille’s Catholic Church, High Street Presbyterian, Holywood Methodist and St Philip and St James’ Parish Church. All welcome.

Please see www.ulsterhistoricchurches.org for more details.

REFLECTIONS

Fruitful producers Arthur Clarke Study on Luke 8:8

R

eading the parable of the sower and the soils can be evokes faith. An older generation used to talk about ‘getting in some respects a dispiriting exercise. After all, of the unconverted under the sound of the gospel’. This was the four responses given to the precious seed, two a noble aim and an effective one also, as ‘believing’ in the were totally unproductive and the third was a touchNew Testament understanding of the Word, meant not only and-go affair. So much good seed squandered, so much effort information but action relating to the implications of such with nothing to show for the time and emotion expended. All knowledge. ‘Believing on the Lord Jesus Christ’ was both expectations of a harvest were unfulfilled. an intellectual acceptance of his personhood but also a life But upon reading the parable again, leaving aside any negative redirecting dedication to him and his Lordship. interpretation, it must be acknowledged that the seed on the It is important to state that there can be no standardisation productive soil brought forth a harvest beyond all expectations. of how trusting souls come to faith. Three most significant “Other seed fell on good soil. It came Christians in my generation, Billy up and yielded a crop, a hundred times Graham, John Stott and C.S. Lewis, each When the honest seeker had their own distinctive faith pilgrimage. more than was sown” (Luke 8:8). In his interpretation of this parable, our Lord hears the Word preached As a teenager, sometime in the autumn set forth a progression which, honestly of 1934, Billy Graham, familiar with tent followed, would lead to spiritual maturity. and willingly exposes missions, attended one near his home “The seed on the good soil stands for those mind and conscience to in Charlotte, North Carolina. Then in a with a noble and good heart, who hear the public declaration of faith, a process he Word, retain it, and by preserving produce its challenge, such would use in his subsequent crusades, a crop.” walked the aisle in response to encounter evokes faith. Graham The steps into the kingdom are herein the evangelist’s challenge. presented.

John Stott, a sensitive public schoolboy, Sincerity: “Those with a noble and good heart.” When the having read the text Revelation 3:20, opened the door and German High Command were on trial at Nuremburg after the invited Jesus into his life, all this in the quietness of his own Second World War, for crimes against humanity, an American room. C.S. Lewis, a world-renowned scholar, as a seeker after Lutheran chaplain, fluent in German, was appointed to be truth, no matter where it led, examined the Christian faith their pastor as they awaited trial. Henry Gerecke, that chaplain, and knew himself (his own words) “to be dragged kicking and found dealing with Hermann Goering most trying. Goering screaming into the kingdom of God.” was the evil genius behind Hitler, as concentration camps were So, let us come, just as we are, captivated by the Word and his new idea.

God, and the angels will welcome all comers into everlasting He resisted approaches of the chaplain, zealously denying the residence.

Christian faith until the night before his trial when he asked Persevering: “By persevering produce a crop.” Let it be for Communion: “In case there is something in the religion known that faith in Jesus does not guarantee a trouble-free life; you talk about.” The chaplain refused his request, cynically persecution is part of the small print of discipleship. So note expressed. His reply was, “I’ll take my chances.” these lines from Geoffrey Studdert Kennedy: Jesus, whose love is broader than the measures of man’s mind, We shall build on! declared: “Not everyone who says to me ‘Lord, Lord’ will enter We shall build on! the kingdom” (Matthew 7:22). Only the sincere have their On through the cynic’s scorning, prayers answered ( Jeremiah 29:13).

On through the coward’s warning, Commitment: “Hear the Word, and retain it.” When On through the cheat’s suborning, the honest seeker hears the Word preached and willingly We shall build on! exposes mind and conscience to its challenge, such encounter

Herald September 2019

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IN THIS MONTH...

September 2001

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

Suffer the little children…

Roger Anderson

In Northern Ireland, like the Republic, abortion is illegal, except in certain circumstances. On the 13 June the Family Planning Association was given leave by the High Court in Belfast to bring a judicial review of the Province’s abortion laws with the purpose of clarifying the position on abortion.

Despite the almost unanimous opposition from the Stormont parties to the extension of the 1967 Abortion Act to Northern Ireland, the subject looks set to become a hot potato...

As Protestant Christians we have often perhaps left the abortion debate to our Catholic neighbours, and paid but casual lip service to their principled stand on the topic…

When living in the United States, my wife and I were struck by the fact that American Christians take the issue of abortion much more seriously than we do in either the UK or in the Republic…To them it was a matter of life and death and should be treated as such. It was often mentioned in church services; Americans took the time to find out how their political representatives voted on the issue and lobbied them personally. Have we any idea what our elected representatives’ views are or how they vote?

Of course, individual circumstances surrounding pregnancy are not always black and white, and this requires discussion not possible here. But nine times out of 10 the biblical choice is clear. As Christians in Ireland, north and south, we should be vigilant to any attempt to deny life to the weakest members of our society who cannot speak for themselves… At the same time, we should wholeheartedly support any attempt to offer parents in crisis an alternative to the trauma of abortion.

Ethical tourism Joe Furphy

…Christians should always be considering how our lives and lifestyles affect other people; how we approach holidays should be no different, so do we ever stop to think of the effect that tourism has on the local economies? How do we deal with the contrast between our wealth and the poverty of some of the Third World countries we visit? Do we react with pity and indignation when we learn that in order to provide us with showers in our hotel, whole villages have to do without any supply at all?...

Some countries have suffered dearly from the effects of prostitution, gambling and similar degrading activities introduced by westerners to previously upright countries. Have our objections been made strongly enough?

And what of the environmental damage caused by tourism…

Next time we go on holiday, can we think more of how we as individuals and as groups, impinge on the lives of those whose home areas we are privileged to visit…

Also from September ‘01 8

Herald September 2019

9/11 terrorist attacks shocked the world

Kylie Minogue tops the UK charts with Can’t Get You Out Of My Head

Letters to the editor Of hymns and psalms

Dear Sir, Listening to our minister give a report on the General Assembly 2001, I was surprised to hear that the Tuesday morning communion service, usually held in May Street Church, is to be changed to the Assembly Hall in future because of the lack of numbers attending. Have our ministers forgotten what Jesus said, “This do in remembrance of me.”

Then I hear that a new Presbyterian hymnbook is to be published. Is this not a waste of time when a lot of our young ministers look on the psalms as old hat?...

Concerned church member

There, there, Osiewe!

Rev Stephen Hancock, minister of the United Presbyterian and Methodist Church, Waterford, with Oseiwe, the first Nigerian child to be baptised in that congregation.

Heart transplant pioneer Christiaan Barnard dies

MY STORY...

Dr Paul Booth, from Drumquin Presbyterian, describes how he and wife Doreen support the Christian charity SAT-7 and how this led to a trip to Beirut.

A madcap idea?

“B

eirut? You must be mad!” This was the reaction We also had the opportunity to travel to the Beqaa Valley of the friendly Dublin Airport customer and visit one of the many informal refugee camps there. It was assistant who had enquired where my wife, shocking to see the sheer scale of the camps and the very basic Doreen, and I were going on holiday. conditions in which refugee families live.

It turned out that the man trundling me through the airport Nevertheless, the camp was well served by another Christian in a wheelchair (I couldn’t manage the long distance on foot) organisation that delivers food and other supplies. It offers was an ex-soldier who had served in the peacekeeping force friendship and practical help too. During our visit, a young lady during the Lebanese civil war in the 1980s. He couldn’t imagine was giving English lessons to a group of women, and we learnt any other Beirut than the dangerous city centre he had known, how an optional Bible study has also developed from this. menaced by snipers lurking among the ruins of bombed-out So what kind of ‘madness’ was it that took Doreen and me buildings. to Lebanon? I would say it was a case of clear, straightforward With some buildings pockmarked by shell holes even guidance that came from being in the right place at the right today, Beirut still bears the scars of that time. bitter, 15-year-long war. But it is very Progressively worsening muscle disease SAT-7 is a very special different now: much has been rebuilt, and had meant early retirement for me. That kind of Christian the city has restored its civilised, even led to a move, four years ago, from London sophisticated, air. ministry. Its purpose is to to County Tyrone, where Doreen’s family Lebanon is one of the more prosperous originally came from. We had always Middle Eastern countries, despite having broadcast satellite TV intended to seek ways to serve the Lord to play host to huge numbers of refugees in retirement, and we had a longstanding programmes in Arabic, from Syria and elsewhere – estimated at interest in SAT-7 and in the Middle East.

25% of Lebanon’s population. Beirut is also Turkish and Farsi.

In fact, Doreen had been learning Arabic home to one of SAT-7’s main studios, the principal reason for for the past 10 years! When SAT-7 announced they were our visit two years ago. looking for more volunteer ambassadors to promote the work – SAT-7 is a very special kind of Christian ministry. Its purpose and had a particular need for someone in Northern Ireland – it is to broadcast satellite TV programmes in Arabic, Turkish and was a no-brainer.

Farsi to the Middle East and North Africa. Unlike traditional We soon settled into Drumquin Presbyterian Church, which Western ‘missions’ that send out workers to ‘foreign countries’, had, in turn, been Doreen’s grandmother’s and mother’s church SAT-7 is largely based within the region it serves. for around 100 years. Somewhat to my surprise (as a recent The people who make SAT-7’s programmes are Christians ‘blow-in’ from England), I recently became an elder there. born and brought up in those countries, who already know the Our involvement with SAT-7 seemed an obvious next step. language and culture. They serve their fellow believers, many But the trip to Lebanon certainly helped to bring to life that of whom live in hostile, challenging environments where it is part of the world and show what SAT-7’s ministry is achieving difficult to enjoy Christian fellowship. But the programmes there. Whether or not we were ‘mad’ to go on that trip, we were are not watched only by Christians; SAT-7 makes the gospel certainly inspired by it – and hopefully made more effective in available to all. our voluntary role in support of SAT-7.

Visiting the Beirut studios was a truly inspirational experience. We were able to watch a programme being filmed Dr Paul Booth works closely with Rev John Seawright who is and to drop in on many other staff around the building. What SAT-7’s PCI representative. Both undertake speaking engagements stood out for me was their professionalism and the high quality on behalf of SAT-7 (sat7uk.org). Contact respond@sat7uk.org or of the television they produce. call Paul on (028) 6821 0038 or John on (028) 9147 7862.

Herald September 2019

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NEWS | PCI

News Sensory celebration at Aaron House Residents and day care users at PCI’s Aaron House in Dundonald enjoyed a summer jazz party as part of the celebrations to mark the opening of their new sensory garden. The event also coincided with this year’s Learning Disability Week.

The official opening was performed by Lee-Ann Nesbitt, who attends the day care centre, and Aaron House resident Niall Campbell, both of whom cut the ribbon with Presbyterian Moderator Dr William Henry and BBC Radio Ulster’s Gardener’s Corner presenter David Maxwell.

The patio garden, which is adjacent to the day care centre, has been transformed and now includes an open-air wooden classroom, greenhouse for seeds, gazebo, decking and a water feature.

Four rectangle sensory beds stimulate different senses: sense of touch with different textured plants, the sense of smell with highly aromatic flowers, taste through edible plants and flowers, and one that has been planted for visual stimulation with colourful flowers.

There are also bird feeders and nesting boxes to encourage birds to visit the garden.

“Today has been a fantastic day and has been a tribute to everyone who has played their part in making this dream become a reality.

From the fundraisers to the builders, the diggers and the planters, everyone who has supported the project deserves a huge thank you,” said Francis Mooney, head of day care at Aaron House.

“In its various phases, it has taken around 10 years to complete and has been a labour of love, not only for our residents, service users and their families, but for staff and the local support group and committee. Together we have raised some £25,000 over the last five years alone.”

Personnel news Gary and Mary Reid and family were on home assignment from Kenya in July and August and were involved in deputation speaking in a number of churches.

Peter and Jayne Fleming are on home assignment from Nepal and are undertaking deputation until 22 October.

Peter Lockwood is due to return to Ireland from Nepal on home assignment in mid-September and will be engaged in deputation from 15 September to 6 October.

Stephen Cowan is due to return to Ireland from Kenya on home assignment in early October and will be engaged in deputation speaking from 13 October to 10 November.

Looking for a speaker on global mission?

A number of PCI global mission workers will be available for deputation in 2019/20. For information on who is available, contact Beverley in the Mission Department, Assembly Buildings, telephone +44 (0)28 9032 2284 or email mission@presbyterianireland.org

Eukumindo conference

Above left: Lee-Ann Nesbitt, who has been coming to Aaron House for four days a week for three years, puts some finishing touches to one of the sensory flower beds.

Above right: BBC Radio Ulster’s Gardener’s Corner presenter David Maxwell and Presbyterian Moderator Dr William Henry at the official opening of the sensory garden.

Below: BBC Radio Ulster’s Gardener’s Corner presenter David Maxwell, Aaron House resident Niall Campbell, Presbyterian Moderator Dr William Henry, and day care user Lee-Ann Nesbitt officially open the new sensory garden.

PCI is a member of Eukumindo – an organisation which brings together European churches and mission organisations actively engaged in Indonesia, together with leaders from the Council of Churches in Indonesia.

This September Eukumindo’s annual conference will be coming to Northern Ireland for the first time in 18 years. The conference, which includes Eukumindo’s 69th General Assembly and a study day, will take place in Assembly Buildings, Belfast from 12 to 14 September. The study day will be entitled ‘Journey to Peace: Taking steps to reconciliation in Northern Ireland and Indonesia’.

Mozambique visit Rev Uel Marrs (Secretary, Council for Global Mission) travelled to Mozambique in August to visit a Tearfund project, which will be supported by PCI’s next World Development Appeal due to be launched in October.

MAD Crew To run the MAD Weekend, 25-27 October, PCI needs a large number of volunteers who love Jesus and want to help see young people meet with him at the event.

This service opportunity is for young adults aged 18 and over.

Please see the PCI website for more information.

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Herald September 2019

Find out more on www.presbyterianireland.org

Events

DIARY DATES

Disciple Makers Network A four-session programme, Disciple Makers Network is designed to share the principles and practices of discipleship in an accessible way for congregations.

It has already proven helpful for many congregations in enabling them to develop a culture of discipleship which fits their setting and starting point.

Maximum impact comes from involving teams of leaders from across the life and witness of a congregation – ministers, elders, organisational leaders and emerging leaders all benefit from sharing together in a learning environment.

The cost for each participating congregation is £75 per team, which covers up to five people.

The first of four gatherings will take in Assembly Buildings, Belfast on Monday 30 September from 7.30-9.45pm.

To find out more and to book a place contact the CCLW office or visit the PCI website www.presbyterianireland.org/DMN

Youth Ministry Course

Children’s Ministry Course

The redesigned Youth Ministry Course starts on 23 September at Union Theological College, Belfast and will run on Mondays from 7.30-9.30pm until 9 December, with a residential on 8-9 November.

This course is for anyone over 18 working actively with young people in their local church.

It will cover some big picture thinking to help clarify where youth work fits in the overall life of the church and focus on some of the key skills of reaching, embracing and equipping young people to live out their faith in Jesus Christ in an increasingly challenging culture.

It will help participants reflect on their own practice as they apply the material to what they do and equip them to be a more focused and effective youth leader.

To find out more and to book a place contact the CCLW office or visit the PCI website www.presbyterianireland.org/ youthministrycourse

Union Theological College, Belfast hosts this year’s Children’s Ministry Course on Monday evenings from 7.30-9.30pm between 16 September to 25 November.

This carefully designed 10-week course will enhance the gifts of anyone involved in children’s ministry, whether they work in the church full time, are a Sunday school coordinator, children’s ministry leader or helper, or an elder with responsibility for children’s ministry in the congregation.

It will help participants see children’s ministry differently and equip them with skills and techniques to make their ministry even more effective.

To find out more and book a place contact the CCLW office or visit the PCI website www.presbyterianireland.org/ childrensministrycourse

Resources ‘Called’ youth resource Drawing on the theme of this year’s Youth Night, ‘Called’ is a flexible resource which explores how God calls, equips and sends us as his people.

It offers a range of games and exercises, alternative talk outlines, discussion questions and response exercises. Video from the Youth Night programme is also included.

This free downloadable resource is available from www.presbyteriandireland.org/called

Handling the Word Handling the Word aims to equip church members who give talks to a youth fellowship, Presbyterian Women group, a men’s breakfast, or who occasionally preach. It is also useful for Bible study leaders, Sunday school teachers, as well as ruling elders, and acts as the starting point for those interested in becoming an accredited preacher.

Union Theological College will host Handling the Word on Thursdays, 8-10pm, from 1 October until 19 November.

Further details of this and future presbytery courses are available on the PCI website. To register, please contact the CCLW office.

Understanding language Assembly Buildings, Belfast is to host two events of ‘Understood: Language that connects in communicating the gospel’ on Wednesday 16 October.

In an increasingly secular society, people are confused by the familiar language we use when communicating the gospel. Words like ‘saved’, ‘repent’ and ‘conversion’ need unpacked and new language and metaphors developed so that the good news is understood today.

Laurence Singlehurst, Christian author and director of Cell UK, will share his thoughts on the subject. In the morning he will help ministers and others who preach regularly consider how they communicate the gospel in sermons and public occasions, and in the evening the focus will be on equipping regular church members for conversational evangelism in more contemporary language.

September Children’s Ministry Course starts Union Theological College, Belfast – Monday 16

Side by Side

Assembly Buildings, Belfast – Monday 7 Richhill – Saturday 21

Taking Care refresher training

Muckamore – Monday 2 Harryville – Tuesday 3 First Dromore – Wednesday 4 Tartaraghan – Wednesday 4 Buckna – Wednesday 18 Second Limavady – Wednesday 18

Taking Care foundation training Ballyclare – Tuesday 3

Youth Ministry Course starts

Union Theological College, Belfast – Monday 23

Disciple Makers Network Assembly Buildings, Belfast – Monday 30

October Handling the Word starts Union Theological College, Belfast – Tuesday 1

Taking Care refresher training

Hamilton Road, Bangor – Tuesday 1 Whiteabbey – Saturday 5 High Kirk, Ballymena – Monday 7 Hamilton Road, Bangor – Thursday 10 Glengormley – Monday 14

Taking Care foundation training Dundonald – Friday 4

Side by Side

Wellington – Saturday 5 Kilfennan – Saturday 19

Herald September 2019

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Speaking up Daniel Kane, convener of the Council for Public Affairs, outlines what will happen in Northern Ireland if there is no Executive in place by 21 October 2019. He encourages Presbyterians to take a practical stand in line with the values of our Church.

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n the morning of Tuesday 23 July 2019, the people of Northern Ireland awoke in a different country to the one they had gone to bed in the night before.

The ground beneath their feet had shifted on an unprecedented scale. It was as though they had packed their suitcases and moved to a new place overnight.

In the event of Northern Ireland having no functioning Executive at Stormont by 21 October the following two provisions become law through the Northern Ireland (Executive Formation) Act: Following a debate in the House of Lords lasting just 17 minutes, the Secretary of State must implement the recommendations of a report from the United Nations Committee on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW). Not only does this open up the way for the decriminalisation of abortion provision with the potential for abortions to be performed up to 28 weeks, but the Act leaves a five-month vacuum without any legislative framework for abortion provision in Northern Ireland.

It also creates the potential for sex and disability-selective abortion for babies with Down’s syndrome, cleft lip and club foot to be available locally. Furthermore, no body currently exists in Northern Ireland with the powers to regulate clinics in their medical operations when it comes to termination of pregnancy. There would also be significant changes to the teaching of relationship and sexuality education in our schools.

The Secretary of State must introduce marriage for same-sex couples by 13 January 2020 and there is no indication as to what protections might be included to ensure that any person or religious body is not compelled to conduct such ceremonies.

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Valiant and tireless efforts of campaigning groups and the masterful interventions of Baroness Nuala O’Loan and other pro-life peers against the introduction of these provisions were roundly ignored. In spite of repeated assurances from the government that devolution in NI would be respected, both UK Houses of Parliament drove a coach and horses through the right the law accords the people of NI under the Good Friday Agreement to make their own decision on the devolved matters of abortion and marriage. The Northern

...the Act leaves a fivemonth vacuum... for abortion provision...

Ireland (Executive Formation) Act was imposed on the people of NI overnight by a coalition of over 300 UK MPs who have not consulted the people here and who do not represent its constituents – this is unparalleled. As efforts are made by the NI political parties to restore a functioning Northern Ireland Executive, passing this legislation at this time has increased the complexity of the situation and made reaching a political agreement more difficult.

There is natural anger and deep hurt at how this has come about. These provisions blatantly disregard our deeply held Christian values, which for centuries have provided a positive and cohesive framework for the protection of individuals and benefit for all society.

These are not the laws we would have framed, so what is the response of those who love the Lord? As Christians, we belong to, and are shaped by laws and values from another much bigger and longer lasting kingdom, whose architect and builder is God. In response to these changes we therefore must be resolutely

Christlike in everything we do and say. Introducing Jesus into all of our conversations and responses to this new world the people of Northern Ireland now live in must be paramount.

Here are some practical things you can do to speak against this outrage and give a voice to the unborn child: Pray – organise focused prayer meetings or attend ‘The Soul of the Nation’ prayer gathering at St Anne’s Cathedral on 2 September at 8pm.

Attend rallies – For example @NIvoiceless “We were not asked – they cannot speak.” A silent protest gathering at the lower gates of Stormont with no placards and no slogans on Friday 6 September at 7pm.

Write – to local papers, send letters to the editor and engage with local radio.

Social media – share CARE, Both Lives Matter, Evangelical Alliance and Right to Life posts and tweets.

Demand Stormont returns – using the ‘Both Lives Matter’ postcard campaign write to your local MLA and councillors.

Remember numbers matter.

The bottom line is we need a functioning Executive back at Stormont before the 21 October in which case this legislation imposed by Westminster will be void.

As followers of Jesus we must remember that our primary calling remains that of bearing faithful witnesses to the saving power of the cross – nothing has changed for us in this regard other than the backdrop against which it is done in NI. The disciple-making commission given to all of us by the Lord has not been changed

by Westminster. We are still heavenlyminded people speaking to the world about heavenly issues. Above all God’s love in Christ is still the core message which compels us and it is still the main plea for Northern Ireland.

PERSONAL VIEW

Life lessons Karen Jardine PCI’s Public Affairs Officer

My brother jokes that I am paid to read the papers but there is a bit more to my role than that. I provide support to the Council for Public Affairs, and its convener Rev Daniel Kane, along with its committee, panels and task groups, and assist the Church with its work in the public square by helping to develop its thinking and position on issues of public policy across Ireland.

It can feel that faith is being pushed to the private and personal sphere, away from the public square. But PCI still has a place at the table both in Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland and continues to have opportunities to engage with gracious gospel confidence. Speaking into the public square is as much about effective behind-the-scenes engagement as it is about statements and media interviews.

Some might think the Church is no longer relevant to society but we still have a great story to tell, and we should keep finding opportunities to share it. The Assembly’s ‘Vision for Society’ statement reminds us that we are “called

by God to grace-filled relationships in the power of the Holy Spirit, as ambassadors of Christ’s kingdom in a broken and divided world”. PCI lives out this calling in many areas of congregational and wider church life.

All Presbyterians have an opportunity to make a difference in their own public square. A local congregation might think about how it can pursue grace-filled relationships in its local community by volunteering in the local primary school, engaging with local business owners, getting to know elected representatives, or taking time to tidy up a communal area of land. At a personal level, we can each make a difference, being salt and light in our own public squares, through our daily interactions at the shops, in the gym, at the school gate, or at work.

Today’s society can feel very noisy with little room for nuance or thoughtful reflection in public debate. We have forgotten how to disagree well.

The background noise of my childhood was news and current affairs from BBC Radio Ulster. We were encouraged to take an interest in the world around us, and the rest as they say is history! Spiritually, involvement with Scripture Union, first as a child attending CSSM and school

SU groups before eventually becoming a leader myself, has had a significant influence on my life.

Currently, one of my favourite worship songs is What a Beautiful Name. The words are so simple, yet so powerful – a great reminder to keep looking to Jesus who has conquered sin and death, and whose name is beautiful, wonderful and powerful. How amazing, in the midst of life’s many uncertainties, to sing the truth that he has no rival, no equal and that our God reigns now and forever.

I have had opportunities to visit many amazing countries across the world. Recently my brother and his family were living and working at an international school in southern India, which provides education for children of missionaries working in surrounding regions. It was a real privilege to not only see where Keith and Ruth were working and where my nieces were going to school, but also to hear stories first-hand from parents working to share the gospel in some of the world’s most difficult and unreached areas.

I love being part of the church, the family of God, which spans the generations and is not confined to one location. It is a privilege to be able to pray for, and encourage, one another, each with our own unique gifts to use in his service.

One of the best things about Northern Ireland is that you’re never too far away from the shore. A walk beside the coast always clears the head, closely followed by good conversation over a cup of tea with close friends.

When I lived in London I was reading about God calling Abram to leave his home country and set out for Canaan. I remember thinking at the time “God, you can’t ask someone to get up and leave just like that.” A few months later I found myself, for a variety of reasons, having to return home to Northern Ireland with no real sense of what the future held.

As always, God has proved himself faithful whatever the circumstances.

The best advice I’ve been given is: the most important car is the car in front. I forgot that once to my cost!

Herald September 2019

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CONGREGATIONAL STORY

New term New hope As the new school year starts, Tracey Nicholl from St James’ Presbyterian Church in Ballymoney shares how the congregation is reaching out to families in a very practical way.

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eaching out to our communities can be a daunting prospect. We enjoy the safety of our church buildings and yet unless we venture out into the highways and gather together all whom we find, both bad and good, how will the Father’s wedding hall be filled with guests (Matthew 22:9-10) and how will we survive as a denomination? Writing of the 1859 Revival’s impact on the north coast, Nicholas M. Railton wrote, “In every generation there are some who turn to those Scriptures seeking the solution to society’s woes… Initially, this movement was not about adding numbers to congregations, but about him and his glory. The primary goal was a revived church; the secondary effect a rekindled love for those outside the bounds of the Christian church.”

I would like to say that it was my idea to collect items of school uniform and then in turn, offer them to those in Ballymoney who either wanted them or needed them, but sadly it was not. Sitting at home, watching the news last July, a church in Belfast had already thought of this idea. I watched the news item and

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wondered if there was need for this kind of ministry in Ballymoney.

Fast forward to September and I was watching a Channel Four programme entitled Born on the Breadline about the rise of ‘baby banks’ in the UK, where they provide items a parent would need to look after a baby when they don’t have

There was a…definite need in Ballymoney… with teachers trying to alleviate the problem through giving out items of lost property.

the finances to do it themselves. The people on the programme were not always people receiving benefits but they had lost jobs or they did work but were low paid. As one local council worker told me, “It is the working poor – they are the emerging group in our society.” They earn too much to receive any sort of benefit but too little to make ends meet.

A local charity explained that some people earn too much to receive housing benefit and therefore they have to pay private rent, which is very expensive. Once they pay their bills and buy food, there isn’t anything left for school uniforms or new shoes. One mother told me that she received £34 of a grant for school uniform, which only covered a jumper and a skirt. And it is not only the uniform that parents have to buy but also sportswear and equipment.

The same is true when a new baby arrives in the home and there isn’t enough to buy some of the basics. This prompted a passion to offer help in both these areas.

In our kirk session meeting last September, we discussed how we could connect with our community. So, with the permission of the minister and kirk

session, I began contacting local schools and the education welfare officer for the area to get their thoughts. There was a real and definite need in Ballymoney and there had been for some time, with teachers trying to alleviate the problem through giving out items of lost property.

School uniforms can be expensive and of course, children misplace or lose them.

I was telephoned and asked if I had a school skirt because their daughter’s skirt had been taken by another pupil by mistake and because of that, her daughter couldn’t attend school the next day because she only had one skirt and they couldn’t afford to just to go out and buy another one.

There are two strands to our ministry – the school uniforms and the items for 0–4-year-olds. We have called it, ‘Living Hope Community’, because a living God, gives a living hope. Our foundational verse is Matthew 25:35-36: “For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.”

We have had tremendous support from our local schools: Ballymoney High, Dalriada Grammar, Leaney Primary School and Ballymoney Model Controlled Integrated Primary School, who asked parents to donate school uniforms that they no longer needed and those parents have continued to support this ministry. In addition to uniforms, we now have shoes, school bags and books.

We started to offer this strand of the ministry in January 2018 and have been blessed by those who have supported us as well as those receiving from Living Hope Community.

To make the school uniforms available, we have five days annually where we open our church hall and welcome all who come in. This ministry is open to all, to those who can afford to buy

To make the school uniforms available, we have five days annually where we open our church hall and welcome all who come in.

school uniforms and those who cannot.

It is not means-tested in any way. As a recycling project, there is no need to buy new uniforms if we have it hanging on a rail. We started this first strand in January, and one volunteer said to me afterwards, “I thought we would be sitting around looking at each other.”

That was not the case! In the three days we have opened so far, we have had over 60 people come through our doors. They are all different and we have had some great conversations; some have come back to see if we have anything different.

It is a start and a connection with our community that we hope to build on. We have no agenda, other than to help and to love people, no matter who they are.

We also have toys, clothes, prams and beds for the pre-school age. In addition, we have received a donation of baby bounty packs. These packs provide some of the basics needed when a new baby arrives home. We hope to begin this second strand of Living Hope Community soon.

Our own congregation have donated so much and every Christmas, the offering from the Christmas candlelight service goes to a children’s charity. Our congregation decided last Christmas to support Living Hope Community and £1,004 was raised.

We have to thank our local schools who have been so generous in their support.

We also want to thank members of our congregation, who have supported us by donating many of the items, washed and ironed, helping to organise the uniforms and volunteering on the days that we are open. The charity shops have also been helpful, especially the Compassion shop. Ballymoney Foodbank has been very supportive and encouraging too. The response has been wonderful and it takes us all to build a community. A strapline used by one of the baby banks in London is: “It takes a village to raise a child.”

It is not possible to do this in isolation, and we would appreciate your prayers as we reach out in this new venture. At St James’ we pray that through Living Hope Community, with God at its heart, we will reflect God’s glory and love. May we also have the aim of the movement that brought the 1859 Revival: “…this will not be about adding numbers to congregations, but about him and his glory. The primary goal was a revived church; the secondary effect a rekindled love for those outside the bounds of the Christian church.”

Revive us again Lord.

Herald September 2019

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What do you want?

The Moderator, Dr William Henry, shares his experience of enjoying God on a recent mission trip to Kenya.

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hat do you want? That was the very stark question posed in a book I read very recently.

The writer was keen to point out that it is, in reality, the most fundamental question associated with Christian discipleship.

Our wants and longings get to the very core of what we think is important and what we truly value. Jesus’ command to ‘come and follow me’ is really just an invitation to synchronise our lifestyles and choices along with his. It’s putting him first. It’s about wanting what Jesus wants.

What do I want to do when I receive the invitation to travel with a group of young talented medical students who seek to work alongside a church in Kenya? That was the question in my mind the summer before I took up my moderatorial responsibilities. This team was facilitated by Rev Paul Bailie, CEO of Mission Africa.

Here was a bunch of young committed

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Christians who desired to make the most of their summer break from studies and were willing to go overseas to work in a school for the poorest of kids and engage in a variety of other outreach activities.

The team was a group of friends, my

Our wants and longings get to the very core of what we think is important and what we truly value.

own daughter included, who approached Mission Africa with the idea for a short-term mission trip.

Based in Kikuyu on the mission station of PCEA, these young adults had the incalculable joy of sharing the love of Jesus with kids in a school run by Thogoto parish for orphans and vulnerable children: teaching, evangelising, singing, dancing and having fun. These were long days in the school, making the most of the time and opportunity, getting alongside the children and making a difference for God. It was a joy to encourage the inspirational teaching staff – all of whom were volunteers giving sacrificially to serve God. Time was also available to minister within a care home for the elderly, another expanding role as part of the work of the local church, and to speak to 400 slum children of God’s saving power. As medical students they had time to visit one of the local hospitals and

consider options for themselves in years to come, perhaps as part of their medical elective. And what cultural experience for students would not be complete without interaction with local university students, comparing notes and approaches, sharing their experience of knowing and following Jesus; and of course, joyous, active participation in worship on Sundays in local churches? The people we met were inspiring, despite hardship they were dancing, singing and praying because of the joy they had found in Jesus. What an inspiration. Truly they enjoyed God. Today, I could ask the question of any of the student team, “What do you want?” and I know the answer is to be part of what God is doing in our world.

From the days I spent with them, I recognise their youthful passion and can see how their desires align with the kingdom of God. Here are young adults who hunger and thirst after God and crave to be part of a world where he is all in all. They want to make a difference and can now see that they have.

Why did I go along with them? Well, I

Jesus isn’t simply content to give us new ideas, but he’s seeking that we follow him without reserve.

had ministry openings in a different way, meeting local church leaders and assisting Mission Africa develop and maintain older links and investigate possible new opportunities. I also had the occasion to speak to the student team, lead them in their evening devotions and be around to encourage over that time.

If Jesus were to stop me and directly

ask, “What do I want?” What would I say? For Jesus isn’t simply content to give us new ideas, but he’s seeking that we follow him without reserve. I want to be part of what Jesus is involved in here. I want to willingly encourage those who have sensed the call of Jesus upon their own lives and who are daily chasing after him. Oftentimes it will take us out of our own routine and the ordered neatness of our own plans to be involved in something God lays in front of us. What a privilege as Christians who are a little bit older to give time and energy so that those who are younger on the path of discipleship can catch a glimpse of what God is doing. What a personal joy to help others find enjoyment in God. Can I encourage our church leaders and ministers to get alongside those younger people in our churches and be part of the work of igniting their passion for God and mission. That might actually mean going with them on a team and sharing in their learning and exploring, or facilitating their plans. It all boils down to what you want!

Herald September 2019

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YOUTH AND CHILDREN’S PROJECT

Growing together in Spain

Ruth Bromley introduces this year’s Youth and Children’s Project and provides an update on some projects from previous years.

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he new Youth and Children’s Project for 2019/20 is called ‘Crecer Juntos’ (pronounced Crether Huntos) and will support the work of Derek and Jane French in Spain. This project has a completely overseas focus.

Crecer Juntos aims to encourage children and young people to put into action what they hear when they read the Bible. We want their faith to be active and their interaction with the Bible to be more than simply head knowledge.

The Bible teaches us that faith is believing in a person that we cannot see but that we learn about through reading God’s Word. We learn and understand more of the character of God and what it means to have a living relationship with him through reading the Bible. We then live out that faith through the actions that we perform with our life.

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Spain Spain is a country that many of us consider as a holiday destination, and so we do not often think about the Christian church there. The Christian community in Spain is small, with over 90% of towns having no evangelical church. The church struggles to teach and disciple children and young people, and there are few good devotional books for families to use while reading the Bible together at home.

To help with the development of faith in children, young people and families,

The Christian community in Spain is small, with over 90% of towns having no evangelical church.

the church desires to translate and print good quality teaching and devotional materials to be used within the church and at home. In PCI, we believe in the importance of teaching and discipling children and young people in faith, and also to support families as they share faith in the everyday.

The project will partner with Derek and Jane French in the work that they are doing with the publishing branch of Grupos Bíblicos Unidos (GBU) – gaining copyright to translate and print good resources for churches to use with children, young people and families. These resources will make a huge difference to the discipleship of the whole Christian community, both in Bilbao and in the rest of Spain.

Derek and Jane French Derek and Jane began serving with

GBU in student ministry and leadership development in 2007 as PCI global mission workers and are based in Bilbao, northern Spain. They are currently also involved with a new project alongside the publishing branch of GBU, Andamio.

They aim to produce resources for Sunday school teachers, youth leaders and families.

Derek and Jane’s home congregation within PCI is Drumbo Presbyterian.

They currently live in Bilbao with their two children, Gabriela and Luka.

Bible teaching The teaching of the project focuses on the story of the parable of the sower in Luke 8:4-15. Jesus taught that when people hear his Word, there are different ways that they can respond. He said that when his Word is heard by those with a receptive heart, there is a large crop to be harvested. We want the children, young people and families in the church in Spain to have this opportunity, to hear and act on God’s Word, taught through quality resources in their own language.

The children will also learn the verse from Psalm 119:105 where it says,

We want the children, young people and families in the church in Spain to have…quality resources in their own language.

“Your Word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” This verse reminds us that God’s Word, the Bible, helps us to understand the way that we should live and how to follow him.

Stories The children will also hear stories from Spain, both of a family and a church community.

Ruth, a mother of two girls, says, “We use children’s Bibles and devotional books [at home with our children]. The truth is [that] everything we use is in English and we do our best to translate them. What is missing here are good materials in Spanish. It would be great to have Bible teaching resources in Spanish, for example resources that answer the

Update on 2017/18

Update on 2018/19

The 2017/18 Youth and Children’s Project was called ‘What is Church?’ It raised £60,000, divided between Zambia (£45,000) and Maynooth Presbyterian Church (£15,000).

In Zambia, Diane Cusick writes: “I have started working with early childhood teachers in the primary schools in Eastern Province of Zambia. Distances are vast in Eastern Province so we will have teachers travelling to a central place for a week’s workshop. This is exciting and it would not be possible were it not for the money raised last year.”

Maynooth Community Church is making progress in its planning for the new church building.

The 2018/19 Youth and Children’s Project was called ‘Foundations’ and its focus was on providing theological training for women in Pakistan and also funding a building project in Kilmount Presbyterian, Monaghan.

The teaching focused on the story of the wise and foolish builders. Two men build houses – one on the solid rock foundations and one on the sandy ground. The houses were completed and the builders were happy. But then the storm came and everything changed. One house survived the strong winds and rain, and the other did not.

However, this story is not actually about house building techniques; it is not about houses at all. It’s a story about following Jesus and living as a disciple every day. Jesus says that when we listen to his teaching, with the help of the Holy Spirit, we are like that wise man building his house on rock; building on a firm foundation. Then when the storms of life hit, our faith stands firm.

If we don’t listen, we are like the foolish man. When the storm hit, his house collapsed. When things got difficult, the house did not stand a chance.

questions children ask about God, books that help us build a bridge between Jesus and our children and resources that help them apply the truths of the Bible to their daily lives.”

Crecer Juntos Crecer Juntos is a phrase that means ‘growing together’. We have a desire that as children and young people in PCI and in Spain read books and be taught from resources in their own language that they can grow together in their faith in Jesus.

We hope that the whole Church will take the opportunity to engage with the teaching of the project and the work being done in Spain. We want to encourage our children and young people to also hear God’s Word and respond to him in faith.

Closing date for donations being received is 30 September 2020. All donations received after this date will automatically be allocated to the 2020/21 project.

In Pakistan, only men attend the Theological College in Gujranwala to be trained as ministers and pastors. Next door is the United Bible Training Centre (UBTC) which has been set up to train women and girls in the basics, or foundations, of their faith.

These women are being trained to go back to their communities to teach others about God and about what it means to be a follower of Jesus. Our project is to fund courses which aim to equip women as Bible teachers and evangelists.

Kilmount Presbyterian is a small congregation in the Monaghan Presbytery.

They have a growing number of children and young people in the congregation.

The problem is that there is no room in the current buildings for them all. There is an old stable block at the back of the church and it would make a great space for Sunday school.

Foundations will resource this space to help the children and young people, and indeed the whole church community, learn more of the foundations of their faith and how to live that faith out for everyone to see.

Please send all donations to the CCLW office by 30 September 2019 at the latest.

Herald September 2019

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Election time Tom Finnegan offers advice to congregations on choosing new elders.

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t can be a perplexing question deciding who could be a new elder for your congregation. Unlike political elections, you don’t have a few select candidates. You can propose the name of any full member of the congregation. So who do you choose?

Is it the person who is always busy doing things in church? Is it the congregational committee member who deserves a ‘promotion’? Is it that respectable older man who has been in church for years? Is it a younger woman in her 20s or 30s who will bring fresh ideas? While all of these thoughts might give some insight into who might be a good elder, can I suggest that none of them should be the first or even second or third criteria? Elders have a crucial role in the leadership of the congregation. It’s important to ask more searching questions about anyone we are

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considering to be an elder. To do this we need to understand the biblical role of an elder more fully.

Your personal experience of elders might be limited to seeing them as the person who visits your home from time to time or who posts the congregation’s mail through your letterbox. Perhaps that makes you think of someone similar who is good at pastoral care or someone who will show more pastoral concern than your current elder. You’re probably also very aware that elders

The apostles Paul and Peter expend most ink on what sort of person an elder should be and less on what elders do.

lead the congregation as members of the kirk session. That might make you think of people who can influence those leadership decisions according to your preferences. When the debate about youth work, or worship, or mission comes up, having someone who has the same view as you might seem desirable. These thoughts give insights into the role of the elder but they don’t provide the full biblical picture.

The Bible’s starting point on elders is focused on godly character. The main passages on the qualities and gifts of elders are found in 1 Timothy 3:17, Titus 1:5-9 and 1 Peter 5:1-4. It’s worth reading each of these and noting what they say (your minister will also preach on the eldership before an elders’ election). The apostles Paul and Peter expend most ink on what sort of person an elder should be and less on what elders

Methods for choosing elders There are two methods for choosing elders in the Code of the Presbyterian Church in Ireland. In the first method, names are received from the congregation. The names which occur most frequently are selected by the kirk session. However, the kirk session can decide not to approve someone from this list if they are an unsuitable candidate. This isn’t done on a whim or because one of the names proposed is not the preference of the existing elders. For example, a good reason someone would be considered unsuitable by the kirk session is if they attend church very rarely.

do. An elder should be a committed Christian, demonstrated by their beliefs and lifestyle being consistently Christlike.

No one is perfect but an elder should be well down the road of Christian maturity.

This makes perfect sense in light of the biblical role of an elder. Elders are to give spiritual input into people’s lives and to be active in prayer.

The Bible also describes what elders are to do. They are to lead and shepherd the congregation. To do this they need to be familiar with and committed to what the Bible teaches. They need to have the gifts of leadership and pastoral care. In light of all this, it’s not enough that they are simply ‘busy about the church’, or a congregational committee member, or a certain age or gender. You also need to know more than just a little about the person whose name you write down as a potential new elder. It’s not enough to have seen them on the reception team on Sunday mornings or to know they have served on committee for six years. To be ready to propose someone as a new elder, you need to know them well.

This allows you to ask yourself some useful questions about how suited they are to the role of an elder. For example, you could ask if she is someone you would turn to if you were in a time of crisis. Is he someone you would ask to

Further resources

In the second method, names are proposed by the congregation to the kirk session who then actively choose from those names based on who they think would be a good elder.

The decision of kirk session is based on the criteria of godly character and gifting to be an elder. In method one, more of the decision making lies with the congregation whereas in method two it is weighted to the kirk session. In both methods, the list of names agreed by the kirk session is put to the congregation for a vote after people on the list are asked if they are willing to serve.

pray for you? Is she a good listener? Is he approachable and friendly? Those sorts of questions reveal the heart of a shepherd.

You might also ask if he is someone who takes the initiative. Does she work well with others? Is he open to change but also wise about how to bring it about?

Is she an encourager and able to inspire others? Those sorts of questions reveal something about gifting to lead as part of the congregation’s main leadership team, the kirk session.

To be ready to propose someone as a new elder, you need to know them well.

But the most important question to ask is if they have a faith in Jesus. You can’t simply assume this. It’s possible to be involved in church and give voluntary service in all sorts of ways but lack faith in Christ. You need to be certain from their life and speech that they have a real and vibrant faith. If they’ve shared their testimony at the front of the church or you’ve been in Bible study with them and heard how they answered the questions, it’s much easier. Otherwise you’ll have to

know from conversation. Not everyone uses the language of ‘being saved’ so be aware that people may use different words to affirm their trust in their Saviour. But if you’re uncertain about their faith or the maturity of their faith, it’s too big a risk to put down their name as a potential leader of the church of Jesus Christ.

If all this narrows your list down to fewer names, that’s a good thing. At the same time, make sure you haven’t overlooked good candidates because you started with the people who came to mind first. Perhaps you overlooked that older person because you were thinking it was time for fresh ideas from younger people. Perhaps you overlooked that man’s wife because you thought of him first or vice versa. Perhaps you thought that person was too young when actually spiritual maturity is not always down to physical age. Deciding who to propose as a new elder can be a perplexing question.

But, saturated in prayerful reflection, we can make wise, biblical choices about who might fulfil this role for the good of the congregation and its mission to the world for God’s glory.

Tom Finnegan is PCI’s Training Development Officer.

Choosing new elders

Here is the section from the Code of our Church that outlines the qualifications and duties of ruling elders: “The duty of ruling elders as members of Kirk Session is to work together with the minister in the oversight and government of the congregation, for the upbuilding of God’s people in spiritual fruitfulness and holy concord, and for the extension of Christ’s kingdom among all people. In exercising this leadership the Kirk Session shall oversee and work along with other members who have leadership roles in the congregation. Ruling elders, by their calling, share equally with ministers in responsibility for practical witness both within the congregation and in the wider world. In the discharge of their duties each elder should be assigned by the Kirk Session pastoral responsibilities and/or other leadership roles in the congregation.

‘Choosing new elders’ leaflet: A newly updated version of this leaflet will be printed in the autumn. The current version is still available to download from the Presbyterian Church in Ireland website.

“To be chosen for the office of the eldership in a congregation a person must be a voting member of that congregation and a regular attender on its ordinances. He should be circumspect and exemplary in his conduct, both in the Church and in the world, of acknowledged piety, endeavouring to maintain the worship of God in his family and held in esteem by the people. Women shall be eligible for election on the same conditions as men.”

Election of elders resource: This resource helps guide kirk sessions through the process of electing elders and includes much more detail on the two methods used and their pros and cons. It is available to download from the Presbyterian Church in Ireland website.

Questions to consider as you make your choice:

• Is this person a committed Christian?

• Have they a track record of Christian discipleship?

• Do they do a good job in managing and leading their own family?

• Are they actively involved in some form of leadership in the congregation?

• Do they have a good reputation in the local community?

Other resources for elders: A number of leadership and pastoral care resources for elders are available on the Presbyterian Church in Ireland website including: ‘Using the Bible in Pastoral Care’ cards, ‘Leading From the Middle’ (how to lead well as a member of kirk session) and a resource specifically for clerks of session.

Assembly Buildings, 2-10 Fisherwick Place, Belfast BT1 6DW Tel: +44 (0)28 9032 2284 Email: info@presbyterianireland.org www.presbyterianireland.org Registered Charity in Northern Ireland (NIC104483) Registered Charity in the Republic of Ireland (20015695)

Herald September 2019

21

TALKING POINTS

The Jenga generation Norman Hamilton discusses how we as churches and individuals need to readdress our provision of pastoral care.

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here are memorable moments at every General that ordinary families are often facing extraordinary difficulties Assembly. Sometimes they are moments of high with less and less support available to them. drama, as happened last year. Sometimes moments of It is crucially important to recognise that all these pressures deep emotion, as delegates from overseas speak of what are in the life of many congregations across the country, as well is happening in their own lands. For many, myself included, as in wider society. And the ministers and pastoral care teams there was a moment of sobering insight this year as Prof Max increasingly find themselves where they simply do not have Watson spoke of the challenges of caring for those with failing the necessary time or ability – and sometimes the skills – to health or incurable illnesses. cope well with many and complex situations. One minister He quoted a recent report that summarises the seriousness of told me of visiting a home where there was absolutely nothing the situation across the world: “The burden of serious health– nothing whatsoever – in the food cupboard. Not even a box related suffering will almost double by 2060, to 47 million of salt. Can you even begin to imagine the desperation in that people, with the fastest increases occurring in low-income home? I can’t. countries, among older people, and people with dementia.”

As ever, the Bible gives us some very clear guidance as to how A few moments later he said this: “We our understanding of what we mean by are also seeing the growth of the ‘Jenga pastoral care in our congregations can, …there is a pressing generation’, the elderly frail who like the indeed ought, to be shaped. Paul says this tottering tower game, survive until one in his first letter to the Thessalonians: “We need to reshape our critical brick is removed, through infection were delighted to share with you not only understanding of what or fall, and suddenly that individual’s the gospel of God but our lives as well” vulnerability is exposed, but predicting we mean by pastoral care (2:8). when the end is coming, when traditional Christian people, as well as those in in our congregations. palliative care begins, is so difficult.” wider society, share their lives with fewer For many readers of the Herald, these are and fewer people. We may know a lot words and situations that we understand well, for we all know of people, but close and ongoing mutual help and support is people who are increasingly frail and vulnerable, or who are increasingly rare. We ‘keep ourselves to ourselves’. To share the suffering with dementia. They are members of our own families; ups and downs of life with someone else depends on having they are neighbours and friends; they are members of our a warm relationship with them that is kept in good repair. congregation. Indeed, we may have real fears about becoming That is central to what the Bible means by ‘fellowship’. Such part of the Jenga generation ourselves, and being increasingly relationships involve spending time with other people, and dependent on others. My own mother often spoke of having that brings opportunity to talk about, pray about and help with had ‘too many birthdays’. living life well even in adverse circumstances. Jesus himself At the risk of saying the wrong thing, there is a pressing need spelled it out in John 13: “A new command I give you: love one to reshape our understanding of what we mean by pastoral care another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By in our congregations. On the one hand, there is the need to care this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love well and properly for those with dementia and/or increasing one another.” frailty. On the other hand, the range and complexity of caring The Jenga generation needs that love. I do. And you do too. for younger people is rising steadily too. Some research Will we make it visible under the work of the Holy Spirit, and suggests that around a third of 11 to 16-year-olds have had so share the giving of good pastoral care with our minister and concerns or worries about their mental health. Indeed, I was elders? Or will we opt out? told a disturbing story a few weeks ago about the prevalence of suicidal thoughts amongst Christian teenagers. Divorce rates are rising again, even though more people are simply cohabiting. And the BBC reported in June that according to police figures, domestic abuse incidents in Northern Ireland hit a record high of almost 30,000 in 2018. Add to these examples Rev Dr Norman Hamilton the awful pressures on some families as a result of changes to the welfare system, or the increasing wait even to see a hospital Norman Hamilton is minister emeritus of consultant, never mind receiving good treatment, and it is clear Ballysillan Presbyterian Church.

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Herald September 2019

SEPTEMBER 2019

Mission Connect

Working among the Maasai

Café Hope: A step of faith Andrew Dawson

Mission news from workers around Ireland and the world.

Back into the routine Derek and Jane French Doing a new thing Eileen Black A peaceful dwelling place Michael Williams Growing in grace Rev Robert Love

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.

Work continues among the Maasai Gary and Mary Reid

Including September prayer diary

Café Hope: A step of faith Andrew Dawson

Community outreach worker in Second Dromara Presbyterian Church

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e came into Café Hope one evening and asked could he It happens in the beautifully renovated Christian Workers’ Union speak to everyone. We weren’t sure if that was a good idea hall on the main street of Dromara (now run by Dromara Connect). as a fortnight before he had shouted at the one who was We open at 6pm to serve tea, coffee and milkshakes. People make speaking. It was normal for him to drop into Café Hope after the themselves comfortable on the sofas or round the tables. The pub and we were always delighted to see him, and he knew it. But space sets the tone with low lighting, background music and two when he came shouting, he took us by surprise. But something large screen TVs showing images or videos reflecting the theme told us this night was different. When he stood by the microphone of that evening. Our programme kicks off at 6.30pm with a mix of to speak, he gave a masterclass in apologising. He was sincere, music, table discussion, video clips and talk. It’s difficult to describe clear and brief and he got the atmosphere that the Lord a spontaneous round of has created in this setting, but It’s an effort to create a space where people applause. When we all heard it works. the reason for his outburst We praise God for the many of all ages and backgrounds can think through the most natural thing to do people he has brought along life in light of the good news of Jesus. was to pray for him, which he to Café Hope. We have such allowed us to do there and a mix of people, from toddler then. And then another spontaneous round of applause. This was to pensioner, church regulars to irregulars, those we know and another confirmation that the Lord is at work through our new those we have never met before. It’s an easy invite and a great venture, Café Hope. A venture that began as a step of faith by the space being used of the Lord to create many different moments of leadership of Second Dromara to start something new to reach spontaneous praise to him. We look to the Lord with excitement the community for Christ. for what next year will bring.

The community cannot be reached through children and youth work only. The wonderful truth about Jesus flows, not exclusively, Please pray: but more naturally down from adults to children. We have gotten • Praise the Lord for the great discussion and attendance at the to know many different parents and adults, but we wanted to four-week evangelistic course that ran in May through Café begin something where they would get to know Jesus. That’s the Hope. desire Café Hope comes out of. Café Hope replaces our fortnightly • Pray as we restart in September, that Café Hope would not evening service. It’s an effort to create a space where people of all become stale in its second year, but would be fresh and used of ages and backgrounds can think through life in light of the good the Lord for his glory. news of Jesus.

Mission Connect | Herald September 2019

Back into the routine Derek and Jane French Global mission workers, Spain

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appy New Year! Being involved in student ministry and and all the activities, studies and events start up again. Pray for the church life, September feels more like new year to us than various groups: Sunday school, men’s Christianity Explored group, January. Growing up I always remember my mum during women’s Bible study group, committee, worship team. We want to the month of September saying, “It’s nice to get back into the see all church members actively involved and using the gifts God routine”. As kids, I’m not sure we totally agreed; we wanted the has graciously given each one of us. summer to last forever. However, here we are ‘back into the routine’ Finally, on the theme of education, books and learning, we are and we want to encourage thrilled about the literature you to take time aside to pray project, Crecer Juntos (which …our prayer for the students is that they specifically for students and means grow together). The young people as they return to aim of Crecer Juntos is to will return to their places of study … school, college and university. provide good resources in GBU (university student with a renewed passion for spreading the gospel Spanish for teaching and ministry in Spain) and GBE training as well as devotional amongst their fellow students. (high school ministry in Spain) materials for families, children both held camps during July and young people, that can and our prayer for the students be distributed to the Spanishis that they will return to their various places of study in September speaking world. It is being supported by PCI’s Youth and Children’s with a renewed passion for spreading the gospel amongst their project this year (see p18). fellow students. I am sure many of you can look back fondly at the times in your youth when you went to a Christian camp. These camps have such a huge impact on young people and serve as a Please pray: key time of teaching and fellowship. Pray for the Spanish students • Pray for the Christian students returning to school and as they return to school and university, that they would stand firm university, that they would stand firm for Christ and be a shining in their faith and be bold witnesses for Christ – all are very much in light amongst their friends. the minority as Christians.

• Pray for the Spanish church and Bilbao International Church as At the GBU camp, the students learned about what it means to they resume activities and studies, that everyone would be able be a follower of Christ and at the GBE camp, the talks were based to take part and use their gifts for God’s glory. on Ruth, covering topics such as suffering, integrity, purity and • Pray for the literature project Crecer Juntos, for wisdom in freedom. We pray that what the students learned at camp will stick selecting the right materials to translate and publish. Pray too with them and encourage them in their faith as they step back into for the leaders as they seek to encourage young people and school and university. families to use the materials and have a regular time with God Pray also for our local Spanish church and the Bilbao individually and as a family.

International Church. We love September, when everyone is back Mission Connect | Herald September 2019

Doing a new thing Eileen Black

Deaconess in Great Victoria Street Presbyterian Church and South Belfast Friendship House

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live with a wee Sheltie. She believes she rules the roost! Every and turtles out of paper plates and toilet roll holders. The children cat that walks past the window is vigorously barked at, every (and adults) have all had great fun making the different animals leaf that falls to the ground is barked at and every time I hug at July lunch club, and we have used this craft to help teach the my children, she barks! Down children the story of Noah. through the years I have tried When God calls you to a new to introduce her to the idea that When God calls you to a new place it invariably place it invariably means new there is a different and much things to do and that is scary. means new things to do and that is scary. quieter way to do things, but If you are facing a ‘new thing’ I have come to the conclusion hold on, as I have, to the words that it’s difficult to teach an old dog a new trick… or is it? of Abba Father: “Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called God says in his Word, “…remember not the former things, nor you by name, you are mine.” consider the things of old. Behold, I am doing a new thing”.

Under the leadership of Rev William Harkness, the church family Please pray: in Great Victoria Street have been doing new things. Last winter we invited young adults who live and study in Belfast to come and • Pray for Great Victoria Street congregation, that God would have an evening meal with us. In September we will prepare to enable us to model Christ well and be salt and light within the recommence these student suppers. Great Victoria Street ladies’ student population in this part of Belfast. Pray for the building of solid relationships in the ladies’ and men’s groups. group are looking forward to a new session and the men’s group is • Give thanks for the vibrant community in Sandy Row. Pray for all beginning to take shape and grow. who come into Friendship House, that good seeds will be sown South Belfast Friendship House is a busy place. In September, and will take root and grow in hearts. we will prepare for the re-commencement of our after-schools • Give thanks for all our volunteers who come faithfully to the programmes. The Tuesday coffee morning, Wednesday friendship children’s clubs. group and Thursday mums and tots will have already started.

• Pray for Alison, who manages the foodbank, and for all the Thursday foodbank continues throughout the year providing a volunteers who come each Thursday to distribute food to those vital lifeline for many. We are also investing time developing a who seek help. relationship with a local day centre.

• Pray for Blythefield Primary School and City Way Day Centre.

In the midst of all of this I have definitely been doing many new • Pray for the staff team: William, Eunice, Gemma, Eileen, and things. Alongside Gemma, our youth and children’s worker, I have especially Carol who is our new intern. even been learning how to make fish and octopuses, butterflies Mission Connect | Herald September 2019

A peaceful dwelling place Michael Williams

Director of Services, Peacehaven Trust

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eacehaven Trust is a group of three homes for adults with fellowship and participation in churches, and have themselves intellectual disabilities nestled in the seaside town of grown in their knowledge and faith in Jesus. Residents have the Greystones, Co Wicklow, which is about 20 miles south opportunity to meet with friends in Lydia House each Monday of Dublin. These three homes – Lydia House, Blake House and evening to worship and pray together.

Applewood Heights – are community-based homes designed to The transfer to the Council for Social Witness is reaching a assist people to their greatest conclusion, strengthening level of independence. Most of good governance, and Our residents have enjoyed fellowship and our residents have busy lives protecting the Christian out and about in the greater which has always been participation in churches, and have themselves ethos community. the core of Peacehaven. It Peacehaven will be a newly broadens our experience and grown in their knowledge and faith in Jesus. adopted child into the development of residential Presbyterian Church family, social care and increases our however, you may be surprised to learn that this child is nearly fellowship with like-minded people.

40 years old. Back in the 1970s when there was little provision In 2018 Dawn McDowell joined the staff team in Blake House for adults with intellectual disabilities, lots of small groups began having moved from Belfast with her husband, who is the minister to form to cater for the needs of vulnerable people. God placed in Greystones Presbyterian Church. Dawn reports: “The team a concern on the hearts of two ladies, Dorothy Blake and Lydia are people of faith from a wide variety of backgrounds and Cochran, to provide a residential service for the evangelical denominations and a number have worked here for many years. community. Their vision was spoken best by Isaiah 32:18, “My We have six residents in Blake House who have lived here 10 people will live in peaceful dwelling places, in secure homes, years or more and who are pleased to call it home. The staff team in undisturbed places of rest”, which has become Peacehaven’s work to encourage independence and to support the residents to cornerstone verse. achieve their potential. There are challenges but the joys outweigh In 1980 Peacehaven’s doors opened in their first home (which them. It is my privilege to be a part of this team.” became Lydia House), and some of our residents today have lived in Peacehaven since that time. Our three houses cater in total for 17 adults; one notable resident is Gordon Cochran, the son of Please pray: Lydia and Wilfred Cochran (one of our founders). Throughout its • Give thanks for the good health and busy lives of our residents. history Peacehaven has remained in the centre of the evangelical • Give thanks for the provision of additional staff which meet the community in Greystones and beyond. Without the support needs of our residents. and prayers of many faithful people, including all our staff over • Pray that we will have all the resources we need to continue to the years, we would not have made it this far. Yet perhaps more provide high quality safe services. importantly, with that same support our residents have enjoyed Mission Connect | Herald September 2019

Growing in grace Rev Robert Love

Taughmonagh Presbyterian Church

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aughmonagh – that little loyalist housing estate whose authentically by church members – their neighbours. That’s a lot name makes some people nervous. It sits hemmed in of pressure. So growth in grace of the current members is most between the Upper Malone Road, Upper Lisburn Road important in the congregation, and our members are eager to and Harberton Park in Belfast, interfacing uncomfortably with grow. its affluent neighbours and still flying under most people’s radar.

Short bursts of teaching using DVD clips followed by focused The church’s interim kirk session is made up of members of the discussion seem to be the most appropriate vehicle for delivering congregations of McCracken instruction in how to grow Memorial and Malone who we in grace. There is a quickness While Taughmonagh may not be a big thank for their support. to pray for the wellbeing of As time passes, the congregation…it is still a fellowship marked by all the residents of the estate congregation has become and a remarkable generosity faith, hope, love and grace – an effective witness. of wallet: our main concern less relevant to more and more residents. In its day, it beyond the boundaries of was a social hub, a distribution point for Common Market butter, Taughmonagh is for the David Gordon Memorial Hospital in a spiritual home for an older generation of churchgoers who have Livingstonia, Malawi. We also owe much to the congregations since passed away. For most residents it is now, at best, little more of Malone and McCracken, who have made their youth workers than a good luck charm. However, these are themes and trends available to us to engage with teenagers in the estate. that many will recognise within their own congregations as many While Taughmonagh may not be a big congregation, that’s OK: in society turn away from traditional church ways. Taughmonagh it is still a fellowship marked by faith, hope, love and grace – an is just a bit further down that road than many places. Thankfully effective witness. “We are hard pressed on every side, but not however, the members of Taughmonagh congregation are crushed; perplexed, but not in despair” 2 Corinthians 4:8. encouraged and in good heart, and are not giving up.

A small congregation has benefits. Our members are few enough to have built up a strong caring network among themselves with Please pray: no one left out. Everyone sits together during worship rather • Give thanks for the urban mission congregation of than spreading themselves around a mostly empty building. The Taughmonagh and all its members and the close fellowship members all live within a two-minute walk of the church building, they share. meaning that they all live in the spotlight. Their neighbours know • Pray for the members of the church as they show the love of God who they are and that they go to church, and everyone watches. through their daily lives in their community.

This all means that the only sermons many of the residents of • Pray that more people in the community would come to know Taughmonagh have regular access to are not those preached Jesus as their Lord and Saviour. by the minister, but those lived out much more eloquently and Mission Connect | Herald September 2019

Work continues among the Maasai

Gary and Mary Reid

Global mission workers, Kenya

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ith the rain thrashing the tin roof above our heads and water project at Olkinyei Primary School is about to begin. The the thunder roaring loudly, the worship leaders sat local community water project near the Mission is complete, and taking their worship leaders’ exams, straining to hear the when the weather was agreeable a dirt road was being made with questions. A complex but beautiful diadem of jewels sat before us: the community. The children at Isintin Nursery and Primary were men and women, young and old, literate and illiterate, some with delighted with their new slide and meetings were held about disabilities, which they don’t a new nursery class/church let hold them back, alongside being made high up in the …there is a desire to learn by all and it is nursing mothers and of course hills of Siana. their little ones, and a beautiful Then there were unforeseen our prayer that each one will grow in the little one who meandered events. Whilst we were around everyone smiling up knowledge and love of our beloved Saviour… completely unprepared for into focused faces, and then them, our Father, who writes happily colouring in a Bible the story, works everything for verse with such a sparkle in her eyes. It isn’t hard to understand good. Completely unexpectedly he granted us an opportunity to why Jesus loved his little children creations so. sit one night discussing with a disenchanted, disheartened soul While the storm raged without, there was surprising calm within, about our Lord. Other opportunities were also granted to bring and the heart could only feel such tender love towards those who our Father glory, and so even amid some stressful situations, our struggled in their multiple-choice questions. It was truly humbling Lord graciously used two unworthy ones for his glory. and heart-melting to see such resolve in each one trying to sit their exam.

Please pray: We give thanks to our Father that there is a desire to learn by • Pray for the beautiful Maasai, that God’s Holy Spirit will work all and it is our prayer that each one will grow in the knowledge mightily in their lives, for his glory and their joy. and love of our beloved Saviour and know that their faith is not • Pray for the worship leaders, that they will want to abide in our reliant on themselves, or anything that they can do, but on the Lord and grow in their knowledge and love of him, desiring to be faithfulness of God. obedient to him and be his witnesses both here in Maasailand These last months have entwined preaching, teaching the and beyond. worship leaders’ course, family Bible synopsis and family Sunday • Pray that we will be his faithful servants, obedient to his leading, school and reaching out in Christ’s wonderful name. It has been abiding in him, for his glory, and remember too our children, our heartfelt prayer that our Father would work through us, doing that God will draw them closer to himself and their joy will ever his will, for his glory. The Ewang’an Worship Centre is coming on be in him. well, the work on the special needs classroom is ongoing, and a Mission Connect | Herald September 2019

SEPTEMBER 2019

Please pray for... n MISSION IN IRELAND – Give thanks for all those in PCI congregations who engage in mission. At the start of a new ‘church year’, pray that they will be envisioned and filled with the Spirit as they share God’s love with other people. n COUNCIL FOR MISSION IN IRELAND – Dr Frank Sellar (Council convener) and Rev David Bruce (Council Secretary), along with members of the Council for Mission in Ireland. Pray that they will have wisdom and guidance from God in their work. n COMMUNITY OUTREACH – Mark Annett as he settles into his new role as community outreach worker in First Rathfriland. n HOME MISSION – Rev Stephen Mark Annett Richmond and Donegal and Stranorlar congregations. Pray that God’s Spirit would be present and at work as they share Jesus with young and old, locals and visitors. n PORTUGAL – James and Heather Cochrane as they lead the church plant in Senhora da Hora and seek opportunities to build relationships with local people. n LOCAL SUPPORT GROUPS AND FRIENDS GROUPS – are a vital part of the work in the homes run by the Presbyterian Church. Give thanks for all those who so freely give of their time and skills to assist with these groups. n CHAPLAINS – Joan Fulton, as she covers the chaplaincy work at the Marie Curie Cancer Centre in Belfast on a temporary basis. Pray for patients and their families and that they will each know the Lord’s comfort and strength during very difficult times. n HOME MISSION – The congregations of Ballyhobridge, Clones, Newbliss and Stonebridge, that the Lord will lead them through this time of vacancy. Pray too for Rev Colin Anderson (vacancy convener). n BRAZIL – Naomi Keefe as she continues her work in church-based, Bible-based community development and evangelism in the Olinda area in north-east Brazil. n DEACONESS – Eleanor Drysdale serving in Wellington, Ballymena. Pray for the pastoral work and the staff team in Wellington, with a large congregation planning and good coordination is important. n LEADERS IN TRAINING – Leaders from partner churches which PCI supports while they undertake further study aimed at helping their personal development for future ministry and leadership within their church and context.

n HOME MISSION – Rev Rodney Beacom and the home mission congregations of Lisbellaw, Lisnaskea, Maguiresbridge and Newtownbutler as they continue to reach out to people in their local communities.

n CHAPLAINS – PCI’s chaplains serving with the armed forces, especially those posted overseas on deployment with soldiers, as they provide pastoral care, and seek opportunities to share the gospel.

n HOME MANAGERS – Pray for home managers in each of the residential homes managed by the Presbyterian Church.

Theirs is a challenging job requiring strong financial, organisational, managerial and inter-personal skills.

n HOME MISSION – The United Presbyterian and Methodist congregation of Christ Church Limerick which is vacant at present. Pray for the congregation during this time of transition.

n CHAPLAINS – Rev Cheryl Meban as she provides pastoral support to students at the Jordanstown and Belfast campuses of Ulster University and seeks opportunities to share the gospel. n HOME MISSION – Rev Andy Carroll and the congregation of Donabate as they begin monthly public worship in Balbriggan this autumn. Pray that they will connect with many families in Balbriggan and that many hear the gospel. n NEPAL – Peter and Jayne Fleming who are currently on home assignment as they speak to congregations and church groups about the work they are involved in with United Mission to Nepal and Kathmandu International Study Centre. n CHAPLAINS – Rev Norman Harrison, serving in the Royal Group of Hospitals in Belfast. Pray for his conversations with patients and staff, and for opportunities to share the gospel. n HOME MISSION – Rev Molly Deatherage and the home mission congregations of Ballina, Ballymote and Killala. Pray for effective outreach through Ballina Churches Together and the mobile drop in centre – The Big Blue Bus.

n BRAZIL – The Presbyterian Church of Brazil which has over a million members and over 5,000 congregations. Pray for the leadership team, including Rev Roberto Brasileiro Silva, president of the Supreme Council. n TRINITY HOUSE – is PCI’s residential home at Garvagh, meeting the needs of older people and those with dementia.

Pray that everyone may be encouraged by the Christian witness which Trinity House brings; and for the home manager, Jayne Bellingham, that she would know God’s presence and guidance and the encouragement of the staff team in her role. n URBAN MISSION – Rev Lachlan Webster and the urban mission congregation of Craigavon. Pray that they will be able to build on the new links they have made within the local community through their recent holiday Bible club. n HOME MISSION – Aughentaine congregation which is vacant at present. Pray for the congregation, along with Cavanaleck, as they continue to seek God’s guidance in their search for a new minister. Remember also Rev David Cupples (vacancy convener). n KENYA – Gary and Mary Reid and their ongoing mission within Maasailand. Pray particularly for plans to build a small nursery in the remote village of Siana which will also be used for worship services on Sundays. n COMMUNITY OUTREACH – Leslie and Mabel Brush serving in Tartaraghan. Pray for them as they seek opportunities to connect with those on the fringes of church life and the wider community.

n CYCLONE IDAI – For all who continue to suffer as a result of Cyclone Idai which Leslie and Mabel Brush hit Mozambique, Malawi and Zimbabwe n CHAPLAINS – Rev Ivan Neish in his in March. Pray that they will be given the chaplaincy work at Whiteabbey Hospital, and assistance they need to rebuild their homes that many patients and staff will benefit from and livelihoods. his pastoral support. n SUNNYSIDE HOUSE – is a 45-bed n COUNCIL FOR GLOBAL MISSION – Dr Liz residential care home for older people Hughes (Council convener) and Rev Uel Marrs in Bangor. Pray for home manager, Anna McCaffrey, and her staff team and give thanks (Council Secretary), along with members of the Council for Global Mission. Pray that they for them as they give of their best to care for will have wisdom and guidance from God in the residents in Sunnyside House. their work.

www.presbyterianireland.org/prayer

Cathy Smith and family

Getting behind the smiles

The Presbyterian Children’s Society has produced a new film about its work and Stephen Lynas was at the Society’s Annual General Meeting for the premiere.

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sk someone how they are and the answer ‘fine’ usually bounces back with an accompanying polite smile. But often there’s a whole lot more going on behind the smile and ‘I’m fine’ that we don’t know about.

“There’s a brave face being put on it,” explains Rev Colin Morrison, a governor with the Presbyterian Children’s Society, in the opening sequence of the Society’s new film, People Like Us. “You keep in touch with people and you realise that there is lot more going on.”

Within our communities and our church family Colin points to “lots of family issues; mums and dads falling out and children being raised by one parent,” all of which he adds, “has been steadily increasing through the years of my ministry.”

Of course, nobody’s life is plain sailing.

Things happen to us all: illness, loss of income, unexpected bereavement, family problems. The list goes on. Unexpected and unforeseen circumstances can turn our world upside down and sometimes we all need help.

When our church family knows the problems it can be really good at offering pastoral support; a listening ear, an encouraging voice, a shared prayer, but what about practical help when a family hasn’t the means to make ends meet.

That’s when the Presbyterian Children’s Society can get involved.

“I know that if there is a genuine need there are the financial resources within the Presbyterian Children’s Society to help meet that need,” explains Colin. “So,

I can go to people, talk to them about their needs and in a confidential manner provide help for them that nobody knows about except me, the Society and the parents concerned.”

We have been shown so much love, care and compassion and life definitely looks so much better now than it did before.

The Society’s work is not new.

Established in 1866, it has given grants to help over 450,000 Presbyterian children in need of financial assistance when family life has unexpectedly become a real struggle. Last year it paid grants in excess of £650,000, made possible through the outstanding generosity of congregations and individual Presbyterians.

Confidentiality means they didn’t know the families they were helping or the details of their stories. Their desire was to follow Jesus’ example and show Christian love and compassion to people, just like them, who needed help in difficult times.

Recently two families decided to tell their stories. In a series of films, Cathy Smith and Kelley McCreedy talk about family life, the problems they faced and how their church family

and the wider Church, through the Presbyterian Children’s Society, provided unconditional generous support when it was most needed and which proved transformational in their particular circumstances.

The help they have been given has made them feel that they are not battling everything on their own but are part of something bigger. “You’ve got that wider Church family who don’t know us personally but who are generously helping people like us,” says Kelley. “We have been shown so much love, care and compassion and life definitely looks so much better now than it did before.”

“It’s nice to know that someone is praying for you,” adds Cathy. “It’s nice to know that there is somebody out there who cares for you and that makes you feel less lonely. I know God is always there but it’s always nice to have a human aspect to it too.”

People Like Us is a series of three films; a nine-minute version which tells the stories of both families and two, four-minute versions that tell each family’s story individually. All three films are available for download from the Society’s website or on DVD, available on request from the Society’s office. Speakers to talk at services or other meetings can also be arranged by contacting the Presbyterian Children’s Society at 3 Glengall Street, Belfast, BT12 5AB, by telephone on +44 (0)28 9032 3737, email at info@presbyterianchildrenssociety.org or online at www.presbyterianchildrenssociety.org Herald September 2019

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Time to

initiate change

Mairisine Stanfield shines a light on the dark world of sports initiations taking place in our universities and colleges.

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he young man was excited about leaving home for the first time.

He couldn’t wait to go to the University of Aberdeen to begin the next stage of his life – to train to be a primary school teacher. He went as a young man who loved Jesus (he still does, more than ever) and a communicant member of the Presbyterian Church in Ireland. What he went through in his first month in Aberdeen could not only have affected all that – it could have killed him. Why? Because Jonathan was like many hundreds of young people each year at our British university sports clubs, who are forced to undergo some horrific and potentially devastating ‘initiations’ when they join up.

According to the journalist Martin Samuel, writing in the magazine GQ: “University initiations are degrading, outdated and sometimes even deadly.”

Yet these rituals are still very common in British universities, despite the National

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Union of Students’ belief that there’s been a shift in the culture surrounding initiations and several universities trying to ban them. Speaking to a graduate of a popular Scottish university, I was told that their university had a very strict policy on initiations – they are banned completely. In fact, if your team is found to conduct one of these initiations, the team is banned from competitions for the year. However, the student also said that they knew in some clubs, initiations still went on in secret.

Indeed, the Rugby Football Union is so concerned with the decrease in the number of students participating

…what he was put through by his so-called team mates…should never happen to any young person.

in the game after secondary school, as a result of this culture, that it has set up an ‘educational working group’ to seek to address the issue. They estimate that 10,000 school leavers were lost to rugby in the recent past, many blaming the sport’s “penchant for humiliating initiations and stupid, laddish excess.”

But that’s a naive view of what is happening. What is actually taking place is potentially life threatening.

Jonathan was a student at Methodist College, Belfast and while there played rugby for the 1st XV. When he went to university he played in a freshers’ tournament, was awarded ‘Man of the Tournament’ and subsequently invited to play for the University 1st XV. He understood that there were practices that a first-time player was supposed to undertake, including a pub crawl around the city. He was not a drinker, which he explained to the club captain, so he didn’t go on the specific night. He was told that

was ok, he just wouldn’t start on the 1st XV as a result. He didn’t mind.

However, a few weeks later at the team’s first away match, Jonathan was made to pay for not undergoing the normal initiation. He, along with another fresher on the team, had two two-litres of cider taped to their arms, were physically forced to drink it all along with another litre of the cider each and a whole bottle of port. A large chunk of blue cheese was also forced down their throats. On the trip back home to Aberdeen, the cars stopped at the side of the motorway and both boys were brought out, had their trousers and underwear removed and left exposed to both the elements and the other travellers. By this stage in the day, both boys were so drunk they could not remember where they were or understand what was being done to them.

Jonathan ended up being carted into his flat, and left alone, along with a note asking him to let the person who left him there know he was OK the next day.

He proceeded to be violently sick most of the night and perhaps might have choked on his own vomit had it not been for the kindness and attentiveness of his landlady. The next day he sent me a photo – his skin was pale and his eyes were completely blood shot, the vessels having burst because of the violent nature of his vomiting.

Jonathan is not simply a member of my congregation – he is my son. And what he was put through by his so-called team mates – this degrading, dangerous, and evil practice – should never Jonathan Stanfield happen to any young person.

As I have researched these so-called initiations in sports clubs across the UK, I have found some awful stories and testimonies, some of which are far worse than Jonathan’s story...

Students having to drink until they vomit, shaving their heads, apple bobbing with dead rats and sliding around in excrement, are just some of the things they have to do. Members of a hockey club from an English university were forced to have drinks that had been mixed with dog food and live goldfish.

And according to The Times last year, initiations at another English university hockey team involved freshers having cooking oil poured into their eyes.

Just in case we think it’s only the boys who are involved in such things, let me tell you about one young woman, a great athlete who enrolled at another English university. She made the netball team, like Jonathan, one of the few freshers who did. Before the first training session began, there was a team bonding evening.

The theme was ‘ladies and the tramps’.

…these barbaric practices highlight the issue of identity. Young people…need to be taught about the truths of who they are, whose they are…

The established team members got to be the ‘ladies’, wearing gowns, tiaras and long gloves. The new girls were the ‘tramps’. They were ordered not to wear make-up and were dressed in bin liners.

Dirt was smeared on their faces and dog food in their hair as they were taken to a nightclub. Like those thousands of rugby players, this young woman doesn’t play anymore.

In 2016, Jeremy Farmer’s life changed forever when his son, a student, died of a heart attack as a result of a university initiation ceremony. Ed was a 20-yearold student and had had five times the legal drink drive amount of alcohol in his blood. At one bar, the group that Ed was part of ordered around 100 triple vodkas. Jeremy now wants any students found participating or involved in such practices to be immediately expelled from university. He and his family were frustrated at the lack of effort made by the university and the Students’ Union to get to the heart of this culture. Also in 2016, Gavin Britton, a university student, died from alcohol poisoning after an initiation at a golf club.

In a BBC report last November, Universities UK said many institutions are doing proactive work to tackle the behaviour and a working group of students, parents, experts and university leaders has been established to develop

policies to tackle the problems linked to these practices. The National Union of Students believes there has been a shift in the culture surrounding all this, though they admit that it’s still going on.

I do not write this to shock people, but to warn and prepare young sportspeople if they are about to go off to university for the first time – and their families. We as parents were left profoundly upset by all that our son has experienced. Jonathan ultimately decided that he couldn’t play rugby with those who had abused and humiliated him. So, he went on to play for Grammarians, the top rugby club in Aberdeen. Now teaching in Manchester, he still plays competitive rugby today.

For me, these barbaric practices highlight the issue of identity. Young people, going away from home for the first time, seeking to ‘fit in’, need to be taught about the truths of who they are, whose they are and the offer of Christ’s presence with them, wherever they go.

We must encourage our young people to understand that they are loved by the Lord Jesus and that they can trust him for their lives and future.

To parents, grandparents, friends of young people about to head off to university or college for the first time, please talk to them about all this. Help them to have the tools that they need to face these hurdles with grace, confidence and strength. For anyone reading this and feeling appalled, let us not just wring our hands and feel despair – let’s do something about it. Why don’t you do what I have done and write to the following people: The Right Hon Boris Johnston MP, Prime Minister, 10 Downing Street, London, SW1A 2AA; Universities UK, Woburn House, 20 Tavistock Square, London, WC1H 9HQ. For universities in the South of Ireland, write to: Leo Varadkar TD, An Taoiseach, Department of the Taoiseach, Merrion St, Dublin 2; and Irish Universities Association, 48 Merrion Square, Dublin, D02 PK02, Ireland.

Ask them to do whatever it takes to end these initiations and to encourage the leadership of our universities to deal severely with those sports teams and individuals who engage in them so that no other young person will die as a consequence.

Mairisine Stanfield is the minister of First Presbyterian Church, Bangor.

33

95 years

young

Cecil Graham looks back on the rich history of the Boys’ Brigade’s Ganaway campsite and how it is still being used for God’s mission today.

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his year, the Belfast Battalion of the Boys’ Brigade (BB) celebrates 95 years of camping and related outdoor activities since it purchased the Ganaway campsite, situated in the Ards Peninsula midway between Millisle and Ballywalter. The acquisition of the Ganaway campsite in 1924 was the culmination of years of planning by the leadership of the Belfast Battalion who, in looking forward to the further expansion of the movement, sought to ensure the provision of a suitable and properly equipped permanent campsite.

BB was founded in Glasgow in 1883 – it was the first uniformed youth organisation in the world – primarily to instill a sense of belonging and order to the boys who attended the Free Church Mission Sunday school. The core programme consisted of attendance at Bible class on a Sunday and mid-week drill parade and boys’ club activities, but within a few years of its formation the concept of camping was introduced

by Sir William Smith, the founder of Boys’ Brigade, when the First Glasgow company held their first camp in 1886.

The news about the success of this pilot venture soon spread and by the

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year 1888, the Boys’ Brigade had not only taken firm root in Scotland and England, but by December of that year, the First Belfast company – the first Irish – was enrolled, connected with St Mary Magdalene Parish in Donegall Pass. The initial strength was 40 boys, and the First Belfast company held their first camp in July 1892 at Killough, Co Down and continued to do so until 1903.

The social and economic fabric of that era did not allow for family holidays as we know them today and the idea of a holiday did not feature in the lives of many of the population. The resistance of parents to letting their boys attend camp had also to be overcome; to live voluntarily in a tent, far from the amenities of home, in defiance of the vagaries of the weather and to call such a ‘holiday’ seemed to many to be tempting fate and the catalogue of predicted disasters vied with the plagues of Egypt in their horrific possibilities.

…during 2018, some 15,000 young people and adults passed through the centre’s gates.

While it was clearly a liberating and health giving experience for boys brought up in heavily industrial urban environments to enjoy the delights of the open air, the leadership quickly recognised the opportunity attendance at BB camp afforded them in having the boys in their care for a whole week, particularly in promoting the Brigade’s object, i.e. “The advancement of Christ’s kingdom among boys and the promotion of habits of obedience, reverence, self-respect, and all that tends towards a true Christian manliness.”

Many men in later life have testified to the comradeship and spiritual guidance they got from attendance at BB camp which greatly influenced their journey of faith. Indeed, such experiences are exemplified by comments made by Paul McCarroll, the current chief executive of the Belfast Battalion, when he said, “You have only to speak with former members and quickly learn that their most vivid memories of their time in the ranks of the BB was their time spent at BB camps.”

Following the undoubted success of the First Belfast experience, other congregations in Belfast started BB companies and by 1900 there were 20

active companies enrolled in the Belfast Battalion. This expansion encouraged the leadership to promote corporate activities which included such things as drill competitions, football league etc. While such events were clearly competitive, there was also a need to promote a sense of espirit de corp and this was achieved by holding a Battalion camp. The first Battalion camp was held in 1904 and continued for the next 19 years, except for 1917 when the event was cancelled on account of war. These camps were held at various locations; the favourite sites were to be found at Millisle, Castlerock, Cairncastle and Ballyferris.

As already mentioned, the Battalion executive had aspirations to provide a permanent campsite and as early as 1915 a development fund was established for this purpose. The dream was to be realised in November 1923 when the Battalion executive’s attention was drawn to a press advertisement announcing the sale of a farm of 12 acres at Ganaway.

Permission was given to purchase the farm and the property was acquired for a sum of £1,230.

Following the purchase of the property, a committee was appointed to make ready the site and the first Battalion camp at Ganaway was held in July 1924 and, except for the two years at the start of the Second World War, such camps continued until 1972. The popularity of the camp increased each year and by the mid-1930s an attendance of more than 1000 members was recorded – this level continued until the start of the Second World War. In addition to providing opportunities for Belfast Battalion companies, other units from e.g. Dublin, Londonderry, Ballymena and Portadown also attended.

The post war years saw a resumption of camping activities at Ganaway and the decade following witnessed a significant increase in the number of BB company enrolments – both in Belfast and across the Province – as well as a further

expansion in programme activities including the Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme. A new generation of boys and officers were looking further afield for camping experiences at locations throughout the British Isles and while overall there was an increase in individual company camps, there was a marked reduction in the numbers attending the Battalion camp at Ganaway.

In the early 1970s a most attractive offer was received from a caravan developer to purchase the site but after due consideration a decision was taken to retain the facility for BB purposes.

While at the time precise details about additional facilities had to be agreed, this laid the foundation for the Ganaway Centre as we know it today. Since the mid-90s, a most imaginative programme of development has emerged, including the construction of two modern log cabins, a Millennium Centre with

Currently there are 314 BB companies operating throughout Ireland…at least 185 are connected to PCI congregations. adjacent sports hall, an outdoor climbing/ abseiling tower and zip line, an Anchor Boy trail, a crazy golf course, etc. More recent additions have been the completion of a dedicated Heritage and Education Centre, central dining room, a Beacon worship centre, refurbished loft accommodation, an artificial caving complex, a garden of peace and reconciliation and a large sports barn with an indoor climbing wall. In addition to the camping grounds, there is permanent sleeping accommodation for up to 120 and in 2017, in keeping with modern terms in camping, three camping pods were installed.

These new facilities quickly proved very popular and enable a number of different groups to use the centre at the same time.

Today it is not only BB members who are enjoying the varied facilities of a totally rejuvenated Ganaway but members of other youth organisations, as well as church youth fellowships, are present most weekends in addition to residential

mid-week events attended by pupils from primary and post primary schools. In recent years, summer outreach camps, promoted by such bodies as Youth for Christ, attracting upwards of 400 young people, have been at Ganaway. To put this into perspective, during 2018, some 15,000 young people and adults passed through the centre’s gates.

The vision of the early pioneers for the development and use of Ganaway has been blessed by God and has helped to promote the BB object: “The advancement of Christ’s kingdom among boys”.

To give thanks for the past 95 years, a service of thanksgiving will be held at Ganaway on Sunday 25 September 2019 at 3pm. A warm welcome is extended to all to, especially former members of BB. BB continues to partner with many local churches to share the good news of Jesus with hundreds of boys and young men. Currently there are 314 BB companies operating throughout Ireland – 286 in Northern Ireland and 28 in the Republic of Ireland – and of this number at least 185 are connected to PCI congregations.

Cecil Graham is an elder in Windsor Presbyterian Church; former BB secretary for Training and Development; former captain of the 34th Belfast company (Ulsterville PC); and honorary officer of the Belfast Battalion.

Herald September 2019

35

REVIEWS

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

The North Coast Sessions Keith & Kristyn Getty INTEGRITY MUSIC

£9.99

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This EP, recorded by the Gettys, is inspired by the book of Psalms.

It was recorded in the harbour of Portbradden along the north Antrim coast. It consists of seven new hymns and songs, including a bonus track Inishowen which is based on a documentary on the life of Kristyn’s uncle, apologist and scientist, Professor John Lennox.

The EP is quite clearly local with mostly Celtic inspired musical arrangements and folk songs, including the use of traditionally Irish instruments such as the uilleann pipes and the fiddle. Created with the 2018 Sing! conference in mind, it gives an insight into the theology and understanding of the psalms, and how they shape personal and public faith, worship and prayer. The Scriptures are brought to life through passionate and joyous singing, with beautiful vocals from Kristyn.

A standout arrangement is You Have Searched Me, which includes vocals from their daughter Eliza and reminds us that we are all a family under God. They felt inspired to record this piece after the recent passing of the Eighth Amendment regarding abortion law in the Republic of Ireland, and dedicated it to the precious life of every mother and baby within the womb.

Another track I loved was I Lift My Eyes, sung to the traditional Irish melody Lagan Love. The rural sound brings the Word of God closer to home as the heritage of Ireland is intertwined with the Scriptures.

AH

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Herald September 2019

MORE> Truth Kristi Mair

Come and See Roy Millar

INTER-VARSITY PRESS

£7.99

INSTANT APOSTLE

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You could perhaps be forgiven for wondering how we have gotten to this point in our culture, when ‘truth’ has become a byword for ‘personal opinion’ and tribal consensus takes precedence over facts. And yet, writes author Kristi Mair, “No matter who we are, truth matters – something deep within us calls for truth.”

Utilising her background in philosophy, Kristi summarises the ways in which philosophers of the past have sought to define truth, and how each one stumbled across something which couldn’t be boxed into their framework. While these subjects can be complex, her natural style of writing makes them perfectly accessible for the lay reader, and they form a perfect foundation for the body of the book – examining the truth-claims of Christ.

As society decries truth as relative, and yet scrambles for something of certainty, Kristi asserts that the answer is found in the person of Jesus Christ, who described himself as ‘the way, the truth and the life’. The gospel, says Kristi, is something that can be investigated, trusted, and embraced. Jesus himself is our confident truth in an uncertain world, until the very end.

This book is an excellent exploration of why defending truth matters, and how we as Christians can speak with confidence to a divided, increasingly tribal world about the One who embodies truth. As the book itself concludes, “We are no longer left in the dark. Truth is real, Truth has flesh, Truth has walked among us. And Truth’s name is Jesus Christ.”

PA

£12.99

«««««

Roy Millar, my contemporary in the Christian Union at Queen’s and onetime medical consultant, has provided us with a deeply thoughtful and accessible narrative commentary on John’s Gospel. It was two of John the Baptist’s disciples whom Jesus invited to ‘come and see’ where he lived. Roy Millar has, as it were, taken us by the hand to ‘come and see’ the Jesus whom John wants us to see.

The narrative takes us from creation and incarnation to the cross and resurrection; to historically significant locations and to the deepening relationship between Jesus and his disciples, as well as the disturbingly sharp conflict between Jesus and the religious establishment and selfinterested political power. We are helped to see Jesus in the actual world into which he was born.

As we journey along with the narrative, there are helpful descriptions of the geographical locations and the historical and contemporary significance of the people whom Jesus encountered. The book also highlights important core elements in John’s Gospel – in contrast to the world’s darkness, the Light of the World came amongst us, was one of us, triumphed with cosmic significance and still shines brightly.

Comprising 52 chapters, it challenges the reader to live with the words of John’s Gospel, which are helpfully included within the accompanying narrative commentary for 52 weeks of the year.

This substantial book will encourage engagement with the actual text of John’s Gospel, and through that engagement to be encountered by Jesus.

JD

REVIEWERS

FA – Fiona Adamson is part of the worship team at Lowe Memorial Presbyterian Church AH – Alice Huddleston is a work experience student.

Living Words: A legacy of quotes Helen Roseveare CHRISTIAN FOCUS PUBLICATIONS

£8.99

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Helen Roseveare served as a missionary in the Congo for 20 years, pioneering vital medical work in the region’s rainforests and undergoing many trials in this politically unstable part of the world. Despite her trials, she lived out her life striving to serve her Lord and, on her return to the UK in 1973, she began her speaking and writing ministry.

Among the fruits of her labours is the ‘Living’ series – Living Holiness, Living Sacrifice, Living Faith and Living Fellowship.

Now, quotes from these four books – regarded by many as Roseveare’s best works – have been combined with Bible passages to create the devotional book Living Words: A legacy of quotes. Having never read the original ‘Living’ books, I can’t comment on how this latest work – which comes three years after Roseveare’s death – compares. On its own merit, however, this book offers the follower of Christ the opportunity to again consider what it means to be loved by God and to love him in return, dedicating ourselves and all we have to him.

Intended as an undated devotional book, I found the format slightly confusing. While some devotions were distinct to what had gone previously, others felt like a continuation – only the Bible passage at the end of each section indicated a separation. While this was slightly distracting, I found the words contained in each devotion helpful and as relevant today as when the ‘Living’ books first appeared in the 1980s and 1990s. This is a book to pick up again and again.

SEH

PA – Phil Alcorn is an administrative officer for the Presbyterian Herald JD – John Dunlop is a former Moderator of the Presbyterian Church in Ireland SEH – Suzanne Hamilton is an administrative officer for the Presbyterian Herald

Living Hope Phil Wickham

PROVIDENT MUSIC

£12.99

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Over the years, Phil Wickham’s work has become synonymous with infectious tunes and thoughtful wide-ranging lyrics. Living Hope does not disappoint. Packed full of themes such as Christ’s victory and the joy of a life restored by him, it lifts our eyes to a great God who has done and will do the impossible.

For starters, there’s multiple anthemic pop-infused hits: Great Things, Breath Away and Eyes Fixed. Filled with

Ultimate Grace Levi Booth 10 PUBLISHING £2.99

«««««

Ultimate frisbee must be amongst the more unusual ways of spreading the good news of Jesus, but for Levi Booth it’s been a perfect platform for providing opportunities to share the gospel.

With his love of Jackie Chan, anime, and the minority sport ultimate frisbee, Booth is the first to admit that he is not your stereotypical missionary. This book charts

characteristic lead guitar and synth, these catchy numbers will definitely stick in your head. Other songs follow a quieter more acoustic style, most notably Living Hope and Christ is Risen, both sure to become congregational favourites. As these songs unfold, the lyrical richness and soaring choruses really build to some spectacular Godfocused praise.

In stark contrast we have Till I Found You and Song in My Soul. The first verges on hip-hop, with a drum led groove and some ambitious vocals. Perhaps not everyone’s style, but it is nice to hear Phil pushing some boundaries. Song in My Soul has a laid-back, soulful feel. It’s a stunning vocal duet and there’s some great gospel inspired choral backing vocals in the bridge too.

One final highlight is How Great is Your Love. Co-written with Kristian Stanfill, it starts with some deeper moodier vocals which give way to an intricate prechorus, and then an incredibly simple but powerful chorus. This album is one to inspire, to encourage and to ignite your faith in an awesome God. FA

his journey, from a teenager realising God’s gift of grace, to answering God’s call to serve with OMF International in Japan.

He is refreshingly honest about his life, admitting that he often throws away opportunities, both in frisbee and evangelising: “I become what you could call a ‘throwaway-er’. And not just on the pitch. As a missionary I also quite often throw away gospel opportunities…But then I remember that Jesus came for the throwaways and the throwaway’ers…He works through our panicked drops and our pride-induced throwaways. Some of God’s work has been through incredibly average people like me.”

Booth though is keen to highlight that this is not simply meant to be an autobiographical account: “It’s a story about Jesus and his incredible, unstoppable, amazing, ultimate grace.”

This short book will be one I will pass onto my teenage sons in the hope that it will encourage them to be open to the plans God has for them.

SEH

Herald September 2019

37

LIFE IN PCI

Much to commend in Banagher Two commendation awards were presented during First Banagher Boys’ Brigade company’s display.

Robert Moore and Timothy Lynch both received the President’s Commendation award, with the presentation made by Brigade honorary vice president Perry Donaldson, who was the inspection officer at the display.

Robert, who has Down’s syndrome, has been a member of the Co Offaly company since 2008. He was awarded his President’s award in 2018 and enjoys the fun and fellowship of BB. Timothy was presented with a commendation due to his efforts to save the life of George Haslett, who was struck unconscious due to slurry fumes.

George is an officer in First Banagher and Timothy alerted George’s father of the accident. He was also instrumental in guiding the emergency services to the scene, including the air ambulance.

Above left: Perry Donaldson with Robert Moore. Above right: Timothy Lynch.

Below: Rev Ashley Graham (back row, centre) with the boys and officers of First Banagher company of the Boys’ Brigade.

Bessbrook Presbyterian Church formally reopened

Above left: Members of Bessbrook Presbyterian’s kirk session and committee with then Moderator Dr Charles McMullen, Rev Keith McIntyre and Rev Robert Nixon (minister emeritus).

Above right: Rev Keith McIntyre, Dr Charles McMullen and Danny Kennedy (clerk) pictured at the new church sign following the dedication service.

Below: Pictured in the back row are: Session members E. Smyth, R. McMinn, S. Paul and D. Kennedy (clerk). Front row: Barbara McMullen, Dr Charles McMullen, Rev Keith McIntyre and Rev Robert Nixon.

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Dr Charles McMullen officially reopened and dedicated Bessbrook Presbyterian after extensive renovations were completed at the south Armagh church.

Accompanied by his wife Barbara, Dr McMullen received a warm welcome from the congregation and many friends gathered at the special service, which was conducted by the minister, Rev Keith McIntyre.

Earlier in the day, the then Moderator and his wife Barbara carried out a number of pastoral visits to families of the Bessbrook congregation who lost loved ones in the 1976 Kingsmills massacre, accompanied by Mr McIntyre and Danny Kennedy (clerk of session).

Mr Kennedy said the impact of Kingsmills was still felt today in the congregation, but people had been heartened and encouraged at the visit of Dr and Mrs McMullen and their genuine Christian compassion.

Describing the reopening and dedication service as a wonderful event for the Bessbrook congregation, Mr Kennedy said he was delighted that many former members had returned ‘home’ to be part of the occasion, and the congregation had included representatives from the other local churches in the village.

Also present were Rev Robert Nixon (who ministered between 1972 and 1998) and Ronald Carser, son of Rev Hugh Sidney Carser (19361971), whose ministry is still fondly remembered in the village.

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

Retirement in First Broughshane A presentation was made to George McMullan following his retirement after 38 years as clerk of session in First Broughshane. Also pictured are Noel Connor (the new clerk of session in the Co Antrim church) and Rev Ronnie Agnew.

Long service marked in Scarva Street On 20 April 1969, Bertie Livingstone was ordained to the eldership of the Presbyterian Church in Ireland and installed as an elder in Scarva Street congregation, Banbridge. To mark 50 years of devoted service to the Lord and to the congregation, Mr Livingstone was presented with an inscribed Bible by the clerk of session Bill Lutton. Rev Colin Harris is also pictured.

New elders in Islandmagee A service of ordination and installation of ruling elders in First and Second Islandmagee by a commission of Carrickfergus Presbytery was recently held. The six new elders – Hazelle Burns, Pauline Ford, Fiona Gray, Roberta McMaster, Carol Magill and John Ross – are pictured in the front row with the convener of the commission Rev Gabrielle Farquhar (centre). In the back row are members of the commission: Christine Cahoon, Rev Peter Bovill (minister of the two congregations), Rev Nathan Duddy, Rev David Cromie (moderator), Rev Colin McClure (clerk), Denise Savage and Alan Bell.

Elders emeritus in Glendermott Jim Campbell and Lyle Todd have both become elders emeritus in Glendermott Presbyterian Church. They were both ordained in the Co Londonderry church in 1979 and have served faithfully for 40 years.

George Walker (clerk of session) gave them great praise for their service and Rev Knox Jones (vacancy convener) presented both men with inscribed Bibles. Mr Todd and Mr Campbell are pictured with their wives.

Children’s day in Clarkesbridge Some of the children and young people who took part in the children’s day services in Clarkesbridge Presbyterian Church, Co Armagh.

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LIFE IN PCI

Retirement in Lisnaskea A presentation has been made to mark the retirement of Drew Wigham as clerk of session of Lisnaskea Presbyterian Church. Mr Wigham faithfully served the congregation in this role for over 30 years and was presented with a Bible and a gift by Rev R. Beacom in recognition of his years of service. Pictured are Mr Beacom, Edna Wigham, Mr Wigham and Christopher Emo (new clerk of session in the Co Fermanagh church).

New minister for Aughnacloy and Ballymagrane Rev Roger McElnea has been installed as minister in the congregations of Aughnacloy and Ballymagrane. He is pictured with members of the two kirk sessions: David Allen, Ken Beattie, Jim Cromie, Derek Loane, Murray Robinson, Noel Givan, Francis Robinson and Cecil Givan.

Queen’s badges in Second Castlederg Matthew Huey, Alex Crawford, Matthew Love and Jamie Sproule received their Queen’s badges from their mothers at Second Castlederg Boys’ Brigade display. Ten Queen’s medals were awarded in the Co Tyrone company. Nathan Young, Simon Thompson, Jake McCay, Robbie Sproule, Craig Duncan and Stuart Nelson also received theirs at the display, but are not pictured.

New elders in Limerick Two new elders – Andrew Roulston and Sola Alabi – have been ordained and installed in Christ Church Limerick United Presbyterian and Methodist Church. They are pictured with Rev David Bruce (Secretary of the Council for Mission in Ireland), Rev Vicki Lynch (Methodist minister), Rev Richie Cronin, Rev Helen Freeburn, Rev Alastair Dunlop and Margaret McKenna (acting clerk of presbytery).

Anniversary for ALIVE youth fellowship First Castleblayney, Frankford and Corvally ALIVE youth fellowship marked the 10th anniversary at a celebratory service in First Castleblayney recently.

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Herald September 2019

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

New elders for First Donaghadee Four new elders have been installed in First Donaghadee. Ivan Currie, Dessie Lemon, Albert Small and Sharron Watts are pictured in the front row along with Rev Janice Browne (minister of the Co Down church), Rev William Cameron (acting moderator), Rev John Flaherty (clerk of presbytery) and Sandy Dalzell (clerk of session). Back row: members of presbytery commission.

New minister in Woodburn and Loughmourne Rev David Kelly (second right) has been ordained and installed as minister of Woodburn and Loughmourne. Pictured with Mr Kelly are Rev Robert Bell (vacancy convener), Jim Stewart (clerk of session, Woodburn) and Trevor Herron (clerk of session, Loughmourne).

New elders in First Newtownards Three new elders were ordained and installed in First Presbyterian Church, Newtownards. H. Patton, T. Haylett and R. Reid are pictured in the front row with presbytery moderator Dr R. Patton (left) and Rev J. Flaherty (right). Back row: Rev J. Campbell, L. Boyle, Rev G. Simpson, Rev G. Kennedy and D. Cargo.

Presentation in Pomeroy The Gilkinson family have presented aprons to Pomeroy Presbyterian Women in memory of Meta Gilkinson, a lifelong member of the Co Tyrone group.

Children’s day in Clonaneese Prayer was the theme for the children’s day services which took place in Lower and Upper Clonaneese. Prizes for attendance and the examination were presented at the end of both services. At Upper Clonaneese, Ben Sharkey received an engraved plaque recognising his 10 years’ full attendance and for obtaining 100 marks in the Sunday school examination for 10 years while Luke Sharkey also received an engraved plaque for 10 years’ full attendance. A presentation was also made to April Sharkey in recognition of serving 30 years as a faithful teacher in the Sunday school.

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LIFE IN PCI

Presentation in Carland Rev David Brownlow recently presented a gift to Ivan Burrows (left) on behalf of Carland congregation, in recognition of his 50 years’ service to the congregational committee of the Co Tyrone church.

Milestone birthday in Rathmullan Marie Anderson celebrated her 100th birthday recently in Castlegrove, Letterkenny. A member of Rathmullan Presbyterian, Mrs Anderson was joined for the celebrations by former Moderator Dr Rob Craig and Rev Susan Moore.

Magheramason ordination Gareth Kirk and Leslie Hamilton (front row, second and third left) have been ordained and installed as ruling elders in Magheramason congregation. They are pictured with Rev Graeme Orr (minister of the Londonderry congregation), Rev Colin McKibben and Rev Mark Russell (moderator and clerk of presbytery respectively). Standing are: Billy Smyth, Rev Mark Shaw, Gary King (members of the presbytery commission) and Colin Kennedy (clerk of session of Magheramason).

Licensing in Newry Presbytery David Bingham was recently licensed as a probationer for the ministry by a commission of Newry Presbytery. Pictured are: Rev William Bingham (moderator), Rev Stuart Finlay (clerk of presbytery), Rev Nigel Reid (presbytery students’ convener) and commission members George Hamilton, Alan Smith and Samuel Walker.

New elder in First Donegore J. Mulholland has been installed as an elder in First Donegore. He is pictured in the front row with G. Moore, Rev J. Murdock (moderator), M. Mulholland and M. Kempston. Back row: Rev P. Dickinson, J. Livingstone, Rev C. McDowell, M. Rea, I. Fletcher and Rev S. Simpson (minister of the Co Antrim congregation).

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REFLECTIONS

School photography Betsy Cameron

B

ack to school. Here we go again! I say ‘again’ but, in our the sensation of knees thwacking against my chin as I pedalled family, I actually mean ‘and for the last time.’ Every furiously (oh yes, I was furious). And, just in case you’re September for the past 18 years, I have done back-tothinking the stabilisers might have helped, I can assure you that school shoe shopping, uniform updating, stationery they didn’t. procuring and general gee-ing up for another year of learning How we ever managed to compose ourselves for this photo and growing. But this year my youngest will experience her once we were all reunited is still a mystery to me. Sometimes I last first day of school, and I will stand on the sidelines like look at it and laugh, and sometimes I look at it and want to cry, everyone before me and wonder, “Where did those years go?” but no matter my mood, I know the photo is important because Many of you will have photographs that chronicle your it reminds me of how strange and wonderful families are – child’s journey through school – ones taken every year on the imperfect, rough around the edges and often even in the middle first day, maybe on the same front step or the same place in and yet, somehow, offering us all we need. Families, when they your back garden. You may also have your work, are the place where love is tested to child’s official school photographs, which its limits and also the place where love is Families, when they you have framed or put into albums and shared in wild, overflowing, unconditional enjoyed over the years. Me? I have a drawer work, are the place where abundance. full of tattered, creased, dirty order forms The Bible is full of stories about families, that each child over the years has extracted love is tested to its limits many of them very troubling indeed. from a blazer pocket or a forgotten corner and also…where love is Talk about dysfunctional! We find stories of the school bag, way, way past the of sibling rivalry – a dynamic we can all shared in…unconditional relate to, even if some Bible stories take deadline for ordering.

I did manage to get one school it to a whole new level – as well as stories abundance. photograph, though, which has pride I find more troubling, ones of parental of place, and oh my, does it pack quite a favouritism, for example, or even darker wallop. Unusually for a school photograph, it features the whole ones involving fratricide and child sacrifice. With so many family because we were marking that landmark year when my stories of anger, betrayal, treachery, jealousy and revenge, it is oldest was in P7, my youngest was in P1 and my middle child, hard to find a blueprint in the Bible for a happy family life. in P4, was just about as middle as she could get. We are smiling I do believe God longs for us to live in healthy, nurturing, widely – beaming, even – and each person has a hand lovingly loving and forgiving relationships with others. And I also placed around someone else’s arm or shoulder. What the photo believe that we fall so far short of this ideal, even on our best doesn’t tell, though, is the frantic drama that had unfolded in days. I know how fractured and broken families can be. I once the hour before the shutter clicked. Actually, we are holding on knew of two elderly brothers, living their whole lives together to each other for dear life. on the family farm, who fell out when they were much younger It had been lashing rain, you see, that morning, and we and stopped speaking. Somehow, they managed to have all their needed both cars to get all three kids to school early enough for conversations through the dog, which – dare I say it – is just a the family groupings because one car was full of children’s bikes little bit comical, but of course, also deeply sad. (for reasons I no longer recall) and the other car was leaving You will have your own stories of family fallouts, tension and straight from school for a meeting. Long story short, one parent drama. I wonder if you have a photograph that speaks to you of (not me) failed to adhere to the clear, simple plan we had agreed family heartache or one, perhaps, that reminds you of healing to, and when the two cars met up at school 10 minutes later, we and reconciliation. Through all the turbulence of family life, the discovered that we were one child short. After an ill-considered God we worship redeems all that we have broken and promises attempt to drive back home (but this time, in the same direction us beauty, wholeness and peace. as rush hour traffic) one parent (OK, me) abandoned the car in the middle of a massive traffic jam, grabbed the tiniest of the three children’s bikes from the back (well, it was the one on top) and cycled madly through the torrential downpour searching frantically for the abandoned child. I can still recall Herald September 2019

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Garvaghy Presbyterian Church

BANNER FESTIVAL

Psalms Relay

Cavanaleck Presbyterian Church 501, Belfast Rd, Fivemiletown, BT75 0SE Saturday 28 September 2019 10am to 6pm

Calling all choirs, singing groups and soloists

Light refreshments available.

Parties of 10 or more should book with

On Sunday 24 November 2019 we are holding a Psalms Relay – singing all 150 psalms in one day.

We are asking for the help of choirs, singing groups and soloists from within the Iveagh Presbytery.

Hazel Hopper (028) 8954 1321

Beginning at 9am with Garvaghy choir singing Psalms 1-5, followed by another choir/group singing Psalms 6-10, and so on.

Cootehill Church of Ireland

Bicentenary Harvest Weekend

We welcome a diversity of styles and music, from unaccompanied singing to Gregorian chants, metrical psalms to more modern settings.

Concert with ‘Hard Times Chorus’ from Bailieborough

Saturday 14 at 8pm

Light refreshments are available throughout the day, and a retiring offering will be taken for the Church Roof Fund.

For more information, or to express interest in participating, please contact Rev Brian Martin by email: brianmartin@post.com; or by phone: 07933 157171

Harvest Thanksgiving Service – Sunday 15 3.00pm with guest preacher Bishop Ken Clarke Soloist: Lorraine Vance, Arva (refreshments to follow)

Bicentenary Book Launch – Friday 1 November 8pm

Alternatively, call Mr Welsey Boyd on 07832 963124

Further details on Facebook @cootehillgroupcoi

CROSSWORD Puzzle no 253 1

solution on page 50

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compiled by Harry Douglas

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ACROSS 1 God by another name (8) 5 Please choose the narrow one (4) 7 Scottish Isle that was a centre of early Christianity (4) 9 Rain, sleet, sun and snow! (7) 12 Large expanse of sea (5) 13 Foot digit (3) 14 Famous Beatles song (9) 17 To copy (3) 18 Very overweight (5) 21 A female deer (3) 23 One does this to a match (6) 24 Blueish purple (6) 27 Samuel’s mentor (3) 28 Irish girl’s name (4) 29 To remain (4) 30 Dry places (7) 33 Rubber (6) 34 Local electricity supplier (initials) (3) 35 Jesus likened the Holy Spirit to these (7)

DOWN 1 For ever (6) 2 Water protectors for old castles (5) 3 To have been weary (5) 4 The first part of a favourite toy (2) 5 A speed test (4) 6 Soft, chalky stone (9) 8 007’s GP? (2) 10 The entire amount (8) 11 Dicken’s Uriah (4) 15 He who paid our ransom (8) 16 The second part of 4 Down (2) 19 Car luggage compartment (4) 20 According to Luke, Jesus grew in wisdom and what? (7) 22 Plainly obvious (7) 25 A Scottish girl (4) 26 Home town of Paul (6) 30 Scottish river (3) 31 Initials of local regiment (3) 32 Golf ball’s resting place (3)

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Do you feel called to serve as a Deaconess?

The Presbyterian Church in Ireland invites applications for training as a Deaconess to commence a two-year course in Diaconate Studies at Union Theological College, Belfast in September 2020.

Closing date for applications on the appropriate form to be received by 30 September 2019.

All enquiries to: Rev David Bruce, Council for Mission in Ireland, Assembly Buildings, 2-10 Fisherwick Place, Belfast BT1 6DW Tel: +44 (0)28 9041 7265, Email: mission@presbyterianireland.org

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Herald September 2019

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

1. LEAVE TO CALL GRANTED AGHADOWEY & CROSSGAR: REV P.A. KERR: (Aghadowey) Mr William Knox, 46A Mullaghinch Road, Aghadowey, Coleraine, BT51 4AT. (Crossgar) Mr William Reid, 87 Broomhill Park, Coleraine, BT51 3AN. ARKLOW: (Home Mission Scheme, Reviewable Tenure – 7 years) REV GARY McDOWELL: Mrs Emily Kearon, Malindi, Sea Road, Arklow, Co Wicklow.

BALLYHOBRIDGE, CLONES, NEWBLISS & STONEBRIDGE: (Part Time 50%, Reviewable Tenure – 7 years) REV C.G. ANDERSON: (Ballyhobridge) Mr David Jordan, Drumboghamagh, Newtownbutler, BT92 8LL. (Clones) Mr Tom Elliott, Bellmount, Newtownbutler, BT92 6LT. (Newbliss) Mr Thomas McConkey, Killyfuddy, Newbliss, Co Monaghan.

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

BALLYCARRY: REV H.M. RENDELL: Miss Daphne Bashford, 36 Island Road, Ballycarry, Carrickfergus, BT38 9JE. CAIRNALBANA & GLENARM: (Reviewable Tenure – 5 years) REV A.J. McCRACKEN: (Cairnalbana) Mr Brian Alexander, 84 Drumcrow Road, Cairnalbana, Glenarm, BT44 0DW. (Glenarm) Mr David Preston, 42 Rossburn Manor, Connor, Ballymena, BT42 3RB. CAIRNCASTLE: (Reviewable Tenure – 7 years) REV R.I. CARTON: Mr Cowper Lynas, 2 Croft Heights, Ballygally, Larne, BT40 2QS. CARLISLE ROAD & CROSSROADS: (Reviewable Tenure – 7 years) REV K.H. HIBBERT: (Carlisle Road) Mr Ivor Ferguson, 24 Riverside Park, Altnagelvin, Londonderry, BT47 3RU. (Crossroads) Mr Richard Russell, 31 Creevagh Road, Londonderry, BT48 9XB. CARROWDORE & BALLYFRENIS AND BALLYBLACK: REV S.A. LITTLE: (Carrowdore & Ballyfrenis) Mr Herbert Robinson, 9 Islandhill Road, Millisle, BT22 2BS. (Ballyblack) Mr Alex Warden, 92 Bowtown Road, Newtownards, BT23 8SL. CASTLEWELLAN & LEITRIM: (Reviewable Tenure – 5 years) REV N.J. KANE: (Castlewellan) Mr Desmond Wilson, 44 Ballylough Road, Castlewellan, BT31 9NN. (Leitrim) Mr Drew Harte, 100 Carrigagh Road, Dromara, Dromore, BT25 2HR. CAVANALECK & AUGHENTAINE: (Reviewable Tenure – 7 years) REV DR W.D. CUPPLES: (Cavanaleck) Dr Charles McKibbin, Cooneen Old Rectory, 9 Tattenabuddagh Lane, Fivemiletown, BT75 0NW. (Aughentaine) Mr John McCrory, Screeby Road, Fivemiletown, BT75 0TP. COAGH, BALLYGONEY & SALTERSLAND: REV T.W.A. GREER: (Coagh) Mrs Amy Allingham, 17 Coagh Road, Cookstown, BT80 8RL. (Ballygoney) Mr Bruce Johnston, 4 Mill Road, Old Coagh Road, Cookstown, BT80 0NE. (Saltersland) Mr Matt Hyndman, 4 Brennan Court, Castledawson Road, Magherafelt, BT45 6AT. COOKSTOWN, FIRST: REV D.S. BROWNLOW: Mr Gordon Black, 21 The Dales, Cookstown, BT80 8TF. DROMORE, FIRST: REV R.A. LIDDLE: Mr Cecil Gamble, 12 Diamond Road, Dromore, BT25 1PQ. DRUMBANAGHER, FIRST AND JERRETTSPASS & KINGSMILLS: REV B.D. COLVIN: (Drumbanager, First and Jerrettspass) Mr George Moffett, 16 Glen Road, Drummiller, Newry, BT34 1SP. (Kingsmills) Mr Raymond McCormick, 119 Kingsmills Road, Bessbrook, Newry, BT35 7BP. GLENDERMOTT: REV K.A. JONES: Mr George Walker, 3 Beverley Gardens, Londonderry, BT47 5PJ. KILBRIDE: REV D.T. McNEILL: Mr Alistair Lamont, Church Office, Kilbride Presbyterian Church, 12 Moyra Road, Doagh, Ballyclare, BT39 0SD. LISSARA: (Reviewable Tenure – 7 years) REV W.H. HIGGINS: Mr Matthew Cuffey, 227 Derryboy Road, Crossgar, Downpatrick BT30 9DL.

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MOSSIDE & TOBERDONEY: REV ALAN BUICK: (Mosside) Mrs Mabel Morrison, 284 Moyarget Road, Dervock, Ballymoney, BT53 8EH. (Toberdoney) Mr Hugh Hill, 5 Castle Park, Deffrick, Ballymoney, BT53 8EW. RAMELTON & KILMACRENNAN: REV C.M. WILSON: (Ramelton) Mr David Armour, Loughnagin, Letterkenny, Co Donegal. (Kilmacrennan) Mr Nathaniel Rogers, Gortnavern, Coolboy, Letterkenny, Co Donegal.

SESKINORE & EDENDERRY: REV C.F.D. CLEMENTS: (Seskinore) Mr J.A. Patterson, 119 Letfern Road, Seskinore, BT78 2JU. (Edenderry) Mrs Muriel Good, 14 Racolpa Road, Mountjoy, Omagh, BT79 0HU. ST ANDREW’S, BELFAST: (Reviewable Tenure – 7 years) REV M.R. BURNSIDE: Mrs Edith McCallum, 115 Comber Road, Dundonald, BT16 2BT.

2. LEAVE TO CALL DEFERRED GORTNESSY: REV J.S. McCREA: Mr Ross Hyndman, 32 Temple Road, Strathfoyle, Londonderry, BT47 6UB. RICHVIEW: REV N.S. HARRISON: Mr Victor Garland, 25 Abingdon Drive, Belfast, BT12 5PX.

SETTLED STATED SUPPLY APPOINTED BALLINDERRY: RT REV DR W.J. HENRY, Minister of Maze BOVEEDY: REV DR T.J. McCORMICK, Minister of First Kilrea CAHIR: REV WILLIAM MONTGOMERY, Minister of Fermoy 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 ARMOY & RAMOAN: REV NOEL McCLEAN: (Armoy) Mrs Ann Campbell, 77B Bregagh Road, Armoy, Ballymoney, BT53 8TP. (Ramoan) Mr Robert Getty, 23 Carrowcroey Road, Armoy, Ballymoney, BT53 8UH. BALLYCAIRN: REV ROBERT LOVE: Mr Brian Milligan, 19 Glenariff Drive, Dunmurry, BT17 9AZ. BALLYCLARE: REV P.A. BOVILL: Mr Niall McConkey, 30 Village Green, Doagh, Ballyclare, BT39 0UD. BALLYGOMARTIN: REV I.K. McDONALD: Mr Raymond Cummings, 43A Lyndhurst Gardens, Belfast, BT13 3PH. BALLYKELLY: REV J.L. BLAIR: Mrs Doreen Nicholl, Shackleton Lodge, 8 Dukes Lane, Ballykelly, BT49 9JT. BELVOIR: REV B.J. McCROSKERY: Mr Brian Dunwoody, 19 Drumart Drive, Belfast, BT8 7ET. BURT: REV JAMES LAMONT: Mr James Buchanan, Heathfield, Speenoge, Burt, Co Donegal, F93 W3K6.

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 CARNDONAGH, GREENBANK, MALIN & MOVILLE: REV DR DAVID LATIMER: (Carndonagh) Mr Tom Campbell, Carndonagh, Lifford, Co Donegal. (Malin) Mrs Barbara Smyth, Dunross, Culdaff, Co Donegal. (Moville) Mr Joseph McNeely, Rock House, Lecamey, Lifford, Co Donegal.

CRUMLIN ROAD: VERY REV DR T.N. HAMILTON: Mr James Coleman, 2 Abbeydale Parade, Belfast, BT14 7HJ. DRUMACHOSE & DERRAMORE: REV T.A.S. GRAHAM: (Drumachose) Mr Sam McGregor, 15 Meadowvale Park, Limavady, BT49 0NU. (Derramore) Mr Sam Kelly, 220 Windyhill Park, Coleraine, BT51 4JL.

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.

DONEGORE, SECOND: REV J.A. GORDON: Mr Samuel Gawn, 120 Parkgate Road, Kells, Ballymena, BT42 3PQ. KELLS: (Home Mission) REV B.A.H. WILSON: Ms Ruth McCartney, Shancarnan, Moynalty, Kells, Co Meath.

A82 PF60.

TOBERMORE & DRAPERSTOWN: REV G.D. SIMPSON: Mr Gordon Dickson Jnr, 7 Strawmore Road, Draperstown, BT45 7JE.

DUNBOE FIRST: REV M.E. DONALD: Mr Peter Kirk, 5 Liffock Court, Castlerock, Coleraine, BT51 4DQ. GLENGORMLEY: REV T.C. MORRISON: Mr Derek Kyle, Glengormley Presbyterian Church, 267 Antrim Road, Glengormley, BT36 7QN. INCH: REV JAMES LAMONT: Mr James Buchanan, Heathfield, Speenoge, Burt, Co Donegal, F93 W3K6.

KILCOOLEY: REV T.J. McCONAGHIE: Mrs Kathleen Hinds, 43 Ardgheean Gardens, Bangor, BT19 1SW. KILFENNAN: REV GRAEME ORR: Mr Will Doran, 2 Moulton Park, Eglinton, BT47 3XP. KILLINCHY: REV N.R.A. COOPER: Mrs Morna McGibbon, 71 Comber Road, Killinchy, BT23 6PF. KILKENNY: REV WILLIAM MONTGOMERY: Mr John Ellis, Annamult, Stoneyford, Co Kilkenny.

MAY STREET: REV GRAEME FOWLES: Mr Arthur Acheson, 56 Quarry Road, Belfast, BT4 2NQ. NEW MOSSLEY: REV DR W.J.M. PARKER: Mr Howard Keery, 16 Earlford Heights, Mossley, Newtownabbey, BT36 5WZ. NEWINGTON: REV DR I.D. NEISH: Mr John Lynass, 8 Bushfoot Park, Portballintrae, BT57 8YX. NEWTOWNSTEWART & GORTIN: REV R.B. THOMPSON: (Newtownstewart) Mr James Baxter, 22 Strabane Road, Newtownstewart, Omagh, BT78 4BD. (Gortin) Mr Adrian Adams, 32 Lisnaharney Road, Lislap, Omagh, BT79 7UE. RYANS & BROOKVALE: REV F.J. GIBSON: (Ryans) Miss Nora Hamilton, Rathfriland Manor Nursing Home, Rossconor Terrace, Rathfriland, BT34 5DJ. (Brookvale) Mr Norman McCrum, 49 Ballynamagna Road, Rathfriland, Newry, BT34 5PA. SAINTFIELD SECOND: REV D.J. HYNDMAN: Mr Stanley McFarland, 29 Forge Hill Court, Saintfield, Ballynahinch, BT24 7LW. VINECASH: REV DR MICHAEL McCLENAHAN: Mr Thomas Graham, 38 Richmount, Portadown, BT62 4JQ.

THE ELDERSHIP Ordained and Installed: TULLYALLEN: Thomas Johnston, Kenneth Qua, Robert Qua MAGHERMASON: Leslie Hamilton, Gareth Kirk FAUGHANVALE: Anne Hamilton, Graham Lamrock, Grace Montgomery, Ivan Morrison, Alison Simpson, Gordon Smith ALT: Chester Roulston, Isobel Roulston ST COLUMBA’S: Shirley Harrison CASTLEDERG: Rosemary Craig, Sandra Thompson FIRST BROUGHSHANE: John Hamilton, Colin Heron, Richard Hood, Alan Reid ARMAGH ROAD, PORTADOWN: Joyce Neilly, Angela Neilly DONABATE: David Hamilton, Nathalie Hand, Ingrid Harley CHRIST CHURCH, LIMERICK: Andrew Roulston, Sola Alabi CLARE: Brian Greer Installed: TULLYALLEN: Wilfred Henning Died: BALLYHENRY: Robert Greer

THE MINISTRY Ordained and Installed: Mr Stephen McCracken, as Minister of Ballymoney First, on 20 June 2019.

Mr Richard Patton, as Minister of Trinity Boardmills, on 28 June 2019.

Mr Jonathan Boyd, as Minister of Ballygawley and Ballyreagh, on 28 June 2019.

Mr Craig Jackson, as Minister of Ballygilbert, on 26 July 2019.

Installed: Rev Gareth Aitcheson, as Minister of Balteagh and Bovevagh, on 27 June 2019.

Rev Dr Annes Nel, as Global Mission Worker in Russia, on 14 July 2019.

Inducted: Rev John Gilkinson, as Chaplain in Belfast City Hospital, on 9 June 2019.

Resigned: Rev Dr Annes Nel, as Minister of Killinchy, on 13 July 2019.

Retired: Rev Robert Bell, as Minister of Ballyclare, on 30 June 2019.

Rev Rob Craig, as Minister of Kilfennan, on 30 June 2019.

Rev Brian McMillen, as Minister of Ballygomartin, on 31 July 2019.

Rev Jim McCaughan, as Minister of First Dunboe, on 31 July 2019.

Rev Bobbie Stevenson, as Minister of Carrowdore & Ballyfrenis, on 31 July 2019.

Rev Alan Wilson, as Minister of Ballykelly, on 31 July 2019.

WARRENPOINT & ROSTREVOR: REV S.A. FINLAY: (Warrenpoint) Mr Denis Brady, 28 Seaview, Warrenpoint, Newry, BT34 3NJ. (Rostrevor) Mr Terry O’Flynn, 15 Aurora Na Mara, Shore Road, Rostrevor, BT34 3UP.

TEMPORARY STATED SUPPLY ARRANGEMENT BELLVILLE: REV F.J. GIBSON: Mr Jack Parks, 95 Dromore Road, Hillsborough, BT26 6HU. DERVOCK: REV R.I.A. ALLELY: Mr John Surgenor, 82 Toberdoney Road, Dervock, Ballymoney, BT53 8DH.

Herald September 2019

49

CLASSIFIEDS Accommodation Northern Ireland CAUSEWAY COAST: luxury self-catering, www.causewaycountrycottages.com G I A N T ’S C AU S E WAY H O L I D AY RENTAL: 3-bedroom, fully equipped cottage near the Giant’s Causeway for rent with wood burning stove, WiFi and smart TV. Views of Dunseverick Castle, situated beside coastal path walk. Sleeps 5/6 plus cot. Enclosed back garden. Well behaved dogs welcome. Contact Sandra for more details: 07901 645783.

PORTSTEWART: 3-bedroom house 1(ensuite) sleeps 5-6 Enfield Street. 2 minute walk from promenade. Non smoking. Tel. 07762 731358.

CROSSWORD Solution to No 253

ACROSS 1 Almighty 5 Road 7 Iona 9 Weather 12 Ocean 13 Toe 14 Yesterday 17 Ape 18 Obese 21 Doe 23 Strike 24 Violet 27 Eli 28 Tara 29 Stay 30 Deserts 33 Eraser 34 NIE 35 Streams

DOWN 1 Always 2 Moats 3 Tired 4 Yo 5 Race 6 Alabaster 8 No 10 Totality 11 Heep 15 Redeemer 16 Yo 19 Boot 20 Stature 22 Evident 25 Lass 26 Tarsus 30 Dee 31 RIR 32 Tee

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.

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.

Republic of Ireland FOREST LODGE BED & BREAKFAST: Hornhead, Dunfanaghy, Co Donegal.

Tel: Jean Scott NI (0035374) ROI (074) 9136104 Mobile: 086 3215396. Web: www.forestlodgedonegal.com Email: info@forestlodgedonegal.com

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

07855 450887

HOLIDAY RENTAL: Beautiful 3-terraced, 2-bedroom villa in Torrox Costa, southern Spain. Sleeps 4-6. Fantastic sea views, pool open March-November. Very reasonable rates. Good availability from September 2019 to Summer 2020. All proceeds to help local missionaries and youth work. For brochure email juliechitty@hotmail.co.uk or phone 0034 651653838.

To Let Northern Ireland HOUSE AVAILABLE FOR RENT, off Lisburn Road, Belfast. 2-bedroom, suitable for young professionals / students. Available end August. Details: 07743 960046.

McCracken Memorial Presbyterian Church seeks to appoint a

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

Piano Tuning Services available throughout Ireland

Information along with application forms can be downloaded from the church website: www.mccrackenchurch.com and returned to: Mrs Rosemary Simpson, The Anvil, 26 Glen Road, Drumbo, Lisburn. BT27 5JR. Email: rosemaryecs@btinternet.com

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

will be celebrating the life and legacy of

Dr Martin Luther King in a special service involving music, spoken word and image.

Featuring Voices Together Community Choir, under the direction of Dave Stewart, poet Willetta Fleming and singer Rwanda Shaw.

Sunday 29 September 2019 at 7pm Bannside Presbyterian Church, Banbridge, Co Down

Herald September 2019

PA systems • Loop systems

Spain

Bannside Presbyterian

50

Church AV Specialists

Closing date for applications is Friday 25 October 2019

We are a rural church family, just outside Ballymena, seeking to appoint a

Music Coordinator (part-time, 8 hours per week)

We are looking for an enthusiastic individual to help lead and develop our corporate praise.

Further details, job description and application form please contact: Rev Alistair McCracken, 304 Cushendall Road, Ballymena, BT43 6PS Telephone: (028) 2565 7531 Email: amccracken123@gmail.com The closing date for applications is Friday 18 October 2019 Registered Charity in Northern Ireland – NIC105373

Hope and aid for the persecuted Church Contact us to receive a free copy of our magazine

barnabasfund.org

Office address: Office 113 Russell Business Centre 40-42 Lisburn Road, Belfast BT9 6AA. Please send post to our UK office address.

Barnabas Fund is a company registered in England Number 04029536.

Registered Charity Number 1092935

028 91 455 246 or 07875 539003 ireland@barnabasfund.org

Get together with your friends, family and church for an epic evening of poverty-fighting fun.

On Saturday 16 November, churches and other groups will take part in the biggest, multi-venue quiz ever – and we’d love you to join us.

To register or for more info visit www.tearfund.org/quizni, call 028 9073 0060 or email ni@tearfund.org Registered Charity No. 265464 (England & Wales) Registered Charity No. SC037624 (Scotland) 32101-(0619)

Big Quiz Night 2019 NI Ad176mmx126mm_AW_XL.indd 1

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24/06/2019 15:49

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