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VisionThe Official Organ of the Free Presbyterian Church of

Reformation 500 Review Jan - Feb 2018 . Issue 31 . £1

Letter from America Consider Christ Update: Ireland’s Call Wanted: Non-Confomrists Ordination and Installation in Australia Congregation Call: Missionary Vision: 16 Londonderry 22 Uganda Play Park – And More

04 Reformation 500 Review 12 Wanted: Non-Conformists Consider Christ Update Letter from America 06 18 Ireland’s Call Ordination and Installation News 08 20 in South Australia Maxwells Celebrate A Fresh Start 11 21 Thirty Years’ Service

Subscriptions Editorial FP Vision nd they continued…’ – three is available from your local Free Presbyterian Church, words much in my mind in or by contacting Colin McKee: Arecent days. In context, they are His followers, well, by following Tel: 028 91821304 Him, by walking in‘Why conformity call ye me to Lord, His Mob: 07764224363 Lord,Word. and Remember do not the how things He which challenged I say?’ [email protected] Publications Committee confirm a genuine work of grace in another audience: those arrested by Peter’s message on Dr R Johnstone (Convenor) the Day of Pentecost (Acts 2:41-42). (Luke 6:46) Mr I Campbell Subsequent lines reveal that these new Rev D Creane believers demonstrated the reality of And so, the true believer will continue. Rev L Curran (Associate Editor) Faced with the countless temptations Mr C McKee (Business Manager) their conversion by commitment to Rev T Nelson (Editor) apostolic teaching, practical fellowship, and the sore discouragements that Rev G Wilson (Associate Editor) and corporate worship. At Jerusalem assail the Christian in the twenty-first (Secretary) Rev M Lecky they began to thrive individually, and century, he will simply carry on. He to contribute to the life of the local will neither give in, nor give up. He is congregation. called to be true to Christ come what www.freepresbyterian.org may. Practically, this will mean he is The Lord Jesus Christ did not a faithful and dedicated member of authenticate all who professed to follow the church where Christ has placed Him. Mere profession was not – and is him, and a light shining brightly for not – enough.‘If ye Addressing continue in those my word, Jews the Gospel in a world that grows ever thenwho appearedare ye my to disciples espouse indeed’ discipleship, darker. As 2017 is consigned to history, he declared and the dawn breaks on 2018, this is (John the challenge for us all. ⁞⁞ Timothy Nelson, Design and Print by 8:31). No matter how loudly we affirm [email protected] Pepper Collective our allegiance to Christ, the real test is T: 07729 526366 obedience. We must manifest that we The Year of our Redemption

‘The year of my redeemed is come’ Isaiah 63:3

he redemption of the soul is so precious that nothing save a ransom of infinite value can Tredeem it. brought in the year of everlasting righteousness by His life for without shedding of blood there is no remission’ and death. The Creator and Lawgiver voluntarily subjected No less a ransom price than that of blood Himself to His own law; and His obedience to it unto death will do, ‘ placed upon it a glory and honour that no creature could (Hebrews 9:22). Yet no ordinary blood is worthy. The blood have done. Had ever the law such a subject? In this year of of a mere creature can never satisfy Divine justice nor redemption the covenant of grace, or the testament of Christ, expiate the guilt of the least sin. It must be that The year of was confirmed and certified by His own blood. of a chosen Redeemer, sinless in His Person, and His redeemed That testament now prevails, hence the shadows matchless in His perfection and power. is the great of all the Jewish ceremonies are fled away forever. ‘I have joy of the Christ the substance of them all has come. laid help upon one that is mighty; I have exalted Redeemer’s Godone chosenthe Father out speaksof the people’of One in the words: heart. With pleasure He The year of His redeemed is the great joy of the (Psalm 89:19). His sends forth Redeemer’s heart. With pleasure He sends forth chosen is of the seed of the woman and in whom His messengers His messengers to proclaim His salvation unto dwells all the fullness of the Godhead. Who can to proclaim the ‘the ends day of ofthe the earth. gladness The occasion of his heart’ of His applied declare His generation? Without father as to His salvation redemption in effectual calling and conversion His human nature‘in himand shallwithout all themother seed asof toIsrael His unto the ends is (Song of of the earth. bedivine justified, nature, and Heshall is glory’ the heir of all things, our Solomon 3:11). Redeemer and (Isaiah45:25). Let us then celebrate the praises of the One who ‘This peoplehad have the Iyear formed of our for redemption myself, that so they much should upon show His In the Mosaic economy the nearest of kin was forth my praise’heart. His redeemed remember that He has said: to be the avenger of his kinsman’s blood. Christ who is our Kinsman-Redeemer, bone of our bone and flesh of our flesh, (Isaiah 43:21). Israel of old was obliged to came in the greatness of His strength to engage and destroy remember her typical and temporal redemption. Shall we the powers of Hell and dominion of Satan. The year of the not then continually praise Him throughout this New Year redeemed was purposed in eternity. The plan of redemption for our spiritual and eternal redemption? was in God’s heart from before the foundation of the world. ⁞⁞ Rev Leslie Curran There, in the counsels of the Godhead, it was agreed that , Associate Editor, is the Director of Let the Bible the eternal Son would come forth as our glorious Redeemer Speak radio ministry in N Ireland, and a regular preacher on its undertaking man’s redemption. Made of a woman, He worldwide network of broadcasts. 03 Reformation 500

Reformation

Review

Ministers at the Rally

he commemoration of the 500th anniversary of the TProtestant Reformation reached its climax with a special Presbytery Rally hosted by Martyrs’ Memorial Church on Friday 27th October 2017. In excess of 2000 people were welcomed by Reformation 500 Committee Convenor Rev Ron Johnstone. A choir brought appropriate items of worship and Committee members Garth Craig, Ian Campbell and Revs Ian Kenny, David Brown, David McMillan and John Greer also contributed. Deputy Moderator Rev Gordon Dane offered prayer and Moderator Rev Thomas Reformation 500 Committee Murray brought a stirring message. Clerk of Presbytery Rev Ian Brown led in the closing affirmation, committing the denomination to Reformation principles, after which all joined in spirit, and acknowledged the vision guide on the five ‘Solas’ and an already singing the Doxology. and encouragement of the Moderator. twice-reprinted book on Martin Luther. Mention was also made of the Presentations were made to designer Those in attendance received a copy Gospel booklet posted to the 787 000 Mark Thompson and to Rev Johnstone of a beautifully produced souvenir residential addresses in N Ireland, for painstaking labour over many brochure in which Rev Johnstone subsequently used elsewhere in the months. Mr Johnstone paid tribute to wrote of the many items produced to UK and in the , members of the Committee for their commemorate this historic occasion. Africa and Australia, with permission dedicated service and unanimity of These included an introductory study granted for a German translation for 04 use in Luther’s homeland. In addition, a CD of carefully chosen hymns had been produced to general acclaim, and numerous congregations had made use of the Reformation Display Boards. Many had accessed the website www.justbyfaithalone.net and a variety of groups and individuals had visited the Reformation Room exhibition and tour at Martyrs’ Memorial Church.

All in all, it was a memorable year, with many congregations holding special weeks and rallies, all with the dual purpose of educating and evangelising. It is to be hoped that the precious truths of the Reformation era – which were but a rediscovery of the Gospel of the New Testament – will again grip the hearts of our people and usher in those times of refreshing of which we stand in need more than ever.

Reformation 500 Committee receiving the tracts ⁞⁞ Editor

05 Letter from America

are visitors here. I think it surprised me, but the shared language (sort of!) can’t hide the differences in thinking and customs. But I’m not seeking sympathy: We live in a beautiful home, in a nice neighbourhood, in a wonderful state. The cupboards are full of good food and the people are very friendly. I want to be honest though, and we appreciate your prayers as we continue to acclimatise.

The church family has been a living testimony of the truth of the communion of saints who live God’s in communion with Christ. people face Very quickly we felt part the same joys and of this family. It feels trials as in U.K. The that we have been congregation comprises here much longer sinners, and saved sinners ight months ago the roads growing in grace and than nine months – were daunting, the accents in the knowledge of in a good way! Early Just the other Eunfamiliar, the currency Christ. on, many members new and the breakfast cereals full day, I was asked: helped us find our way of cinnamon! ‘Have you settled around the highways in now?’ I suppose and the bureaucracy. Almost everything in many ways we have. They were friendly and was new. Much time was consumed Those daunting tasks are welcoming, generous and kind. getting recognised as a resident in now familiar. We know Route 30, That kindness has continued. And we the USA. I needed a Social Security Route 202 and the rest. I can pick out rejoice in a congregation that prays for number, a new bank account, and to sit a dime in a pocket of change and we its minister and his family. a driving test – a little strange to sort use four separate grocery stores! Yet these ‘teenage’ things in my 40s. The we continue to adjust to a new country One area which has required little children had to be enrolled in school and culture. Last week, Cherith and adjustment is in my work. In essence, and we had to choose where to shop. I were talking in a shop and a lady preaching, studying, praying and Everyday responsibilities turned into observed, ‘I just love your accents!’ visiting continue as in Ballymagerney. new challenges. These little things remind us that we Homes are much further apart, but 06 God’s people face the same joys and broadcast in Philadelphia each Lord’s yet they have been willing to submit trials as in U.K. The congregation Day and some have come in as a result. to my conviction regarding the Lord’s comprises sinners, and saved We are also pleased with the response leading. He opened a door for the sinners growing in grace and in the to a monthly Ladies’ Meeting and a children to attend a Baptist school knowledge of Christ. All need to monthly children’s Bible Club. God is north of our home, and that has been hear Christ preached. We have been blessing these means of proclaiming a blessing. The staff have shown the greatly encouraged by what God has His Word. love of Christ to them and have helped done in 2017. There is a hunger for to acclimatise them educationally and the preached Word, and a renewed The Malvern people have been looking emotionally. God’s will is being done measure of stability. Last September, forward to 2018. This year we celebrate in their lives, and we are so thankful thirteen were added to the church, the church’s 40th anniversary, and look that you remember the children in some new, some returning, and some forward to hosting the International prayer. in the church for several years without Congress. It will encourage folk here to joining. This is of the Lord and is vital be reminded of our part in the wider The U.S.A. and the U.K. are divided by a as we look to elect office-bearers in Free Presbyterian family. I came here large body of water and by ‘a common late 2018, Lord willing. as part of that family and it is vital language!’ But today both nations to remember our common burden seem determined to turn their backs One major challenge is in evangelism. to preach Christ on both sides of the on God’s Word and His offer of mercy For many years members have visited Atlantic, and throughout the world. in Christ. God’s people must unite in the neighbourhood with little visible prayer, and to that end, as we pray for fruit. In September, we visited about Often Satan attacks the ministry you, please continue to pray for us. 600 homes. These people are on our by attacking the minister’s family. doorstep and it would be wonderful I am grateful to God for a loving In Christ. to see God work where He planted and supportive wife. Undoubtedly ⁞⁞ Stephen Pollock the church. Please pray for wisdom the move here was, and is, a huge to reach these souls. We have a radio challenge to Cherith and the children,

News

Whitefield College Principal Retires

fter five years at the helm, Rev Gordon Ferguson has Aretired as Principal of the Whitefield College of the Bible. Thomas Murray as presentations were made subsequently at Martyrs. Mr Ferguson expressed appreciation, spoke of Warm tributes were paid to him for all his endeavours at the honour of holding the position, and also acknowledged a recent Presbytery meeting, and again by College Convenors gifts presented earlier by the student body. It is hoped that Rev Alan Smylie and Mr Norman McIlroy and Moderator Rev the new principal will be in place very soon. 07 News

New Minister For Coragarry

hitefield College graduate Ray Carscadden was ordained and installed as the minister of WCoragarry in Co Monaghan before a capacity Lecky, S McCrea, D Smith and Clerk of Presbytery Dr I Brown. congregation on Wednesday 25th October 2017. The Rev Gordon Dane (Deputy Moderator), Mr Carscadden’s brother-in-law and a former minister of Coragarry, brought the charge to minister and congregation. Mr Kenneth Condell vacancy spanned just eleven months. Rev D McMillan (Interim welcomed Mr Carscadden and his family, and Mr John Stewart Moderator) led the meeting, with contributions from Revs M oversaw a series of presentations. Rev Middleton Installed in Tullyvallen

nterim Moderator Rev J Porter led the service Ion Saturday 4th November at which Rev Graham Middleton was installed as minister in Tullyvallen. I Brown, B Lorimer and D Abernethy. Deputy Moderator Rev Gordon Dane preached appropriately, and Mr William Also Nicholson welcomed Rev Middleton & his wife Gillian to the 08participating were Revs F Greenfield, A Patterson, M Patrick, congregation. News

Banbridge Vacancy Ends

he Banbridge congregation, Tvacant since the retirement of Rev William Whiteside, has welcomed Rev David Smith as its new minister.

Interim Moderator Rev A Smylie conducted the installation service, during which Revs I Harris, W McDermott, J Gray, K Elliott and I Brown participated. Moderator Rev Thomas Murray brought a timely message to the large gathering, with many present from Mr Smith’s former charge in Ardarragh. Sandown Session Extended

New elders (front) with Revs Wilson & Murray and existing elders

n Friday 8th December Messrs OWilliam Creane, Albert Gilpin, and Dynes Uprichard were ordained Rev G Wilson conducted the service and brought a challenging message. The and installed as elders in the Revs D McIlveen, B McClung, I Brown, congregation rejoices in God’s goodness Sandown congregation. T Nelson, J Armstrong and D Creane and looks forward to what God will yet also participated. The Moderator, Rev do in Sandown. Local Minster T Murray, oversaw the installation and

NEW Rev Maurice Baxter Rev Graham Middleton Rev Derek Erwin Rev Colin Mercer CONTACT DETAILS 36 The Linen Green 9 Tullyneill Road 7 Glenwood 12 Crevenagh View Sion Mills Newtownhamilton Ahoghill, Ballymena Omagh Strabane Newry, Co Armagh Co Antrim Co Tyrone BT82 9TL BT35 0EW BT42 1GW BT79 0JH Tel: 028 8139 0312 Tel: 028 3087 8735 Tel: 028 2587 9426 Tel: 028 8224 2299 09 Boys and girls, history has a wonderful King James I. Why? It was this James way of bringing together the most who gave royal approval for a brand unlikely things. Have you heard of new translation of the Bible. The Bible the “Gunpowder Plot”? Here’s what that we have today, the Authorized, happened. A little over 400 years ago, or King James, Version was the result a gang of men led by Robert Catesby – the best English translation of the met secretly. Tired of how things were Scriptures ever put together. in the land and feeling that the new King, James I, wasn’t doing enough How different it might have been if Guy ⁞⁞ to bring change, they plotted to blow Fawkes had killed the king! There may Robert McConnell Compiled by up the Houses of Parliament and kill have been no new version of the Bible. James. A key figure was Guy Fawkes, I can’t imagine how it would have been, an expert in handling gunpowder but I am sure that we would be very and causing explosions. But Fawkes much the poorer without this wonderful was caught ’red-handed’ with the translation. “Concerning thy gunpowder, and soon the other gang testimonies, I have members were captured and sentenced Today, we should be very thankful known of old that to death for daring to try and kill the that the hand of God intervenes in the thou hast founded king. affairs of men. He has established His them for ever.” Word in our land. He has given us the Now, what does all this have to do with light of the Gospel. I hope that you Psalm 119:152 the Bible? Well, if you look at the read your Bible regularly, and that you front of your Bible you will find a letter know and love the Lord Jesus Christ as of dedication written to none other than your own, personal Saviour.

Quiz: Bible Kings Prizes! Who was the tallest king Are you 12 or under? Send your answer, in the Bible? name, address and church to: Who was the youngest king Rev Garth Wilson in the Bible? Email: [email protected] 39 Millreagh Ave,, Dundonald, Who was the wisest king Belfast, BT16 1TZ in the Bible? Who was king at the birth £5 Winners last time: of the Saviour? »» Josh Cooper »» Jodie McKeown Put your answers in the boxes provided. Reshuffle the letters found in the yellow (Lurgan) (Aughnacloy) boxes to spell the name of Felix’s wife (Acts 24). »» Zara Barnes »» Reuben McClintock (Hillsborough) (Ballymena) »» Anna Lucas »» Katie & Lauren Answer: Name: (Garvagh) McConnell (Mourne) »» Ben O’Hagan »» Ella Foster Address: (Randalstown) (Kilskeery)

Church: Even if you didn’t win this time, please keep trying – maybe next time! 10 Youth Focus ⁞⁞ Rev Garth Wilson Compiled by

a

Start

he hustle and bustle of Christmas and the New Year Tare over for another year, Is it not time to put things and it’s time to look forward to what He who right, to get back to close 2018 has in store. wanders from fellowship with God and God will never be His people? He who Of course the start a place called Peniel. truly happy until wanders from God will of a year brings the annual round of Here the Lord took he gets right never be truly happy promises of new starts and ‘New Year hold of his life and with God. until he gets right resolutions’ – often about things we changed him. Jacob with God, but desire are going to do better, or even things never walked the same must be accompanied we are going to forgo. To live better, to again. It was a fresh start by determination to put get more exercise, to spend more time in his life and in his walk things right. However you with family – I’m sure these aspirations with God. have left off following God – will feature prominently. failure in Bible reading, attendance Perhaps 2017 saw you drift from God. at God’s house, or in opportunities to The quest for a fresh start must involve Could it be said of you as the Lord said of serve – you need to recover the ground. more than desire; there must be the the church at Ephesus, “Nevertheless, I There are no short-cuts! determination to see it through. In have somewhat against thee, thou hast Scripture, Jacob was one who had a left thy first love”. Searching words: do All of us need to rededicate our lives to new beginning. He had always looked they describe your experience? Have the Lord at the outset of 2018. O, for a out for himself with little or no thought you left your first love? You can recall greater love for the Lord and a greater for others. But there came a day when earlier times when you were bright zeal and enthusiasm for His work! things changed. He was ‘on the run’, but for God, when you served Him with There is no better time for a fresh“present start he was coming back to make amends all your heart, when you never missed thanour bodiesat the commencement a living sacrifice, of this wholly New Even if you didn’t win this time, please with the brother he had deceived. being at His house. But now, at the Year.acceptable May unto we know God” help to keep trying – maybe next time! While he was making his way home, start of 2018, you are not where you he had an encounter with the Lord at ought to be. ! 11 Non-Conformists

12 ave you ever felt under pressure from others of the world is enmity with God’ to do something, go somewhere, or say things ‘be not conformed to this world: but be ye Houtside of your normal pattern of behaviour? transformed by the renewing of your(4:4), mind, while that Paul ye warns may prove whatthe Christians is that good, to and acceptable, and perfect, will of God’

If you have, you have experienced ‘peer pressure’. It has been defined as ‘the influence that a peer group or (Romans 12:2). Conformity to the world’s standards is not individual exerts, encouraging others to change their what God desires of His ‘pilgrims’children. Instead‘strangers’ He expects us to be attitudes, values or behaviours and conform to group different in our deeds, dialect, dress and desires. God speaks norms.’ In simpler terms, it’s when we feel compelled to of His children as being and (Hebrews do something because we want to fit in and be accepted 11:13; 1 Peter 2:11). We are quickly passing through this by certain people. By the way, pressure from peers is world to the next. Fitting into this world is not to be our goal experienced by people of all ages. A teenager might feel in life, but living a life glorifying to God. If we live with that pressurised to have the newest smartphone or the latest goal in view, we will soon be out of step with the world. But designer clothes or shoes, but adults too are pressed to better to walk with God and have His favour, than walk with conform whether it’s about the furnishing of their homes or rthee mworldemb ander havethat God’s oth frown.ers have the standards to which they adhere. experienced peer pressure

We succumb to peer pressure because society has programmed us to think that if we are different we will Thirdly, you must remember that others have experienced not be accepted by others. If we want to be liked, to have peer pressure but have refused to yield to it. One of the friends, to be popular, society tells us that we need to throw most notable examples in the Bible is found in the lives away Bible-based convictions to fit in with the crowd. How of Hananiah, Mishael and Azariah, better known to us sad to see young people yield to such pressure, forsaking as Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego. The royal edict the teachings of Scripture and living lives out of step with required them to worship Nebuchadnezzar’s image, but God and His Word! these young men refused to disobey the first and second commandments in order to obey the king’s diktat. The So how can we deal with peer pressure? To help in this pressure to conform was immense, and others of their battle,reme herembe arer w someho youthings ar Gode would have you remember. peers had no difficulty in bowing down, but these young men chose to obey God rather than men. In doing so, they found that God blessed them and promoted them. Think of The first thing that will help you to deal with peer pressure others like Joseph, Esther, Daniel, and John the Baptist, all of is to remember who you are. The desire to be accepted by whom refused to yield to the pressure and conform to the others is one of the main reasons why we succumb to peer world. And so, you are in good company when you stand up pressure. But when you remember that you have been for God and His truth. The heroes and heroines of the faith chosen and accepted by God, then what does it matter what would encourage us today to ‘Stand up, Stand up for Jesus’, others think? The thought of being chosen and accepted by revenem whenembe suchr that a stand you flouts wi popularll stand opinion. God was what Paul focused on when writing to believers before God alone someday at Ephesus. That city was morally corrupt and given over to superstition and idolatry. The people of God were under ‘we shall all nfo constant pressure to conform to the norms of a pagan Finally, it is important to remember that you will stand on-Co rmist stand before the judgment seat of Christ’ ‘every one N s society. Yet Paul reminds them that though they stood out ofbefore us shall God give alone account someday. of himself Paul reminds to God’ us that, from others because of their allegiance to Christ, and were and that, ostracised by family and friends, they they were ‘chosen’ in (Romans 14: 10, 12). Christ ‘before the foundation of the world’ and through Him Our lives are to be lived in light of that inevitable meeting they were ‘accepted in the beloved’ (Ephesians 1:3+6). You with God. Our peers will not accompany us to the judgment may not be accepted by your peers, but if you know Christ seat of Christ, we ourselves will give an account of our lives rase Saviour,membe your w areh aacceptedt God byhas Him. sa Thatid is all that matters. to God. How sad to meet the Saviour and say we did not do those things we should have done, and we did those things that we should not have done, only because of pressure from The second thing is to remember what God has said. our peers! To avoid that scenario, let us surround ourselves Conformity to social norms ‘Love when not those the world,norms neither are out the of with friends who encourage us to do the will of God. thingsstep with that the are standards in the world. of Scripture If any man is lovenot acceptable, the world, the 1 will never loveJohn of 2:15 the challengesFather is not us in to him’. leaveRefusing thee, to nor yield forsake to peer thee’ pressure may well involve a lonely stand. But remember, God has promised that He ‘ ‘all that is in the world, the lust ofJohn the then flesh, presents and the lusttwo of (Hebrews 13:5) In Him, there is thereasons eyes, whyand thewe arepride not of tolife, love is not the of world, the Father, firstly but because, is of the a friend who sticks closer to us than any earthly brother. world’ ‘the world passeth away, and ⁞⁞ Rev David Stewart the lust thereof’ ‘friendship ; and secondly, because, is the minister of Portglenone Free Presbyterian Church. ( v16-17). James reminds us that 13 Delegates Meeting Mid Down Banbridge FPC, th Monday 19th Feb, South Down 9 Feb, 8pm, Venue: TBC MullaglassRev D Smith FPC, th

Greater Belfas 9t Feb, & No rth Down MartyrsRev P Fitzsimons FPC, th

West 9 Feb, Youth KeshRev I BrownFPC, th North & S9outh Feb, Antrim LarneRev R Robinson FPC, th

Mid Ulste r9 Feb, Council DungannonRev D Brown FPC th

Ev e nings o f Pra ye r North West , 9 Feb, GarvaghRev J Armstrong FPC, th

South West 16 Feb, Events Rev G Lucas th Ballymagerney FPC

, 13 April, Speaker TBC

Isle of Man Greater Belfast & outreach North Down Date: th th Carrickfergus FPC, th Cost: 10 -20 August, Mid & South Dow 9n March, £250 CrossgarRev S McCrea FPC, th L(subsidisedondonde byrry Youth Council, total estimated cost £500) Children’s outreach North West, 9 March,

S u mme r Date: NRevorth G Dane & South Antrim Ballymoney FPC, th July/August (Dates & Cost: TBC) 9 March, West, Mid Ulster, SRevouth Rev WD eParkst O u t r e a c h s Eventfpcyouth.org application forms Sp ring R alli e s th available to download from Clogher Valley FPC, 9 March, Rev P McIntyre Training Castlewellan Weekend Weekend

Portadown Faith Mission Centre Date: th th Date: th th Cost: Age: Cost: Fri 4 - Mon 7 May 2018 16 - 18 March 2018 £65 16-28 £65

14 A Word to Women

There are times when he book of Esther is a we must stand firmly thriller. Under threat from a for the Lord. It could mean a loss for the Lord. How Tscheming and evil enemy, the of prestige, employment, business, would we cope in Jews faced being wiped from the face of the earth. or even prosecution, imprisonment such circumstances? and death. How would we cope in But while God’s name such circumstances? Esther was is not mentioned in the book, when aware of the risk and knew she could we survey the ultimate deliverance not stand in her own strength. She of these Jews, we can trace His hand asked all the Jews to fast and pray throughout thestar entire narrative for her, while she and her maids did likewise. Only then would she Esther means and so she would feel able to enter uninvited into the prove to be. Orphaned, and raised by King’s presence “I to can seek do deliveranceall things a loving cousin, she lived in the capital throughfor her people.Christ, which Every Christianstrengtheneth can city of the Persian Empire. Esther was me.”with Paul say, one among many young, beautiful girls taken to the palace as a possible (Philippians 4:13) The secret replacement for the deposed Queen is prayer – real, interceding prayer. Vashti. It was not a position any faithful child of God would have desired. Probably in fear and trembling, Removed permanently from home, Esther dressed in her royal attire family, friends and public worship to enter the court of the King. He she became part of a large harem in a saw her and extended his sceptre in hostile, heathen environment. Esther welcome. The King knew that Esther could easily have become bitter, but had an important reason for daring instead her star shone“ brightly.Esther obtained She did to approach him uninvited. He asked favournot seek in advancementthe sight of all thembut was that modest looked what she desired, offering her up to uponand content,her.” and so half the kingdom. Strengthened and guided by the Lord, Esther displayed (Esther 2:15) Obedient to great wisdom. She invited the King to Mordecai’s warning, Esther did not a private banquet in his honour, with reveal her faith. Sometimes in places Haman the only other guest. Another where we cannot openly declare our invitation enabledas sheep Esther in the to midst finally of trust in the Lord Jesus, our lives can wolves”.plead her cause. The Lord“Be ye sent therefore forth still shine brightly for Him (Matthew wiseHis disciples as serpents “ and harmless as doves.” 5:16). Even the heathen King could see And he added, that Esther’s beauty was more than skin deep, and he chose her as his new (Matthew 10:16) Esther showed this Queen. wisdom, and so should we.

Esther’s lot was not ideal but Haman read his invitation to dine “pride with she settled into life in the palace. goeththe Queen before as destruction, a sign of his and importance. an haughty Communication with her cousin was spiritHowever before he a wasfall.” to learn that managed through her courtiers. With alarm she heard of Mordecai’s distress, Haman suffered an the result of a law designed by wicked ignominious death, while the Jews were Haman, but enacted by Ahasuerus for delivered. Esther really was in the right the annihilation“Who of theknoweth Jews. Humanlywhether place at the right time. thouspeaking, art come the to hope the kingdom of the Jews for such lay ⁞⁞ Olive Maxwell with Esther. a time as this?” lived and worked in Cork for over twenty years. She and husband Colin (Esther 4:14) There continue to serve with the Mission Board, mostly in the Republic of Ireland. are times when we must stand firmly 15 Congregation Call: Londonderry

he Londonderry congregation celebrated its Golden Anniversary in 2017. T In its fledgling years, the work was overseen by Rev John Wylie In October, a two as well as Revs Ivan Foster and Alan Cairns. Early in 1971 the week Gospel Mission was conducted by evangelist congregation felt the time had arrived to call its own pastor. Dr William McCrea, and an Anniversary Dinner was held in In June, Rev James McClelland, then ministering in Kilkeel, November. But the story begins over fifty years ago. In the received and accepted a call to Londonderry, commencing his spring of 1967 a Gospel Campaign was organized in a hall ministry later that year. With the congregation experiencing on the Ardmore Road in the Drumahoe area, near the city steady growth during this time, the need for more fitting of Londonderry. In the aftermath of some Protestant rallies church premises became apparent. As early as 1975, the held by the late Rev John Wylie in the city, another six week Church Committee first considered proposals for building mission was held in this same hall at Drumahoe. During on the present site at Lisnagelvin. Plans were drawn for these meetings some thirty people professed faith in the the current building, and in 1980 the sod-cutting ceremony Lord Jesus Christ. At the conclusion of the campaign, a special was performed by Dr Paisley. Site work commenced on 1st meeting was convened to place the challenge of separation January 1981, and the building was officially opened on 5th from ecumenical apostasy before the people. It is reported“We’re November 1983. here,by some and presentwe’re here on to that stay.” occasion that the Rev John Wylie stated in his own memorable, forthright fashion, Rev McClelland ministered in the congregation for 12 years. Around forty people responded Then, after a lengthy vacancy, Mr Ian Brown was ordained to that challenge, walking to the front of the meeting and to the Gospel ministry and installed as the minister of the avowing their support for the immediate formation of a Free congregation on 10th December 1987. Under his stewardship, Presbyterian witness in the city of Londonderry. the congregation was free of debt by the close of the year 2000, for which the Lord was given the glory. In the summer Sunday morning services began immediately in the hall at of 2013, Rev Brown felt the Lord directing him to respond Ardmore Road, Drumahoe. In due course this building was positively to a call from the Martyrs’ Memorial Church in purchased by the congregation, and became its meeting Belfast, thus ending his time in Londonderry. Mr Julian place for the next sixteen years. Initially, Sunday evening Patterson was ordained to the Gospel ministry and installed services were held in Britannia Hall, Society Street, within as minister just over a year ago, on the 9th December 2016, the city walls, with evening Gospel services eventually being after graduating from the Whitefield College of the Bible the 16held in the hall at Drumahoe as well. previous September. Among other things, Londonderry has become famous for the “peace bridge” erected across the River Foyle – designed with a view to promoting peace within all sections of the community. At the outset of 2018 the Free Presbyterian congregation is seeking to fulfil the words of the great commission and bring the good news of peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ to this needy city. The Lord’s Day services and means of grace are attended with diligence and faithfulness. The Gospel is preached, as it has been for the last fifty years, proclaiming the good news of redeeming grace, as well as the need for sanctification and spiritual growth in the life of the believer.

As well as the Lord’s Day services, a weekly Prayer Meeting meets in the building lasting Christian friendships basement of the church building. It among them. The Sunday School and is well attended by believers meeting Bible Classes provide sound biblical to seek the Lord for the conversion of instruction, with the aim of preparing sinners and an outpouring of the Spirit the children and youth to live for of God. During the summer months, a Christ throughout their lives. group of enthusiastic workers meets to engage in door-to-door evangelism. In Acts 14:27, after their first The desire is to engage individuals missionary journey, Paul and his in conversation about their need of companions returned to the home salvation. There is also a Children’s church in Antioch. There they Meeting on Friday night with the “rehearsed all that God had done aim of reaching the many children located around the immediate vicinity with them”. Scripture also records, of the church. In conjunction with in Exodus 15, a song known as “the this, the annual Holiday Bible Club song of Moses”. In this chapter, Moses has attracted a number of children led the children of Israel in a hymn of from the area. The Young People’s thanksgiving and praise to the Lord Fellowship also meets each Friday for bringing them out of Egypt and night, with the objects of nurturing through the Red Sea. However, in this there was also anticipation as to what the spiritual wellbeing of those song, while there was celebration and the Lord would do. Retracing what the in their teens and twenties and of jubilation in what the Lord had done, Lord had done in the past filled the children of Israel with expectation as they faced the prospect of entering Canaan. For the children of Israel, the 50th year was a very special year and was known as the year of “jubilee”.

In this year of ‘Jubilee’ that has just passed for the congregation in Londonderry, we can certainly look back with thanksgiving at all that the Lord has done. Yet, we also look forward with expectation to what the Lord will do here in the coming years. ⁞⁞ Rev Julian Patterson

17 CONSIDER CHRIST Update: Ireland’s Call

he Aviva Stadium in Dublin is one of the world’s leading Trugby stadiums. of the population of the Republic of Throughout 2016-2017, the outreach Ireland has been given the Gospel. In a has concentrated on the city of Dublin. On match population of 4.7 million, this equates Areas such as Blanchardstown, Dun days, the Lansdowne Road area comes to about 1.4 million people. It is a Laoghaire, Monkstown, Rathmines, to a standstill as the fans pour in. tremendous achievement and those Blackrock, and Donnybrook have Many readers will be familiar with the who give of their time to come down all been covered. In the 5 follow up lyrics of the anthem “Ireland’s Call”, for each outreach deserve heartfelt meetings held, numbers ranged from traditionally sung before international thanks. The Lord Jesus Christ ‘must 1-7. With Malahide and Seapoint games. For many in our denomination, needs go through Samaria’ and we widely recognised as areas of greatest “Come the day and come the hour” must go through our Samaria too. affluence, it was decided that we means rising at an early hour, travelling What a blessing to see from 50-80 would place Gospel literature without across the border, and standing people coming along on outreach day! any follow up meeting. This was an “shoulder to shoulder” with those We salute their commitment, their acknowledgement of the relatively who give out the Gospel of redeeming enthusiasm, and the zeal with which poor response in Dublin compared to grace to those in spiritual darkness. they serve the Lord. The Consider the rural parts of Ireland. They have answered “Ireland’s Call” by Christ Outreach could not function presenting to needy Irish citizens the without the use of church mini buses; The population of the Dublin area is good news of salvation in Jesus Christ. it needs planning, co-ordination and 1.8 million, therefore we have been preparation; prayerful and practical concentrating the outreach effort in The Consider Christ Outreach is now aid is vital too – everyone involved is south Dublin and south inner-city 18in its seventh year. Thus far, about 30% a co-worker in the Master’s vineyard. Dublin. It is hard to believe that the meetings town of Athlone. We thank God for him and old, giving them confidence to do in Athlone have been continuing since and his service for the Lord. There is a the work of an evangelist. November 2012. In total, 51 Monday committed group of 6-8 people meetings have been conducted, and who come regularly. They Souls have been saved Souls have in March 2016 a Sunday night service have been a blessing to been saved through through the Consider commenced on the first Lord’s Day of us, we thank God for the Consider Christ Christ Outreach. every month, with 20 services having their encouragement Outreach. Believers Believers from been held to date. Attendance tends and loyalty. from across across Ireland have to range between 6-18 people, with Ireland have been been encouraged our biggest number being 23. We CD’s, Let the Bible encouraged. to know that there thank God for the dedicated team and Speak Quarterly, and are those in the Free the preachers who come to Athlone. Free Presbyterian Presbyterian Church When we travel down for these Vision magazines are who are careful of their meetings, we bring a congregation also given out to help spiritual wellbeing. God has of 8-12 people each month. These strengthen and encourage God’s richly blessed the Consider Christ supporters would usually help at the people. These resources inform them Campaign, and to Him be all the praise organ, providing supper, welcoming of what is going on in our denomination and glory! In the words of the hymn, people at the door, speaking to them so that they can feel involved. and doing follow up witnessing for A regular Saturday outreach with a “Let us not grow weary in the the Lord. We can look back with great follow up meeting costs in the region work of love, fondness to many blessed times had of £1400-£1600. The Athlone venture Send the Light; in the Prince of Wales Hotel. Services costs in the area of £140-£160 per Let us gather jewels for a were evangelistic in nature at the meeting. So we are very thankful to crown above, beginning, but of late there has been a our congregations for the financial Send the Light” need for a teaching ministry. Subjects support which enables this outreach covered have included abortion, to be maintained. It has put resources May we continue to do so, answering gay ‘marriage’, and the Protestant at the disposal of the team, so that ‘Ireland’s Call’ and, more important Reformation. As a result of the Athlone come outreach day, all they need to still, the Lord’s call to ‘go into all the meetings, hundreds of Bibles and New do is get onto a church mini bus to world and preach the gospel to every Testaments and thousands of tracts the outreach destination. And the creature’! have been distributed. One of the local outreach opportunity has helped ⁞⁞ Rev Jonathan Creane men conducts door-to-door outreach many individuals in their walk with in advance of the meetings, giving out God, giving them something to do for invitations and erecting posters in the the Lord. It has developed both young

19 Missionary Vision

Ordination and Installation in South Australia

aving served in Lock and Port Lincoln since May 2016, HMr Kyle Graham received the service, the congregations shared Trevor Spiers on behalf of the Lock a call from both congregations to lunch, with the ordination and congregation and Mr Lloyd Glover on become their minister. Sunday installation service to follow. behalf of Port Lincoln. Mrs Carol-Ann 5th November 2017 saw his Glover also made a presentation to ordination to the Christian ministry The service was conducted by Rev Mrs Eppie Graham, before Rev Graham and installation as minister. The Gardiner, who also put the necessary gave some words of thanks and a brief questions to Mr Graham. Rev Ralph Hall testimony to the grace and leading of oversaw the ordination and installation God. congregations came together for the before bringing a charge to the minister day in Port Lincoln where, during from the early part of 2 Timothy 4. Please continue to pray for the the morning service, Rev Philip congregations in Port Lincoln and Lock Gardiner (Perth) brought a charge to Despite the slightly unusual that God will bless them mightily in the the congregations from Colossians 4 circumstances, given that the Grahams days ahead. Please remember Rev and meditating upon Tychicus, a beloved have been among the congregations Mrs Graham as they now go through brother, and a faithful minister and for the past eighteen months, official the process of applying for permanent fellow20 servant in the Lord. Following words of welcome were offered by Mr residency in Australia. Maxwells Celebrate Thirty Years’ Service

n Monday 30th October 2017 in the Dungannon Church OHall over one hundred and supporting her husband’s ministry and twenty people gathered for a special for her own unstinting service in the informal evening organised by Master’s harvest field. Tribute was also the Mission Board and Missionary paid to Mr and Mrs Maxwell’s children, Council. Ruth and Andrew, and the best wishes of the Board were conveyed to the This was to mark thirty whole family for the years ahead. years of faithful service in the Lord’s work by Colin and Olive Maxwell. Rev. Rev David Park (Chairman) then Harris (Board Chairman) thanked made a presentation on behalf of the those gathered, representing many Missionary Council. He thanked Mr of our congregations from across the and Mrs Maxwell for their labours province. He gave a special welcome for Christ in the Republic of Ireland. Rev Gordon Dane (Deputy Moderator) to Mr and Mrs Maxwell and their Only eternity, he said, would reveal brought the proceedings to a close family. A lovely meal served by Top all that had been accomplished. Rev. with a timely message from God’s Nosh Caterers from Annalong was Raymond Robinson, the Interim Word. During their studies together thoroughly enjoyed by all. Moderator of Enniskillen church, Colin in the Whitefield College, he had been and Olive’s home congregation, also Head Boy and Colin had been his After dinner Rev Samuel and Mrs made a presentation. He spoke of the Deputy. He likewise paid tribute to the Karen Murray had prepared a special high regard in which they and their vision that God had given Mr Maxwell power point presentation for the family were held by all in the church to reach into the Republic of Ireland, evening. Everyone enjoyed the trip at Chanterhill. He wished them God’s noting that he was instrumental in down memory lane reviewing as it blessing in their future service. starting the Gospel Outreach at the did Colin’s thirty years of ministry. It Irish Ploughing Championships. Over certainly lived up to its billing of being Mr Maxwell thanked all who had come the years thousands had been reached humorous and serious and certainly and expressed appreciation for the with the Gospel through such means. very challenging. gifts presented. He thanked God for saving grace in their lives and for the Rev John Gray, former Minister in Rev Harris made a presentation to thirty years that God had given to him Enniskillen and member of the Mr and Mrs Maxwell on behalf of the and his family in the Lord’s service. He Mission Board, brought the evening to Mission Board. He paid tribute to Mr recognised that without the support of a conclusion in prayer. All who were Maxwell’s steadfastness in faithfully so-many of God’s people, who from day present testified of God’s presence and witnessing the Gospel all across one of their ministry had supported a very special time of fellowship and Ireland, and thanked Mrs Maxwell for them, it would not have been possible. blessing. Golden Jubilee of Ballymoney Missionary Weekend

his year marks the fiftieth anniversary of the TMissionary Weekend hosted missionary endeavour, and presented the keynote speaker for 2018. There by the Hebron congregation, the challenge of the mission field to will be a special focus on Uganda, Ballymoney. those attending. In addition, hundreds with contributions from Miss Noreen of thousands of pounds have been McAfee and Mr Stephen Miller. Local Over the years this event raised. The weekend began under minister and Mission Board Secretary has given a platform for countless the ministry of Dr Alan Cairns, and Rev Park assures friends old and new missionaries, raised awareness of it is appropriate the he should be of a warm welcome. (Details, Page 24)21 Missionary Vision Uganda Play Park – And More

hen Rev David Park visited Uganda in April W2017 for the official re- August. The team members, together court was installed during the visit. opening of Emmanuel Christian with the senior boys at the school and Hundreds of clothing items were also School, he came back with the some of the girls, are to be commended brought and distributed to the poor thought: ‘Wouldn’t it be wonderful for their hard work. Rev Park is very and orphaned children. Thank you to to have a play area for the children?’ thankful to family members and the friends at Hebron who made this friends who contributed the finance to possible! The team took part in the make it possible. You can imagine the final end of term School Assembly He shared this burden with his family, excitement when the first swing was and also at the church service on the and two of his children, David and hung and the children queued up for Sunday, and enjoyed meeting the Andrew, volunteered to go. Permission their turn! people from the local community. was granted by the Mission Board for this project, and two other members of An I.T. installation was also Subsequently, a borehole was sunk, the Ballymoney congregation came on undertaken, the necessary equipment providing clean, drinking water, and a board as part of the construction team, being financed by the Randalstown sufficient supply for washing, cooking Nigel McAuley and Hugh McClenaghan. congregation. and cleaning. What a blessing to see Volleyball Association kindly donated the tanks and taps installed and fully The mission was accomplished last a net, and so a full sized volleyball operational!

Missionary Field Trips

Work Team to the Christian Evangelistic Team to Australia (Sept – Oct 2018) Academy in Kenya (Nov - Dec 2018) Please contact Rev David McMillan Please contact Rev Ian Kenny

(Places for no more than eight young people, eighteen years Mission Trip to Spain or over, September - October 2018 (Springtime in Australia), (April 2018) for approximately three weeks, to help the churches with Please contact Rev Andrew Patterson outreach, children’s meetings and special Gospel meetings. Cost is expected to be in the region of £2,500 to £3000 per person. Viability dependent on the level of interest.) 22 Sending Forth Service For Andrew Foster

n Tuesday evening 24th October 2017 a large congregation gathered in Comber church for Othe special Sending Forth Service of Mr Andrew sacrifice in his upbringing and that of his brother Paul. Her Foster to the work of God in the Emmanuel Christian godly example had been pivotal in shaping both their lives. School in Uganda. Rev. David McMillan, who, with Mr George McConnell, The service, organised under the auspices was one of the first members of the Mission Board to visit of the Presbytery Mission Board, was commenced by Rev Emmanuel Church and School, preached the sermon. He Thomas Murray, local minister and Moderator of Presbytery. based many of his remarks on the life of James Hannington, He welcomed everyone to Comber, and spoke of his special the martyred Anglican Bishop of Uganda, one of the first to joy in seeing one of their own young men being sent forth as open up East Africa for the Gospel. Hearts were stirred as the a missionary into the Lord’s service. Word was preached. In closing Rev. McMillan reminded the congregation of the words of the English Evangelist Leonard Rev I Harris (Mission Board Chairman) led the remainder CouldRavenhill. a mariner sit idle if he heard the drowning cry? of the service. Rev G Wilson and Mr Barry Stewart (Mission Could a doctor sit in comfort and just let his patients die? Board members) opened in prayer. Rev Paul Foster, Andrew’s Could a fireman sit idle, let men burn and give no hand? brother, read from the Word of God, and brought greetings Can you sit at ease in Zion with the world around you damned? and best wishes from the entire family circle. Rev. David Park (Mission Board Secretary) briefly explained the background to the denomination’s acquisition of Emmanuel Church and School in Uganda. He told how Mr Foster had felt led of God During the singing of the final hymn Members of Presbytery to apply to work under our Mission Board in the school and came forward to join Mr Foster, where he was solemnly set of the work in which he would be engaged. aside for the work in Uganda through prayer and the laying on of hands, the Moderator leading in prayer. Supper was Mr Alastair Hamilton (Mission Board Treasurer) made a served in the Church Hall by the ladies of the Congregation, presentation to Mr Foster, wishing him God’s blessing, and and everyone had the opportunity to speak with Mr Foster assuring him of the best wishes and prayers of the Mission Updateand wish him well. Board and Missionary Council, and of the Lord’s people in the Free Presbyterian Church. Mr Foster thanked Mr Hamilton : Mr Foster arrived safely in Uganda on 3rd November. for the gift. He thanked God for the opportunity to serve He continues to adapt and adjust to his new surroundings, under the Board and looked to Him to undertake for the and already has been busy already in his work around the Evangelistic Team to Australia (Sept – Oct 2018) days ahead. He paid special tribute to his mother for all her compound. Please continue to remember him in prayer. MISSION BOARD DETAILS website:

Office: Chairman: www.fpcmission.orgSecretary: Treasurer:

Mrs Glenda Graham, Rev Ian Harris, Rev David Park, Mr Alastair Hamilton, 3 Carrigenagh Road, 23a Moneydaragh Road, 55 Market Street, T: 078 6061 6302 Kilkeel, BT34 4NE Annalong, BT34 4TY Ballymoney, BT53 6ED [email protected] T: 028 4176 5574 T: 028 4376 8040 T: 028 2766 2039 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] 23 Dates for the Diary

January March

12th-14th Ballymoney, 2nd-4th Annalong, Missionary WeekenD Annual Ladies Weekend

Time: Friday 8.00pm , Saturday 7.30pm Sunday 12.00 and 7.00pm Venue: Lodge Hotel, Coleraine Speaker: Dr A Cairns & Others Details: Mrs L Harris, th 14 Sandown Road, Sending Forth 028 4376 8040 Service For Knowles Family 30th-2nd Martyrs Memorial, Easter Convention

Time: Sunday, 6.30pm Speaker: Rev T Martin Time: Friday, 8.00pm 20th Lewes, Welcome Service Monday, 3.30pm & 7.00pm For Knowles Family Various Speakers 31st Rasharkin, Easter Missionary Time: Saturday, 1.00pm Rally Speaker: Rev G Wilson Best Airport: Gatwick 26th Markethill, Time: Saturday, 7.30pm Youth Rally Further details later April

Time: Friday, 8.00pm 15th-29th Portglenone, Speaker: Rev D Brown Gospel Mission Special Singing 26th Sixmilecross, Youth Focus Rally Time: Sunday, 7.00pm Mon-Fri, 8.00pm Speaker: Rev R Higginson Time: Friday, 8.00pm July Speaker: Rev D Stewart Special Singing 30th-3rd United February Children’s Camp

18th-23rd Mullaglass, Bible Week Cost: £130 Contact: Mission Board

Time: Sunday, 7.00pm Mon - Fri, 8.00pm Speaker: Rev J Greer Theme: Studies in Daniel