Summary Report General Assembly 2019 Contents

3 Welcome 21 Many parts, one body 4 Introduction 22 Shining a light on addiction 5 Brexit 24 Mental health 6 Supporting conferencing in Belfast 25 Life always matters 7 New PCI exhibition opens 26 Considering Grace 8 New pathway to ministry 27 Dealing with the past – Legacy 9 Union College and Queen’s University 28 Pastoral police visits 10 2018 revisited 29 In praise of school governors 12 Sharing God’s heart for the world 30 Beyond ourselves 14 World Development Appeal 32 Moderator’s ‘Criminal Justice Day’ 15 Window on the Middle East 33 Playing an active role 16 Sowing seeds, planting community 34 Visit of Pope Francis 18 £1/2 million raised for mission 35 United Appeal 19 Rural initiatives – update 36 A life-changing visit 20 Serving in the summer 38 Dates for your diary

The General Assembly is the governing and decision-making body of the Presbyterian Church in Ireland. The 2019 meeting was held in Assembly Buildings, Belfast from Monday 3 June until Friday 7 June. Minutes and full reports can be found www.presbyterianireland.org/generalassembly. A preview of each day’s proceedings and other news stories can be found at www.presbyterianireland.org/news

2 Presbyterian Church in Ireland Welcome Welcome to our Summary Report of the 2019 General Assembly. Throughout these pages you will find details of what was discussed and agreed, along with some of the events and initiatives that took place in the year preceding it.

My abiding personal memory of this year’s General Assembly was the sense of optimism and hope that springs from a belief in the gospel of Jesus Christ. I was impressed by the tone of many of the discussions relating to last year’s decisions and I was equally glad to hear that the task groups appointed at the previous Assembly are optimistic about their future work in this regard. My core conviction is that the gospel is good news and will result in good deeds. I was impressed by the reports and speakers, many of them reminding us of the good deeds done in the name of the Church locally and denominationally. I have also been encouraged by being reminded of the generosity of our Church to worldwide disasters and the willingness of our ordinary people to be involved in mission locally and overseas. We are a Church which is committed to the enjoyment of life for all, and the reminder that ‘life always matters’. I have chosen ‘Enjoying God’ as my theme for my year in office. The reason is simply that I believe the encounter with God and that relationship which Jesus desires with us is the most fundamental need for everyone. I want to remind the Church to enjoy God and to have confidence in him, even when life and our context seems to be changing. I hope you find our Summary Report interesting. Yours in Christ

Right Reverend Dr William Henry Moderator of the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church in Ireland, 2019-2020

Annual Summary 2019 3 Introduction In the first week of June Presbyterians from across Ireland – ministers who have been called by their congregations, elders who have been elected by their brothers and sisters in Christ – meet together in General Assembly to listen, question, debate and take decisions jointly. This year was no different.

I attended my first General Assembly as an assistant minister in 1987, but for those who have never sat in the public gallery, or watched our proceedings live streamed, I hope that this Summary Report will give you a feel for what was discussed. It also highlights key aspects of our work between this Assembly and last year’s. Across the 26 sessions we discussed around 110 reports from PCI’s various councils, task groups and committees. We considered over 100 resolutions on a range of public issues from Northern Ireland’s political situation and concerns over social care services, to praising school governors. We also welcomed opportunities to participate in the public life of the Republic of Ireland. There were church-related matters too. Some of those stemmed from decisions taken last year. These included decision making and dissent within the denomination and guidance for congregations around membership. We had special alternative presentations on different aspects of migration in ‘People on the move’, and in ‘Life always matters’ we focused on the dignity of human life. Members of Assembly discussed guidelines for planting new churches and resources that will support PCI’s growth in different ways, and were updated on a significant project that explores how Presbyterians responded to the Troubles. In all that we do, at the heart of the Church, is our central calling to proclaim and live out the gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ in a constantly changing world. I hope that in the coming pages you get snapshot of that calling and its outworking, through the life and ministry of PCI.

Rev Trevor Gribben Clerk of the General Assembly and General Secretary of the Presbyterian Church in Ireland

4 Presbyterian Church in Ireland Brexit In November 2018 ahead of the special meeting of the European Council, which endorsed the Withdrawal Agreement and Political Declaration on the future relationship between the UK and the EU, the leaders of the main Churches in Ireland issued a joint statement in relation to Brexit.

The Moderator, Dr Charles They concluded by saying, For the full statement and all PCI McMullen, along with the leaders “Regardless of the outcome of news see of the Church of Ireland, Roman this process, as peoples and www.presbyterianireland.org/news Catholic Church, Methodist Church communities who share this island, in Ireland, and Irish Council of we will remain closely related and Churches, acknowledged the will have to both get along together legitimate aspirations of those who and work together in this changing voted to leave the European Union and somewhat uncertain world and those who voted to remain. that lies ahead. This calling will be helped immensely as we all strive In their statement, the senior to listen and relate to one another churchmen talked about the in the context of mutual respect improving and deepening and even growing trust…” relationships between the people of the island, and between the Republic of Ireland and the United Following the Withdrawal Kingdom over the last 30 or so Agreement’s endorsement years. by the European Council, the “We also pray at this time that UK Prime Minister, Theresa the inevitable tensions, which May, attended ‘round-table the Brexit negotiations and their discussions’ with groups from outworking will entail, will not across society at Queen’s be allowed to undermine the University, Belfast. The main quality of relationships and mutual Churches were represented understanding which are both so by the Moderator, Dr Charles important in enabling all of us to McMullen, Rev Trevor Gribben, work together for the common Joint Secretary to the Church good.” Leaders Group (Ireland), and Rev Brian Anderson, President of the Irish Council of Churches.

Annual Summary 2019 5 Supporting conferencing in Belfast In the 12 months since the new conferencing facilities were completed in Assembly Buildings, local, national and international organisations have used the Belfast venue.

Raymond Robinson, Facilities and “The Irish Women’s and Irish Men’s came for four days. Various Conference Manager, said there Conventions took place in October government departments regularly have been many highlights during and March filling the Assembly Hall, use the facilities, while March saw the year that has seen just under and for their first major conference the Consumer Council hold its 40,000 people attend various outside of the United States, the annual Consumer Parliament at the meetings. Ligonier Ministries USA Conference city centre venue. They will return was held here in September,” Mr in 2020. “What we do is part of the DNA of Robinson explained. the Church in that we seek to build positive relationships that allows us Church groups and Christian to demonstrate our faith. A servant- ministries aren’t the only hearted approach to business that organisations that have utilised delivers the best experience for the conferencing suite. The 20th each client,” he said. Worldwide International 360 Virtual Reality Panoramic Photography and Outside PCI’s own conferences, Video Conference, for example, Biblica, the International Bible Society, visited Assembly Buildings for a week in October and June, with their main Bible Translators Group, while the Bible Study Fellowship hosted weekly Bible studies through Word in the City in the new ground floor conference facilities.

6 Presbyterian Church in Ireland New PCI exhibition opens In March 2019 PCI’s visitor exhibition opened in Assembly Buildings. It tells the story of Presbyterianism in Ireland over the last four centuries and the work of the Church at home and overseas today.

Across different stand-alone Historical Society of Ireland. There and we want to be supportive of interpretive themed panels and are also interactive exhibits and the city that we are a part of in interactive exhibits, visitors can audiovisual installations. so many different ways. In this walk through a brief history of building we welcome people from Speaking at the official opening, the Presbyterianism in Ireland. From across these islands and from Moderator, Dr Charles McMullen, the arrival of Scottish Presbyterians around the world, and while we said that the exhibition had been in Ulster some 400 years ago, to have been able to provide them made possible by a significant the founding of the Presbyterian with some information, we have investment in the project by Belfast Church in Ireland in 1840, they will not been able to really tell them City Council – and wasn’t just for also discover the work, mission and of our Church’s rich history and Presbyterians interested in their ministry of the Church today. its contribution to society across own history. Ireland, until now,” Dr McMullen Over 30 special artefacts are “While we are an all-Ireland said. displayed, many of which have Church, the administrative heart of been loaned by the Presbyterian the denomination is here in Belfast

Deputy Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Emmet McDonough-Brown, who officially opened the exhibition, the Moderator Dr Charles McMullen, and the Deputy Lord Lieutenant for Belfast, Dr Philip McGarry.

Annual Summary 2019 7 New pathway to ministry After a number of years of smaller intakes of ministry students, 13 were recommended to the General Assembly in June. This represents a significant increase in ministry students for September 2019.

Their names were contained in the The General Assembly, therefore, “The support offered report of the Council for Training in gave permission for the Council Ministry, which also highlighted that to pilot the ‘Flexible Training to students is many applicants for the ordained Pathways’ scheme, reporting back unparalleled… I love ministry are part of a growing to the 2021 General Assembly. It is trend where they have previous expected that most candidates will Union, and I pray it theological training and ministry follow the current five-year training continues to be blessed.” experience within local churches. pathway in its entirety. The Council Olivia Nicholl, Youth Assembly task The system at present is, however, said that it ‘wants to be responsive group member, and first year UTC not sufficiently flexible enough to to the way God has already gifted, student, describing her college take such training and experience taught and used people before they experience to the General Assembly fully into account. have applied for ministry.’

New courses at Union Union looks to the future In December 2018, when the As PCI’s Union Theological College of subjects, will be at master’s general direction of travel became (UTC) looks to the future, following degree level, as well as graduate clear with regards to QUB’s April’s decision by Queen’s and postgraduate certificate and relationship with the College, PCI University, Belfast (QUB) to end its diploma level. A PhD will also be established a review task group 92 year link with the College and offered. to look at options for the College, close the University’s Institute of the training of ministers and what The Council’s report stated that Theology, UTC announced a range financial savings might be made. the ‘potential to develop this work of new courses during the General is significant and this could prove In June, the General Assembly Assembly. to be a great resource for the agreed to appoint a Finance and The College is developing its global church as well as having the Staffing Commission that will enable student base through online and potential to provide income for the the necessary decisions to be taken during the forthcoming transitional campus based courses, with an College.’ period in the life of the College. It will initial 10 new courses – seven For more information see the also draft proposals regarding UTC’s being fully online in September College website www.union.ac.uk future to be brought to the General 2019. The courses, in a variety Assembly for decision.

8 Presbyterian Church in Ireland Union College and Queen’s University In December 2018 Queen’s University, Belfast announced that it was suspending undergraduate programmes in Theology for the forthcoming academic year following an internal review of its Institute of Theology. In April Queen’s announced that it would end its 92 year link with Union Theological College and close the Institute.

In a detailed and robust response, “Union College worked with While the ending of the relationship a report by the Council for Training the University at that time and was ‘highly regrettable’ the Council and Ministry (CTM) to the General the agreed solution was a BA and the College said that they were Assembly concluded that the in Theology, which comprised committed to ending it well and are review had been ‘based on a flawed 70% Union modules and 30% ‘in no doubt that an exciting future and confused review process modules drawn from other Queen’s for the College lies ahead.’ that did not permit engagement departments. This programme was on the substantial issues; lacks due to commence in September supporting evidence for its claims 2018, and indeed it did, and it was and conclusions [and] did not the agreed solution to the diversity Following April’s announcement, adequately or respectfully include concern,” he said. Rev Trevor Gribben, Clerk of the Union College in its consultations.’ General Assembly and General The review that came in 2018 “was Secretary of the Presbyterian Addressing the Assembly, CTM entirely unexpected, considering Church in Ireland, said that while convener Rev Nigel McCullough the fact that the BA in Theology disappointing, Queen’s and UTC said, “We do not believe that the had not even begun…We feel were committed to ensuring the decision to sever the link was that no review would have very best education provision arrived at after a full and robust taken place were it not for the for existing undergraduate review process.” reaction to last year’s Assembly.” students as they completed the Mr McCullough was referring to Mr McCullough explained that remainder of their studies. the intense reporting and public when the four other colleges comment that followed some of the involved in the Institute of He also praised the College’s decisions taken at the 2018 General Theology stepped back from staff and academic theologians Assembly. involvement in teaching who were of the “highest undergraduates, Queen’s conducted He also said that as a major standing, some of whom are a strategic review in 2016. A central stakeholder, no opportunity was indeed world leaders in their concern then was the ability given to the College to respond field…” of a single college to deliver a to the report, or its conclusions, For the full statement and other sufficiently diverse undergraduate before key decisions were taken. news about Union Theological degree programme. College see www.presbyterianireland.org/news

Annual Summary 2019 9 2018 revisited This year members looked at progress on some of the more controversial areas that were debated in 2018. These included decision making and dissent and guidance for congregations in relation to communicant membership for same-sex couples and a ‘credible profession of faith’.

The Implementation task group resource on ‘credible profession’ truth in a loving way to a world was established to take forward the and draft pastoral guidelines for that is fallen, broken and in pain.” Assembly’s remit that ‘appropriate consideration at the 2020 General Task group convener, Very Rev Dr training be offered to kirk sessions Assembly. These would be sent to Alistair Dunlop, told the General on the theology and practice presbyteries for comment, with final Assembly, “We must not be of the Church’s understanding consideration taking place at the dismissive of people, or judgmental. of a credible profession of faith 2021 Assembly. People matter to God, all people, and the pastoral guidelines on It was recognised by many including our own members and homosexuality.’ speakers that last year’s decision families who live with same-sex Work began last year and included had caused hurt for many members attraction. They deserve the best a presbytery consultation day. Its of the Church. Clerk of the we can offer in terms of genuine purpose was to enable a greater Assembly, Rev Trevor Gribben said, listening, prayerful support, and number of people to input to the “If as a Church, by the way we’ve the intentional ordering of our task group’s work and for members done our business, by the fact that congregations as real communities to hear and consider the views perhaps we didn’t have a holistic of welcome, grace and love.” of a wider group of people. Six report last year and caused hurt representatives from each of PCI’s and pain, we should say sorry. Decision making and 19 regional presbyteries, and others, dissent “But we should also struggle, as were invited – 190 attended. we have to do as Bible believing Following some intense media The General Assembly agreed that Christians, with the full balance of attention after decisions taken at the task group would present a God’s Word and try to apply that last year’s Assembly, the General

10 Presbyterian Church in Ireland Council accepted that clarification The 2018 General Assembly Presbyterian Church of the United was necessary regarding decision asked the local Presbytery of States of America. making and dissent within PCI. As a Coleraine and Limavady to draw During the year delegations were result it established a task group to up a feasibility study for the welcomed from the Church of draw up a report on ‘Presbyterian potential use of Guysmere and Scotland and the Free Church of decision making and the place of bring it – along with definitive Scotland. The Church Relations dissent’. recommendations – to this year’s Committee reported that it was General Assembly. The General Assembly considered agreed, in line with a previous the report and agreed to send it The Assembly agreed to proceed resolution of the General Assembly, down to presbyteries for discussion. with the redevelopment plans to that ‘we ought to continue to General Council the next stage, enable complementary working convener, Very “…by the fact that which means within our respective Churches Rev Dr Noble the Church where this was thought to be McNeely, said, perhaps we didn’t will provide, if mutually beneficial.’ “We trust that have a holistic report necessary, up when the to £75,000 to Church of report is sent to last year and caused continue with Scotland presbyteries that hurt and pain, we the feasibility The South Belfast the questions assessment. A Presbytery brought included will should say sorry.” robust business a Memorial – or be addressed Rev Trevor Gribben, Clerk of the case and petition – to the comprehensively Assembly business plan Assembly, asking and the will then be it to accept a responses will guide the task group brought back for it to consider, ‘Notice of Motion’ and enable it to bring a report and before building work could to rescind its 2018 decision to no possible recommendations to the commence. longer invite the Scottish Moderator 2020 Assembly.” Relationships with to PCI’s General Assembly and to Guysmere Centre resume sending PCI’s Moderator to other denominations the Scottish General Assembly. If From 1929 until recently PCI’s site Having looked at relationships with accepted it would have meant a full at Guysmere, Castlerock in County other denominations, the General debate in 2020 on the matter. The Londonderry, was used as the Assembly agreed to continue PCI’s Memorial was, however, decisively denomination’s youth centre for the membership of the Community of defeated: 187 to 358. development and discipleship of Protestant Churches in Europe and the Church’s young people. Owing the Council for European Churches. to health and safety concerns, the centre has been mothballed Following meetings with the United and not used for some time. The Free Church of Scotland, the General Assembly has debated the Assembly agreed to explore ‘future site’s possible future over a number natural areas of collaboration’. of years – and again this year. A similar resolution was agreed in relation to the Evangelical

Annual Summary 2019 11 Sharing God’s heart for the world Global Mission ‘is all about global disciples sharing God’s heart for the world, declaring good news and demonstrating God’s love.’

Introducing the Council for Global The Presbyterian Church in Ireland Mission’s (CGM) report and has a long tradition and strong speaking to its resolutions, Council commitment to global mission convener, Rev Dr Liz Hughes, since the first missionary was sent said that matters such as climate out from the denomination in change, the diminishing number of 1841. Today the Church directly Christians in the Middle East and supports 28 global mission how we relate to those who have workers on four continents who migrated to Ireland are “directly have a clear outreach focus to related to our responsibilities as their work. A General Assembly global disciples.” resolution praised their work and the generous resourcing by Quoting from the report of the congregations through the United World Faiths Panel, she added, “The Appeal for Mission, and ‘extra-mile’ peoples of the world have come to giving. Ireland and there are multicultural, multi-faith communities literally on CGM Secretary, Rev Uel Marrs, our doorstep. The Christian church explained that the development needs a renewed confidence of Christian leaders is an ongoing in its message and a similar priority for the Council. Currently confidence to adapt its methods so scholarships are being provided for the gospel message is effectively 24 Leaders in Training from seven communicated.” countries.

12 Presbyterian Church in Ireland Moderator appeals Since the 2018 General Assembly this way, a relatively small number People on the move over £500,000 (€545,000) has of people – there are around 3,500 Migration is a reality for an been raised as a result of two Greek Protestants – were able to unprecedented 244 million people Moderator special appeals: host more than 300 families. globally. While some move by £387,000 (€425,000) in response choice, others are escaping war, Calling people on the move a great to October’s earthquake and persecution or natural disasters. gift from God, he said, “We have typhoon which hit the Indonesian found out that the more you give, island of Sulawesi, and a further ‘People on the move’ was the the more appreciative you are of £164,000 (€180,110) for March’s title of this year’s ‘Listening to the what you receive.” appeal following Cyclone Idai, Global Church’, when the General which impacted Mozambique, Talking of ongoing work in the Assembly heard stories from Zimbabwe and Malawi. Malawi, Iran, Mongolia, Greece and local context, Rev David Bruce, Ireland of the plight of migrants PCI’s Mission in Ireland Secretary, Rev Alex Maulana, General and how churches are responding. spoke about the International Secretary of the Church of Central Meeting Point in Belfast and Africa Presbyterian, Synod of Rev Dimitris Boukis, General the many congregations who Blantyre, told the Assembly of Secretary of the Greek Evangelical have been providing hospitality, the devastating impact of the Church, told of people opening foodbanks, English language classes cyclone on Malawi. It left 82,000 up their own houses and the and much more. people homeless with crops and Church opening up guesthouses in livelihoods destroyed. response to the migrant crisis. In “People on the move are on our doorstep. Our command to go need not necessarily involve a plane journey to a far-off land. It may simply involve a walk down the street to the shop, or outside a church building, because the world has come to live in our place,” he said.

Annual Summary 2019 13 World Development Appeal The 2018 World Development Appeal (WDA), ‘Seeking Safety’, continues the Appeal’s focus on the challenges of sustainable justice in fragile states, with a particular focus on gender justice and the prevention of gender-based violence (GBV). WDA18’s featured project focuses on a safe house for women, Casa Noeli dos Santos, in the city of Ariquemes in Brazil.

Setting the scene Christian Aid’s Tearfund projects alongside at November’s head of country Casa Noeli dos Santos. These launch, the in Brazil, Sarah consist of projects supported by convener of the Roure, was in Christian Aid partners in Angola WDA Committee, Belfast for the – including a ‘Promoting positive Rev Fiona Forbes, launch and masculinities’ programme for said, “The work knows the safe boys and young men. This year’s of sustainable house, which has appeal will also continue to fund development is supported some Tearfund partnered projects in the not simple. It is 1,500 women Democratic Republic of Congo. hard work. It is most often long- since opening in 2010. For more information on the term as it seeks to build within The Appeal seeks to raise £500,000 Appeal visit communities a shared vision for (€545,000), or more, to support www.presbyterianireland.org/ a future different to that which a number of Christian Aid and world-development tradition or cultural norms might dictate. It is a work of faith and courage, of endurance and of hope, and hope is something the safe house provides for the women and their children who have sought safety there.” The congregational appeal highlights the work of Christian Aid partner, the National Council of Christian Churches of Brazil, which seeks to tackle and prevent gender-based violence, particularly against women. GBV is particularly pervasive in Brazil.

14 Presbyterian Church in Ireland Window on the Middle East The complex issue of identity in the Middle East from a Christian Arab perspective was the focus of a special conference held in November. The keynote speaker was the author and academic dean of Nazareth Evangelical College, Dr Yohanna Katanacho.

‘Hard pressed, not crushed, Arab heritage and identity that our brothers and sisters around the a window on the Christian emerged, he went on to talk about world to honour Jesus Christ, to experience in the Middle East’ the rise of Islam and beyond, and honour his will for the church in was the latest in a series of events finally to the Reformation and the 21st century. organised in recent years where recent ‘Arab Spring’. “People ask me ‘what will happen the Church heard from different Speaking of Christianity in the to Christians in the Middle East?’ It Christians living out their faith in region, Dr Katanacho said, “We is the wrong question. I ask what the context of the Middle East. don’t just want to survive, we want will happen to the Middle East Born in Jerusalem, Dr Katanacho to love Jesus and take the gospel without Christians! Our concern is lives in Nazareth and describes to our neighbours. By the grace of for the church in Europe. When we himself as a Palestinian Evangelical God the Arab church has existed kneel down and pray we know we Christian. Starting with the Arabs for centuries, sometimes it is not will lay down our lives for Jesus – in the Bible to the subsequent and easy to take a stand for Christ… will you?” often overlooked rich Christian If we suffer, let it be. But we want “We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair.”

2 Corinthians 4:8

Annual Summary 2019 15 Sowing seeds, planting community There are over 530 congregations in PCI – and all of these churches were started, or ‘planted’, at some time in the past. Today PCI continues to reach out.

Church planting should be nothing the presbyteries of North and South more than the normal, everyday Belfast as they work alongside the activity of congregations – this is emerging project in the Berry Street the dream of PCI’s new Church building and a separate initiative of Planting Panel co-convener, Tom Carnmoney Presbyterian in the city Gilliam. centre...” The elder in Maynooth Presbyterian Carnmoney’s minister, Rev John Church, which was itself a church Dickinson, said, “For the last three plant of Lucan Presbyterian Church years, our congregation has been 12 years ago, was speaking during on a journey of planting a church business relating to the Council for back into the centre of Belfast.” Mission in Ireland (CMI). Known as Carnmoney Central, Mr Gilliam encouraged members of this new, vibrant and growing Assembly to be devoted to pray for worshipping community began countless people across the island meeting in the MAC with nine to find new life in Christ and for people in October 2016. From April gifted and passionate individuals 2017 it met in Assembly Buildings to be raised up to lead new church for two years, before moving to its plants. permanent home, the former May Street Presbyterian Church. Today Highlighting the initiative ‘New between 60 and 100 people attend. Life, New People, New Places’, CMI convener, Very Rev Dr Frank Sellar, said, “We are supportive of

New life New people New places

16 Presbyterian Church in Ireland IMP 2 a daily lunch club and English include a charity shop for young language classes to migrants and mothers and carers and English The Council reported that a second asylum seekers in the city from language classes. The pilot will run International Meeting Point (IMP) over 30 different countries – a place for a year as a project of the North would be opened in north Belfast. of safety and belonging. Belfast Presbytery, with CMI input Funded by United Appeal for and support. The General Assembly heard that Mission and the South Belfast steps have been taken to open a Presbytery, the first IMP was set second IMP at Carlisle Circus in the up in 2010. It provides a food and north of the city. The project will clothing bank, a bicycle workshop,

“Chaplaincy is University chaplaincy mission, where a In discussing the report of the Universities and Colleges fresh boundary of Chaplaincy Committee, CMI gospel connection is Secretary, Rev David Bruce, acknowledged how the role of created with people the chaplain has changed saying, who are curious “Chaplaincy is mission, where a fresh boundary of gospel about Christ.” connection is created with people Rev David Bruce, CMI Secretary who are curious about Christ.” proximity to university campuses. Describing the changing face She also urged members of of university culture, committee Assembly to become less convener, Dr Maureen Bennett, preoccupied with those within called upon members of Assembly the Church and more concerned to encourage their presbyteries with the world outside, asking to address the significant ministry presbyteries to support its chaplains opportunities afforded by their with intention and action.

Annual Summary 2019 17 £1/2 million raised for mission Presbyterian Women (PW), launched its new women’s ministry theme and unveiled its two special projects for 2019/2020 at its annual conference in May 2019. It also reported that the previous year saw 465 Presbyterian Women’s groups across Ireland raise over £500,000 (€545,000) for mission at home and overseas.

Through the PW’s Mission Fund, The Special Overseas Project will the Special Home Project for this support the publication in Arabic year will support the work of of a devotional book to help young PCI’s Council for Social Witness Christian girls grow daily in their through Thompson House, which relationship with God. The initiative provides supported housing for comes on the back of the 2018 visit male ex-offenders; Carlisle House, to Lebanon by Presbyterian Women a residential substance misuse representatives, where they met treatment centre; and Gray’s Court, staff from a Christian publishing which is a move-on supported house in Beirut. living project. Carlisle House, ‘Restore’ which is based on Psalm Incoming PW President Karen for example, hopes to purchase 23. “Our theme for this year Craig, of Kilfennan Presbyterian exercise equipment to aid residents’ reminds us that our God is in the Church in Londonderry, said that rehabilitation. business of restoration. He will and she was excited by the theme does restore our souls,” she said.

Side by Side A new initiative called Side by Side was announced at the General Assembly. This seeks to encourage women to develop their gifts in relational ministry and mission in a whole variety of areas, including discipleship, pastoral WOMEN GROWING TOGETHER care, leadership development, intergenerational ministry, evangelism and prayer.

18 Presbyterian Church in Ireland Rural initiatives – update In its 2018 report to the General Assembly, the Council for Mission in Ireland acknowledged that there was a general recognition of a unique spiritual need among the farming community – often including young men and their families – working in isolated locations, and in trying economic times.

With the encouragement of This specialist rural position will be organisations like Rural Support for three years and the pilot scheme Rural column and the Ulster Farmers’ Union, the will run across four of the Church’s reaches half century Council has progressed this initiative 19 presbyteries – the presbyteries of In November 2018, ‘Good over the last year. At this year’s Armagh, Down, Iveagh and Newry, News for the Countryside’, General Assembly members heard which are located in the south-east the fortnightly column in the that agreement in principle has of Northern Ireland. Farming Life, which is written been reached to proceed towards by Presbyterians who have the appointment of a rural chaplain. a heart for the countryside, marked a significant milestone with the publication of its 50th column. As part of a rural initiative “Rural churches have been part of by the Council for Mission in the backbone of Presbyterianism Ireland, in nearly 30,000 words, the contributors – who include for generations and are still ministers, retired ministers and central to the community as they others from a rural or farming background – offer personal seek to respond to contemporary reflections on faith and rural life, challenges. Wherever I have with a strong gospel message. travelled, again and again I have been impressed by the faithfulness and dedication of God’s people.”

Outgoing Moderator Dr Charles McMullen, reflecting on his year in office to this year’s General Assembly

Annual Summary 2019 19 Serving in the summer Each year, around 90 to 100 young people volunteer to take part in PCI’s Summer Outreach Teams. Commissioned by the Moderator for what God has called them to over the summer months, the teams spend a week supporting the ministry and outreach of local congregations across Ireland.

The teams are drawn from different the village of Cloughmills. Local congregations and work with minister, Rev Kenny Henderson, children, teenagers and adults said that it was the third year that a in the community, showing and team had supported them “with a sharing the good news of Jesus. range of activities that we wouldn’t Applying in the spring to join that be able to do as well if it wasn’t for year’s Summer Teams, those taking these fantastic young people. part need to be 16 and over. “Each afternoon they helped us Speaking at June 2018’s with our holiday Bible club for commissioning service, the children four and over, then for Moderator, Dr Charles McMullen older children and teenagers later said, “I was so very taken by the on in the day we have had a great level of enthusiasm and how series based around some well- upbeat everyone was. I also found known TV programmes: ‘The it personally moving in that these Great Ballyweaney Bake Off’ and teenagers and young people were ‘DIYSOS’. This has been fun and giving up part of their summer for a really engaging way of sharing an adventure of faith, serving Christ the good news as members of and serving others as the church in the team were able to bring a action.” gospel message and share their testimonies, talking about the cross One of the teams went to and the way of salvation.” Ballyweaney Presbyterian Church in County Antrim, a few miles from

20 Presbyterian Church in Ireland Many parts, one body Paddy Smyth, a member of the Youth Assembly Working Group, PCI’s Youth Assembly fringe event explained how they plan to hold took place midway through this three presbytery gatherings over the year’s General Assembly, with coming year. These meetings will young and old gathering together discuss ideas and explore how they for fellowship, food, and discussion can work closer together, to give around the evening’s theme: ‘The young people a meaningful way of anatomy of the church – many having a voice in the Church. parts, one body.’ Outlining their plans to meet and seek greater engagement with local presbyteries, Youth Assembly co-chair Niamh Rankin encouraged the Church to pray for and support their work, saying, “We want to connect people across and within our presbyteries, because together we can make a massive impact for God.”

Annual Summary 2019 21 Shining a light on addiction As a Church we are called to demonstrate God’s love for people, which means putting our faith into practical action and simple Christian caring. It is a powerful social witness of the gospel and can be seen day in, day out, through the work of PCI’s 500-plus congregations.

The Council for Social Witness break this cycle by taking their own As regards deaths by suicide, in (CSW) seeks to deliver an lives,” Dr McCormick explained. 2017 there were 305 recorded in effective social witness service on Northern Ireland and 392 in the The convener pointed out that behalf of the Church and to the Republic. “In this darkness we in the year up to March 2019 wider community in partnership are shining a light through our there were 7,490 drug seizures in with appropriate organisations. specialist services work, particularly Northern Ireland, a 9% increase on Council convener, Rev Dr Trevor in Carlisle House, Gray’s Court, the previous year, with 3,306 drug McCormick, said that the services Thompson House and our related arrests – a 6% increase. often ‘shone a light’ in a dark partnership with Flourish, a suicide Figures for the Republic of Ireland world. prevention initiative. show that fewer than 20% of adults He said that there was a pattern of reported using any illicit drug “Being one of only two drug drug misuse, for example, which during their lifetime in 2002-03, but rehabilitation units in Northern leads to addiction, mental health by 2014-15 this had risen to nearly Ireland, Carlisle House is not only a issues, criminal activity and further a third of respondents. vital service but a place of Christian drug abuse. “An increasing number witness…” Dr McCormick said.

22 Presbyterian Church in Ireland “We are running out of ways to say that the health service is on its knees and that social care is not fit for purpose.”

Lindsay Conway, CSW Secretary.

Concerns expressed The Council was also concerned New appointment that ‘the infrastructures and over NI Assembly Melanie Bowden institutions within social care joined the The CSW report presented ‘a are broken and no longer fit for Council for kaleidoscope of care and witness purpose.’ In a resolution, the Social Witness that has been undertaken’ by PCI. General Assembly expressed ‘real in May 2019 as It also highlighted a number of concern that in the absence of the Head of Disability concerns. The Council’s Disability Northern Ireland Assembly vital Services. Services Committee, for example, legislation and appropriate funding stated that it ‘continues to be is being denied to essential health A qualified adult nurse with concerned about the impact of and social care services.’ experience working in a number welfare reform on individuals and CSW Secretary, Lindsay Conway, of positions across Northern families living with disability on said, “We are running out of ways Ireland, mainly in the independent a day-to-day basis. The lack of a to say that the health service is on sector, one of Melanie’s first working Stormont Assembly only its knees and that social care is not management positions over 20 serves to make life more difficult fit for purpose. We have pleaded, years ago was as the manager of for such families, compounding we have begged, we have tried to PCI’s Sunnyside House in Bangor. the pressures upon them as shame them into action, and still As Head of Disability Services, additional support measures are we have no Assembly at Stormont.” she is responsible for the overall not being explored, proposed or management of PCI’s supported implemented.’ living, residential, day care and respite services for people with an intellectual impairment that involves over 60 staff across five locations. Melanie also coordinates the ‘Christmas Cracker’ respite programme with congregations for adults with a learning/intellectual disability.

Annual Summary 2019 23 Mental health CSW plans to establish a task group to address issues of mental health, as part of its strategic objectives for 2019.

Explaining the importance of He said a Lancet psychiatry study New appointment addressing mental health issues, found in 2014 that 6% of people Jacqui Lindsay Conway, CSW Secretary, had self-harmed, up from 2% in Montgomery- said, “This month’s Lancet states 2000, with the highest rate in those Devlin joined there has been an alarming rise in aged 16-24. “The number getting the Council for the rates of self-harm.” help is now only 50%...We need to Social Witness give more support. We need to be in May 2019 there at the coalface.” as Head of Safeguarding. Jacqui is a qualified social worker with 30 years’ experience of working within the statutory, private and voluntary sectors. Over the last 20 years she has been Scamwise with Barnardo’s NI, focusing on child protection and safeguarding, This year’s Assembly passed a developing and managing resolution recognising the work practice and training surrounding of the Scamwise partnership in child abuse and child sexual Northern Ireland, encouraging exploitation. In PCI she leads congregations to use its resources Taking Care, the name given to Lindsay Conway said, “I want to the denomination’s safeguarding encourage every congregation to policy and programme, which become aware of the risk for those aims to create and promote a safe who are vulnerable and susceptible environment for everyone in PCI’s to being financially abused – congregations and the Church’s because that’s what scams are.” various services that are run by the Council.

24 Presbyterian Church in Ireland Life always matters The dignity of human life was the focus of one of this year’s alternative presentations. Entitled ‘Life always matters’, the presentation provided an insight into the challenges surrounding child and adolescent mental health, dementia and palliative care.

During the Council for Public The leading palliative care Three Presbyterian elected Affairs presentation, Dr Caroline consultant with the Western Trust, representatives joined the panel Thompson, a consultant clinical and director of Project ECHO with discussion. They shared their psychologist in the Belfast Trust, Hospice UK, Professor Max Watson views on these issues and how told of how many young people spoke of the challenges facing end they manifest themselves in their feel they can no longer cope, and of life care. He made the point that constituency and wider policy that the referral rate in her area the Church should not just oppose issues. The MLAs were Stewart has increased by 30% in the last 12 euthanasia legislation and promote Dickson (Alliance), Gordon Lyons months, with almost 1000 referrals improved funding, but take action. (DUP) and Roy Beggs (UUP). a year. “Our appeal to Parliament will be much stronger if backed up with Anxiety, OCD, school refusal, practical demonstrations of the gender identity, depression and outworking of our belief that life suicidal thoughts are among the always matters.” problems they experience. Mark Kernohan, project director of Christian charity The Big House, also talked about how anxiety is a major issue for young people. With the Alzheimer’s Society estimating that 20,000 people in Northern Ireland are living with the condition, in another area relating to human dignity, Norma Picking, manager of PCI’s Adelaide House residential home in Belfast, pointed out how just taking time to listen, finding out about the person’s history and what they like to do can make such a difference to their quality of life.

Annual Summary 2019 25 Considering Grace In 2016 the General Assembly asked the Council for Public Affairs to explore how Presbyterians responded to the Troubles from 1968 to 2000. The aim of this significant undertaking has been to tell a wider story than has been available to date, to acknowledge both what is good, but also reflect upon the times when Presbyterians failed to be faithful peacemakers.

The General Assembly received “Some stories are heartbreaking and Human rights an update on the project and tear jerking. Grown Presbyterian The General Assembly commended welcomed the agreement that ministers and elders will cry. a paper on human rights. Based on had been reached to publish Some stories are heart-warming biblical principles, the paper seeks the findings of the research in a and grace filled. Some stories to establish a framework that will book towards the end of this year. are heart challenging and deeply assist the Council for Public Affairs Entitled Considering Grace, it will disturbing…” said task group as it responds to rights-based be part of a number of resources convener, Rev Tony Davidson. issues in the public square. that can be used to encourage “As a denomination we have other Presbyterians to tell their listened carefully and prayerfully Reflecting on a Christian approach stories in a safe and supportive to the voices of people who up to to contemporary thinking on pastoral environment. now have not had an opportunity human rights, the report makes The book has been co-authored to tell their story publicly. Moreover the point, amongst many, that by Dr Gladys Ganiel of the Senator the book is just one contribution to ‘too much of [the] current public George J. Mitchell Institute for our response to the past.” debate and discourse is focused on Global Peace, Security and Justice individualism over and against the at Queen’s University, Belfast, common good; on autonomy over with Dr Jamie Yohanis, who the legitimate needs and concerns conducted interviews with over “Some stories are of others; with litigation and conflict 100 people. This group included heartbreaking and becoming early ports of call over ordained ministers, security forces the painstaking work of building personnel, victims and survivors, tear jerking…Some consensus.’ ex-combatants, emergency stories are heart responders, quiet peacemakers and politicians. Among the interviewees challenging and were people who have left the deeply disturbing.” denomination as well as critical friends. Rev Tony Davidson, Dealing with the Past Project Task Group convener

26 Presbyterian Church in Ireland Dealing with the past – Legacy In October 2018, PCI published its response to the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland’s legacy public consultation ‘Addressing the Legacy of Northern Ireland’s Past’.

In its 2,800 word submission, While recognising the limitations New appointment PCI called out both the in the proposals, members of deficiencies it saw in the current Assembly acknowledged that with Karen Jardine arrangements and the limitations some modification, the proposals joined PCI of the institutions set out in the presented ‘a potential opportunity in February consultation paper. At the same to contribute to bringing a measure 2019 as the time the Church proposed revisions of healing to society in Northern denomination’s of the proposals to enable them Ireland.’ Public Affairs to be a means of improving the Officer. In the same resolution, the General current arrangements. Providing support to the Council Assembly reiterated that ‘any one- for Public Affairs, Karen assists As the Church stated in October, sided suite of measures, which fuels the Church with its work in the the status quo was not acceptable a culture of recrimination at the public square by helping to develop and a new approach was needed. expense of reconciliation and the thinking on issues of public policy. It also warned that a rejection of restoration of broken relationships, the proposals would likely set the will have failed.’ Karen spent nearly 10 years at issue back for many years – if not the Northern Ireland Assembly, forever – adding even more distress where she supported MLAs in to victims and survivors. their committee work. Prior to that she was public policy officer with Evangelical Alliance in Northern Ireland. An elder in Bloomfield Presbyterian Church, Karen is a Geography and International Relations graduate of the University of St Andrews. She also has a master’s degree in Political Lobbying and Public Affairs from Ulster University.

Annual Summary 2019 27 Pastoral police visits In January Dr McMullen led a senior Church delegation to the Policing Board for Northern Ireland, and throughout his year in office he also met police officers in various locations in Northern Ireland. National Police Memorial Day On a visit to Ardmore police station “These visits were primarily In September 2018 the Moderator in Newry he spoke of ‘society’s ‘pastoral’ and grew out of a gave the sermon at the National debt to police officers’ while genuine desire of our Church Police Memorial Day Service, praising their ‘selflessness’ and ‘vital to thank police officers for their which honoured the courage and role they play in keeping us all selflessness and the vital role that sacrifice of police officers from safe’; a sentiment he expressed on they play in keeping us all safe. around the United Kingdom. each visit. I wanted to convey to them, and Attended by over 2,000 people, their senior commanders, that “When I met with representatives including the Home Secretary, along with the technical and of the Policing Board I said that serving and retired police officers support staff, they are valued,” as a community, we all share of all ranks and family members he said. a responsibility to support the of those who lost their lives in PSNI and its officers. My visits to the line of duty, they heard Dr various police stations are practical McMullen speak on the Parable of reinforcements of those sentiments the Good Samaritan – looking at and a desire to listen, encourage it through the eyes of the various and pray. protagonists. “If it becomes a question of setting an example for others to follow, then let me take this opportunity to praise the professionalism, the standards and the sense of duty of our police forces throughout the United Kingdom.” The Moderator ended by saying that it had been a privilege “to remember those who have shown such sacrificial love and to salute those who continue to do the same in all police forces, wherever they serve across these islands.”

28 Presbyterian Church in Ireland In praise of school governors Following the reconstitution of Northern Ireland’s boards of governors in primary and post-primary schools, a resolution affirming the role of transferor governors in the preservation of a Christian ethos within the controlled schools’ sector was passed by the General Assembly.

Reporting on a busy year, PCI’s and ‘controlled’). They did so on even a lifetime, of service in this State Education Committee said the understanding that the Christian role and we do not underestimate that the reconstitution, with ethos of these schools would be the time and commitment involved the appointment of over 1,600 maintained in perpetuity. in supporting principals, and transferor governors, had been a teachers, dealing with complex During last century’s transfer great investment in time. pastoral concerns or handling process, the Church leaders at budgets stretched to breaking The governors represent the the time stressed that it was not point,” she said. interests of PCI, Church of Ireland simply buildings which were and Methodist Church in Ireland being transferred, but a concept of and have done so since the 1930s. education directly informed and The Churches nominate governors shaped by Christian teaching and to serve on the school boards, values. which are ‘church-related schools’ PCI Public Affairs Officer, Karen owing to the fact that in the Jardine, said the reconstitution 1930s, 40s and 50s, the Protestant has seen some take on the role of Churches transferred their school governor for the first time. “There buildings, pupils and staff into state are others who have given years, control (hence the terms ‘transferor’

Absence of devolution In a resolution on the political situation in Northern Ireland, for the second consecutive year, the General Assembly expressed ‘its deep concern and frustration about the prolonged absence of an Executive in Northern Ireland, the resulting stagnation in public policy and the negative effects on the most vulnerable in society...’ The General Assembly repeated its call ‘for all involved in the political process to find a resolution that establishes good and stable government based on good working relationships.’

Annual Summary 2019 29 Beyond ourselves At the heart of the Church is its central calling to proclaim and live out the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ in a constantly changing world. This witness, and the service that accompanies it, happens day in and day out in PCI’s congregations across Ireland.

The Council for Congregational Renewed priorities Life and Witness (CCLW) seeks to CCLW’s report to the General support the ongoing life, mission Assembly spoke of two essential and witness of congregations in facets of church life that overlap their work with all age groups and interlock: an inward face of through assisting in development, congregational life and an outward offering training, providing and face of congregational witness. signposting models of good practice. Rev Colin Morrison said that building the community of the The Council also has the congregation was an ongoing responsibility for encouraging Introducing the presentation, need in areas of pastoral life, and resourcing congregations in Council convener, Rev Colin discipleship, leadership, and sharing the hope of the gospel Morrison, reflected on the need outreach. “In a world that is lonely in their communities. With this in for a new approach to church and fractured, such a community mind, the Council presented the growth. “Our congregations cannot will be a witness to others.” first alternative presentation of this depend on the kind of generational year’s General Assembly. reproduction of members which Rev David Thompson, CCLW Secretary, explained the need to Entitled ‘Beyond ourselves’, the was common in the past. bolster the outward face of the session was a general challenge “We need to get beyond ourselves, church, saying, “We find ourselves to congregations to be proactive carefully balancing our focus, placed to bear witness in a rapidly in reaching beyond their existing time, energy, effort and resources changing society – one which, membership and the wider local between our congregation’s life and on some levels, is hostile to our community. It also detailed a its witness,” he said. message. We have to confront and number of new resources that will overcome a fear of showing Christ’s help local congregations to go love and sharing the message of the beyond themselves. gospel.”

30 Presbyterian Church in Ireland “Our congregations cannot depend on the kind of generational reproduction of members which was common in the past.”

Rev Colin Morrison Convener, Council for Congregational Life and Witness

New resources what it means to be a welcoming church. The final resource has been Resources highlighted for the developed in conjunction with the year ahead included: ‘Share’ with Good Book Company. Entitled Eric its focus on helping churches to Says, it will help congregations engage members in a conversation introduce gospel truths to children about how they can build who do not attend church. relationships, cultivate community and invite others to encounter It is hoped that the resources Jesus. The ‘Go Deep, Go Wide’ represent an important rebalancing initiative seeks to aid congregations of CCLW’s overall remit between to develop a lively, ongoing an emphasis on helping the local involvement in global mission, church develop the inward face while ‘Inside Out’, which has its of its congregational life and the genesis in the Council’s remit for outward face of its congregational developing good relations, explores witness.

Further information on all of these are available at www.presbyterianireland.org/resources

Annual Summary 2019 31 Moderator’s ‘Criminal Justice Day’ For the first time, PCI’s principal partners in its work in the criminal justice system came together to look at different aspects of the Church’s work in this important area.

Organised by the Council for Hosted by the Moderator, Dr Social Witness, the ‘Moderator’s Charles McMullen, at Thompson Criminal Justice Day’ brought House, the denomination’s together the Head of the Northern approved hostel for offenders Ireland Prison Service, the Deputy in north Belfast, those attending Governor of Maghaberry Prison and then spent the afternoon at HMP the Probation Board for Northern Maghaberry. At the prison they had Ireland’s Assistant Director and the opportunity to meet with the Director of Rehabilitation. The prison governor, senior staff, prison aim of the day was to strengthen officers and prisoners – along with relationships while providing members of the chaplaincy team Pictured at Maghaberry Prison are (left an insight into the work of each led by PCI’s new lead chaplain, Rev to right) Ronnie Armour, Director General other’s agencies in the context of Graham Stockdale. of the Prison Service, the Moderator, PCI’s engagement at specific points Dr Charles McMullen, and Maghaberry Governor, Dave Kennedy in the criminal justice system.

New appointment Rev Graham Stockdale was appointed coordinating chaplain in HMP Maghaberry in June 2018. Licensed to preach in First Antrim Presbyterian Church in 1992, he was ordained the following year and has served as an assistant in the Shankill Road Mission and First Ballymacarrett Presbyterian Church and in parish ministry in Counties Tyrone and Down, and north Belfast. From 2011-2018 he served in various chaplaincy roles in the Southern Area Hospice Services in Newry, Maghaberry Prison and at Hydebank, working with young offenders. PCI, through the Council for Mission in Ireland, also provides a prison chaplaincy service in Northern Ireland at Hydebank Wood College and Women’s Prison and Woodland’s Juvenile Justice Centre and is seeking to appointment a chaplain to HMP Magilligan. There is also a PCI chaplain working in Mountjoy Prison in Dublin.

32 Presbyterian Church in Ireland Playing an active role In one resolution PCI welcomed opportunities for the Church to participate and seek to influence policy for the good of all in society, while acknowledging the increasing secularisation of the public square in the Republic of Ireland.

A Council for Public Affairs as President of Ireland. In January, report to the General Assembly the Moderator Dr Charles McMullen acknowledged that while an all- attended an event to mark the Ireland Church, ‘Presbyterians may centenary of the first meeting of be a small minority in the Republic Dáil Éireann. of Ireland but their distinctive In July PCI plays its part in witness and influence continues the annual National Day of to be recognised in the public Commemoration in Dublin, when square…” the nation remembers Irishmen and Irishwomen who lost their lives in past wars, or on service with Armistice centenary the Irish Defence Forces with the United Nations. The Moderator, Dr Charles McMullen, represented the Church During the year Dr McMullen at a number of special services to also led a PCI delegation to the mark the centenary of the ending of Oireachtas, where he met members the First World War. of the Dáil and had lunch with An Ceann Comhairle, Seán Ó Fearghaíl. On Remembrance Sunday Dr In October 2018 he joined Church McMullen led the prayers in a leaders in a meeting with An Christian act of worship at the Tánaiste Simon Coveney TD. annual Act of Remembrance at the The report highlighted some Cenotaph at Belfast City Hall. He The Church is also a very real and of the occasions where senior also attended the official Northern integral part of the life of so many Presbyterians had either been Ireland commemoration at St Anne’s communities across Ireland, as invited to, or had taken an active Cathedral. That week, as part of congregations live out and share role, in state/political events. In his East Belfast Presbytery tour, he the hope of the gospel. November 2018, for example, laid a wreath at a community act of former Moderator, Very Rev Dr remembrance. Ivan Patterson, participated in the inauguration of Michael D. Higgins

Annual Summary 2019 33 Visit of Pope Francis In August 2018 the Moderator, Dr Charles McMullen, joined members of the Irish government, civic, community and other church leaders in Dublin Castle for the state reception held for Pope Francis.

Pope Francis was in the Republic of the place of the family at the of Ireland for the final two days heart of society and that has to of the World Meeting of Families. be a good thing. I am personally “Back in March, at the time of the very pleased that our Church has formal confirmation of the visit, as been able to accept the invitation a Church we recognised that this to the reception and I am looking would be something that would forward to it. Should there be an bring great joy to our Roman opportunity to meet Pope Francis Catholic neighbours and friends in Dublin Castle, I would also very and as such it was something much welcome that in the context that we wanted to welcome,” Dr of building good relations.” McMullen said. In the event, that opportunity didn’t “The visit of Pope Francis to Ireland arise. for the World Meeting of Families will greatly enhance the affirmation

Theological engagement The Theological Engagement task group reported that it met five times since March 2018 with representatives of the Roman Catholic Church using the contents of the Joint Declaration on the Doctrine of Justification, which was approved by the Lutheran and Catholic Churches, to engage in a wider conversation on differing understandings of the grace of God in Christ. The task group reported that the discussions ‘have been informative, animated and enlightening. Both delegations have appreciated the cordial spirit in which the conversations have progressed and the genuine attempts to understand each other’s position.’

34 Presbyterian Church in Ireland United Appeal 9 Community outreach The United Appeal for Mission is Presbyterians 79 workers doing together what none of us can do on our Home Mission congregations own, supporting mission and ministry at home Irish mission5 workers and around the world. 19 North

60 South

It is down to the generous and When the 2018 United Appeal Project3 sacrificial giving of Presbyterians closed in January 2019, workers from right across the island of contributions received from PCI’s Ireland that the United Appeal is contributing families across its able to support, resource and train 500-plus congregations totalled Together individuals and ministries to build £3,291,684 (€3,566,000). The across Ireland the kingdom of God at home in United Appeal agreed for 2019 is we support… Ireland and overseas. £3,550,000 (€3,845,000). For 2020, the General Assembly approved Hundreds of projects and a United Appeal of £3,600,000 programmes have benefited from (€3,899,000). the support of the United Appeal, carrying out their gospel mission Thank you to everyone who amongst hundreds of thousands continues to give prayerfully, and of people, showing the love and sacrificially, to the gospel mission 6 on IGNITE compassion of God and his church of the Church through the United team 120 attended training in action. Appeal. for short-term mission Europe

Prepared to Serve

28 missionaries in 11 countries

To learn more about the United Appeal and to view specially created videos about the work supported visit www.presbyterianireland.org/unitedappeal

Annual Summary 2019 35 A life-changing visit For this year’s Moderator’s overseas visit, Dr Charles McMullen spent 10 days in Jordan, meeting with church leaders, PCI’s mission partner organisations and those working in the region. It was a visit that he later described as ‘challenging’ and ‘life-changing’.

The annual overseas visit is an those working there, not least those “One refugee was important part of the Moderator’s who have connections with Ireland, year and for the Church as a Dr McMullen explained. so traumatised whole. The primary purpose is to On a visit to one of PCI’s partner after a bruising contribute to the developing and organisations, he met board strengthening of relationships with encounter with ISIS members and students at the Jordan partner churches and organisations, Evangelical Theological Seminary. that they still could and to encourage those serving While there he led the students there, seeing their work for God’s not talk about their from across the Middle East and kingdom first hand. parts of Africa in a devotional. experience…” PCI has a growing association He also preached in an Arab Jordan. At one, they played with with the region going back many evangelical congregation and an the children, prayed with their years. “My visit was very much international English-speaking parents and read Scripture together, an opportunity to build new church in the capital. hearing some harrowing stories of relationships and strengthen Accompanied by his wife Barbara, flight and the physical violence that existing ones, especially with they were based in the capital they had endured along the way. longstanding partners in the region. Amman and travelled to a number I also wanted to offer pastoral “One refugee was so traumatised of refugee projects run by local support and encouragement to after a bruising encounter with ISIS churches and the Bible Society of

36 Presbyterian Church in Ireland that they still could not talk about Generational hope their experience…I read Isaiah In March Dr McMullen went 61 and prayed as we prepared to to northern Greece, and the leave…. Greek Evangelical Church near “Did I take in the enormity of each Thessaloniki, to look at how they story? There was such brokenness, have been supporting refugees but also forgiveness: laughter from Syria. The PCI delegation also through the tears; hope in the midst brought suitcases of clothes to help of despair; generous hospitality, the refugee programme. although they had nothing to give. My own faith seemed so shallow “We found ourselves in a Church as I read, and yet God’s Word is that had been founded almost always relevant and powerful. As 100 years ago by Greeks fleeing I left these three homes, another from Asia Minor, who received help Scripture, 2 Corinthians 6, came along the way from the citizens of to mind: having nothing and yet Aleppo. Now, all these years later, possessing everything,” he said. the people of Aleppo have arrived on their doorstep as refugees. Such is the community memory of gratitude passed down through the generations, the Greek Church is providing them with food, clothes, accommodation and rehabilitation.”

The General Assembly heard first hand of this support from the Greek Evangelical Church’s General Secretary, Rev Dimitris Boukis, during the ‘Listening to the Global Church’ presentation.

Annual Summary 2019 37 To view all upcoming events please visit: Some key dates for your diary www.presbyterianireland.org/events

Disciple Makers Network 2019-2020 Friday 27to Saturday 28 March 2020 Four training events aimed at envisioning, equipping Transform 2020 and enabling congregations to develop cultures of A weekend conference for young adults from across discipleship. 7.30pm–9.45pm: 30 Sept, 25 Nov, 27 Jan, PCI packed full of Bible teaching, worship, seminars 23 Mar. Booking essential. and discussion. Assembly Buildings, Belfast Details: www.presbyterianireland.org/transform. Carnmoney Central, May Street, Belfast Union College 2019 Autumn Seminars Theology for All: Six Thursday evening seminars Saturday 4 April 2020 Kids’ Big Day Out covering a variety of topics that will include, for example, ‘The reliability of the Bible’ and ‘What is the PCI’s chief annual event for children. An afternoon Bible and how can it help us?’ £10 per seminar (£50 for of interactive drama, worship and fun activities for the series), 17/24 Oct and 7/14/21/28 Nov. primary school children. Details www.union.ac.uk. Wellington Presbyterian Church, Ballymena Union Theological College, Belfast Tuesday 14 April to Friday 17 April 2020 PCI Family Holiday Saturday 7 September 2019 Side by Side Castlewellan Castle and grounds, Co Down The Side by Side events this autumn will begin to explore Thursday 7 May 2020 a variety of expressions of what women’s ministry can Presbyterian Women Annual Meeting, 2pm and look like in your church for women of all ages and stages 7.30pm of life. The event will also be repeated in Richhill (21 Assembly Buildings, Belfast Sept), Ballymena (5 Oct), Londonderry (19 Oct). Assembly Buildings, Belfast 14 May 2020 Little Day Out Friday 25 to Sunday 27 October 2019 An event for under 5s to encourage congregations to MAD Weekend – ‘God’s story in the headlines’ broaden their view of ministry for younger children. MAD (which stands for ‘Making a Difference’) is a fun- Castle Espie Wetland Centre, Co Down filled, residential, youth event focused on helping 11 to 18-year-olds grow in their relationship with Jesus. Friday 29 May 2020 Ulster University, Coleraine PTFI Graduation Presentation of degrees, diplomas and other awards January to June 2020 by the Presbyterian Theological Faculty Ireland. Emerge 2020 Students for the ministry are granted certificates which A learning community for young and emerging leaders permit them to be licensed by their presbyteries. The from within PCI to come together over five gatherings Moderator-Designate will be awarded an Honorary for teaching, training and shared learning. Dates: Fri Doctor of Divinity. 24 Jan, Sat 29 Feb, Sat 21 Mar, Sat 25 Apr, Fri/Sat 19/20 Union Theological College, Belfast Jun). Details: www.presbyterianireland.org/emerge. Ballymena and Belfast Monday 1 June to Friday 5 June 2020 General Assembly 2020 Tuesday 4 February 2020 Assembly Buildings, Belfast Election of the Moderator-Designate The Church’s 19 regional presbyteries will meet independently across Ireland to select the Moderator- Designate who will be formally nominated, elected and installed as Moderator for 2020/21 at the General Assembly in June.

38 Presbyterian Church in Ireland To keep up to date with the Presbyterian Church in Ireland Visit www.presbyterianireland.org Follow @pciassembly on Twitter and Instagram @pcimoderator on Twitter www.facebook.com/pciassembly Subscribe Herald www.presbyterianireland.org/herald Sign up For daily prayer updates www.presbyterianireland.org/prayer

Photography credits: General Assembly 2019: Jamie Trimble. Carnmoney Central: Ben Connolly. Other contributors include: Michael Cooper, CARE/Josh Estey, Oliver Breen, Matt Mackey, Patrick Hugh Lynch, Edward Connolly, Mike Arnold, Graham Baalham-Curry, Peter Anderson, Joseph Ferguson, 10 Downing Street, Consumer Council.

Annual Summary 2019 39 Assembly Buildings, 2-10 Fisherwick Place, Belfast, BT1 6DW Tel: +44 (0)28 9032 2284 Email: [email protected] www.presbyterianireland.org

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