Podcasts from the Presbyterian Church in Ireland

7: Graciously Confident: Dealing with difference

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 08 Jul 2026 08:00:00 +0000

Dealing with Difference – Christians in the Public Square

What does it really mean to be a Christian in the public square today? How do we engage with people who see the world differently from us – and disagree well while doing it?

In this episode of the Graciously Confident Podcast, Will Letch is joined by Tim Cairns, Senior Policy Officer at CARE and podcaster, alongside Dr Rebecca Stevenson, PCI Public Affairs Officer, for an honest and thoughtful conversation about faith, culture, and public life.

Together, they explore what we mean by 'the public square', why gracious disagreement matters, and how Christians can be faithful ambassadors for God in everyday conversations, workplaces, communities and beyond.

4: Really present... where God has place us to be his witnesses

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Thu, 28 May 2026 10:24:49 +0000

What is it like to be really present where God has placed up to be his witness in the workplace these days? The Presbyterian Church in Ireland invites you to explore this question as part of the Really present.. podcast series.

Presenter Will Leitch catches up with Jayne Wright, a member of Kilbride congregation, to hear her perspective and experience as a Christian working in the world of human resources.

Considering Lament: Psalm 5 Ballymena (music)

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 13 May 2026 09:10:13 +0000

www.presbyterianireland.org/consideringlament

Considering Lament: Psalm 7 Derry (music)

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 13 May 2026 09:10:11 +0000

www.presbyterianireland.org/consideringlament

Considering Lament: Psalm 39 Bangor (music)

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 13 May 2026 09:10:09 +0000

www.presbyterianireland.org/consideringlament

Considering Lament: Psalm 59 Belfast (music)

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 13 May 2026 09:10:07 +0000

www.presbyterianireland.org/consideringlament

Considering Lament: Psalm 64 Armagh (music)

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 13 May 2026 09:10:03 +0000

www.presbyterianireland.org/consideringlament

Considering Lament: Psalm 82 Omagh (music)

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 13 May 2026 09:09:59 +0000

www.presbyterianireland.org/consideringlament

Considering Lament: Psalm 109 Dungannon (music)

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 13 May 2026 09:09:57 +0000

www.presbyterianireland.org/consideringlament

Considering Lament: Psalm 140 Omagh (music)

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 13 May 2026 09:09:55 +0000

www.presbyterianireland.org/consideringlament

Considering Lament: Psalm 59 Belfast (instrumental version)

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 13 May 2026 09:09:52 +0000

www.presbyterianireland.org/consideringlament

Considering Lament: Psalm 82 Omagh (instrumental version)

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 13 May 2026 09:09:51 +0000

www.presbyterianireland.org/consideringlament

6: Considering Lament: Psalm 109 Dungannon

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 13 May 2026 08:00:00 +0000

In our final episode in the series, we reflect on the theme of peace and reconciliation through the powerful words of the Psalms. After a reading of the Psalm 109, a member of the Dungannon focus group shares a personal reflection, offering insight into how these ancient words resonate with lived experience today.

The episode concludes with a newly composed psalm of lament, inspired by Psalm 109 written by Rev Karen Campbell and David Campbell. Thoughtful and contemplative, this short podcast invites listeners to pause, reflect, and consider what reconciliation can look like in their own lives.

Download the music sheet for Psalm 109 here:
https://presbyterianireland.org/worship/considering-lament

5: Considering Lament: Psalm 82 Omagh

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 06 May 2026 14:00:00 +0000

In this episode, we reflect on the theme of peace and reconciliation through the powerful words of Psalm 82. After a reading of the psalm, another member of the Omagh focus group shares a personal reflection, offering insight into how these ancient words resonate with lived experience today.

The episode concludes with a newly composed psalm of lament, inspired by Psalm 82 written by Rev Karen Campbell and David Campbell. Thoughtful and contemplative, this short podcast invites listeners to pause, reflect, and consider what reconciliation can look like in their own lives.

Download the music sheet for Psalm 82 here:
https://presbyterianireland.org/worship/considering-lament

4: Considering Lament: Psalm 59 Belfast

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 22 Apr 2026 08:00:00 +0000

In this episode, we reflect on the theme of peace and reconciliation through the powerful words of Psalm 59. After a reading of the psalm, Karen Jardine, a member of the Belfast focus group, shares a personal reflection, offering insight into how these ancient words resonate with lived experience today.

The episode concludes with a newly composed psalm of lament, inspired by Psalm 59. Thoughtful and contemplative, this short podcast invites listeners to pause, reflect, and consider what reconciliation can look like in their own lives.

Download the music sheet for Psalm 59 here:
https://presbyterianireland.org/worship/considering-lament

3: Considering Lament: Psalm 7 Derry/Londonderry

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 15 Apr 2026 08:00:00 +0000

In this podcast, we reflect on the theme of peace and reconciliation through the powerful words of Psalm 7. The episode begins with a reading of the psalm, grounding us in its raw honesty and plea for deliverance. A member of the Derry/Londonderry focus group then shares a personal reflection, offering insight into how these ancient words resonate with lived experience today.

The episode concludes with a newly composed psalm of lament, inspired by Psalm 7, giving voice to contemporary struggles while holding onto hope for healing and restoration. Thoughtful and contemplative, this short podcast invites listeners to pause, reflect, and consider what reconciliation can look like in their own lives.

Download the music sheet for Psalm 7 here:
https://presbyterianireland.org/worship/considering-lament

2: Considering Lament: Psalm 5 Ballymena

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 01 Apr 2026 15:39:40 +0000

Following the launch of Considering Lament we have another podcast for you, that shares the experiences of those involved in this project and introduces another of the psalms of lament which have been composed.

In this episode, we reflect on the theme of peace and reconciliation through the powerful words of Psalm 5. The episode begins with a reading of the psalm, grounding us in its raw honesty and plea for deliverance. Helene Stevenson, a member of the Ballymena focus group, then shares a personal reflection offering insight into how these words resonate with her lived experience today.

The episode concludes with a newly composed psalm of lament, inspired by Psalm 5, giving voice to contemporary struggles while holding onto hope for healing and restoration. Thoughtful and contemplative, this short podcast invites listeners to pause, reflect, and consider what reconciliation can look like in their own lives.

Download the music sheet for Psalm 5 here:
https://presbyterianireland.org/worship/considering-lament

1: Considering Lament: Psalm 140 Omagh

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Mon, 23 Mar 2026 16:25:00 +0000

In this first 15-minute podcast, we reflect on the theme of peace and reconciliation through the powerful words of Psalm 140. The episode begins with a reading of the psalm, grounding us in its raw honesty and plea for deliverance. A member of the Omagh focus group then shares a personal reflection, offering insight into how these words resonate with their lived experience.

The episode concludes with a newly composed psalm of lament, inspired by Psalm 140, giving voice to contemporary struggles while holding onto hope for healing and restoration. Thoughtful and contemplative, this short podcast invites listeners to pause, reflect, and consider what reconciliation can look like in their own lives today.

Download the music sheet for Psalm 140 here:
https://presbyterianireland.org/worship/considering-lament

6: Graciously Confident: Violence against women and girls

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 11 Mar 2026 14:57:21 +0000

Violence against women and girls remains a serious issue across Ireland, both North and South. In this episode, Will Leitch is joined by Andy Lamberton from Exodus Legacy and Dr Bex Stevenson, PCI Public Affairs Officer, to explore the scale of the problem and the role the Church can play in responding. Together they discuss how faith communities can help shape a generation that respects and values women, and contribute to building a safer, healthier culture for all. This conversation looks at how faith, leadership, and everyday discipleship can contribute to changing the culture and building safer communities for everyone.

5: Graciously Confident: Let’s Talk JR87

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 11 Feb 2026 14:04:30 +0000

In this episode of the Graciously Confident Podcast, Will Leitch sits down with Dr Andy Brown (Stranmillis University College) and Ian Bingham (CARE NI) to chat about the Supreme Court’s judgement in JR87.

The aim of the conversation is simple: to help people understand what’s actually been said and decided – without misinformation, fear or panic. Together, they unpack the key points, clear up confusion, and encourage listeners to have informed, gracious conversations about what it all means moving forward.

If you’ve been hearing a lot about JR87 and want a calm, clear discussion grounded in facts, this episode is for you.

3: Really present… in home and church life

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Thu, 29 Jan 2026 16:25:23 +0000

In this third episode, presenter Will Leitch visits the Crockard family in Carrickfergus and explores with Jason, Hannah, Sophia and Noah what it’s like to be really present to God in their home life and in the wider family of their church.

4: Graciously Confident: Be the difference

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 14 Jan 2026 09:00:00 +0000

After exploring the ethics, experiences, and realities around assisted suicide and euthanasia, the big question remains: what can we do now?
In this episode of the Graciously Confident Podcast, Will Leitch is joined by Rev Linda Keys, a volunteer with Hospice NI, and Dr Bex Stevenson, PCI Public Affairs Officer, to talk about practical next steps. They reflect on what it looks like to live out your faith by showing love in practical ways — whether that’s advocating with compassion, having honest conversations, or supporting hospice care through simple acts like meeting your MLA, writing to your MP, or hosting a coffee morning. This episode is about turning conviction into action and making a real difference where you are.

You can find resources referred to in the podcast, here:
https://presbyterianireland.org/resources/pastoral-care/living-and-dying-well

S2025 Ep92: 092 – World Development Appeal 2025

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Mon, 15 Dec 2025 09:00:00 +0000

Hives of Hope // Working together for a better tomorrow
Around the world, millions of people face obstacles that make it difficult for them to get out of poverty. In this podcast episode, listen as Pip Florit, PCI’s mission support officer, talks with Ruth Cooke from Christian Aid Ireland and Rev Liam Rutherford about their trip to Honduras where they learned how PCI through its partners is helping families and communities generate a sustainable income and build a better future through beekeeping.

3: Graciously Confident: Stories that speak

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 10 Dec 2025 09:00:00 +0000

In one of our most personal episodes yet, Will Leitch sits down with Rev Ian Harbinson and Dr Olwyn Mark to explore assisted suicide and euthanasia through the lens of lived experience. Ian shares honestly about life with cancer - the fears, the hopes, and the surprising moments of grace along the way, including his ministry with those also living with cancer. Olwyn reflects on walking with her father through his final days and how palliative care supported not just him but their whole family.
Together, they offer a deeply human look at what real care can look like at the end of life, and why these stories matter in today’s debate.

2: Really present… to God in worship

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Thu, 27 Nov 2025 09:00:00 +0000

What really happens when we gather for worship each week? In this episode, presenter Will Leitch joins the congregation at First Ballymena to reflect on the life-changing privilege of meeting with the Living God.
This series is part of PCI’s Present initiative, which encourages us to be:

Present in this season of life and witness
Present to God as His people
Present for one another in the church
Present where God has placed us to be His witnesses

💬 Listen in, share with others, and rediscover the wonder of worship.
🔗 Learn more about the Present initiative and watch the introductory video here
Present | Presbyterian Church Ireland

2: Graciously Confident: Palliative Care – A Better Way

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 12 Nov 2025 09:00:00 +0000

What if there’s a better way to approach the end of life than assisted suicide or euthanasia? In this episode, Will Leitch is joined by Professor Max Watson and Dr Matthew Dore to talk about the real power of palliative care - what it is, what it isn’t, and why it offers hope even in life’s hardest moments. They unpack the funding challenges facing palliative services, debunk common myths about this kind of care, and explore how it helps people live - and die - well without speeding up the process of death.

S2025 Ep91: 091 – Discipleship of Children

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Tue, 04 Nov 2025 09:00:00 +0000

Building faith in our children is something that works well when the partnership between parents and churches works well. Faith in Kids, headed up by Ed Drew, long to see confident parents and thriving churches working together to raise children who trust in Jesus eternally.

In this podcast, Ruth Bromley (PCI’s Children’s Development Officer) is joined by Ed Drew as they talk about what Faith in Kids aims to do and how parents and churches might work together to encourage children to have a lasting trust in Jesus. They also highlight the Starting Strong event this autumn, which Ed is coming to speak at, in High Street Holywood Presbyterian Church. Details of the event and how to book can be found at Starting Strong | Presbyterian Church Ireland

1: Really present… in a world of distraction

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Thu, 30 Oct 2025 09:00:00 +0000

How do we stay attentive to God and one another in a world swirling with distractions? The Presbyterian Church in Ireland invites you to explore this question in their new podcast series: Really present…

In the first episode, presenter Will Leitch sits down with Helen Thorne-Allenson to reflect on what it means to live fully present – to God, to others, and in the places we’re called to be his witnesses.

1: Graciously Confident: The State of the Debate

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 22 Oct 2025 08:00:00 +0000

This is the first episode in a four part series in which Will Leitch will discuss the issue of assisted suicide and euthanasia with different guests. In this episode, Will sits down with Prof Max Watson, a leading palliative care specialist, and Rev Daniel Kane, Minister of West Presbyterian Church in Ballymena and Convenor of the Council for Public Affairs, to explore one of the most sensitive and significant ethical issues of our time — assisted suicide and euthanasia.

Together, they unpack what assisted suicide means in practice, examine the proposed legislative changes in the UK, and discuss why Christians should care deeply and engage thoughtfully with the debate. Whether you approach this topic from a faith perspective, a medical background, or simple human concern, you should be part of this conversation.

S2025 Ep90: 090 - Living and Leading like Jesus

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Tue, 03 Jun 2025 08:00:00 +0000

In this latest episode of the PCI podcast, David Thompson, Secretary of PCI’s Council for Congregational Life and Witness talks with Gary Millar, Principal of Queensland Theological College in Brisbane, Australia about his recent book called Both/And Ministry: Living and leading like Jesus’.

Present is a denomination wide initiative inviting and encouraging congregations and their members to make themselves fully present to God who is ever present to us.

Find out more and watch a video about the Present initiative here www.presbyterianireland.org/present

S2025 Ep89: 089 – Being present where God has placed us to be his witnesses

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Tue, 20 May 2025 08:00:00 +0000

In this latest episode of the PCI podcast, Jonny McClune and David Thompson from PCI’s Council for Congregational Life and Witness are joined by missiologist David Smith to explore what it looks like for congregations to be present in today’s changing communities.

Present is a denomination wide initiative inviting and encouraging congregations and their members to make themselves fully present to God who is ever present to us.

Find out more and watch a video about the Present initiative here www.presbyterianireland.org/present

S2025 Ep88: 088 – Intergenerational Church Family

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Tue, 28 Jan 2025 11:25:36 +0000

In this latest episode of the PCI podcast, David Thompson, Secretary to PCI's Council for Congregational Life & Witness, explores what it means to be an intergenerational Church family with Ruth Bromley, PCI Children’s Development Officer, and Graeme Thompson, PCI's Youth Development Officer.

This podcast is part of the denomination wide Present initiative, inviting and encouraging congregations and their members to make themselves fully present to God who is ever present to us.

S2024 Ep87: 087 – Bible Engagement

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Tue, 10 Dec 2024 09:00:00 +0000

In this latest episode of the PCI podcast, Andrew Dickson, PCI’s Congregational Life Development Officer, explores being present to God as we read the Bible with David McCullagh, Rosie Donaldson and Richard McChesney.

This podcast is part of the denomination wide Present initiative, inviting and encouraging congregations and their members to make themselves fully present to God who is ever present to us.

Find out more and watch a video about the Present initiative here www.presbyterianireland.org/present

S2024 Ep86: 086 – Sharing Our Faith

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Tue, 26 Nov 2024 09:00:00 +0000

In this latest episode of the PCI podcast, Jonny McClune, PCI’s Congregational Witness Development Officer, explores with Darin and Joy Stevens from the organisation Start to Stir, why sharing our faith with our friends can be so challenging.

We can see examples in the Bible of people who struggled to speak up for God like Moses and Jonah but we take time to explore on the podcast the things that are holding us back today and how we can have more confidence to share Jesus with those around us.

This podcast also highlights the Stirring Spiritual Curiosity event happening on the morning of Tuesday 28 January 2025 from 10.30am to 12.45pm in Assembly Buildings, Belfast, at which Darin and Joy will be opening up this theme further.

Further details and booking can be found here:
www.presbyterianireland.org/stir

This event is free but you do need to pre-register.

S2024 Ep85: 085 – World Development Appeal

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 20 Nov 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Food insecurity is an issue that's affecting many parts of the world – it is said one in ten people in the world live in food insecurity. To discuss this important issue and to introduce this year's World Development Appeal, Rev Richard Kerr, Convener of PCI's Global Development Committee, hosts the episode with guests - Ruth Cooke (Christian Aid Ireland’s Head of Fundraising and Supporter Engagement), Chris Thompson (Tearfund’s NI Director) and Rev Liam Rutherford, PCI’s World Development Agent and Convener of its World Development Appeal Task Group.

The 2024 World Development Appeal is entitled: “Hunger Pains: Scarcity to Abundance.”

You can find more resources, including a promotional video, here:
www.presbyterianireland.org/worlddevelopment

S2024 Ep84: 084 – Starting strong: Building faith in our children

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Tue, 22 Oct 2024 08:00:00 +0000

In this latest episode of the PCI podcast, Ruth Bromley, PCI’s Children’s Ministry Development Officer, hosts a conversation with Andy Frost, Director of Share Jesus International and contributor to the Kitchen Table Project, Caroline Bradley from Care for the Family and Andy Lamberton from Legacy, about sowing the seeds of a growing faith in the lives of our children.

This podcast also highlights the Starting Strong event happening on the evening of Thursday 14 November 2024 from 7.45pm to 9.15pm in High Street Presbyterian Church, Holywood at which Andy Frost is the keynote speaker. It will pick up and develop this theme, providing the opportunity to explore this territory further with others and be encouraged and envisioned in this crucial area of church life.

Further details and booking can be found at www.presbyterianireland.org/startingstrong

S2024 Ep83: 083 – A vision for Church Planting

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 09 Oct 2024 08:00:00 +0000

This episode explores PCI’s vision for church planting across Ireland. It considers why we need more churches on this island, and how that can be an effective way to reach new people with the good news of Jesus Christ. Tom Gilliam, an elder in Maynooth, and Josh McCance, church plant leader in Balbriggan, share their experiences and insights into church planting along with ways everyone can be involved.
PCI is holding a Church Planting Taster Day in Maynooth on 16 November 2024. For more information and to register visit: www.presbyterianireland.org/churchplanting

S2024 Ep82: 082 – Present

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Tue, 24 Sep 2024 08:00:00 +0000

In this latest episode of the PCI podcast, Will Leitch interviews Rev David Thompson, Secretary of PCI’s Council for Congregational Life and Witness, on the thinking behind and hopes for Present - the new, denomination wide, initiative designed to encourage congregations in this season of life and witness, launched at this year’s General Assembly.
The initiative will roll out over three successive church years, inviting and encouraging congregations and their members to make themselves fully present to God who is ever present to us. It offers a framework to encourage congregations to explore and express being present in four particular ways:

Be present in this season of life and witness;
Be present to God as his people;
Be present for one another in God’s family of the church;
Be present where God has placed us to be his witnesses.

Find out more and watch the introductory video here www.presbyterianireland.org/present

S2024 Ep81: 081 – Leading change in the Church

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Tue, 17 Sep 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Neil Hudson is Senior Leader of Salford Elim Church, but is better known to us in PCI for his work on the Imagine Church project for the London Institute for Contemporary Christianity. That is the project that birthed the Frontlines small group material which many congregations have used and found helpful, along with two books authored by Neil, Imagine Church and Scattered and Gathered.

David Thompson is Secretary of PCI’s Council for Congregational Life and Witness and brings extensive experience and qualifications in consultancy for ministry and mission.

This podcast also highlights the Leading for a change event happening on the morning of Thursday 17 October 2024 from 10.30am to 12.45pm in Assembly Buildings, Belfast. It will pick up and develop this theme, providing the opportunity to explore this territory further with others and be encouraged and envisioned in making space in our church life to adapt and respond to changing challenges and circumstances, new opportunities and options. Further details and booking can be found at www.presbyterianireland.org/leadingforachange

S2024 Ep80: 080 – General Assembly 2024 Review – Part 2

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 12 Jun 2024 08:00:00 +0000

The 2024 General Assembly opens on Thursday, 20 June and will run until Saturday afternoon, 22 June.

In this episode four guests, each with different roles in next week’s event, look ahead to the annual gathering of ministers, elders and other representatives from home and overseas. They are the Clerk of the General Assembly, Rev Trevor Gribben, Deputy Clerk, Rev Dr David Allen, PCI’s Public Affairs Officer, Dr Rebecca Stevenson, and Rev Albin Rankin, Convener of the Council for Congregational Life and Witness.

In a new departure, this podcast is in two bite-sized chunks, in which you will get a good overview of proceedings and insights from our guests to a number of the significant reports that will come before the Assembly. The podcast is hosted by PCI’s Press and Media Officer, Mark Smith.

Further information on the 2024 General Assembly, the reports that are discussed in this episode, schedule of business, and news stories, can be found here: http://www.presbyterianireland.org/ga24

S2024 Ep80: 080 – General Assembly 2024 Review – Part 1

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 12 Jun 2024 08:00:00 +0000

The 2024 General Assembly opens on Thursday, 20 June and will run until Saturday afternoon, 22 June.

Further information on the 2024 General Assembly, the reports that are discussed in this episode, schedule of business, and news stories, can be found here: http://www.presbyterianireland.org/ga24

S2024 Ep79: 079 – Confident to Care

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 24 Apr 2024 08:00:00 +0000

In both good times and dark days, pastoral care is a vital ministry of the church. We all want to be confident to walk alongside and care well for those God has placed in our lives. But how do we do that?

In this podcast, Andrew Collins (Director of the Certificate Course, Biblical Counselling UK), Marion Hadden (Family and Youth Coordinator and Elder, Terrace Row Presbyterian Church), and Rev Ben Walker (Minister, Saintfield Road Presbyterian Church) reflect on some ways we can build pastoral connection, hold quality conversations, and bring biblical and prayerful content into our pastoral care.

This podcast highlights the now sold-out Confident to Care three-week practical training course being delivered by Andrew Collins, in conjunction with the Council for Congregational Life and Witness, at Union Theological College in May.

To find out more about similar events in the future, sign up to E-quip www.presbyterianireland.org/equip

S2024 Ep78: 078 – Age of opportunity: Exploring today’s opportunity for ministry among those in later life

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 10 Apr 2024 08:00:00 +0000

We hear so much about how we are an increasingly aging society and an aging church. The focus often falls on the challenges that brings, but that reality also offers enormous possibilities for ministry and outreach through the local church if we have eyes to see them.

Alex Drew who leads the work of a ministry called Faith in Later Life and David Thompson, Secretary of PCI’s Council for Congregational Life and Witness, which will be partnering with Faith in Later Life to bring an event called Age of Opportunity on this theme to Assembly Buildings, Belfast on 16 May 2024 discuss the untapped potential of this area of ministry and mission for the church.

Links to an upcoming event and resource mentioned in the podcast can be found below:
Age of Opportunity - Presbyterian Church Ireland (presbyterianireland.org)
All the days of my life

Ministry Taster Day 2024

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 06 Mar 2024 14:45:16 +0000

The Presbyterian Church in Ireland (PCI) is holding a Ministry Taster Day on Saturday, 16 March 2024. The special open day is for men and women who have been thinking, and praying about, becoming ordained ministers in PCI and feel that God is leading them in this direction. The event will take place in Belfast at Union Theological College, PCI’s principal body for the training of its ministers prior to ordination.

In this BBC Radio Ulster interview, from 25 February, Audrey Carville interviews Reverend Professor David Leach, Professor of Ministry and Director of the Institute for Ministry, about the day itself. First-year ministry student, Christine Craig, and third-year student, Andrew Ferguson, also talk about their personal journeys to study for PCI’s ordained ministry, and what studying for the ministry at Union is like.

S2023 Ep77: 077 – Starting from Scratch

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 06 Dec 2023 09:00:00 +0000

All around the world, people are on the move, displaced from their homes by conflict, natural disasters, persecution, and land grabbing. In this podcast episode, Pip Florit, PCI’s Mission Support Officer for Partnerships talks to Rev Richard Kerr, Convener of the Global Development Committee, and Ruth Cooke, Christian Aid Ireland’s Head of Fundraising and Supporter Engagement about displacement and our response to it. Richard and Ruth share stories and reflections on their visit to Sierra Leone for this year’s World Development Appeal, ‘Starting from Scratch’ and talk about where we can find hope in a world of injustice.

You can find out more about the World Development Appeal here:
www.presbyterianireland.org/worlddevelopment

S2023 Ep76: 076 – Refreshing your leadership

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 20 Sep 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Leading in the church today can bring lots of encouragements and joy – lives transformed, people growing as disciples, a sense of purpose and community. But leading in the church can also feel difficult. Emerging from the retreat and restrictions, limitations and loss, disruption and disaster brought by the last number of years, many leaders feel weary and lonely. Whether we are a minister, elder, other ministry staff member, or volunteer, it’s important that we regularly take time to be encouraged, envisioned, and equipped as we continue to lead and serve.

To reflect on ways leaders across PCI can be refreshed and sharpened to fulfil their calling, we are joined by David Thompson (Secretary, Council for Congregational Life and Witness), Rev Angus Stewart (Minister, Whiteabbey Presbyterian Church), and Anne Dines (Clerk of Session, West Church, Ballymena).

This podcast also highlights two upcoming initiatives facilitated by CCLW:
Refresh – a series of one-off evenings to encourage, envision, and equip ruling elders in PCI.
Leading Edge, is a five-session programme offering ministers, elders, and other ministry staff the opportunity to come together with others to explore some key aspects of leading in the church today.

S2023 Ep75: 075 – Discipleshaping Church Today

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 06 Sep 2023 08:00:00 +0000

The world today can be overwhelming. Culture wars. Constant connectedness. Covid’s impact. A changing church landscape. Crisis after crisis local and globally. The list of challenges impacting how people faithfully follow Jesus goes on.

So, how do we craft a disciple-shaped life? And how can we shape aspects of local church life – our corporate worship, Bible engagement, and congregational community – to effectively equip members to follow Jesus with courage, commitment, and conviction in today’s world?

S2023 Ep74: 074: Previewing the 2023 General Assembly

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 14 Jun 2023 09:02:04 +0000

The 2023 General Assembly opens on the evening of the longest day of the year, Wednesday, 21 June, and will run until Saturday afternoon, 24 June.

In this episode, four guests, each with different roles in next week’s gathering, look ahead to the annual gathering of ministers, elders, and other representatives from home and overseas. They are the Moderator of the General Assembly, Rt Rev Dr John Kirkpatrick, Clerk of the General Assembly, Rev Trevor Gribben, Deputy Clerk, Rev Dr David Allen, and Karen Jardine, PCI’s Public Affairs Officer.

During this episode, you can get an overview of proceedings and insights into a number of the significant reports that will come before members. Dr Kirkpatrick also reflects on his year in office. The podcast is hosted by PCI’s Press Officer, Mark Smith.

Further information on the 2023 General Assembly, the reports that are discussed in this episode, the schedule of business, Assembly procedure, and news stories, can be found here: www.presbyterianireland.org/ga23

S2023 Ep73: 073 – The Unfinished Work of Peace

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 03 May 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Over the past few weeks, much attention has been drawn to the 25th anniversary of the Belfast/Good Friday Agreement with many visiting dignitaries and special events across Belfast and further afield.

In this podcast episode, Karen Jardine (PCI’s Public Affairs Officer) is joined by Rev Dr Tony Davidson (Convener, Peace & Reconciliation Panel and recently retired from First Armagh), Rev Dr Marty McNeely (Ballykeel), and Jack McQuillan (Eglinton) to reflect on the unfinished work of peace 25 years on from the Agreement.

Together they will explore the role of PCI in peace and reconciliation across the island of Ireland, and whether peace-making is still part of the mandate of the church today – as a denomination, in congregations, and as individual members.

S2023 Ep72: 072 – Families on the fringes of Church life

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 19 Apr 2023 08:00:00 +0000

The world is a different place now than it was three years ago. Church is not the automatic place to come to for community and relationship building. No longer does the mantra of “if we open the doors, they will come” hold true. There are many children and families who have connections with our congregations and come to organisations during the week but are not part of our Sunday morning church family.
There is a growing realisation that new approaches are needed to reach and develop relationships with those on the fringe of church life. There are many challenges involved in imagining and implementing this creativity in the midst of busy church calendars, but these days are a new beginning and give us the opportunity to try new things.
In this podcast episode, Ruth Bromley (PCI’s Children’s Development Officer) is joined by Rev Corrina Heron (Dunmurry Presbyterian), Rev Stuart Morrow (Portstewart Presbyterian), and Rev Jimmy Warburton (High Street Holywood Presbyterian) to talk about how their congregations have tried different approaches to connect with children and families in their communities and encourage them to be a part of the church family on a Sunday.

S2023 Ep71: 071 – Exploring ways of being transformed in Christ

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 05 Apr 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Ahead of Presbyterian Women’s Annual Conference, this podcast considers the conference theme, Being Transformed which is based on Romans 12:2 - “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind…”
We want to consider ways in which we can be transformed in Christ as we study God’s Word, take it to heart and put it into practice.
We will think about how can we get into God’s Word for ourselves and what are some of the obstacles and pitfalls. We also want to think about how we can live transformed lives that make a difference in our broken world.

Contributors: Ali Calvin, Esther Parker, Louise Davidson and Pauline Kennedy (PCI’s Women’s Ministry & PW Development Officer)

S2023 Ep70: 070 – Disciple Shaped Lives, Disciple Shaped Church

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 15 Feb 2023 09:00:00 +0000

In Matthew 4:19, Jesus calls his first disciples: “follow me, and I will make you fishers of men”. Since this first invitation to follow, be transformed and commissioned into the mission of Christ, billions more people have sought to follow Jesus. Featuring Rachael Gamble (Discipleship Facilitator, Sloan Street PCI), Colin Neill (Waringstown PCI) and Trevor Reaney (First Holywood PCI), this podcast explores key principles and practices that can help both individuals and local congregations towards living a life of faithful discipleship in the 21st century.

This episode also highlights a number of Discipleship resources from PCI for use personally and in small groups, including:

Inspirations – a resource for women’s ministry filled with engaging, relevant and thought-provoking content.

Essentials – a multi-session small group or midweek course that aims to help followers of Jesus reflect on and live out the essentials of discipleship.

Expressions – an eight session film series that seeks to connect themes from Scripture with the real lives of church members to open up conversations on how their faith expresses itself in everyday life and witness.

Proximity – these three booklets exploring relevant and challenging content on “Seasons of Life”, “Life in God’s Story” and “Habits of a Lifetime” are ideally suited for one-to-one discipleship or small groups.

Tides – a daily devotional delivered straight to your inbox containing a section of God’s word to read, a short reflection sharing what this could mean for your life, and a simple way for you to respond.

S2023 Ep69: 069 – Sharing Faith: Growing in Confidence

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 18 Jan 2023 09:00:00 +0000

The first podcast episode of 2023 explores how many Presbyterians have a deep relationship with Christ but find themselves tongue tied in talking about their faith with friends, colleagues and neighbours. Philip Houston (Ballykelly Presbyterian), Phyllis Linton (West Church, Ballymena) and Neil Harrison (Congregational Witness Development Officer) explore the challenges for evangelism today and share some suggestions to grow in confidence in talking about the good news in everyday life.

S2022 Ep68: 068 – Parenting teenagers today

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 30 Nov 2022 09:00:00 +0000

Being a parent of a teenager has never been easy, but many parents are seeing additional challenges and stresses for their young people and may wonder how to do the best job of supporting them at this time. This podcast begins with the voices of young people, sharing their challenges and opportunities, and what they most appreciate about their parents. Then Graeme Thompson is in conversation with people from three different perspectives - teaching, youth work, and psychology – about what is going on for young people these days from educational, emotional, relational, and spiritual perspectives. The conversation concludes with some practical thoughts on how parents of teenagers can walk with them and support them most effectively.

S2022 Ep67: 067 – Children's Discipleship

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 16 Nov 2022 09:00:00 +0000

Children’s discipleship is nothing new but in light of the last two years and looking to the future, it is something that we need to prioritise more in the months and years ahead. Teaching children Bible stories, facts about God, and how to behave in church is important but it is not enough to help them to live out their faith from Monday to Saturday, at home, in school, and with their friends. We need to help them understand how to apply what they know about God to their everyday life.

In this podcast episode, Ruth Bromley (PCI’s Children’s Development Officer) is joined by Rev James Rogers (Ballynure Presbyterian) and Aisling Pitt (Scripture Union NI’s E3 School’s worker for East Antrim) to talk about how as congregations we can disciple our children well and about how we can support them and understand more of the opportunities and challenges as they live their faith out in school.

S2022 Ep66: 066 – Back Together Again and Getting Going Again

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 02 Nov 2022 09:00:00 +0000

We are in a strange, kind of, in-between moment just now. On the one hand we feel like we have edged well out from the worst days of the pandemic and the lockdowns and the restrictions on what we were able to do. Whilst on the other we find ourselves asking questions about getting back together again – rebuilding the worshipping and fellowshipping community of the church among members – and getting going again – in terms of our organisations and activities aimed at connecting to our local community and reaching out to others.

To reflect on the steps congregations can take to get their life and witness back to more regular patterns as we edge out from under the shadow of the interruption of the pandemic, we are joined by David Thompson (Secretary, Council for Congregational Life and Witness) and Neil Harrison (PCI’s Congregational Witness Development Officer).

The podcast also highlights a short booklet around being Back Together Again (available for purchase here), a series of blog posts on Getting Going Again, as well as some upcoming events and training programmes:
Youth Ministry Clinic Webinar on Thursday 10th November at 7.45 pm.
RESTORED: Tending the soul in the wake of the pandemic in Assembly Buildings on Tuesday 15th November at 7.30 pm.
Sharing Faith Evangelism Training in-person and online in Spring 2023.
Stepping Forward: Stepping Up training for new and younger leaders, in-person and online in Spring 2023.

S2022 Ep65: 065 – Restored: Tending the soul in the wake of the pandemic

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 19 Oct 2022 08:00:00 +0000

The last two and a half years have been hard on all of us. Since the emergence of Covid-19, Presbyterian churches across Ireland have been faced with the significant challenge of how to biblically and pastorally respond well to the avalanche of psychological, emotional, and spiritual traumas experienced by many church members of all ages. As we recommence more regular rhythms of church life, how can we continue to tend the souls of ourselves, our young people, and those on the fringes of our congregations?

To reflect on this, we are joined by Dr Angela Minion (CEO, The Big House Ireland), Catherine Hillcox (General Secretary, Bible Society NI), and Neil Harrison (PCI’s Congregational Witness Development Officer).

The podcast also highlights an upcoming PCI event, RESTORED: Tending the soul in the wake of the pandemic in Assembly Buildings on the evening of Tuesday 15th November 2022. Sign up here: www.presbyterianireland.org/restored

S2022 Ep64: 064 – Urban and Estates Ministry

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 05 Oct 2022 08:00:00 +0000

Ministry in urban centres and housing estates presents unique challenges and opportunities for the church to show and share the love of Christ to a community in need. PCI’s Urban Mission Network seeks to support and encourage those ministering in these areas. To explore this we hear from Felix Aremo (Training Manager, London City Mission), Rev Richard McIlhatton (Christchurch, Dundonald) and Jason Sime (Community Outreach Worker, Alexandra). At the end of this conversation is a short interview with Mary Leshi from PCI’s congregation in Galway, who was part of PCI’s Impact programme in August which sent teams to serve different urban churches around Belfast.

S2022 Ep63: 063 – Responding pastorally to the pandemic

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 21 Sep 2022 08:00:00 +0000

Even though the Covid-19 pandemic and its impact have slipped down our news feeds with the cost of living crisis, the appointment of a new UK Prime Minister and the death of the Queen, and the Accession of King Charles to the throne, its effects are still felt by many and the task of pastoral follow up continues.

To reflect on this we are joined by Andrew Dickson (PCI Congregational Life Development Officer); Michael Rutledge (Minster, Abbotts Cross PC), Mark Kernohan (Lifeline Counsellor and member of 1st Ahoghill PC).

The podcast also highlights a helpful Bible study resource, Daring to Hope: Experiencing the grace of Lament, produced by Bible Society NI, and an upcoming PCI morning conference Another look at pastoring our congregations with guest speaker Tim Witmer (author of the Shepherd Leader) in Assembly Buildings on Wednesday morning 5 October 2022.

S2022 Ep62: 062 – Bible for all

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 07 Sep 2022 08:00:00 +0000

In celebration of the 500th anniversary of Martin Luther’s translation of the New Testament into everyday language, Union Theological College is organizing a series of events called Bible for All to tell the story of how God’s Word in Scripture has come to us today, and equip people with resources and skills to get the most out of reading the Bible. To share more about this we are joined by Rev Gordon Campbell (Principal and Professor of New Testament at Union Theological College), Joy Conkey (Librarian at Union Theological College), and Rev Lesley-Ann Wilson (PCI Chaplain at Woodlands Juvenile Justice Centre).

S2022 Ep61: 061 – Expressing our faith

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 29 Jun 2022 08:00:00 +0000

In the last episode before a summer break, regular podcast hosts Rick Hill and Neil Harrison take the chance to chat together. Their conversation focuses around the general theme of helping disciples of Jesus express their faith within every-day life, before the focus on introducing a new resource coming soon from PCI. The resource, Expressions, is an 8 session film series that seeks to help those meeting in a variety of church settings to connect themes from different passages of Scripture and open up conversations on how their faith expresses itself in everyday life and witness. The resource is a mix of downloadable on-screen Bible teaching, and stories from members of PCI, along with questions for discussion provided in this booklet. It will be available by mid-August from www.presbyterianireland.org/expressions

S2022 Ep60: 060 – The General Assembly 2022

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 15 Jun 2022 08:00:00 +0000

As annual events retake their familiar place in the calendar, next week the General Assembly meets in Belfast, from Wednesday, 22 to Saturday, 25 June. It will be the first time since 2019 that it has been able to meet in its usual month and manner, following a smaller in-person meeting last October.

In this episode we look ahead to next week’s gathering of ministers and elders with guests the Moderator of the General Assembly, Rt Rev Dr David Bruce, the Clerk of the General Assembly, Rev Trevor Gribben, the Convener for the Council for Global Mission, Rev Dr Liz Hughes – who also gives us a glimpse of who we can expect from overseas and why their presence is so important - and Moderator Designate, Rev John Kirkpatrick, who will succeed Dr Bruce. This episode is hosted by Karen Jardine, PCI’s Public Affairs Officer.

Further information on the General Assembly, each day's business, and media relations activity, can be found here: www.presbyterianireland.org/ga22

S2022 Ep59: 059 – A Time to Plant

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 25 May 2022 08:00:00 +0000

This episode was recorded at the church planting conference, ‘A time to plant’, organised by the Council for Mission in Ireland that took place earlier in May in Dundalk. The conversation captures much of the energy, enthusiasm, and spirit of the day including some short reflections from a few individuals as well as an interview with keynote speaker Scotty Smith from Nashville Tennesse, and Tom Gilliam who is the co-convener of PCI’s Church Planting Panel.

S2022 Ep58: 058 – Service and Leadership

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 11 May 2022 08:00:00 +0000

If you find yourself asking, 'Where have all our leaders gone?' then this conversation is worth a listen. Here, Rick Hill chats to David Thompson from the Council of Congregational Life and Witness and Christine Craig, elder elect in Kilbride Presbyterian and together they discuss themes like personally approaching people to serve, developing a leadership pipeline, and helping younger leaders to grow. Much of David’s input offers a big picture view of volunteering in church service at this time, while Christine shares some more personal insights of what this has looked like both in her life and in her congregation. A PCI resource called ‘Opening up to God’ is also pointed to towards the end that might be helpful to Kirk Sessions in the coming months.

S2022 Ep57: 057 – Reshaping our thinking about women’s ministry

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 27 Apr 2022 08:00:00 +0000

It is increasingly apparent that there is a growing generational gap within women’s ministry that makes it more and more difficult to build an effective ministry to women of all ages. How can we think differently about women’s ministry and what approaches can we adopt to help us grow deeper together? To give an insight into how we, both individually and corporately can do this better, we draw learning from experiences of women’s ministry in this conversation with Pauline Kennedy, Amy Summerfield the guest speaker at the forthcoming PW Annual Conference, Deborah Sloan, a member of Orangefield Presbyterian in Belfast, and Linda Beattie from Joymount Presbyterian in Carrickfergus.

S2022 Ep56: 056 – Refuge – A focus on Ukraine

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 13 Apr 2022 08:00:00 +0000

This week’s episode seeks to shine a light on the experience of refugees in Ukraine and the response on the ground by the Hungarian Reformed Church. We hear from Rev Nigel Craig, PCI Global Mission Worker in Hungary and Réka Gilicze who works with Hungarian Reformed Church Aid. In addition, the Moderator Rev David Bruce, shares a number of ways congregations can respond including supporting the Moderators Appeal for Ukraine which was launched recently. This episode is hosted by Neil Harrison, PCI Congregational Witness Development Officer.

S2022 Ep55: 055 – Let’s talk about young adults

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 30 Mar 2022 08:00:00 +0000

This conversation flows out of a recent event held in Assembly Buildings for young adults called NOW. This evening event focused on the themes of discipleship, church engagement, and friendship to help the 18-25-year-olds present reflect on these important issues. Two of the speakers from that event, Zara Miskimmin (Made for More) and Chris McBurney (Christian Unions Ireland) shared with Rick Hill some of what they spoke about, as well as reflected more generally on wider themes of ministry to young adults. This might be an episode to share with young adults in your own congregation!

S2022 Ep54: 054 – PCI talks education

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 16 Mar 2022 09:00:00 +0000

The world of education has been increasingly in the spotlight, with all that the last couple of years has brought compounding and exacerbating existing challenges. Education is also part of PCI’s DNA – through the role of transferor governors and boards of management alongside the people in our pews who serve as school leaders, teachers, classroom assistants, support staff and other roles.

In this podcast Dr Andy Brown (2nd Broughshane PC and Convener PCI’s State Education Committee), Colin Berry (The Mall PC, Armagh and Principal Markethill High School) and Ruth Dalzell (2nd Comber PC and SUNI E3 worker for North Belfast & Newtownabbey) talk to Karen Jardine (PCI Public Affairs Officer) about why local church engagement with schools matters, and how it can be done.

S2022 Ep53: 053 – Onward: Journeying together in hope

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 02 Mar 2022 09:00:00 +0000

The pandemic has taken its toll on all our young people, with some tough times when hope has been scarce. In April, a brand new type of youth event ONWARD: Journeying together in hope will help young people reflect on the Hope of the Gospel. This podcast features the two speakers of ONWARD, Nicola Clarke and Carl McManus, who talk to Graeme Thompson (PCI Youth Development Officer) about their expectations of the event in the context of youth work at this time. Four young people also share their honest reflections on their experience of the past two years and their hopes for the future.

You can find out more about ONWARD at www.presbyterianireland.org/onward

S2022 Ep52: 052 – Renewing our all-age worship

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 16 Feb 2022 09:00:00 +0000

The podcast continues its ‘RENEW’ theme by turning attention to how we might be able to help renew our all-age worship. Children’s Director Nicky Bradley (Knock Presbyterian Church), Kidzone Leader James Cousley (Bloomfield Presbyterian) and Schools Ministry Manager and former children’s worker Mark Moorhead (SUNI) join Ruth Bromley to discuss thinking about why we do all-age worship and also some great ideas about how to include all ages in worshipping together and being challenged in our faith.

Listen out for some great ideas and stories of how all-age worship has worked well and also some findings on research into all-age discipleship and the impact it can have on a whole church family.

S2022 Ep51: 051 – Renewing Our Volunteers

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 02 Feb 2022 09:00:00 +0000

The podcast continues its ‘RENEW’ theme by turning attention to how we might be able to help renew those who serve as volunteers within our congregations. Discipleship Facilitator Rachael Gamble (Sloan Street) and Clerk of Session Paul Elliott (Carnmoney) join Rick Hill (PCI) to discuss encouraging those who serve, drawing others into leading, carrying an equipping mindset in their roles, and being sustained in their own service.

Also, have a listen to discover a great acronym for the word KNOW!

If you want to access any other helpful resources at this time, visit www.presbyterianireland.org/refined

S2022 Ep50: 050 – Renew Our Vision for Reaching the Lost

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 19 Jan 2022 09:00:00 +0000

It is increasingly apparent that there is a growing cultural gap between church and society across Ireland that makes it more and more difficult to reach new people with the gospel. To give an insight into how we as Christians, both individually and corporately can do this better, we draw learning from experiences of global mission in this conversation with Donna Jennings from Evangelical Alliance NI and James Cochrane, PCI Global Mission Worker in Porto, Portugal.

S2022 Ep49: 049 – Renew Ourselves

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 05 Jan 2022 09:00:00 +0000

For our first episode of a new year, Rick Hill hosts a conversation about Refreshment and Renewal. Rev Sam Finlay, Minister of Redrock and Druminnis Presbyterian Churches in County Armagh, along with Paul Bowman, Youth Worker in Fitzroy Presbyterian reflect on coping with the challenges associated with leading in the church. They talk about sustainable ministry, counting blessings, finding our restorative niche as well as still being self-sacrificial while also paying attention to self-care. Also, listen along to find out more about sinking wells and building walls!

S2021 Ep48: 048 – Hope at Christmas

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 15 Dec 2021 09:00:00 +0000

Tune in for a festive special on the Moderator's theme of, Hope at Christmas. Host Sarah Harding, editor of the Presbyterian Herald, is joined by Rev Richard Kerr, minister of Templepatrick PC, Olivia Elwood, member of Bloomfield PC, and Ilona Veres, PCI global mission worker. This episode explores how the World Development Appeal will bring hope to people living in Haiti and Ethiopia, get an update on the work of Illona and her husband Csaba in Romania during the pandemic and it will also reflect on the outcomes of COP26.

You can find out more about the World Development Appeal here:

https://www.presbyterianireland.org/worlddevelopment

Read more about the Hope at Christmas campaign here:

https://www.presbyterianireland.org/hopeatchristmas

S2021 Ep47: 047 – Let's talk about... Prayer

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 01 Dec 2021 09:00:00 +0000

While so much of life was disrupted and so much church activity was paused last year, it could be argued that one thing that couldn’t be stopped by any restrictions was prayer. We can always approach God, and perhaps we found a greater emphasis on prayer or a freshness in how we prayed with others. Rev David Cupples (Enniskillen Presbyterian Church) and Lucy Hill (24/7 Prayer) join Rick Hill to talk about prayer, reflecting on the need for both personal rhythms and corporate models of prayer.

If you want to find out more about the resources Lucy mentioned, you can email lucy@24-7prayerireland.com

S2021 Ep46: 046 – Let’s talk about the parents as disciple makers

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 17 Nov 2021 09:00:00 +0000

Christian parents who want to actively help their children follow Jesus may find that this role changes as their family gets older. In this episode, Dr. Gareth Crispin (Cliff College, England and father of 3) and Gillian Spiers (mum of 4 from First Dromara Presbyterian) are in conversation with Graeme Thompson (PCI Youth Development Officer) about how parents can disciple their young people. They discuss the privileges and challenges of parenting, the daily patterns and habits of Christian families and how they can partner with the church in this critical process.

Some of the resources mentioned in the discussion are: “Together with God: An Introduction to Family Worship” (2016) Gareth Crispin & Ed Mackenzie; “The Generative Church” (2019) Cory Seibel (Ed) – Chap. 4 “The Relationship between Church and Home” (Gareth Crispin); The One Conversation Model (by Axis); and “The Pop Culture Parent: Helping Kids Engage Their World for Christ” (2020) Ted Turnau

S2021 Ep45: 045 – Let's talk about climate change

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 03 Nov 2021 09:00:00 +0000

The 26th UN Climate Change Conference known as COP26 is currently meeting for twelve days of talks in Glasgow. To give an insight into why we as Christians, both individually and corporately should be concerned about climate change and suggest some practical ways we can respond, this episode hears from Rachael Thomas, a member of Knock Presbyterian and Gareth MacLean, minister of Orangefield Presbyterian.

S2021 Ep44: 044 – Let’s talk about restarting our children’s ministry

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 20 Oct 2021 08:00:00 +0000

Ministry to children and families has been seriously impacted by the pandemic and we may have lost momentum that we had in this ministry previously. So, what are some of the things we need to think about as we restart children’s ministry for this season?

For this conversation, Ruth Bromley is joined by Rev Mark Johnson (minister, St Andrew’s Bangor), Hazel Kyle (volunteer, Glengormley) and Stephanie Houston (Children’s Associate, High Kirk) to share stories and ideas on restarting children’s ministry.

They discuss how the pandemic affected children’s ministry, how things look different in this new season of restarting and share stories and encouragement of what is important to hold tightly to in this season of sharing the Gospel with children and families.

The two resources – updated guidelines and the Simple ways back to children’s ministry video clip – can be found here

S2021 Ep43: 043 – Let's talk about Leadership

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 13 Oct 2021 08:00:00 +0000

This isn’t an easy time to be a leader. The newness of the moment, the need to learn new skills, the pressures of decision-making among the vast array of opinions alongside constant changes and the need to generate momentum. So, what are we learning about leadership?

For this conversation, host Rick Hill is joined by Rev David Thompson (Secretary, CCLW), Rev Kathryn Viner (Minister, Malone) and Trevor Long (Clerk, North Belfast Presbytery) to offer a breadth of perspectives.

They discuss developing a shared ethos of leadership, the need to ask good questions that helps generate reflection, building teams of leaders rather than relying on individuals and the benefits of empowering leaders of all ages.

The Kirk Session resource ‘Opening up to God’ is mentioned and can be found here: Opening up to God

S2021 Ep42: 042 – Lets talk about the General Assembly

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 29 Sep 2021 08:00:00 +0000

The General Assembly is meeting next week for the first time since June 2019. This episode looks ahead to the practicalities of what to expect and some of the themes being discussed this year as we are joined by the Moderator of the General Assembly, Rev Dr David Bruce, the Clerk of the General Assembly Rev Trevor Gribben and the Secretary for the Council for Global Mission Rev Uel Marrs. This episode is hosted by Neil Harrison, PCI's Mission Development Officer.

Further information on the General Assembly and each day's business can be found here: www.presbyterianireland.org/Events

Rev Gribben also refers to Climate Sunday, a suite of resources available to help congregations focus on God's creation and humanity's responsibility to be good stewards. Download the resources here: www.presbyterianireland.org/stewardshipofcreation

S2021 Ep41: 041 – Engaging with the Bible

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 22 Sep 2021 08:00:00 +0000

The Bible is part and parcel of congregational life, whether on Sundays or through the week, but this episode of the PCI Podcast explores how we are doing when it comes to Bible engagement. We live in a time where access to the Bible has never been higher and yet readership is in decline. Add to that the disrupted rhythms of the past 18 months.

So, in this conversation, Valerie Murphy (Precept Ministries) and Richard McChesney (Whiteabbey Presbyterian) discuss with Rick Hill (PCI) how we can grow and develop in our engagement with the Bible. As well as discussing problems and principles, they both share about specific Bible projects they are involved in.

You can find out more about the work of Precept Ministries at preceptireland.org or by emailing valerie@preceptireland.organd you can discover more about the Immerse Bible Project at immersebible.com or by emailing richard.mcchesney@premier.org.uk

S2021: ‘Lapsed’ by Ferna – a song commissioned for, and performed at, PCI’s special centenary event, 'On these steps'.

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Fri, 17 Sep 2021 14:00:00 +0000

Guests at the Presbyterian Church in Ireland’s (PCI) centenary event ‘On These Steps’, which took place on 17 September 2021, were treated to the premier of a specially commissioned song by the Belfast-based indie singer-songwriter, Ferna. The livestreamed event from PCI’s Union Theological College in south Belfast, marked the part played by the College in hosting the Parliament of Northern Ireland 100 years ago, and also marked the centenary of the creation of Northern Ireland along with the partition of Ireland.

Speaking about the commission, Ferna said, “When Steve [Stockman] asked me I was surprised and very apprehensive about it because I felt the song could go wrong in so many ways! I mean, how do you reflect upon something as complex and troubled as 100 years of Northern Ireland in a helpful, thoughtful way?

You can read the full story here Contemporary musical take at centenary event - Presbyterian Church Ireland (presbyterianireland.org)

S2021 Ep40: 040 – Lets talk about rehabilitating church

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 08 Sep 2021 08:00:00 +0000

The impact of the pandemic for declining churches has accelerated some towards the point of unsustainability. What might a journey of re-habilitation involve for congregations like this? This conversation with Rev Neil Stewart (Trinity Greyabbey and Cloughey) and Rev Marty Gray (Ravenhill) and hosted by Neil Harrison, seeks to share experience and wisdom in this area.

S2021 Ep39: 039 – Getting re-started

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 25 Aug 2021 08:00:00 +0000

The podcast returns after a summer break to bring you a fresh set of conversations over the coming weeks to help us reflect on the life and witness of our congregations at this time. This episode focuses on how we can be going about resuming and re-starting some of our rhythms in the months ahead. Host, Rick Hill, is joined by Rev Alistair Bates (Wellington) Hayley Cullen (Muckamore) and Matthew Banks (Tullyallen and Mountnorris) to hear how churches and leaders in a variety of roles and contexts are approaching the next season of church life. They discuss not measuring success by numbers but people, retaining the lessons learned throughout the last 18 months and how to go about restoring some additional activities.

Interview with Rt Rev Dr David Bruce re NIO’s legacy statement

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Tue, 27 Jul 2021 12:33:44 +0000

On Thursday, 15 July 2021, the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, Right Honourable Brandon Lewis MP, published a Command Paper entitled, ‘Addressing the legacy of Northern Ireland’s past’. In its response to the Secretary of State’s statement in the House of Commons, the Presbyterian Church in Ireland said that key principles previously committed to by government, especially the right of victims and survivors to seek due process and justice in the courts, remains important.

The following day, PCI’s Moderator, Right Reverend Dr David Bruce, was interviewed on BBC Radio Ulster’s Evening Extra drive-time programme, where he expanded on his comments and the Christian understanding of reconciliation. He also spoke about the right of victims and survivors to seek due process and justice in the courts. Dr Bruce also touched upon the moral dimension to the government’s announcement, saying that it was “a deep tragedy that we are witnessing.”

We would like to thank the BBC, and Evening Extra, for their kind permission to allow us to use this interview. Dr Bruce was interviewed alongside Father Eddie Magee of the Diocese of Down and Connor by presenters Declan Harvey and Jennifer O’Leary on Friday, 15 July 2021. You can read PCI’s initial statement here.

S2021 Ep38: 038 – Keeping Going, Keeping Well

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 07 Jul 2021 08:00:00 +0000

This is a challenging time to do ministry and the last year has been draining in so many ways for those who take a lead within our congregations. Therefore, for this episode, Rick Hill is joined by Dr Lena Morrow, Rev Jonathan Frazer and Rev David Allen to explore the whole area of rest and refreshment for ministry leaders. They explore things such as spiritual refreshment, self-care and Sabbath, as well as the danger of overworking and how congregations can develop a culture of care.

S2021 Ep37: 037 - In conversation with PCI Global Mission Workers

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 23 Jun 2021 08:00:00 +0000

The experience of the pandemic has been shared globally and as global disciples we have a responsibility to care and respond in appropriate ways. In this episode we have an opportunity to hear an update from three of PCI’s Global Mission Workers including Diane Cusick (Zambia), Rev Peter Fleming (Nepal), Rev Steve Kennedy (Romania).

S2021 Ep36: 036 - Reconnecting in the summer season

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 09 Jun 2021 08:00:00 +0000

With restrictions gradually easing, how might church leaders consider using the summer months with better weather and longer evenings, to renew church community and refresh church life. Walking with others, football, barbeques, and a church weekend are just some of the helpful ideas shared by Rev Marty McNeely (Ballykeel PC), Rob Bailie (Dundonald PC) and Sonya Anderson (Shore St PC).

S2021 Ep35: 035 – The Church Recovery Guide

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 19 May 2021 09:00:00 +0000

This episode is focused on congregations can recover core elements of their life and witness that has been lost over the past year. We hear from Author and Pastor Karl Vaters who unpacks some key themes from his recently published book called “The Church Recovery Guide.” He explores the need to re-assess our programmes, re-engage with volunteers and continue to use digital technology to engage those outside our church. Host Rick Hill is also joined by PCI’s Children’s Development Officer Ruth Bromley to consider this theme from a children’s and family angle. To read more of Karl’s thoughts, check out this blog: What To Do If Church Volunteers Don’t Come Back For A While | KarlVaters.com

For further information on how to set up and run your children’s ministry at this time, please go to: bit.ly/3hCVnLW

For more content focused on supporting congregations and their members in responding to the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, please visit

www.presbyterianireland.org/refined

S2021 Ep34: 034 –Journeying forward with young people

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 05 May 2021 09:00:00 +0000

The pandemic has undoubtedly taken its toll on young people and it is important for us as adults to try to understand how it has impacted them. Katherine Dickson (The Big House), Ashley Parks (First Lisburn Presbyterian), and Lyndsay Shields (Hillsborough Presbyterian and GB district commissioner) each work closely with teenagers and share with Graeme Thompson their thoughts on the best way to walk with them in the months ahead.

We also hear encouraging and challenging reflections from young people Evan, Holly, and Rachel, about what they need from us all in the church.

S2021 Ep33: 033 – Re-building community in our congregations

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 21 Apr 2021 09:00:00 +0000

In our last episode we explored how we could go about pursuing new connections with new people. This time we take a look within our church communities, to consider how we can go about re-building our congregational life together again. Host Rick Hill is joined by Rev Helen Freeburn (Galway) and Rev David McCullough (Annalong) to discuss opportunities of reconnection in the months ahead along with some practical reflections on how they are seeking to rebuild community when so much of our life has been fragmented over the past year.

S2021 Ep32: 032 – Pursuing new connections with new people

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 07 Apr 2021 08:00:00 +0000

One positive outcome of digital church is that it has never been easier for unreached people to go to church and yet we know that the experience and expression of church is one that is corporate. Digital communication, offering prayer, regular phone calls and distributing resource packs are just some of the helpful ideas shared by Rev Lachlan Webster (Craigavon Presbyterian) and Roberta Irvine (Greystone Road Presbyterian) to nurture and develop relationships with new people connecting with our congregations.

S2021 Ep31: 031 – Resetting and rebuilding

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Tue, 23 Mar 2021 12:43:50 +0000

We’ve heard lots over the last months about ‘road maps’ and in this episode of the podcast, three leaders in the life of our denomination join Rick Hill to reflect on the moment we are now in and how we can move forward. The current Moderator of the General Assembly Rev David Bruce, the Clerk of the General Assembly Rev Trevor Gribben and the Secretary for the Council of Congregational Life and Witness, Rev David Thompson each share their reflections on how we might helpfully go about re-engaging, resetting and rebuilding again within our congregations. They also offer some insights about the recovery phase as well as share about PCI’s ‘Hope for Easter’ campaign.

S2021 Ep30: 030 – Making the most of Small Groups

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 10 Mar 2021 09:00:00 +0000

Meeting in smaller groups throughout the week is something that happens in many of our congregations and is one of the areas of church life that has been able to be maintained in various forms over the past year. Rick Hill (PCI) is joined by Rev Sam Mawhinney (Adelaide Road, Dublin) and Jonny Campbell (Orangefield / Alpha NI) to discuss howsmall groups have developed in their congregations in recent times. They share encouraging stories of changed lives and growth in groups, as well as offer some advice on how best to lead small groups whether online or in-person.

S2021 Ep29: 029 – Stories of God's ways among us

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Tue, 23 Feb 2021 14:33:21 +0000

The creativity and courage of congregations and individuals is encouraging in stories of life and witness from across PCI including recipes, a drive-in cinema and the hope of sunflowers. These are some of the examples told by Neil Harrison and Pauline Kennedy along with guests Flo Houston (Conor) and Andrew Dawson (Second Dromara), as we hear good news stories of God’s ways among us, near and far, throughout the pandemic.

S2021 Ep28: 028 - Parenting in a pandemic

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 10 Feb 2021 11:52:27 +0000

Parenting our children through the pandemic has been a challenge in many ways over the last 10 months. Caroline Hawthorne (Waringstown Presbyterian) and Marc Harding (West Church, Bangor) joined Ruth Bromley and Graeme Thompson to reflect and share about parenting children through lockdowns, homeschooling and faith journeys. They discuss challenges and opportunities that have arisen as families have spent more time together that ever before as well as how the faith of both children and parents has been impacted by recent global events.

Kate Middleton (psychologist and church leaders, Director of Mind and Soul Foundation) also spoke to us about practical ideas to help our children and young people to process and live through a global pandemic in terms of mental health and resilience. She gives practical tips to parents on how to support their children in these challenging times.

S2021 Ep27: 027 - Living Witness

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 27 Jan 2021 10:46:32 +0000

The simple practices of noticing others, being brave, asking good questions, looking for relationship opportunities and praying. These were some of the things that emerged from this conversation between a minister, a community outreach worker and a university student as Neil Harrison was joined by Rev Andy Carroll (Donabate), Rebecca Smyth (West Kirk) and Peter Hutchinson (Waringstown) to discuss how we can be more effective in sharing our faith in ordinary ways, within the current circumstances we find ourselves in.

S2020 Ep26: 026 - Living with it

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 13 Jan 2021 14:21:02 +0000

The power of the phone call, pressing into God, doorstep conversations, sitting still and creating family moments of discipleship. These were some of the things that emerged from this conversation between a minister, a deaconess and a youth worker as Rick Hill was joined by Rev Ben Walker (Saintfield Road), Joanne Dunlop (Hospital Chaplain) and Andy Lamberton (Exodus North West) to discuss how we can live with the circumstances we find ourselves, both in following Jesus ourselves as well as caring for others around us.

S2020 Ep25: 025 - Discussing Discipleship & Spiritual Formation

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Tue, 08 Dec 2020 09:00:00 +0000

Our final episode of 2020 has a special guest. Well-known pastor and author Jon Tyson joins Rick Hill to discuss the whole area of discipleship and spiritual formation. Jon is pastor of Church of the City New York, and has also written several books including "A Creative Minority" and his latest work "Beautiful Resistance". On the podcast he shares about the critical importance of spiritual formation and offers his insights as to how this can happen in a secular culture.

Rick is also joined by Brontë Fitch (Bangor West) and Keith McIlroy (High Kirk) who share their reflections on Jon’s input and on how these ideas translate to the Presbyterian Church in Ireland today.

This podcast is part of the Refined digital programme of resources https://presbyterianireland.org/refined to support and develop congregational life and witness. We'll be back in the new year. In the meantime, if you have a story of how your congregation is coping with the new Coronavirus restrictions, please email details to rhill@presbyterianireland.org.

Please subscribe to this podcast to hear future episodes by searching for 'Podcasts from the Presbyterian Church' in your favourite podcast software.

Edited by Alan Meban

S2020 Ep24: 024 - At Home for Christmas?

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Tue, 24 Nov 2020 04:00:00 +0000

Where is home? And who do we include or exclude from our vision of home? This episode ties in with the launch of the Moderator's Christmas Appeal to benefit Christian Aid, Tearfund and PCI's partner churches across the world in their broad-ranging relief and development response to COVID-19.

The Moderator, Rt Rev Dr David Bruce, Rev Dr Liz Hughes (Global Mission Convener) and Rev Uel Marrs (Global Mission Secretary) join PCI's Neil Harrison to discuss what it means to be at home this Christmas and to ask how wide our view is of who we see as part of our local congregations?

You can find out more about the At Home for Christmas appeal and resources at https://presbyterianireland.org/athomeforchristmas. This podcast is part of the Refined digital programme of resources https://presbyterianireland.org/refined to support and develop congregational life and witness. If you have a story of how your congregation is coping with the new Coronavirus restrictions, please email details to rhill@presbyterianireland.org.

Edited by Alan Meban

S2020 Ep23: 023 – Local Mission

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Tue, 17 Nov 2020 03:00:00 +0000

PCI's Mission Development Officer Neil Harrison is joined by Josh McCance (Balbriggan and Donabate) and Andy Frost (Share Jesus International) to discuss the power of local mission and share ways that we can build community and connection to continue to share our good news even during a time of lockdown. We also hear from Dave Clawson (West Kirk) about how his Shankill Road congregation are adapting.

This podcast is part of the Refined digital programme of resources https://presbyterianireland.org/refined to support and develop congregational life and witness. If you have a story of how your congregation is coping with the new Coronavirus restrictions, please email details to rhill@presbyterianireland.org.

Please subscribe to this podcast to hear future episodes by searching for 'Podcasts from the Presbyterian Church' in your favourite podcast software.

Edited by Alan Meban

S2020 Ep22: 022 - Refined Youth & Children's Ministry

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Tue, 03 Nov 2020 02:00:00 +0000

Youth and children's ministry is yet another area of congregational life that has been undergoing refinement this year. PCI’s Ruth Bromley (Children's Development Officer) and Graeme Thompson (Youth Development Officer) joins Rick Hill to reflect on this and share what they have been hearing from recent conversations with a variety of leaders, volunteers and staff across the denomination.

They discuss current challenges, and also provide examples of good practice they've observed, and share about their engagement in children's and youth ministry in their own congregation in recent months. Christine Wilson (Carnmoney) also joins the podcast to share how in-person children's ministry has been delivered in her congregation on Sunday mornings since August.

This podcast is part of the Refined digital programme of resources https://presbyterianireland.org/refined to support and develop congregational life and witness. An upcoming webinar focused on Youth & Children's Ministry is mentioned during the podcast. It will take place on Wednesday 25 November from 8-9pm. Registration is open at https://www.presbyterianireland.org/events. If you have a story of how your congregation is coping with the new Coronavirus restrictions, please email details to rhill@presbyterianireland.org

Edited by Alan Meban

S2020 Ep21: 021 – Considering Global Mission

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Tue, 20 Oct 2020 00:00:00 +0000

As global disciples, we are all called to go deeper and wider in our relationship and involvement in what God is doing in other parts of the world. How do we grow the roots of a relationship overseas and how might we become more involved in appropriate ways?

Pamela McCullagh (Annalong congregation) and Neil Harrison (PCI's Mission Development Officer) joined Rick Hill to consider what has worked in developing global mission involvement for congregations and Global Mission Workers.

This podcast is part of the Refined digital programme of resources https://presbyterianireland.org/refined to support and develop congregational life and witness. Digital Dispatches – a resource mentioned during this episode – can be found at https://www.presbyterianireland.org/Resources/Videos/Digital-Dispatches.aspx. If you have a story of how your congregation is coping with the new Coronavirus restrictions, please email details to rhill@presbyterianireland.org.

Please subscribe to this podcast to hear future episodes by searching for 'Podcasts from the Presbyterian Church' in your favourite podcast software.

Edited by Alan Meban

S2020 Ep20: 020 - Introducing Refined

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Tue, 06 Oct 2020 10:34:57 +0000

Refined is the new digital programme of resources to support and develop congregational life and witness. The Moderator, Rev Dr David Bruce, joined Rev David Thompson (Secretary of the Council for Congregational Life & Witness) and regular host Rick Hill (PCI's Discipleship Development Officer) to introduce this new resource and discuss being refined by God. Rick also spoke to Rev Richard Gregg (Burnside, Portstewart) about his congregation's use of the new PRISM resource.

If you have a story of how your congregation is coping with the new Coronavirus restrictions, please email details to rhill@presbyterianireland.org. You can find more about the Refined programme at https://presbyterianireland.org/refined and download the PRISM sessions from https://www.presbyterianireland.org/prism. Please subscribe to this podcast to hear future episodes by searching for 'These Three Remain Presbyterian' in your favourite podcast software.

Edited by Alan Meban

S2020 Ep19: 019 - Maximising Social Media

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Tue, 22 Sep 2020 00:00:00 +0000

PR consultant Rebecca McConnell (First Rathfriland), Creative Associate Jamie Neish (Carnmoney) and Assistant Minister John Graham (Hill Street) join PCI's Rick Hill to consider our engagement with social media, both personally and as congregations. It's an area that many congregations have chosen to explore in recent months, discovering fresh opportunities as well as unearthing some frustrations too.

The podcast panel discuss how helpful it is for a church to have a virtual front door, and share helpful practices in developing digital ministry as well as talking about finding a digital balance and how less can sometimes be more.

You can read Rebecca’s blog post from July about ‘Lessons we are learning about engaging in the digital space’ and find more resources around These Three Remain at https://presbyterianireland.org/thesethreeremain. Please subscribe to hear future episodes by searching for 'These Three Remain Presbyterian' in your favourite podcast software.

Edited by Alan Meban

S2020 Ep18: 018 – Leading Together

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Tue, 08 Sep 2020 16:43:00 +0000

It's a challenging time to be in leadership, no matter the capacity, and leaders in congregations right now are dealing with changing restrictions, differing expectations and heavy decision-making. This episode of the These Three Remain podcast focuses on the area of shared leadership, with Rosie Donaldson (Kirkpatrick), Joe Campbell (First Holywood) and Rev James Rogers (Ballynure) joining PCI’s Rick Hill to explore the importance of good relationships among elders, the need to plan in pencil not pen as lockdown eases, and the danger of relying on experience are all discussed. The podcast ends with a bonus conversation recorded with Rev Alistair Bill where he talks about how leaders can be supported and equipped for their wellbeing as they minister.

If you have a story of faith, hope or love from your congregation, please email details to rhill@presbyterianireland.org. You can find more resources around These Three Remain, including the "Open to God: Leading out of Lockdown" material that can be used by Kirk Sessions, at https://presbyterianireland.org/thesethreeremain and please subscribe to this podcast to hear future episodes by searching for 'These Three Remain Presbyterian' in your favourite podcast software.

Edited by Alan Meban

S2020 Ep17: 017 - Restoring & Renewing Our Rhythms

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 26 Aug 2020 05:30:00 +0000

Three ministers join PCI's Rick Hill to discuss how their congregations are seeking to restore and renew the rhythm of their ministry and witness. Revs Stuart Hawthorne (Waringstown), Gareth MacLean (Orangefield) and Mairisine Stanfield (First Bangor) chat about the importance of prayer and the need to open ourselves to God's voice, as well as taking bold decisions rather than simply restore everything back to the way it used to be.

If you have a story of faith, hope or love from your congregation, please email details to rhill@presbyterianireland.org. You can find more resources around These Three Remain at https://presbyterianireland.org/thesethreeremain and please subscribe to this podcast to hear future episodes by searching for 'These Three Remain Presbyterian' in your favourite podcast software.

Edited by Alan Meban

S2020 Ep16: 016 – Mental Health

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 12 Aug 2020 05:30:00 +0000

This episode of the These Three Remain podcast considers the area of Mental Health. PCI's Rick Hill is joined by Dr Tim Huey (Whiteabbey), Rev Peter Lyle (Ballyholme), and Dr Susan Williams (Hamilton Road) to hear their unique perspectives. Each shares some of their own journey, signposts approaches to self-care, and together they explore how we can walk with others. It's a rich and honest conversation that emphasises the importance of safe spaces, small groups and healthy approaches to leadership.

If you have a story of faith, hope or love at this time that could be shared on the podcast, please email details to rhill@presbyterianireland.org. You can find more resources around These Three Remain at https://presbyterianireland.org/thesethreeremain and please subscribe to this podcast to hear future episodes by searching for 'These Three Remain Presbyterian' in your favourite podcast software.

Edited by Alan Meban

S2020 Ep15: 015 – Shaping Youth Ministry

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 29 Jul 2020 05:30:00 +0000

Three experienced youth workers join PCI’s Rick Hill to consider how youth and children's ministry can be shaped in the term ahead. Johnny Bell (Saintfield Road), Laura Hutcheson-Magee (Gilnahirk) and Peter Wright (Hill Street) discuss what form youth ministry will take by exploring blended approaches that combine physical and digital ministry. They offer helpful suggestions around mentoring, small group ministry, partnering with parents, and dealing with fear, as well as sharing what biblical themes will be important to teach young people.

If you have any stories of faith, hope or love at this time that could be shared on the podcast, please email them to rhill@presbyterianireland.org. You can find more resources around These Three Remain at https://presbyterianireland.org/thesethreeremain and subscribe to this podcast to hear future episodes by searching for 'These Three Remain Presbyterian' in your favourite podcast software.

Edited by Alan Meban

S2020 Ep14: 014 - Considering Our Next Steps

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 15 Jul 2020 05:30:00 +0000

This episode of These Three Remain reflects on the recent permission given to congregations north and south of the border to reopen their doors for services and gatherings. PCI's Rick Hill is joined by Rev Damien Burke (Drogheda), Rev Darran McCorriston (Ballyloughan) and Rev Albin Rankin (Stormont) to discuss the next steps in each of their congregations.

From opening for worship immediately to waiting until later in the summer, a range of approaches are offered and discussed. They also take time to unpick some of the guidelines as well as discuss the issues of restoring confidence and rebuilding community life. The episode finishes with some apt music kindly recorded and produced by the worship team in Hamilton Road Presbyterian.

If you have a story of faith, hope or love from your congregation to share, get in touch with rhill@presbyterianireland.org. You can find more resources around These Three Remain at https://presbyterianireland.org/thesethreeremain and subscribe to this podcast to hear future episodes by searching for 'These Three Remain Presbyterian' in your favourite podcast software.

Edited by Alan Meban

S2020 Ep13: 013 - Summer Dreams

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 01 Jul 2020 06:00:00 +0000

As we turn our eyes towards the summer, what possibilities might the next couple of months bring us in our congregations? So many plans have gone out the window, so for this episode of These Three Remain, PCI's Rick Hill talks to Rev Stephen Richmond (Donegal), Rachel Haffey (Maze & Ballinderry) and Mark Hawthorne (Waringstown) about how they are each grasping fresh opportunities this summer. Recorded earlier in June, they discuss online holiday Bible clubs, reaching out in their communities, and embracing this time for rest and refreshment.

Edited by Alan Meban

S2020 Ep12: 012 - Growing a Global Mindset

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 17 Jun 2020 06:00:00 +0000

This episode of These Three Remain takes a global perspective and hears from some of PCI's Mission Partners across the world. Rick Hill chats to Peter Lockwood (serving with UMN in Nepal), James Cochrane (church planter in Porto, Portugal) and Helen Johnston (PCI's Mission Support Worker), and together they explore both unique and common challenges in their contexts, as well as discuss how congregations in Ireland can grow their global awareness and involvement at this time. This episode was recorded on 9 June.

Edited by Alan Meban

S2020 Ep11: 011 – Developing Our Local Impact

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 10 Jun 2020 06:00:00 +0000

How can we think more locally to get alongside people and make a difference in our local communities? Suzanne Harrison (Waringstown), Rev Niall Lockhart (Ballyhenry) and Rev John Coulter (Ballysally) join PCI's Discipleship Development Officer Rick Hill in this latest episode of These Three Remain to discuss how they are developing their local impact today during lockdown, as well as lessons to carry into the future.

Edited by Alan Meban

S2020 Ep10: 010 - General Assembly

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 03 Jun 2020 06:00:00 +0000

Lockdown has turned lives, jobs, churches and even the General Assembly upside down. In this episode of These Three Remain, the new Moderator Rev Dr David Bruce, Rev Trevor Gribben (Clerk of General Assembly) and Rev David Thompson (Secretary of the Council for Congregational Life & Witness) join Rick Hill to discuss how COVID-19 has impacted their work.

This episode was recorded a few days before The Standing Commission of the General Assembly that will address urgent business instead of the full Assembly.

Edited by Alan Meban

S2020 Ep9: 009 - Lessons from Lockdown

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 27 May 2020 06:00:00 +0000

What have we learned through lockdown? And how can we keep hold of these lessons and apply them and not lose them post-lockdown? That’s what this week's guests discussed on the latest episode of These Three Remain podcast.

Higher education manager Victoria Carroll (Donabate), retired teacher Alan Rowan (Ebrington) and Rev David Clarke (Sligo) joined PCI's Discipleship Development Officer Rick Hill to reflect on being thankful in these strange times and giving control back to God.

Edited by Alan Meban

S2020 Ep8: 008 – Life on the Frontline

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 20 May 2020 06:00:00 +0000

It's not just churches that have changed during lockdown. Workplaces have been turned upside down. In this latest episode of These Three Remain podcast, we talk to three Presbyterians who are keyworkers in education, health and retail.

Primary school principal Mark Beattie, GP Dr Alastair Aicken and supermarket manager Caroline Orr share their experience of pressurised and changed work environments and how God is working in their lives with PCI's Discipleship Development Officer Rick Hill.

Edited by Alan Meban

S2020 Ep7: 007 - Online Worship

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 13 May 2020 06:00:00 +0000

Three ministers and a musical director share their thinking and learning about online worship in this new episode of the These Three Remain podcast.

Revs Gordon Best (Newmills), David Leach (Union Road and Lecumpher) and Gareth McFadden (Kilbride) are in conversation with PCI's Discipleship Development Officer Rick Hill who also catches up with Ballykeel’s worship leader Andy Murray. This episode finishes with a beautiful version of Be Thou My Vision that Andy safely recorded with other musicians during lockdown.

Edited by Alan Meban

S2020 Ep6: 006 - Thinking Beyond Ourselves

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 06 May 2020 06:00:00 +0000

These Three Remain podcast is back with this new episode that asks how we can turn the conversation outwards to consider the needs of others in our care and our community.

Michelle Purdy (Ballyclare deaconess), Rev Jane Nelson (First Omagh) and Rev Richard Houston (Lucan) join PCI’s Discipleship Development Officer Rick Hill to discuss how we can be reach out wider at this time. They share stories of encouragement while also reflecting on the vulnerable and the unseen we need to reach out to, and challenge us to consider the language we use as we communicate God’s message at this time.

Edited by Alan Meban

S2020 Ep5: 005 - Our Message in this Moment

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 29 Apr 2020 06:00:00 +0000

This latest episode of the These Three Remain podcast thinks about what a Christian response to the crisis that can equip us missionally. What is our message in this moment? PCI's Discipleship Development Officer Rick Hill is joined by Rev Norman Cameron (High Kirk), Rev Dr Frank Sellar (Bloomfield) and Rev Lesley-Ann Wilson (Ballycrochan).

They discuss encouragements that stand out over recent weeks, what it means to be a non-anxious presence in these times, and reflect on what they're sensing God say amidst the COVID-19 crisis both to us as a church and also to wider society.

Edited by Alan Meban

S2020 Ep4: 004 – Discipleship at a Distance

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 22 Apr 2020 06:00:00 +0000

How we can continue to enable discipleship from a distance is the topic of this fourth episode of the These Three Remain podcast. PCI's Discipleship Development Officer Rick Hill is joined by Rev Mark Johnston (St Andrews, Bangor), Michael Wylie (Discipleship Associate at Carnmoney) and Rev Marty Gray (Ravenhill).

They discuss how the principles at the heart of discipleship can be applied in these physically distant times, how they seek to encourage members to continue to engage in mission, and at times pointing people away from their screens and back to God's word on paper.

Edited by Alan Meban

S2020 Ep3: 003 - Supporting People in the Crisis

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 15 Apr 2020 06:00:00 +0000

The third episode of the These Three Remain podcast explores how we can equip and support those from our congregations who find themselves on the frontline of this crisis. PCI’s Discipleship Development Officer Rick Hill is joined by Dr William Henry (Moderator), Karen Jardine (Public Affairs Officer) and Rev Christoph Ebbinghaus (Kirkpatrick Memorial).

They discuss building and establishing new relationships, maintaining a sense of being God’s people while we can’t meet together, and learning from new styles of pastoral ministry that are less about physical presence but teach us about having a great reliance on God.

If you have a story of faith, hope or love from your congregation that you would like to share, get in touch with rhill@presbyterianireland.org. You can find more resources around These Three Remain at https://presbyterianireland.org/thesethreeremain and subscribe to this podcast to hear future episodes by searching for ‘These Three Remain Presbyterian’ in your favourite podcast software.

Edited by Alan Meban

S2020 Ep2: 002 – Reimagining Relational Children, Youth and Family Ministry

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 08 Apr 2020 00:00:00 +0000

The second episode of the These Three Remain podcast explores how congregations are reimagining relational children, youth and family ministry.

PCI’s Discipleship Development Officer Rick Hill is joined by youth worker Nicola Clarke (Orangefield), children’s worker Suzie Taylor (Waringstown) and Rev Andre Alves-Areias (Mosside & Toberdoney).

Listen as they talk about how they have adapted their own work, found new ways to engage with young people and their families, realised that children on the margins are losing out, and put in practice ideals about intergenerational worship.

You can find more resources around These Three Remain at https://presbyterianireland.org/thesethreeremain and subscribe to this podcast to hear future episodes by searching for ‘These Three Remain Presbyterian’ in your favourite podcast software.

Edited by Alan Meban

S2020 Ep1: 001 - Responding to a Scattered Church

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 01 Apr 2020 10:04:04 +0000

This first episode in the These Three Remain podcast explores how congregations are caring for people and adapting their work in the context of buildings being closed and communities being isolated.

PCI’s Discipleship Development Officer Rick Hill is in conversation with Revs Kathryn Viner (Malone, Belfast), Stephen McNie (Ballyalbany & Glennan, County Monaghan) and Nigel Craig (Belmont, Belfast).

You can find more resources around These Three Remain at https://presbyterianireland.org/thesethreeremain

Edited by Alan Meban

These Three Remain – podcast coming soon

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Mon, 30 Mar 2020 16:57:16 +0000

These Three Remain: Stories of Faith, Hope & Love from the Presbyterian Church in Ireland - subscribe with your favourite podcast software to hear this weekly podcast and join Rick Hill as he draws together practical examples of how congregations are responding to the unprecedented challenges of continuing ministry and mission

Going Deeper Going Wider – Bryan Knell – part 2

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 26 Feb 2020 14:48:16 +0000

Going Deeper, Going Wider was an event held on 25 February 2020 to help congregations think about how to go deeper and wider in building a lively involvement in global mission.

Bryan Knell, the author of The Heart of Church and Mission, brought his vast experience of helping congregations of all shapes and sizes find their ways into God’s global mission.

In this second part, Bryan deals with the question of how can we put mission at the heart of the church.

Going Deeper Going Wider – Bryan Knell – part 1

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 26 Feb 2020 14:48:15 +0000

Going Deeper, Going Wider was an event held on 25 February 2020 to help congregations think about how to go deeper and wider in building a lively involvement in global mission.

Bryan Knell, the author of The Heart of Church and Mission, brought his vast experience of helping congregations of all shapes and sizes find their ways into God’s global mission.

In this first part, Bryan deals with the challenge of mission within the established church.

PW Leadership Forum 2020 part 2

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Fri, 21 Feb 2020 12:53:00 +0000

Neil Harrison spoke twice during the PW Leadership Forum in February 2020. Neil’s second talk entitled Sharing faith in the community, focused on 1 Corinthians 12:12-27 and on the body of Christ and how each member has a part to play. He went on to encourage us to think practically about what our part might look like as we seek to share faith in the community we are in, and think of one thing we could action that would help others experience a part of the community of the church?

PW Leadership Forum 2020 part 1

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Fri, 21 Feb 2020 12:53:00 +0000

Neil Harrison spoke twice during the PW Leadership Forum in February 2020. Neil’s first talk entitled Sharing faith in relationships, focused on Luke 5: 27-32 and the story of Levi the tax collector. Neil shared how Levi’s encounter with Jesus changed him and excited him to celebrate his new faith with others in his community and he encourages us to do the same by cultivating habits that might help us build relationships with unreached friends in our lives.

Side by Side – Assembly Buildings, Belfast

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Fri, 20 Sep 2019 15:21:52 +0000

Pauline McNeely (member of the Women’s Ministry Panel) leads a study of 1 Thessalonians 2:1-12 (0.00 – 18.52)
Pauline Kennedy (Women’s Ministry and PW Development Officer) presents the vision of Side by Side (19.20 – 37.18)
Helen Hooks (member of the PCI Youth Assembly) reflects on the importance of intergenerational relationships (37.35 – 47.00)

Eleanor Drysdale (Deaconess in Wellington Presbyterian, Ballymena) shares practical experiences of developing a variety of side by side relationships within a congregation (47.25 – 57.56)

Presbyterian Women Annual Conference 2019 Session 2

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 15 May 2019 14:19:54 +0000

Presbyterian Women Annual Conference 2019 Keynote Recordings

‘He restores my soul’ (Psalm 23.3)

Around 1,600 women from across Ireland gathered in PCI’s Assembly Buildings in Belfast on Thursday 9 May 2019 for Presbyterian Women Annual Conference. Our keynote speaker for 2019, Helen Warnock, principal of Belfast Bible College, delivered two talks exploring the theme for 2019-20, Restore.

During the afternoon session, she explored Psalm 23 in more detail, and asked us to consider whether we know God as the one who restores; who his restoration is for; and how he restores. In the evening, Helen focused on 1 Kings 19:1-18, and how God’s gentle restoration ushers in purpose to our lives, using the life of Elijah as an example of this.

Both talks are available to listen to below. If you would like to order a CD version of the talks, please contact the Presbyterian Women office on pw@presbyterianireland.org

Presbyterian Women Annual Conference 2019 Session 1

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 15 May 2019 14:19:52 +0000

Presbyterian Women Annual Conference 2019 Keynote Recordings

‘He restores my soul’ (Psalm 23.3)

Both talks are available to listen to below. If you would like to order a CD version of the talks, please contact the Presbyterian Women office on pw@presbyterianireland.org

PCI Transform 2019 – Beth Warburton – Help me read the Bible (part 2)

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Thu, 18 Apr 2019 15:52:19 +0000

PCI Transform 2019 – Beth Warburton – Help me read the Bible (part 1)

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Thu, 18 Apr 2019 15:52:00 +0000

PCI Transform 2019 – Zach Cole – Help me trust the Bible (part 2)

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Thu, 18 Apr 2019 15:51:11 +0000

PCI Transform 2019 – Zach Cole – Help me trust the Bible (part 1)

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Thu, 18 Apr 2019 15:50:26 +0000

PCI Transform 2019 – Andy Carroll – Saturday PM

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 17 Apr 2019 09:25:13 +0000

PCI Transform 2019 – Andy Carroll – Saturday AM

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 17 Apr 2019 09:24:23 +0000

PCI Transform 2019 – Andy Carroll – Friday PM

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 17 Apr 2019 09:23:49 +0000

PW Forum 2019 – Living for Jesus

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Tue, 05 Feb 2019 11:57:37 +0000

Rick Hill, PCI’s Discipleship Development Officer, spoke twice during the Presbyterian Women’s Leadership Forum in February 2019. Rick’s second talk, entitled ‘Living for Jesus’, focused on Luke 24:30-33, the Emmaus Road story. He drew four images out of this passage: The Table, The Fire, The Road and The Chair. Each relates to four environments needed to prioritise as leaders: our invitation to others, the power of God, our witness to the world and our devotion to the King.

PW Forum 2019 – Disciples in Proximity

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Tue, 05 Feb 2019 11:55:49 +0000

Rick Hill, PCI’s Discipleship Development Officer, spoke twice during the Presbyterian Women’s Leadership Forum in February 2019. His first talk was on how prioritising proximity, practicing patience, pursuing presence and pushing participation in our leadership will enable us to ‘push past the surface in what we are doing (as leaders)…and pursue depth.’ He encouraged participants to move from distance to proximity, not to become preoccupied with programmes, projects or preaches, but to think of people and our relationships with them.

PW Forum 2018 – Claire Ebbinghaus on Biblical Leadership

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 19 Sep 2018 10:58:27 +0000

Claire Ebbinghaus has been the Ministries Facilitator at Kirkpatrick Memorial Presbyterian Church since 2015. She supports, both practically and pastorally, all the leaders of Kirkpatrick’s ministries and organisations, including her husband, Christoph, who has been the minister at Kirkpatrick for 15 years.

Claire shared that, "Leadership is the art of motivating a group of people to act towards achieving a common goal. To be a leader, we need to be clear about the goal of our leadership. We need to be clear about what goal we are trying to achieve and how we go about achieving it." That goal for Presbyterian Women is to encourage women to become disciples of Jesus Christ and to grow together as His followers.

In order to achieve this goal, Claire explained that we needed to recognise that "you cannot make disciples if you are not a disciple yourself", and that good, biblical leadership is "about obedience rather than expertise" because Jesus will be at work in us and through us when we are willing and when we are open to Him.

PW 2018 Annual Meeting Afternoon Talk

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Fri, 11 May 2018 14:00:12 +0000

Around 1,600 women from across Ireland gathered in PCI’s Assembly Buildings in Belfast on Thursday 10 May 2018 for the Annual Meeting and Evening Celebration of Presbyterian Women, a part of the Presbyterian Church in Ireland’s women’s ministry. At the meetings, guest speaker Kate Patterson spoke on the newly launched PW theme for 2018/2019, Beautiful.

Outlining the content of her talks, Kate said, “The theme of both sessions is ‘Beautiful’. In a world where beauty is an industry and an obsession, we are called to gaze on the beauty of the Lord. In Psalm 27, David said that it was top of his prayer list. Why is it so important? Because when we gaze on the Lord, we find that His face is shining on us. He wants us near. We were made to know Him. What could matter more? “

PW 2018 Annual Meeting Evening Talk

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Fri, 11 May 2018 13:59:19 +0000

Everyday Disciples – Thursday Morning Plenary

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Mon, 09 Oct 2017 14:40:14 +0000

Everyday Disciples – Wednesday Evening

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Mon, 09 Oct 2017 09:25:24 +0000

Address by Ray Ortlund – Gospel Culture: Revival

Everyday Disciples – Wednesday Morning Plenary

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Mon, 09 Oct 2017 09:25:22 +0000

Address by Randy Pope

Everyday Disciples – Tuesday Evening

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Mon, 09 Oct 2017 09:25:20 +0000

Address by Ray Ortlund – Gospel Culture: Weakness

Everyday Disciples – Tuesday Morning Plenary

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Mon, 09 Oct 2017 09:25:18 +0000

Address by Randy Pope

Everyday Disciples – Opening Evening

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Mon, 09 Oct 2017 09:25:16 +0000

Welcome by the Moderator. Address by Ray Ortlund – Gospel Culture: Honesty

Disciples who really care (Wednesday Afternoon)

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Tue, 03 Oct 2017 13:07:47 +0000

Everyday disciples are not immune to illness, and struggle. But is pastoral care just for the minister and elders? Or for trained professionals? What does it look like to restore care which not only loves, but equips and builds disciples in your local church? The purpose of this afternoon seminar is to: • Apply, through small group discussion and Q&A, what has been covered in the morning ‘Disciples who care’ seminar. • Broaden our understanding of pastoral care to include all relationships. • Consider how your church can become a ministering/discipling community where everyone plays a part. • To see the importance of both public and private ministry of the Word in pastoral care.

Dr. Tim Huey works as a GP in Templepatrick and one day per week is engaged in biblical counselling ministry in his home church of Whiteabbey Presbyterian. He is an elder, leads a home group and convenes the discipleship working group in his church. He is married with four children.

Discipling through the dry times (Wednesday Afternoon)

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Tue, 03 Oct 2017 13:07:43 +0000

Disciples who worship (Wednesday Afternoon)

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Tue, 03 Oct 2017 13:07:41 +0000

Part 2 (Wednesday afternoon) will look at choosing songs, rehearsing and arranging music for congregational worship. There will be time for Q&A, some interaction and maybe even a song or two.

Jonathan Rea is Creative Director of New Irish Arts, which aspires to be an artistic presence in the church and a Christian presence in the arts. Best known for their concerts with the New Irish Choir and Orchestra and New Irish Youth Choir, the group also records albums and broadcasts regularly. Jonathan studied music at Cambridge, winning the Rima Alamuddin prize for performance. He taught music for 15 years in Bangor Grammar School, but is now combining his work in New Irish with a busy freelance career as conductor, pianist, arranger, producer and occasional contributor to BBC’s Thought for the Day. Jonathan’s passion is to use music to point people to God.

Disciples who work and play (Wednesday Afternoon)

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Tue, 03 Oct 2017 13:07:39 +0000

Along with millions of others, we believe that sport is something to celebrate and enjoy. God has created each one of us with gifts and abilities to glorify and worship Him in all areas of our lives, including sport (Romans 12:1-2). Sport can also be a challenging environment as a Christian. How can we encourage sportspeople to see the opportunity they have to worship God in sport and to point others to Christ through the way they play? In this seminar, we will focus on equipping sportspeople in our churches to make Jesus known and give practical examples of how churches have supported youth/adult sportspeople seeking to share the gospel and life with teammates.

Allen McCluggage is a staff worker with Christians in Sport in Northern Ireland, he plays rugby for Grosvenor RFC and is part of Village Church in Belfast.

Disciples in the family (Wednesday Afternoon)

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Tue, 03 Oct 2017 13:07:36 +0000

This session will support, equip and inspire those who recognise God’s heart for families within their churches. We will consider what the scriptural responsibility of the church family is. Based on in-depth research amongst churches and Christian families, we will explore a wealth of practical ideas for how churches can best support discipleship in the home context. We will also explore together how to make best use of small windows of time, how to engage families most effectively within our churches and how the church can empower Christian parents. Ultimately, how can we pass our faith onto the next generation most effectively?

Disciples who really care (Wednesday Morning)

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Thu, 28 Sep 2017 15:32:27 +0000

As disciples of Jesus Christ, we are followers and learners of a good shepherd who is our perfect model of care. But is ‘caring’ not just for the specialists? What does Paul mean when he writes to the Corinthians of ‘every member care’ in the body of Christ? And what would it look like in practice? This seminar and discussion aims to consider how we can grow in what Jesus called the defining characteristic of His followers – “by this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another” (John 13:35). Dr. Andrew Collins works part-time as a consultant psychiatrist in the field of psychiatric intensive care. He also works part-time in the field of Christian counselling from his home in Portadown, Northern Ireland. As well as offering this service, Andrew has provided teaching and training on pastoral and mental health issues for churches and conferences. Andrew is an elder in Killicomaine Evangelical Church where he is involved in the ministry on a regular basis. He is married with five children.

Disciples across the world (Wednesday Morning)

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Thu, 28 Sep 2017 15:32:17 +0000

The world has changed and so has mission. In this seminar, we will look at some of the changes affecting mission today, and examine our role in getting our own congregations excited about mission. We will share our own experiences with ‘missionaries’ and teams, and ask how we can make mission a more integral part of our church life. We will look at how we can better support the missionaries we already know of, and how we can better use short-term mission trips to enrich the lives of those who go on them and those who don’t, not to mention those who host them. We will think about the increasing number of people from other faiths who now live on our doorstep, and on how we can engage with them. Stephen McIlwaine is married to Roz and they have three teenage children. Stephen and family spent two years at All Nations Christian College, followed by 13 years living and working in Jordan as partners with Interserve. In Jordan, Stephen worked mostly in secular development work, while Roz worked firstly with refugees and then as a school teacher. They returned in 2012 and are still getting used to life in Ireland. Stephen is an elder in Fitzroy Presbyterian Church, Belfast, and works as an environmental advisor to projects in developing countries.

Disciples who worship (Wednesday Morning)

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Thu, 28 Sep 2017 15:32:03 +0000

Few subjects cause as much disharmony in the church as the issue of music and praise. But is it all purely a matter of taste? Are there theological considerations we need to apply? What about the non-musical elements of worship? Given the strong emphasis on preaching in our tradition, and the time spent by preachers in preparing this aspect of the service, how much time should we spend putting together the other elements? In a culture where the ‘worship leader’ has assumed a prominent role in many emerging churches, what biblical principles govern this role. How can we encourage creative artists and musicians in a way which neither relegates their contributions to the periphery of worship nor elevates their role beyond what is appropriate? This seminar looks at the biblical and practical issues surrounding the putting together of corporate worship services within the PCI tradition. David ‘Monty’ Montgomery is a Presbyterian minister currently working as Director of Christian Unions, Ireland, coordinating the work of over 30 CUs in the university campuses of Ireland. Previously he served in Stormont, Knock and Greystones Presbyterian churches and with PCI’s Board of Mission in Ireland. He has a doctorate from Covenant Theological Seminary, and has been published on a range subjects. He is married to Gwen, supports Manchester City and relaxes with crime fiction and the Times crossword.

Disciples who think and engage (Wedensday Morning)

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Thu, 28 Sep 2017 15:31:51 +0000

The rapid changes in our culture often leave Christians feeling confused and vulnerable. We need to raise up disciples of all ages who can think biblically about the issues of our time so that they can serve God faithfully and share the gospel confidently. We need to get beneath the surface of how people live and speak to understand how behaviour reflects ultimate beliefs that are either true or false. This seminar will explore the centrality of transformed thinking to whole-life discipleship. It will present a biblical worldview that challenges alternative ideas and provides a foundation for confident faith and persuasive evangelism. We will explore together both what this means for individual Christians and how, in practical terms, teaching in our churches can develop disciples who engage thoughtfully in the world. Paul Coulter is a native of Lisburn. He left a career in medicine to work in cross-cultural pastoral ministry with the Belfast Chinese Christian Church. He subsequently directed youth and equipping ministries in Glenabbey Church before pursuing his PhD in Divinity. Currently he teaches Practical Theology and Missiology at Belfast Bible College, advises several Christians organisations, podcasts and writes online articles at www.paulcoulter.net, and preaches in churches across Northern Ireland. He is husband to Gar-Ling, father to two children, and fast becoming a ‘mamil’.

Disciples who work and play (Wednesday Morning)

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Thu, 28 Sep 2017 15:31:31 +0000

When God made human beings He made us with a very specific purpose in mind. He made us “in His image” to show the world what He is like. When Jesus developed the theme with His disciples He told them that they were “the light of the world.” For too long the image has been hidden away…the light has been kept under a bowl. In this seminar we will be thinking about how our churches can become discipling communities that equip people for the whole of their real lives…not just Sundays, Monday to Saturday too…not just church, but all the places where they work and play. We’ll see how there is no such thing as ‘the Christian life’ or ‘spiritual life.’ There’s just life… ‘Life to the full’ Jesus called it…the kind of life that will draw a watching world to Him. Christoph Ebbinghaus is a disciple who works as minister of Kirkpatrick Memorial (previously as accountant with PWC) and plays at running, cycling, hiking and the like. Of late he’s taken to chopping wood, lighting camp fires and loves nothing more than a good chat around a fire with friends. He’s husband to Claire and dad to Patrick, Sophie and Ruby.

Disciples in the family (Wednesday Morning)

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Thu, 28 Sep 2017 15:31:17 +0000

We all share the desire to see the Christian faith passed on to the next generation. But how does disciple-making in the family context take place most effectively? How can parents strike a balance between supporting their child’s developing faith whilst juggling the pressures of everyday living? How can churches best support and equip parents in this vital task? What role do salaried staff play in facilitating disciple-making in the home? This seminar will explore these issues, enabling churches to consider how biblical principles and research findings may be practically applied in individual settings. Sarah Holmes’ entire life has been shaped by family and children. From her earliest days assisting her mother run children’s church, to Sunday school roles, to kids’ club initiatives in church circles, and now concentrating on her PhD studies on family faith practices, Sarah’s life has been committed to family discipleship and passing on faith to the next generation. Sarah lives in Wirral, near Liverpool with her husband Richard and three children Ruth, Anna and Joshua.

Disciples who really care (Tuesday Afternoon)

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Thu, 28 Sep 2017 09:22:36 +0000

Disciples who worship (Tuesday Afternoon)

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Thu, 28 Sep 2017 09:22:33 +0000

‘Music in the local church’ was originally developed as a three week course, but this is the supersonic version in two seminars. To get the balance of the material, it is best to come to both sessions, if possible, on Tuesday and Wednesday afternoon.
Part 1 (Tuesday afternoon) is designed to help musicians and leaders with issues which can get in the way of public worship. It will touch on the role of a worship leader, the planning of services, and how to work well with others.

Disciples who think and engage (Tuesday Afternoon)

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Thu, 28 Sep 2017 09:22:31 +0000

What is your gender? Facebook suggests 50 possible responses to that question, from ‘agender’ to ‘trans man’. Homosexuality and transgenderism are commonplace in contemporary media and the prevailing story is of liberation of misunderstood communities from discrimination. The pace of change in social attitudes has been breathtaking, leaving the church seemingly out of touch – the foremost of the past oppressors – and individual Christians confused. How should we speak and act? This seminar will get to grips with what is behind these issues. It will paint a positive biblical vision of sex and gender and will explore appropriate pastoral responses.

Disciples who work and play (Tuesday Afternoon

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Thu, 28 Sep 2017 09:22:28 +0000

There’s no doubt that sport is a massive part of our culture. More than 10 million people play competitive sport in 150,000 clubs and teams across the UK. The call from Jesus Christ in Matthew 28 is clear – “Go and make disciples of all nations...” The question is, how can your church engage with those from this 10-million plus mission field who live near you so that sportspeople everywhere hear the good news of the gospel? Or how can you as a church leader, envision, equip and encourage the Christian sportspeople within your church to be on this disciple-making mission for Christ in their sporting context?

Disciples in the family (Tuesday Afternoon)

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Thu, 28 Sep 2017 09:22:25 +0000

Discipleship in the local church (Tuesday Afternoon)

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Thu, 28 Sep 2017 09:22:22 +0000

Many years ago, the leadership team of Perimeter Church realised that personal, life-on-life missional discipleship was accounting for a unique and unmatched depth of spiritual growth and heart for outreach within the individuals involved. With 50 years of discipleship experience, Randy will share some of his key learnings regarding life-on-life missional discipleship and how it can transform your ministry.

Randy Pope is the founding and lead teaching pastor of Perimeter Church in Johns Creek, Georgia. Randy and his wife, Carol, have four children and 14 grandchildren. Randy is a graduate of the University of Alabama and Reformed Theological Seminary. He and his family moved to Atlanta in 1977 to plant Perimeter Church. Randy is the author of four books and a discipleship curriculum used globally entitled ‘The Journey’. His latest book is entitled ‘Insourcing: Bringing Discipleship Back to the Local Church’.

Disciples who really care (Tuesday Morning)

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 27 Sep 2017 15:23:56 +0000

Dr. Andrew Collins works part-time as a consultant psychiatrist in the field of psychiatric intensive care. He also works part-time in the field of Christian counselling from his home in Portadown, Northern Ireland. As well as offering this service, Andrew has provided teaching and training on pastoral and mental health issues for churches and conferences. Andrew is an elder in Killicomaine Evangelical Church where he is involved in the ministry on a regular basis. He is married with five children.

Disciples across the world (Tuesday Morning)

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 27 Sep 2017 15:23:53 +0000

Stephen McIlwaine is married to Roz and they have three teenage children. Stephen and family spent two years at All Nations Christian College, followed by 13 years living and working in Jordan as partners with Interserve. In Jordan, Stephen worked mostly in secular development work, while Roz worked firstly with refugees and then as a school teacher. They returned in 2012 and are still getting used to life in Ireland. Stephen is an elder in Fitzroy Presbyterian Church, Belfast, and works as an environmental advisor to projects in developing countries.

Disciples who worship (Tuesday Morning)

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 27 Sep 2017 15:23:51 +0000

David ‘Monty’ Montgomery is a Presbyterian minister currently working as Director of Christian Unions, Ireland, coordinating the work of over 30 CUs in the university campuses of Ireland. Previously he served in Stormont, Knock and Greystones Presbyterian churches and with PCI’s Board of Mission in Ireland. He has a doctorate from Covenant Theological Seminary, and has been published on a range subjects. He is married to Gwen, supports Manchester City and relaxes with crime fiction and the Times crossword.

Disciples who think and engage (Tuesday Morning)

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 27 Sep 2017 15:23:44 +0000

Paul Coulter is a native of Lisburn. He left a career in medicine to work in cross-cultural pastoral ministry with the Belfast Chinese Christian Church. He subsequently directed youth and equipping ministries in Glenabbey Church before pursuing his PhD in Divinity. Currently he teaches Practical Theology and Missiology at Belfast Bible College, advises several Christians organisations, podcasts and writes online articles at www.paulcoulter.net, and preaches in churches across Northern Ireland. He is husband to Gar-Ling, father to two children, and fast becoming a ‘mamil’.

Disciples who work and play (Tuesday Morning)

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 27 Sep 2017 15:22:22 +0000

Christoph Ebbinghaus is a disciple who works as minister of Kirkpatrick Memorial (previously as accountant with PWC) and plays at running, cycling, hiking and the like. Of late he’s taken to chopping wood, lighting camp fires and loves nothing more than a good chat around a fire with friends. He’s husband to Claire and dad to Patrick, Sophie and Ruby.

Disciples in the family (Tuesday Morning)

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 27 Sep 2017 15:20:57 +0000

Sarah Holmes’ entire life has been shaped by family and children. From her earliest days assisting her mother run children’s church, to Sunday school roles, to kids’ club initiatives in church circles, and now concentrating on her PhD studies on family faith practices, Sarah’s life has been committed to family discipleship and passing on faith to the next generation.

Sarah lives in Wirral, near Liverpool with her husband Richard and three children Ruth, Anna and Joshua.

Seminar 5: A theological framing of gender

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Tue, 07 Feb 2017 12:34:28 +0000

‘On being human’ is a series of six thought-provoking seminars that provide an opportunity to reflect on what it means to be a human being in the 21st Century.

Part of the Presbyterian Church in Ireland’s Church in the Public Square series [http://www.presbyterianireland.org/publicsquare], ‘On being human’ draws on the expertise of academics and professionals working in a variety of disciplines in Ireland and the UK to explore the essence and uniqueness of human life.

Dr. Cynthia Bennett Brown has been lecturer in systematic theology at Belfast Bible College since 2011. Originally from the United States, she moved to Northern Ireland in 2005 where she attends Fisherwick Presbyterian Church. In the fifth of our ‘On being human’ series of seminars Dr. Brown considered the Christian metanarrative of who God is and who we are as created human persons. She suggested that, as pressing as issues of gender are in our contemporary context, they should be discussed within the theological framework of our God-given identity as persons in community.

You can read Dr. Colins’ blog here. [http://www.presbyterianireland.org/Blog/October-2016/On-being-Human%E2%80%A6-A-Theological-Framing-of-Gender.aspx] and the original ‘On being human’ news story here. [http://www.presbyterianireland.org/News/September-2016/Essence-of-humanity-at-heart-of-forthcoming-semina.aspx.]

Seminar 6: Q & A

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 25 Jan 2017 10:49:36 +0000

‘On being human’ is a series of six thought-provoking seminars that provide an opportunity to reflect on what it means to be a human being in the 21st Century.

Part of the Presbyterian Church in Ireland’s Church in the Public Square series [http://www.presbyterianireland.org/Utility/About-Us/Councils/General-Council/Church-in-the-Public-Square.aspx], ‘On being human’ draws on the expertise of academics and professionals working in a variety of disciplines in Ireland and the UK to explore the essence and uniqueness of human life.

Christopher McCrudden is Professor of Human Rights and Equality Law at Queen’s University Belfast and William W Cook Global Law Professor at the University of Michigan Law School. Until 2011, he was Professor of Human Rights Law at the University of Oxford. His research deals with the foundational principles that underpin human rights practice.

A practicing Barrister at Blackstone Chambers in London, in this final seminar in our On being human series, Professor McCrudden considered whether we need an understanding of what it means to be 'human' in order to construct a coherent normative theory of human rights.

You can read Professor McCrudden’s blog here. [http://www.presbyterianireland.org/Blog/November-2016-(1)/On-being-Human%E2%80%A6-What-is-the-human-in-human-right.aspx] and the original ‘On being human’ news story here. [http://www.presbyterianireland.org/News/September-2016/Essence-of-humanity-at-heart-of-forthcoming-semina.aspx.]

Seminar 6: What is the "human" in human rights?

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 25 Jan 2017 10:48:55 +0000

‘On being human’ is a series of six thought-provoking seminars that provide an opportunity to reflect on what it means to be a human being in the 21st Century.

Seminar 5: Q & A

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 25 Jan 2017 10:44:45 +0000

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‘On being human’ is a series of six thought-provoking seminars that provide an opportunity to reflect on what it means to be a human being in the 21st Century.

Dr. Andrew Collins is a Christian counsellor who also works part-time as a consultant psychiatrist. As an elder at Killicomaine Evangelical Church in Portadown, he is involved in ministry on a regular basis. Dr. Collins also provides teaching and training on pastoral and mental health issues for churches and conferences. In the fifth of our ‘On being human’ seminar Dr. Colins considers gender dysphoria and transgenderism from a pastoral perspective.

You can read Dr. Colins’ blog here. [http://www.presbyterianireland.org/Blog/November-2016-(1)/On-being-Human%E2%80%A6-Understanding-gender-dysphoria.aspx] and the original ‘On being human’ news story here. [http://www.presbyterianireland.org/News/September-2016/Essence-of-humanity-at-heart-of-forthcoming-semina.aspx.]

Seminar 5: Understanding gender dysphoria

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 25 Jan 2017 10:38:58 +0000

‘On being human’ is a series of six thought-provoking seminars that provide an opportunity to reflect on what it means to be a human being in the 21st Century.

Seminar 4: Q & A

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 26 Oct 2016 09:17:55 +0000

‘On being human’ is a series of six thought-provoking seminars that provide an opportunity to reflect on what it means to be a human being in the 21st Century.

David Livingstone is Professor of Geography and Intellectual History at Queen's University, Belfast where he works on the history of geographical ideas and the historical geographies of science and religion. He is a member of a number of national and international academic institutions including Royal Irish Academy and a Fellow of the British Academy. In the fourth of our On being human series of seminars, Professor Livingstone examines the history of the idea of Adam as the progenitor of the human race, how this has been challenged and how it has been intertwined with strategies to harmonise scripture and science.

You can read Professor Livingstone’s blog here. [http://www.presbyterianireland.org/Blog/October-2016/On-being-Human%E2%80%A6-Christianity-the-science-of-huma.aspx] and the original ‘On being human’ news story here. [http://www.presbyterianireland.org/News/September-2016/Essence-of-humanity-at-heart-of-forthcoming-semina.aspx.]

Seminar 4: Christianity and the science of human origins

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 26 Oct 2016 09:16:25 +0000

‘On being human’ is a series of six thought-provoking seminars that provide an opportunity to reflect on what it means to be a human being in the 21st Century.

David Livingstone is Professor of Geography and Intellectual History at Queen's University, Belfast where he works on the history of geographical ideas and the historical geographies of science and religion. He is a member of a number of national and international academic institutions including Royal Irish Academy and a Fellow of the British Academy. In the fourth of our 'On being human' series of seminars, Professor Livingstone examines the history of the idea of Adam as the progenitor of the human race, how this has been challenged and how it has been intertwined with strategies to harmonise scripture and science.

Seminar 3: Q & A

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 12 Oct 2016 15:42:01 +0000

‘On being human’ is a series of six thought-provoking seminars that provide an opportunity to reflect on what it means to be a human being in the 21st Century.

Dr. Dónal O’Mathúna has taught and published widely on healthcare ethics. He is Senior Lecturer in Ethics, Decision-Making & Evidence in the School of Nursing & Human Sciences at Dublin City University. In his seminar Dr. O’Mathúna asks Can human nature be improved through applied science?

You can read Dr. O’Mathúna’s blog here. [http://www.presbyterianireland.org/Blog/October-2016/On-being-Human%E2%80%A6Third-Millennial-Humanity.aspx] and the original ‘On being human’ news story here. [http://www.presbyterianireland.org/News/September-2016/Essence-of-humanity-at-heart-of-forthcoming-semina.aspx.]

Seminar 3: Third Millennial Humanity – Can human nature be improved through applied science?

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 12 Oct 2016 15:41:23 +0000

‘On being human’ is a series of six thought-provoking seminars that provide an opportunity to reflect on what it means to be a human being in the 21st Century.

Seminar 2: Q & A Session

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Tue, 04 Oct 2016 11:13:29 +0000

‘On being human’ is a series of six thought-provoking seminars that provide an opportunity to reflect on what it means to be a human being in the 21st Century.

Professor John Wyatt is Emeritus Professor of Ethics and Perinatology at University College. In his seminar, ‘The Beginning and the End: Issues of Life and Death’, he explored whether orthodox Christian understandings of humanity provide insights for the rapidly changing world of medical ethics.

You can read Professor Wyatt’s Blog here [http://www.presbyterianireland.org/Blog/September-2016/On-being-human-Issues-of-life-death.aspx] and the original ‘On being human’ news story here [http://www.presbyterianireland.org/News/September-2016/Essence-of-humanity-at-heart-of-forthcoming-semina.aspx.]

Seminar 2: The Beginning and the End – Issues of Life and Death

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Tue, 04 Oct 2016 11:11:08 +0000

‘On being human’ is a series of six thought-provoking seminars that provide an opportunity to reflect on what it means to be a human being in the 21st Century.

Families passing on faith

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Thu, 29 Sep 2016 11:54:17 +0000

Dr Bryan Chapell, senior pastor of Grace Presbyterian Church in Peoria, Illinois, was the keynote speaker at the launch, on 21st September 2016, of ‘How to Be a Close to Home Congregation’, a seven-session Bible study and video resource which seeks to help any member of any congregation understand the importance of covenant theology and how it practically shapes key areas of congregational life: community, family, worship, sacrament and welcome. Dr. Chapell spoke about the how Christian parents can pass on faith in their homes and what congregations can do to support them in this vital task.

'Close to Home' is a growing conversation within the Presbyterian Church in Ireland which has sought to rediscover and recapture the importance of covenant theology for the Church today. It has this name because it seeks to shape church life to keep our children and young people feeling right at home in a joined up community of all ages, a place we all want them to stay.

See more at www.presbyterianireland.org/closetohome

Seminar 1: What Genesis 1-3 says about human identity

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Tue, 27 Sep 2016 13:17:09 +0000

‘On being human’ is a series of six thought-provoking seminars that provide an opportunity to reflect on what it means to be a human being in the 21st Century.

Dr. Desi Alexander, Senior Lecturer in Biblical Studies at PCI’s Union Theological College set the scene in the first seminar, ‘What Genesis 1-3 says about human identity?’

His seminar explored what these three chapters of the Bible have to say in the light of contemporary biblical studies and considered the relevance of their message for modern life.

You can read Dr. Alexander’s Blog here [http://www.presbyterianireland.org/Blog/September-2016/On-being-human-in-the-beginning.aspx] and the original ‘On being human’ news story here [http://www.presbyterianireland.org/News/September-2016/Essence-of-humanity-at-heart-of-forthcoming-semina.aspx.]

GA2016 – Address at Thursday Afternoon Worship

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 06 Jul 2016 13:49:46 +0000

Address given by Rev David Bruce at the Thursday afterrnoon worship of the 2016 General Assembly.

The General Assembly is the decision and policy making body of the Presbyterian Church in Ireland. It meets annually with approximately 1,000 delegates from Presbyterian congregations all around Ireland involved in the five days of worship, prayer, bible study, celebration and decision making. The Assembly met in Assembly Buildings, Belfast from Monday, 6th June until Friday, 10th June, 2016.

GA2016 – Address of Dr Chris Wright at Evening Celebration

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 06 Jul 2016 13:48:23 +0000

Address of Dr Chris Wright at the Evening Celebration of the 2016 General Assembly.

GA2016 – Address at Wednesday Afternoon Worship

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 06 Jul 2016 13:45:34 +0000

Address given by Rev David Cupples at the Wednesday afternoon worship of the 2016 General Assembly.

GA2016 – Address of Rev Dr Frank Sellar at Communion

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 06 Jul 2016 13:43:43 +0000

Address of the Moderator, Dr Frank Sellar, at the Communion Service of the 2016 General Assembly.

GA2016 – Address of Incoming Moderator Rev Dr Frank Sellar

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 06 Jul 2016 13:41:16 +0000

Address of the incoming Moderator, Dr Frank Sellar, to the Opening Meeting of the 2016 General Assembly.

GA2016 – Address of Outgoing Moderator Rev Dr Ian McNie

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 06 Jul 2016 13:37:42 +0000

Address of the outgoing Moderator, Dr. Ian McNie, to the Opening Meeting of the 2016 General Assembly.

GA2016 – Reflections of Outgoing Moderator Rev Dr Ian McNie

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 06 Jul 2016 13:35:58 +0000

The outgoing Moderator, Dr Ian McNie, reflects on his year in office at the Opening Meeting of the 2016 General Assembly.

Transform 2016: Trigger Talks

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 04 May 2016 15:41:44 +0000

Trigger Talk 1: The Gods in our Pockets – Stuart Hawthorne (Assistant Minister Abbots Cross) Focusing on the impact that technology has on our lives and the way we interact with it. This trigger talk will explore how God wants to interrupt, interact or incarnate Himself in the midst of this.

Trigger Talk 2: Rhythms of Devotion – Helen Warnock (General Director Scripture Union NI) God desires relationship and intimacy with His people but what does this look like in our busy lives? How can we build regular rhythms of devotion that will stand the test of time? How can the Bible and prayer be part of our every day?

Trigger Talk 3: What does success look like as a Christian? – Chris Gardiner (Dentist and member Drumbo PC) Our world celebrates ambition, drive, size and success. Should we ignore these things or aim for them? This trigger talk will explore what success might look like as we seek to follow Jesus in our studies, families and workplaces.

Transform seeks to connect a generation of young adults from across the Presbyterian Church in Ireland, equip them to be disciples of Jesus and inspire them to live this out in the every day. This recording is taken from the Transform Gathering which took place in the Cathedral Quarter, Belfast from 1st-2nd April 2016.

Transform 2016: Thriving over Surviving

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 04 May 2016 15:38:58 +0000

David Montgomery—General Secretary, IFES Ireland

The first decade of adulthood is crammed full with major transitions such as the move from full time education to employment, the leap from youth group to whole church, or the shifts of school to university and living away from home. This seminar will touch on the complexities of some of these transitions, helping us thrive as disciples of Christ in our new environments. Particularly touching on transitions faced as students, we will be encouraged to be agents of change wherever we find ourselves.

Transform 2016: Faith in the Public Square

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 04 May 2016 15:37:42 +0000

Peter Lynas—Director NI, Evangelical Alliance

Northern Ireland is emerging out of a period when it was naturally described as a Christian country. Should we as Christians have something to fear? In a marketplace of competing ideas, this seminar will both hold on to and confidently share the faith in Jesus that you carry. Peter will grapple with the cultural context we now live in, as well as provide a framework for how we can interact with the society around us where so much seems to be up for grabs.

Transform 2016: Inspire Session 2

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 04 May 2016 15:36:15 +0000

Transform 2016: Inspire Session 1

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 04 May 2016 15:35:45 +0000

Transform 2016: Interview with Connie Hunter

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Wed, 04 May 2016 15:19:01 +0000

Address of Rev John Woodside at the Evening Celebration

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Thu, 11 Jun 2015 11:20:35 +0000

Address of Rev John Woodside on Wednesday at the Evening Celebration of the 2015 General Assembly.

The General Assembly is the decision and policy making body of the Presbyterian Church in Ireland. It meets annually with approximately 1,000 delegates from Presbyterian congregations all around Ireland involved in the four days of worship, prayer, bible study, celebration and decision making. The Assembly met in Assembly Buildings, Belfast from Monday, 1st June until Thursday, 4th June, 2015.

Address of Rev Dr Ian McNie at Communion

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Thu, 11 Jun 2015 11:17:31 +0000

Address of the Moderator, Dr Ian McNie, at the Communion Service of the 2015 General Assembly.

The General Assembly is the decision and policy making body of the Presbyterian Church in Ireland. It meets annually with approximately 1,000 delegates from Presbyterian congregations all around Ireland involved in the four days of worship, prayer, bible study, celebration and decision making. The Assembly met in Assembly Buildings, Belfast from Monday, 1st June until Thursday, 4th June, 2015.

Address of incoming Moderator Rev Dr Ian McNie

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Thu, 11 Jun 2015 10:58:03 +0000

Address of the incoming Moderator, Dr Ian McNie, to the Opening Meeting of the 2015 General Assembly.

The General Assembly is the decision and policy making body of the Presbyterian Church in Ireland. It meets annually with approximately 1,000 delegates from Presbyterian congregations all around Ireland involved in the four days of worship, prayer, bible study, celebration and decision making. The Assembly met in Assembly Buildings, Belfast from Monday, 1st June until Thursday, 4th June, 2015.

Address of outgoing Moderator Rev Dr Michael Barry

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Thu, 11 Jun 2015 10:56:26 +0000

Address of the outgoing Moderator, Dr Michael Barry, to the Opening Meeting of the 2015 General Assembly.

The General Assembly is the decision and policy making body of the Presbyterian Church in Ireland. It meets annually with approximately 1,000 delegates from Presbyterian congregations all around Ireland involved in the four days of worship, prayer, bible study, celebration and decision making. The Assembly met in Assembly Buildings, Belfast from Monday, 1st June until Thursday, 4th June, 2015.

Reflections of the outgoing Moderator Rev Dr Michael Barry

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Thu, 11 Jun 2015 10:54:45 +0000

The outgoing Moderator, Dr Michael Barry, reflects on his year in office at the Opening Meeting of the 2015 General Assembly.

The General Assembly is the decision and policy making body of the Presbyterian Church in Ireland. It meets annually with approximately 1,000 delegates from Presbyterian congregations all around Ireland involved in the four days of worship, prayer, bible study, celebration and decision making. The Assembly met in Assembly Buildings, Belfast from Monday, 1st June until Thursday, 4th June, 2015.

CIPS: Living and Dying Well 3 – Professor John Wyatt

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Mon, 26 Jan 2015 10:50:21 +0000

The Presbyterian Church in Ireland and Union Theological College held their third joint conference under the theme ‘Church in the Public Square’ on Thursday, 22nd January 2015.

The aim of the conference was to bring together a number of leading thinkers in the UK to consider the role that Christians and the Church can play in wider community life. The theme for the event was 'Living and Dying Well', addressing the ethical, pastoral and legal issues surrounding attempts to legislate in favour of assisted suicide.

Professor John Wyatt, Professor of Ethics and Perinatology at University College, London, lectures widely on issues in ethics from a Christian perspective and his most prominent book is Matters of life and death: Today's healthcare dilemmas in the light of Christian Faith. He addressed the pastoral and medical challenges from a Christian perspective.

CIPS: Living and Dying Well 2 – Baroness Ilora Finlay

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Mon, 26 Jan 2015 10:45:44 +0000

The Presbyterian Church in Ireland and Union Theological College held their third joint conference under the theme ‘Church in the Public Square’ on Thursday, 22nd January 2015.

Baroness Ilora Finlay, chairwoman of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Dying Well, a professor of palliative medicine at Cardiff University and the current President of the BMA, spoke on 'End of Life or Ending Life', focusing in some depth on the medical aspects of end of life care; explaining what palliative care is, how it has developed and how it differs from what is called 'palliative care' in other jurisdictions. She also discussed the implications of a change in the law for end of life care.

CIPS: Living and Dying Well 1 – Robert Preston

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Mon, 26 Jan 2015 10:44:33 +0000

The Presbyterian Church in Ireland and Union Theological College held their third joint conference under the theme ‘Church in the Public Square’ on Thursday, 22nd January 2015.

Robert Preston, Director of the think-tank, Living and Dying Well, which works to examine the objective evidence surrounding the controversial end-of-life debate and publishes research to help inform Parliament and the public, spoke on 'The Assisted Dying Debate: An Overview' where he gave an overview of the subject, linking the various strands together to show how they interact with each other.

CIPS: Equality, Freedom and Religion – Dr Michael Wardlow

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Mon, 13 Oct 2014 14:41:37 +0000

The Presbyterian Church in Ireland and Union Theological College held their second joint conference under the theme ‘The Church in the Public Square’ on Thursday, 9th October 2014.

The aim of the conference was to bring together a number of leading thinkers in the UK to consider the role that Christians and the Church can play in wider community life. The theme for the event, a follow up from January’s first conference, was ‘Equality, freedom and religion’.

Dr. Michael Wardlow, the Chief Commissioner of the Equality Commission NI, used a great deal of Biblical material to under gird his conviction that strong Christian faith and a commitment to human rights and equality are entirely compatible.

CIPS: Equality, Freedom and Religion – Professor Colin Harvey

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Mon, 13 Oct 2014 14:40:12 +0000

The Presbyterian Church in Ireland and Union Theological College held their second joint conference under the theme ‘The Church in the Public Square’ on Thursday, 9th October 2014.

The aim of the conference was to bring together a number of leading thinkers in the UK to consider the role that Christians and the Church can play in wider community life. The theme for the event, a follow up from January’s first conference, was ‘Equality, freedom and religion’.

Professor Colin Harvey, Professor of Human Rights Law at Queen’s University in Belfast, was explicit in saying that human rights law was founded on centuries of Christian theology, and that the churches should be fully engaged in the debates that are still very much “work in progress” as the law develops.

CIPS: Equality, Freedom and Religion – Professor Roger Trigg

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Mon, 13 Oct 2014 14:37:39 +0000

The Presbyterian Church in Ireland and Union Theological College held their second joint conference under the theme ‘The Church in the Public Square’ on Thursday, 9th October 2014.

The aim of the conference was to bring together a number of leading thinkers in the UK to consider the role that Christians and the Church can play in wider community life. The theme for the event, a follow up from January’s first conference, was ‘Equality, freedom and religion’.

Professor Roger Trigg, Emeritus Professor of Philosophy at Warwick University, argued that there ought to be much more scope to exercise freedom of conscience, and that we should strive for “reasonable accommodation” in situations where there was a genuine conscientious problem.

Address of incoming Moderator Dr Michael Barry

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Mon, 09 Jun 2014 08:38:49 +0000

Address of the incoming Moderator, Dr Michael Barry, to the Opening Meeting of the 2014 General Assembly.

The General Assembly is the decision and policy making body of the Presbyterian Church in Ireland. It meets annually with approximately 1,000 delegates from Presbyterian congregations all around Ireland involved in the four days of worship, prayer, bible study, celebration and decision making. The Assembly met in Assembly Buildings, Belfast from Monday, 2nd June until Thursday, 5th June, 2014.

Address at Thursday Afternoon Worship

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Fri, 06 Jun 2014 21:32:23 +0000

The address of Rev Stuart Finlay (Moderator's Chaplain) at Thursday afternoon worship.

The General Assembly is the decision and policy-making body of the Presbyterian Church in Ireland. It meets annually with approximately 1,000 delegates from Presbyterian congregations all around Ireland involved in the four days of worship, prayer, bible study, celebration and decision-making. The Assembly met in Assembly Buildings, Belfast from Monday, 2nd June until Thursday, 5th June, 2014.

Address of Rev Frank Sellar at the Evening Celebration

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Fri, 06 Jun 2014 21:23:16 +0000

Address of Rev Frank Sellar at the Evening Celebration on Wednesday.

Address at Wednesday Afternoon Worship

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Fri, 06 Jun 2014 21:14:41 +0000

The address of Dr Trevor McCormick (Moderators Chaplain) at Wednesday afternoon worship.

Address of the Moderator at the Communion Service

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Fri, 06 Jun 2014 20:15:16 +0000

Address given by the Moderator, Dr Michael Barry, at the Communion Service on Tuesday.

Address of outgiong Moderator Dr Rob Craig

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Fri, 06 Jun 2014 16:07:03 +0000

Address of the outgoing Moderator, Dr Rob Craig, to the Opening Meeting of the 2014 General Assembly.

The General Assembly is the decision and policy making body of the Presbyterian Church in Ireland. It meets annually with approximately 1,000 delegates from Presbyterian congregations all around Ireland involved in the four days of worship, prayer, bible study, celebration and decision making. The Assembly met in Assembly Buildings, Belfast from Monday, 2nd June until Thursday, 5th June, 2014.

Reflections of outgoing Moderator Dr Rob Craig

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Fri, 06 Jun 2014 16:05:14 +0000

The outgoing Moderator, Dr Rob Craig, reflects on his year in office at the Opening Meeting of the 2014 General Assembly.

The General Assembly is the decision and policy making body of the Presbyterian Church in Ireland. It meets annually with approximately 1,000 delegates from Presbyterian congregations all around Ireland involved in the four days of worship, prayer, bible study, celebration and decision making. The Assembly met in Assembly Buildings, Belfast from Monday, 2nd June until Thursday, 5th June, 2014.

TC2014 Keynote Address by Cathy Bell

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Tue, 20 May 2014 13:33:52 +0000

On the morning of Saturday 12th April 300 Designated Persons, Ministers, youth leaders and parents all gathered at assembly buildings to enjoy fantastic cupcakes together but more importantly than that, to consider some difficult issues and learn from experts across various fields. Adjectives such as “Outstanding, On the Nail, Marvellous, Superb!” were used to describe the conference and one delegate commented that it was, “inspiring, educational and fresh”. Another wrote,” Invaluable – we live in a fast changing world and need to keep up to date and we need to be informed of all topics, especially the difficult ones covered today”.

Lindsay Conway (Secretary to the Board of Social Witness) interviews the keynote speaker, Cathy Bell to find out a little bit about her background before Cathy addressed the audience as the keynote speaker on the theme - Self-harm: The Hidden Harm and the Churches’ Response’.

TC2014 Seminar on Bullying Online and Offline

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Tue, 20 May 2014 13:31:37 +0000

Lee Kane from the Northern Ireland Anti-bullying forum addresses the audience at his seminar, Bullying in the ‘real’ world and in the virtual world.

TC2014 On The Sofa

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Tue, 20 May 2014 13:29:37 +0000

Taking Care Coordinator, Deborah Webster, interviews Tom Clarke (Access NI), Olive Ring (National Youth Council Ireland) and Gary Proctor (The Oval Group Insurance Company) to find out the latest developments in the areas of vetting and risk assessment.

Good Relations Conference 2014 - Panel Discussion

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Mon, 14 Apr 2014 15:43:51 +0000

On Saturday, 5th April Presbyterians gathered in Assembly Buildings for a morning conference entitled 'Dealing with the Past, Shaping the Future'. The panel discussion elaborated on issues raised from the day. Taking part on the panel were Rev. Lesley Carroll, minister of Fortwilliam and McCrory; Prof. Peter McBride, Chief Executive of Northern Ireland Association for Mental Health (NIAMH); and Rev. Michael Davidson, minister of Drumgooland and Kilkinamurry Presbyterian congregations.

Good Relations Conference 2014 - Address of Rev Norman Hamilton

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Mon, 14 Apr 2014 15:42:42 +0000

On Saturday, 5th April Presbyterians gathered in Assembly Buildings for a morning conference entitled 'Dealing with the Past, Shaping the Future'. Dr. Norman Hamilton spoke about the importance of engaging with politics, reminding delegates that the word politics means, “of, for, or relating to citizens”. Given that the issues raised by the recent Haass talks proved to be complex and controversial, Dr. Hamilton spoke about the need for wider society to help shape the way these issues are handled, with the Church playing its part in this.

Good Relations Conference 2014 - Address of Rev David Cupples

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Mon, 14 Apr 2014 15:41:01 +0000

On Saturday, 5th April Presbyterians gathered in Assembly Buildings for a morning conference entitled 'Dealing with the Past, Shaping the Future'. Rev. David Cupples addressed the need to recognize and affirm the sovereignty of God when we are dealing with issues of the past. In considering how we move forward, he asked delegates to consider not only our sectarian past but also our increasingly secular society at present.

Breaking the Silence - Closing address by Prof Peter McBride

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Fri, 14 Feb 2014 11:58:01 +0000

On Saturday, 1st February, around 200 people gathered in Assembly Buildings to “break the silence” on adolescent mental health.

“Breaking the Silence” was the result of speeches that two young women made at the Presbyterian General Assembly in June 2013. They spoke about the rise in mental health issues that teenagers and young adults are facing, the personal experiences they have faced with their friends and asked the church to respond to this crucial issue. As a result of this, a resolution was passed to work with the SPUD Youth Assembly on a project to engage the church with these issues – the conference was part one of this project.

Professor Peter McBride reminded the delegates about the importance of taking what they have been challenged about and what they have learned and use it in their local context.

Breaking the Silence - Address of Dr Ken Yeow

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Fri, 14 Feb 2014 11:55:37 +0000

On Saturday, 1st February, around 200 people gathered in Assembly Buildings to “break the silence” on adolescent mental health.

Dr. Ken Yeow then challenged the delegates about how the church should be responding to these issues and how they become mental health friendly places that support teenagers and walk alongside them as a loving community.

Breaking the Silence - Address of Dr Gavin Davidson

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Fri, 14 Feb 2014 11:54:02 +0000

On Saturday, 1st February, around 200 people gathered in Assembly Buildings to “break the silence” on adolescent mental health.

Dr. Gavin Davidson’s address provided the delegates with a solid picture of adolescent mental health in Northern Ireland at the present time. He provided examples of what the statistics look like in reality and highlighted the challenges that we are facing with regards to the future of mental health.

Breaking the Silence - Opening remarks by Dr Rob Craig

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Fri, 14 Feb 2014 11:41:18 +0000

On Saturday, 1st February, around 200 people gathered in Assembly Buildings to “break the silence” on adolescent mental health.

The Moderator, Rev. Dr. Rob. Craig, opened the conference and reminded delegates that the church needs to “break the silence” on the issues that affect us. He encouraged delegates to “be Christ” to the young people in their care, to give them a listening ear and share their time with them.

The Church in the Public Square - John Larkin QC

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Tue, 11 Feb 2014 15:33:55 +0000

‘The Church in the Public Square?’ was the title for a major day conference held on Thursday, 30th January in Assembly Buildings, Belfast and organised jointly by Union Theological College and the Church and Society Committee of the Presbyterian Church. It was attended by 200 people including ministers, students and MLA’s and officials from the various political parties and the NI Assembly.

At a time when not only has the Christian voice become incomprehensible in many ears, but is often hated and opposed, the aim of the conference was to bring together a number of leading thinkers in the UK to consider the role which Christians and the Church can play in wider community life.

John Larkin QC is the Attorney General for Northern Ireland he addressed the questions, What about rights? Do Christians have rights? Can the competing and opposing rights of individuals and groups be reconciled?

The Church in the Public Square - Dr Jonathan Chaplain

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Tue, 11 Feb 2014 15:29:49 +0000

Dr. Jonathan Chaplin is Director of the Kirby-Laing Centre for Christian Ethics in Cambridge and a specialist in Christian political thought. He dealt with the challenge that arises when a diversity of religious communities no longer accept the privatised role allotted to them by liberal secularism but demand public recognition and public influence. Many want public policy to reflect their distinctive religious identity. Can this be done and should we expect, or work for, some degree of practical agreement?

The Church in the Public Square - Prof Donald McLeod

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Tue, 11 Feb 2014 15:13:57 +0000

Professor Donald McLeod is Professor of Systematic Theology at Free Church College in Edinburgh, and a regular commentator on current affairs in Scotland and the UK from a Christian point of view. He reflected on how and where the Church ought to position itself in current debates. Should the church retreat from the public square and only be concerned with spiritual matters or is there a biblical mandate for involvement in the discussion of key issues?

Rev Dr Rob Craig discusses his Rwandan experience

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Fri, 07 Feb 2014 15:32:18 +0000

Presbyterian Moderator Dr. Rob Craig has spoken of the “positive dimension coming out of Rwanda” in an audio diary and studio discussion broadcast on BBC Northern Ireland’s Sunday Sequence programme on Sunday, 8th September.

Dr. Craig, who has just returned from two weeks in Rwanda visiting Christian Aid and Tearfund development programmes, told the programme’s presenter William Crawley, “I think the positive thing is to understand how Rwanda as a country has within a relatively short space of time been seeking to build a new society and a new community.

“It is fascinating to see how they have tried to cope with issues of justice, remembering, victims and perpetrators while restoring relationships.”

Listen to Dr. Craig’s studio discussion with Presbyterian minister Rev. Dr. Lesley Carroll and Northern Ireland’s Commissioner for Victims and Survivors Kathryn Stone, both also recent visitors to Rwanda.

Rev Dr Rob Craig's Rwandan Diary

Presbyterian Church in Ireland — Fri, 07 Feb 2014 15:25:29 +0000

“It is fascinating to see how they have tried to cope with issues of justice, remembering, victims and perpetrators while restoring relationships.”

Listen to Dr. Craig’s Rwandan audio diary.