Shortlist unveiled to become the next Moderator of the Presbyterian Church in Ireland

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From top left: Rev John Kirkpatrick, Rev Dr Colin McClure, Rev Dr Trevor McCormick and Rev Alastair McNeely

By Q Radio News

Four names are in the hat to become the next Moderator of the Presbyterian Church in Ireland.

They're the Rev John Kirkpatrick of Portrush; Dr Colin McClure of Larne; Dr Trevor McCormick of Kilrea and the Rev Alastair McNeely, Minister of Richhill Presbyterian Church.

One of them will succeed Dr. David Bruce when the Church’s 19 regional presbyteries meet on February 1.

Rev Trevor Gribben, Clerk of the General Assembly and General Secretary of the Presbyterian Church in Ireland explained that in February last year, Dr David Bruce became the first Moderator since 1894 to serve a second consecutive term, his having been the only name forwarded by presbyteries for formal consideration. 

However, this year presbyteries will have a choice of four potential nominees for the post of Moderator of the General Assembly for the year 2022-2023.

Reflecting on the last time presbyteries met for this purpose, Mr Gribben said:

''I genuinely give thanks to God, that the rhythm of our church life is gradually returning, and once more ministers and elders from our 500-plus congregations the length and breadth of this island can come together to prayerfully select a colleague to be nominated as our next Moderator''. 

Made up of ministers and elders drawn from local congregations in a particular area, each presbytery meets between five and eight times a year and is responsible for overseeing those congregations in their local area. 

While undertaking other tasks by convention the annual selection of the minister who will be proposed to the General Assembly as Moderator, takes place on the first Tuesday in February.

Rev Trevor Gribben concluded by saying, ''Having been elected for a second term by the October 2021 General Assembly, Dr Bruce told us that he sincerely hoped that the extension of Moderatorial terms of service would not become ‘habit forming.’ 

''In sharing that hope, I look forward to working with whoever succeeds David this coming June, as they continue to serve the Lord Jesus Christ by taking on this important role in the life and ministry of PCI.''

The name of the Moderator-Designate will announced on the evening of February 1. 

They will then be formally proposed to the General Assembly as Moderator for the year 2022-2023 when it meets on Wednesday, June 22 2022.

From top left: Rev John Kirkpatrick, minister of Portrush Presbyterian Church, Rev Dr Colin McClure, minister of First Larne Presbyterian Church, Rev Dr Trevor McCormick, minister of First Kilrea Presbyterian Church and Boveedy and Rev Alastair McNeely, minister of Richhill Presbyterian Church

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