The church was full on the evening of Friday the 25th February, as Mr Joseph Dunlap was ordained and installed as minister of Loughbrickland RP Church.
Rev. Philip Moffett, the moderator of Synod, opened the worship with the singing of Psalm 107 followed by prayer. Dr. Tim Donachie preached on John 15 and bearing much fruit through abiding in Christ. After the singing of Psalm 80, an offering was taken up in aid of the denomination’s education fund.
Rev. Nigel Agnew then gave a defence of Reformed Presbyterianism, explaining some of the distinctive principles. The ordination vows were put to Mr Dunlap, and upon his assent, the ministers present and a representative elder laid hands on him, and he was ordained through a prayer led by Rev. Robert Robb.
Rev. Barry Galbraith then gave the charge to the minister and congregation, reminding both to view the other as the friend of Christ. You can watch the service here:
The service closed with the singing of Psalm 72 and Rev. Dunlap pronounced the benediction. After the service we went to the nearby Gospel Hall where supper was served.
The elders expressed their thankfulness to Rev. Robert Robb for his work as interim moderator and presented both him and his wife with gifts on behalf of the congregation. Flowers were also presented to Monica Dunlap, and then Joey spoke thanking the congregation for their warm welcome.
Please keep the Dunlap family in your prayers as they settle in to Loughbrickland, and give thanks for this provision of a minister.
