The 214th Synod of the Reformed Presbyterian Church of Ireland commenced on Monday evening in Armagh City Hotel, County Armagh. In leading worship the outgoing Moderator, Rev. Philip Murphy (minister of Fairview and Tullyvallen congregations) read from Hebrews 11 and spoke on the theme, “Are You Ready to Serve?”, highlighting some of the lessons to be learned from Moses’ faithful service.
Following worship the Moderator constituted the Court and gave his year’s report, before demitting the office. On the proposal of Rev. Philip Moffett, seconded by Rev. Samuel McCollum, Rev. John Coates (Kellswater RP Church) was appointed to the role of Moderator, which he accepted.
Mr Coates welcomed Rev. Bruce Parnell (Stillwater RP Church, Oklahoma) and invited him to address Synod on behalf of the RP Church of North America. Mr Parnell brought warm greetings and outlined some of the causes for encouragement and challenge in his denomination. He also shared some uplifting reports from the mission field. The Moderator then prayed for the work and witness of the RPCNA.
The Moderator read from Song of Solomon 7:10-12 and addressed the Court, enthusiastically highlighting the love of the Bride for Christ, and Christ’s love for his Church – a spur to faithful service of him in Synod and elsewhere.
Please pray for the meetings of Synod on Tuesday 10th and Wednesday 11th June. Pray for Rev. Coates’ work as Moderator alongside the Clerk, Rev. Samuel McCollum, and for all those attending and contributing.
Rev. Philip Dunwoody
