Synod continued in Armagh on Tuesday 10th June. The main focus of the day’s business was on Mission, Finance and reports from each of the four presbyteries. Mr Brian Dunwoody, Chairman of the Mission Committee, gave an overview of the year’s work at home, across Ireland and in France and Spain. It was a particular joy for Synod that Rev. Isaac Berrocal, minister in Seville, Spain, was able to join us and briefly address the Court (pictured above). Isaac was accompanied by Mr Jake Schwartz, a student for ministry in the RP Church of North America, who will be working with Isaac in Spain for the next few months. There were also encouraging updates from the church in Nantes, France, and from the outreach efforts that continue in Limerick and Galway.
A theme of this year’s presbytery reports has been the challenges created by a lack of manpower; the denomination is in need of both more ruling elders and more preachers. This is a matter of ongoing prayer across the church.
Synod also welcomed delegates from churches with whom we have close relations. Rev. Stephen McCollum brought greetings and updates from the RP Church of Scotland. Rev. Robert Beckett spoke on behalf of the Evangelical Presbyterian Church of Ireland and Rev. Trevor Kirkland represented the Free Church of Scotland (continuing).
Reports were also presented by the Camps, Public Morals and Instruction of the Young Committees.
Synod concludes on Wednesday 11th June, when a morning of preaching and prayer, followed by further business, is scheduled.
Rev. Philip Dunwoody
