Fairtrade Harvest celebrated in Templepatrick

Minister of the church, Rev. Dr. Scott Peddie, was joined by colleagues Revs. Jennifer Bell and Richard Kerr from neighbouring Church of Ireland and Presbyterian congregations.

Special music was provided by the Cregagh Presbyterian Church Choir and visiting organist, Dr. Joe McKee, from the Belfast School of Music. Organist Thomas Wilson also played a number of pieces and readings were given by three young members of the congregation - Sophie Robinson, Amy Morrison and Lindsey Adams.

The Old Presbyterian Church is a registered Traidcraft ‘Fair Trader’ and 'Fairtrade Church'. Registered churches make a commitment to use Fairtrade tea and coffee after services and at all meetings, move forward on using other Fairtrade products such as sugar, biscuits and fruit and promote Fairtrade during 'Fairtrade Fortnight' and during the year through events, worship and other activities whenever possible.

Commenting on the service, Dr. Peddie said: “This service was a great opportunity to increase awareness of Fairtrade products, as well as encouraging people to think about the issues faced by food producers in the developing world.

“As a Christian community, fair trade should be an integral part of our ethos of justice and love of neighbour.’”