Methodist President visits Moira church

Accompanied by his wife Patricia and Circuit Superintendent Rev Robert Loney, Rev Lindsay spoke at morning worship in Moira and an evening circuit rally in Glenavy Methodist Church.

Formally welcomed to Moira by Dr Elizabeth Lemon and Society Steward Mr Neville Mawhinney, younger members of the Church were to the fore in leading the congregation in worship through music. Circuit Treasurer, Mr John Clarke, provided an overview of Moira and Glenavy Circuit with prayers led by Rev Chris Walpole and Rev Loney. Readings were by Mrs Beryl Mawhinney and Mrs Linda Irwin.

Rev Lindsay preached an inspired sermon on his theme for his Presidential Year, ‘Strength Through Prayer’ and provided the congregation with an insight into his ministry.

After graduating from Queen’s University, Belfast, Rev Lindsay taught Science, Agriculture and Economics in Sierra Leone, before returning to Northern Ireland.

After attending Edgehill Theological College and graduating again from Queen’s as a Bachelor of Divinity, Rev Lindsay was to spend much of his ministry in the Republic of Ireland, before returning to Northern Ireland, serving at Carnalea Methodist Church, Bangor. Currently, Rev Lindsay is Superintendent Minister on the Ballinamallard & Trillick Circuit in Co Fermanagh.

Following the service, the President and his wife, joined the congregation for tea and coffee in the Church Hall. On behalf of the Church, the President was presented with a gift by Mr Terry Gilbert, whilst Patricia received flowers from Moira Methodist’s three youngest members, Alicia McMullan, Jack Stewart and Jack Switzer.

Circuit Superintendent Rev Loney said: “On behalf of the congregation, I was delighted to welcome Rev Lindsay to Moira Methodist Church.

“The history of Methodism in Moira stretches back over 250 years. The current Church has been on its present site since 1822. We know God has a plan for His Church in Moira and the surrounding area. Recently, the congregation has taken the first steps, toward redeveloping our mission and fulfilling God’s vision for Moira. We welcome Rev Lindsay’s visit to our Church and his encouragement in this regard.”