Carrickfergus woman prepares to handover Presbyterian Women presidency

Presbyterian Women supports the development and resourcing of ministry among women in the Presbyterian Church in Ireland (PCI), and the meeting itself is one of the largest gatherings of Christian women in Ireland.

Talking about her year as president, Mrs Beattie, from Joymount PW Group said it had been a ‘privilege’ to serve and she had ‘thoroughly enjoyed it.’

Involving much travelling, Mrs Beattie visited 34 different PW groups, noting that “each one was unique as they served God where he had placed them as women with a heart for ministry and mission within their church and their community.”

She added: “While it has been humbling to see the dedication and commitment from group leaders and committees and the women themselves, it has also been a privilege to have been president.

"I have thoroughly enjoyed it, but I certainly could not have done it on my own strength as I have felt God’s presence with me every step of the way. I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who supported me prayerfully and practically this year, as it has been so appreciated.

“It has been the most challenging, inspiring and privileged time. I have thoroughly enjoyed getting to spend time talking with the women in their individual congregations and seeing how God has been ever-present with them this year.

My prayer is that they would continue to feel God’s presence, guiding and leading them to serve him where he has placed them.”

As she comes to the end of her year in office, Mrs Beattie wished her successor well as she enters her term as president, adding: “I hope that I can be the listening ear and coffee-confidant that she has been to me this year. I know God will strengthen and encourage her and that she will be a blessing to everyone she meets.”

Taking place in PCI’s Assembly Buildings in central Belfast, this year’s theme is ‘Generation to Generation’.

Over the years upwards of 1,000 women attend the annual meeting, which is from 10.30am to 1.45pm on Saturday, May 16, and includes tea, coffee and scones. Costing £10, it can be booked via www.presbyteianireland.org/events.

PCI’s Women’s Ministry and Presbyterian Women Development Officer, Pauline Kennedy said: “Much of what Presbyterian Women does happens in the 450 local groups that are spread across our local congregations across the denomination, including those in County Antrim. So, when women from the groups come together for the annual conference, it is always a special moment in the PW calendar, which I am very much looking forward to.

“As an organisation we are committed to supporting the development and resourcing of ministry among women in PCI, enabling, equipping and encouraging women of all ages to become disciples of Christ.

"Our annual women’s conference is, however, open to all women, as we come together to worship, focus on God’s word, and celebrate what he is doing in our lives and through his church.”