Tributes paid to Rev Adrian Adger

Rev Adger, who previously served as Assistant Minister at Ballyclare Presbyterian Church, received an incurable cancer diagnosis in November 2017.

Rev Adger recently served as the minister at Clough and Seaforde Presbyterian Churches.

Paying tribute to Adrian, a spokesperson for the Co Down churches said: “Our dearly loved minister, husband and friend Adrian was called home to glory in the early hours of Wednesday morning.

“Due to the current Government restrictions the manse is strictly private.

“There will we a service of thanksgiving for the life of Rev Adrian Adger live streamed on Facebook on either Friday, January 15 or Saturday, January 16 and time will be confirmed later.

“Please uphold Karen and the family circle in prayer. Your thoughts and prayers are very much appreciated.”

Newtownabbey DUP Cllr Paul Hamill knew Rev Adger well.

Speaking to the Times, Cllr Hamill said: “I’m very saddened to hear of his passing. I know Adrian from serving alongside him on the Belfast City Mission. He was in Ballyduff and I was in Rathcoole.

“He was always very gracious and encouraging, an example of a fine Christian gentleman.

“His battle with cancer was inspiring, because he was so open about his journey and used it as an opportunity to share his faith and talk about God and the Gospel.

“He had a genuine heart for people and even served for a time in Africa. We remember his wife Karen and his family circle at this time.

“Adrian detailed his battle with cancer in a number of videos on YouTube. They are very encouraging.”

Ballyclare UUP Cllr Vera McWilliam, who is a member of Ballyclare Presbyterian Church, paid tribute to Rev Adger.

Speaking to this newspaper, Cllr McWilliam said: “We all loved Adrian. He was always very encouraging and he had a contagious smile.

“He fought his illness well and always remained positive.

“My condolences and prayers are with Karen and his loved ones at this sad time.”

The Doagh Road church’s Clerk of Session, Niall McConkey, expressed sadness following the news of Rev Adger’s passing.

Mr McConkey said: “It was with great sadness that the church family of Ballyclare Presbyterian heard of the passing of their friend Rev Adrian Adger.

“Adrian was Assistant Minister with us and will be fondly remembered for his encouragement and Bible teaching.

“He was a great prayer warrior and had time for everyone to listen and speak into every situation. He had a long and difficult battle, but was sustained by his strong faith in Almighty God.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife Karen and family and his brother and family circle in these challenging times.”

The inspirational minister penned a book, ‘Facing cancer standing tall.’ He also recorded music to offer support to people in similar situations.

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