‘State’ visitor to church

The latest in the long list of ‘big names’ was the Secretary of State, Owen Patterson, who popped in last week for a quick nosy.

“Clearly ‘the simple splendour’, to borrow Foyle MP Mark Durkin’s description of the oldest Presbyterian Church in Ireland’s fourth city, is fast becoming a “must-see” place for Local, National and International visitor. Several hundred people have already experiemced the distinctive story of a determined and defiant race of people called Presbyterians, who began arriving into the city in 1642,” said Minister, Rev Dr David Latimer.

“Last week, in addition to coach parties Dr Latimer welcomed a delegation from The Honourable, The Irish Society, including the Governor, Deputy Governor and the Society’s Irish Representative, Mr Edward Montgomery. The Northern Ireland Secretary of State, The Rt Honourable Mr Owen Patterson MP, was warmly welcomed by Dr Latimer, when he visited the church on Thursday afternoon.

“The high quality craftsmanship evedent throughout the building greatly impressed the Secretary of State as did the stunningly beautiful stained glass windows,” Dr Latimer said.

“The Blue Coat Visitors Centre at the rear of First Derry Church, currently nearing completion, will unwrap the long and storied existence of Presbyterians within the walls since 169o. This new tourist attraction, which will be officially opened by a Government Minister in the Autumn, promises to be irresistable, both for visitors to the city and for the indigenous population.”