Tribute paid to retiring Dr Clarke

Dr Clarke was installed as minister in Terrace Row on September 11, 1980 and for the past 31 years he has been a faithful minister, excellent preacher and teacher and caring pastor.

At the evening gathering many warm congregational tributes were paid to Dr and Mrs Clarke testifying to their service offered in the Master’s name.

Mr Robert Campbell read Psalm 139 and Dr Ian McMaster led the congregation in prayer. The congregation was entertained on the flute by Mr David Gillespie and also a song by Mrs Heather and Miss Helen Aiken with Mrs Elizabeth McMaster on the piano.

The choir led the praise under their leader Mr Richard McCreery with Mrs Hester Beck on the organ.

Tributes were paid by Mrs Sandra Acheson, Mrs Kathleen Presha, Mr Andy Bill, Mr Jack Caldwell and Mr George Scott, Congregational Secretary.

Tributes were also paid by the Rev Peter Fleming, Minister of First Coleraine Presbyterian Church, the Rev Dr Donald Watts, Clerk of the General Assembly and General Secretary of the Presbyterian Church in Ireland and the Rev Dr Philip Wilson, Minister of Bushmills Presbyterian Church.

Gifts from the congregation were presented to Ruth and Sarah Clarke by Mrs Serena Blair and to Mrs Hazel Clarke by Mrs Sharon Gilliland. The Clerk of Session Mr Tom Gilliland presented Dr Clarke with a gift .

Dr Clarke thanked the congregation for the gifts and their support and kindness over the past thirty-one years.

The Reverend Norman McCormick closed the evening with the Benediction.

Afterwards a lovely supper was enjoyed by all.