The three Refresh events for elders held in this church year in Magherafelt, Limavady and Belfast (also live streamed) attracted widespread participation and positive feedback as a ministry which was particularly timely in encouraging those called to this vital leadership role in church life.
Another Refresh initiative for elders is scheduled for the next church year in autumn 2024. Further details will follow in due course.
Council for Congregational Life and Witness staff are also available to facilitate encouragement and envisioning for elders on an individual Kirk Session or Presbytery basis. Requests can be emailed to clw@presbyterianireland.org
Refresh Videos
Video material recorded at the 2024 Belfast event is now available to share and make use of as widely as possible following the conclusion of the in-person events.
The material comprises 5 short videos:
- Biblical reflections on a the challenges and opportunities of eldership identified in a survey of PCI elders;
- Three short addresses on aspects on aspects of refreshing the calling and ministry of eldership;
- A panel discussion in which elders share their experience of aspects of staying fresh in their practice of eldership.
The format of the material lends itself to being shared and used in a number of ways:
- Shared with elders via email or social media;
- Used to provide teaching and prompts for discission at an elders’ morning, evening or away day;
- Used as content in Kirk Session meetings as devotional input or as a means of stimulating conversation;
- Used by Presbyteries or groups of neighbouring congregations at a joint event for elders.
The videos can be accessed by completing the order form below.