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In his retiring address as Moderator of the Belfast Synod of the Presbyerian Church in Ireland, the Rev Jim Campbell has praised both politicians and planners for their work over the last year. Speaking this morning, Tuesday 9th March, Rev Campbell minister of Cooke Centenary Presbyterian Church told fellow clergy and church members that despite some trouble the city of Belfast had witnessed a year of positive change. He commented:
"I believe that the Lord Mayor the Rt Hon David Alderdice, his deputy, the aldermen and councillors are to be commended for the way they have worked together more closely and cooperatively. They have projected a much more positive and inviting image of the city which can do nothing but good."
Rev Campbell also singled out the work of planning and re-development agencies:
"We have seen the physical environment of our city greatly enhanced. We owe a special debt of gratitude to the Laganside Corporation for the major improvements and stunning new buildings that continue to transform previously run down sites along the River Lagan. It was good to see the completion of the BT Building and the Hilton Hotel and the construction of several blocks of riverside apartments and office buildings."
He went on to tell the Synod, which meets to discuss church business and issues of local concern that it was; "All too easy to be constantly attacking our politicians as self seeking and heartless individuals. I want to compliment those who have helped create a better spirit within our city."
Rev Campbell concluded with a challenge to fellow Presbyterians in Belfast, asking if local churches shared the same vision in their outreach and ministry:
"Imagination, innovation and occasionally risk taking have marked the development of our city during the past year - with very positive results. Have we as a Synod been able to match the spirit that has been evident within our city?"
His successor in office will be the Rev Prof. Patton Taylor a lecturer at Union Theological College, who has a specific interest in urban church ministry. Prof. Taylor will commence his year as Synod of Belfast Moderator from today. There are five other synods which make up the Presbyterian Church in Ireland. Each regional Synod gathering sees over three hundred ministers and lay representatives join for communion before engaging in church business.
Issued by Martin McNeely, Presbyterian Information Services. Info@PresbyterianIreland.org
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