 |
| |
In a statement issued today Presbyterian Moderator Dr Alastair Dunlop expressed support for teachers and school staff caught in the North Belfast disruption. Having met with residents in the Glenbyrn estate the previous night Dr Dunlop also told of the tension he had experienced on the ground. But he believed that community leaders were 'working extremely hard' to resolve the situation and urged people outside of North Belfast to pray for that part of the city.
The statement reads:
"I have taken this opportunity to meet with people on the ground and have listened to what they are saying. I particularly want to express my support for teachers and school staff in these difficult times. At a time when resources are greatly needed in the health and education service, what we are witnessing is a scandalous waste.
"I met with several individuals who were working extremely hard to bring stability into the situation. It is clear to me that realistic dialogue is urgently needed and I welcome the recent initiatives to that effect.
"I also urge people to pray for North Belfast - that hatred would cease in people's hearts and that God would heal the divisions in our society by His grace. People have got to live together, people matter to God. I saw and heard of real tension and conclude that only the love of Christ can truly solve every human problem."
Eds. Note: The Presbyterian Church in Ireland is the largest Protestant church in Northern Ireland. The Moderator is the official public representative of the church, elected annually to serve for one year. Dr Alastair Dunlop grew up in the Oldpark area of North Belfast and is minister of Knock Presbyterian in East Belfast. His theme for the year is "People Matter to God."
Issued by Martin McNeely, Presbyterian Information Services. Info@PresbyterianIreland.org
PCI Home . . . Press Office . . . News Archive