Over the last few weeks the Presbyterian Herald team have been out and about in Monaghan, Ballymoney and Belfast encouraging and thanking Herald agents for their hard work and effort on the ground.

The Agent Days also provided the opportunity for the Herald team to recognise some of their longest serving agents Herald agents, who look after the distribution of the magazine in their congregations.

In Monaghan Sandra Hagan, who has been coordinating the distribution of over 500 magazines in the Presbytery of Monaghan over the last 7 years was presented with a special gift. June Menaul, from Cavanaleck Presbyterian Church in County Fermanagh, was also presented with a gift for her faithful service as an agent, which has spanned 46 years.

Meanwhile, in Ballymoney Margaret Boyd from Ballyrashane Presbyterian in County Londonderry began her Herald distribution career when she was just 11 years of age – in 1953. Margaret was recognised for her amazing 65 years’ service. Finally, in Belfast, Fred Kyle of Rasharkin Presbyterian, County Antrim, received a gift for his 49 years of service.

“The faithful service given by Herald Agents – or ‘Herald Angels’ is quite remarkable and to be praised. We really value the work of each of our agents and recognise that it is a time consuming and committed role that also take energy and planning,” Herald editor, Sarah Harding said.

“A total of 250 agents attended the Agent Days. Being an agent is often an unseen service, it can be done very discreetly and can go unnoticed, so these bi-annual Agent Days allow the team and me to say a huge ‘thank you’ to these unsung heroes who also promote the Herald within their individual congregations.”

With a publication heritage that goes back to 1843, the Presbyterian Herald represents an important part of the Church’s communication strategy. It provides an opportunity for Presbyterians to communicate with each other and with those in leadership. It also enables congregations share examples of good practice provides a forum for discussion and debate.

The editor also pointed out that it is due to the assistance given by agents across the country in distributing the Presbyterian Herald that the cost of the magazine can be kept low.

“In an era of fake news and facing an uncertain economic and political future, the Church has the opportunity to speak light into the darkness and share the good news of what we are doing in our communities, in the public square and further afield in Jesus’ name. The Herald team strive to have topical and engaging articles so that in each edition our readers can be inspired, challenged and encouraged,” Sarah said.

If you would like to find out more about the Herald and about taking out a subscription through your congregation or as an individual please check our website here for details.

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Photos: (1) Sandra Hagan being presented with her gift by Presbyterian Herald editor, Sarah Harding (2) Margaret Boyd recieving hers (3) the Clerk of the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church in Ireland, Rev Trevor Gribben attended the Belfast Herald Agent Day and is pictured with Herald contributor Ruth Sanderson, Presbyterian Moderator, Rt Rev Dr Charles McMullen and Sarah Harding.