What is your ministry?
I am the minister of a town congregation near the north coast of Northern Ireland, where I have served for 11 years. I have been in ordained Parish ministry for over 30 years. The congregation is a traditional Presbyterian church, with the spectrum of traditionalists and progressives. My main role is as Teaching Elder, and I have responsibility for two Sunday services, a small midweek group, and various other meetings in the church, and in schools. I oversee a Kirk Session (Elders) and have responsibility for leadership. Beyond the congregation, I also serve on the Board of New Horizon, (which runs an annual conference-type gathering) and have various Presbytery responsibilities.
When did you trust Christ?
I first knew my life to be changed when I was 15, in my own home, after a number of weeks of feeling the burden of God's judgement. Over the summer, between 4th and 5th year, I would have gone to bed fearful that if I died that night I would be in hell, so I asked Jesus to forgive me and come into my life. That was a daily occurrence, which I didn’t share with anyone (though my parents were Christians). One night, no different to any of the others, I knew my prayer was heard and my life was changed, and I have moved on from there ever since.
What do you hope to gain from participating?
There are three things I would like to gain. First, I want to sharpen my own preaching focus. I'll be 60 this year and have been a minister for over 30 years, but I still have much to learn (and unlearn). I have a desire to make the last lap count. Second, I want to improve my application of the Bible message. This follows on from the first. By the time I finish the YRM, I will have approximately 5 years left, so I have less time to impact lives. Third, I want to learn how to help others improve their preaching gifts.
