05/02/2014

New Presbyterian Church Moderator Named

The next Moderator of the Presbyterian Church has been named as Rev Michael Barry, minister of Sandys Street Presbyterian Church in Newry, County Down.

63-year-old Dr Barry was elected in a second round of voting after the first round resulted in a three-way tie between Dr Barry, Rev Liz Hughes of Whitehouse and the minister of Trinity, Ballymoney, Rev Ian Mc Nie. All three received five votes.

In the second election, Dr Barry received seven votes to the six each of Mrs Hughes and Mr McNie.

Dr Barry will take up office on 2 June in succession to Dr Rob Craig, who continues as Moderator until that time.

Dr Barry said: "I am very surprised but pleased that the Presbyterian Church has put its confidence in me and seen fit to give me the honour of serving as Moderator.

"I look forward to encouraging the Church and its people in their ministry as I have the opportunity to travel around Ireland and visit congregations and meet people engaged in ministry and mission."

Rev Michael Barry has been minister of the Sandys Street Presbyterian Church in Newry for 28 years.

(IT/JP)

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