08/02/2006

New Presbyterian moderator is named

The Reverend David Clarke of Terrace Row Church in Coleraine has been named as the new moderator of the Presbyterian Church in Ireland.

The 59-year-old, who is originally from Ballymena, received 14 votes out of the 21 Presbyteries who took part in yesterday's election.

The Rev Clarke, who is married with two daughters, will be known as the moderator designate, until he officially takes over from Dr Harry Uprichard in June.

After the announcement, the Reverend Clarke said that he would try to serve God and his church to the utmost of his ability.

The Rev Jimmy Johnstone, minister of Craigy Hill in Larne came a close second with a total of six nominations, and Rev Wilfred Orr from St Johns, Newtownbreda the remaining nomination.

Each presbytery, which represents approximately 25 congregations, is given the opportunity to nominate one candidate.

The name of each nominee was delivered to Church House in Belfast where the result was then declared last night.

(EF/SP)

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