Ordination and Installation of Deacons, 9 January 2011
The congregation has been greatly encouraged by the recent election of four additional deacons. A number of family and friends joined the congregation on Sabbath evening, 9 January 2011 for their ordination and installation. Rev. Philip Moffett, minister of Cullybackey congregation, addressed the gathering from Luke chapter 17 verses 7-10, pointing out that Christians have been created to serve and obey. During the service, the Moderator of Session, Rev. Peter Jemphrey, asked the prescribed questions of the deacons elect, namely, Thomas Forgrave, Jonathan McKelvey, Peter McKelvey and Philip Robinson. Through prayer and the laying on of hands, three of the men were ordained, one having been previously ordained in another congregation and all were installed to the office of deacon. Mr Jemphrey issued a charge to the deacons from 1 Timothy chapter 3 verse 13, emphasising the privileges to be obtained from serving well. After the close of the meeting, supper was served in the Church Hall, when members and friends were able to congratulate and encourage the new deacons.