Presbyterian Moderator set to visit Londonderry

The visit is part of a programme that will include opportunities to improve community relations and encourage engagement between different communities here.

As part of the 10 day visit to the Londonderry and Donegal Presbytery area, a number of events have been organised to encourage open debate among the public.

Rev Hamilton, Minister of Ballysillan Presbyterian Church in North Belfast, is the current Moderator for 2010-2011.

He is well known for his efforts to provide a resolution of the Holy Cross dispute of a few years ago and is keen to promote dialogue between the two communities on a range of issues including policing and encouraging the churches to regain credibility with the public through humility and service.

Mayor Colum Eastwood welcoming the Moderator to the North West region said it was a significant visit and help create positive debate about the role and importance of the churches in society today.

"I am delighted that the Moderator has taken time out of his busy diary to spend time in the Derry and Donegal Presbytery. I am very much aware of the excellent work he has done to promote good relations between both communities and to encourage people from all communities to come together and talk about the issues that jointly concern them.

"During his time here, the Moderator will meet with local leaders of other Christian denominations and other faith groups, community workers and local politicians where he will provide an insight into his experiences in dealing with community conflict in North Belfast. I welcome this engagement and believe it's a great opportunity for all interested parties to share experiences and views."

Sue Divin, Community Relations Officer with Derry City Council, who is working closely with the Presbytery to organise the visit, said it was a very positive and worthwhile exercise.

"There is an open invite to anyone interested to take part. In particular the Moderator is keen to have local political, community and faith leaders attend the dialogue event hosted by the Mayor.

"Bringing all the communities together to talk openly about their experiences and how they can move forward together, is a very positive thing and one which we are more than happy to facilitate.

"We are delighted that the Moderator is visiting our city and are confident that he will be well received by the people of this city," she commented.

The dialogue event takes place on Friday, October 1, 2pm-4pm in the Whittaker Suite in the Guildhall. To register please phone tel:71345160 or e-mail [email protected]

Rev Dr Brian Brown, Moderator of Presbytery says: "We give a warm welcome to our Moderator as he comes to the Northwest. Dr. Hamilton's visit gives us the opportunity to celebrate the wide range of relationships our Church enjoys .

"Through visits to hospitals, schools & colleges, social care organisations, and local government, on both sides of the Border, we hope to demonstrate that our church is making a positive contribution to the welfare of the community.

"His visits to churches will be a source of encouragement to Presbyterians in both large and small congregations."