Press Releases
CHURCHES GROWING TOGETHER IN FAITH
The signing of the Church of Ireland-Methodist Covenant took place today at Chrome Hill, near Lisburn close to where in 1787 John Wesley entwined two beech saplings as a symbol of his hopes for a growing relationship between the two churches. These trees, now fully grown, formed an historic background to the signing ceremony.
After a short act of worship that included Charles Wesley’s hymn, ‘Thou God of truth and love’, the Covenant was formally signed by the Church of Ireland Primate, Archbishop Robin Eames, and the President of the Methodist Church in Ireland, Reverend Winston Graham.
Local church leaders, officers of the churches and members of the Joint Theological Working Party attended the ceremony.
This new relationship will be expressed in ways and places that are meaningful to individual communities including shared worship. It is suggested that beech saplings may be planted in church grounds to celebrate this historic event.
Further information from:
THE CHURCH OF IRELAND PRESS OFFICE
Church of Ireland House
61 - 67 Donegall Street
Belfast BT1 2QH
Tel: (028) 9023 2909
Fax: (028) 9032 3554
Email:The Press Office