The Presbyterian Church is set to choose its next Moderator from two candidates, with the announcement coming next month
The announcement is expected early next month. The church has 19 regional presbyteries across Ireland, and they’ll meet separately to choose one of these candidates as Moderator-Designate.
Traditionally, these meetings happen on the first Tuesday in February, which falls on February 4 this year. The chosen one will be officially elected and installed during the General Assembly in June.
Dr Richard Murray, the current Moderator, will keep his role until then. Usually, the Clerk of the General Assembly handles this process, but since both nominees are back in the mix, Rev Dr David Allen will oversee it this time.
Dr Allen mentioned that while last year had five names on the shortlist, it’s not unusual to have just two. The selection process is pretty straightforward but important for the church. It all starts in late autumn when presbytery members suggest names for consideration.
After Christmas, they check in with those on the long list to see who’s interested. This year, only two agreed to go forward.
Voting will involve all ministers and a representative elder from each congregation within the Presbytery.
Rev Gribben has been the Clerk of the General Assembly since 2014. He’s got a solid background, with degrees from Queen’s University, Belfast. He was ordained back in 1988 and has served in various churches since then.
On the other hand, Rev Kerr has been at Templepatrick Presbyterian Church since 2005. He’s also well-educated, holding degrees from the University of London and Queen’s University. He’s been involved in global concerns for the church too.
So, it’ll be interesting to see who gets the nod as the next Moderator!
