The General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church in June 2002 took the view that the setting up of a Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) such as had the support of Anglican Archbishop Desmond Tutu and others in the aftermath of the South African troubles was not an appropriate means for dealing with the past in Northern Ireland.
Recognition that momentum and pressure favourable to such a course is building up has led the Church and Government Committee (CGC) to report to the General Board the absolute imperative and urgency of the church reaffirming its position in 2002.
It has become increasingly clear that the TRC in South Africa as a model for the current Northern Ireland situation is inappropriate. In South Africa testimony was gained from the perpetrators of crimes in return for amnesty. With the early release of prisoners in Northern Ireland there is no incentive for any to give account of past deeds.
The CGC questions whether inquiries of one sort or another will bring healing to society, or the closure victims and society seek. It is crucial for the people of Northern Ireland as a whole to arrive at a point where, while not forgetting the past, it can move on, make a fresh beginning and learn to live together.
The General Board has encouraged the CGC to explore further the idea of creating official opportunities for victims of the North's atrocities to tell their stories. It is believed that justice in part might be better approached through healing rather than judicial processes. Creation of a dedicated forum where personal experiences can be placed on official public record might be a positive way of remembering the victims and in time enabling victims to find a measure of healing and closure.
With the historians, whether the Home or the Irish Mission was founded first is a moot point. The case for the Irish Mission is that the Presbyterian Synod of Ulster in the early 18th century (1705,1710) sent a number of ministers, and some licensed to preach (licentiates), out to evangelise the Irish people of Roman Catholic faith.
The year 1716 is taken by some as the foundation of Irish Mission when in a fresh approach 17 ministers went out to preach in Irish and distribute scriptures in the vernacular of the people.
Since then the Irish Mission has continued to evangelise under the care of the General Assembly with a staff of colporteurs trained to be competent evangelists and Christian workers supervised by a Mission superintendent.
The Rev David J. Temple is superintendent: there are eight colporteurs working in closest co-operation with ministers in the Republic in such places as Cork, Drogheda and Dublin.
This ministry is not stereotyped. It allows of initiative and innovation. It comprises leading adult Bible study groups; arranging and conducting Bible classes for children; and carrying on a video ministry.
The number of new applicants for training in the work is greatly gratifying. Requisite for acceptance and training is to be spiritually mature: having gifts for evangelism together with the ability and flexibility to work as part of a team in a cross-cultural context. Those interested may contact the Rev D.J. Temple, Irish Mission Office, Church House, Fisherwick Place, Belfast.
The General Assembly commends the buying of fairly traded products wherever possible. The World Development Appeal Committee announces a Fair Trade Fortnight (FTF) from March 1st to 14th. FTF is a reminder that choices made when shopping may affect the livelihood of many in the developing world. Fair trading results in living wages for producers, and ensures fair treatment for workers and the promotion of the dignity of work. Fair trading helps producer communities to meet their needs for schools, medical care and water supply.
Fair trading will be possible during the Fortnight at the Spires shopping centre, Fisherwick Place, Belfast. A wide selection of purchases provided through the agencies of Traidcraft and Tear Craft will be assembled by the Whiteabbey Presbyterian Fair-Trade Group.