Coronavirus: Church’s prayers answered as Pastor Mark McClurg is taken off ventilator in battle with Covid-19

Mark McClurg, a 40-year-old father-of-three, is in the Ulster Hospital while his church - and many other supporters - have been praying for his recovery.

His church placed a note on Facebook this morning with positive news of his progress.

“Mark had a good rest over night and was on oxygen mask this morning” it said. “At this stage there is no more word of ventilation being used which is a good sign.

“He is a bit brighter this morning and hopefully will get some tea and toast as a result of feeling a bit better.

“It will be a very long road to recovery but every good hour means so much at this stage.

“Thank you all for your continued prayers and support.”

The church then urged everyone to follows NHS and Government advice to social distance and “stay home”. They added: “We want to do all we can to reduce the impact of this virus and following this advice will SAVE LIVES. Stay Safe, Stay Strong, Stay in Prayer, Stay Home!”

A few days ago the church had appealed for prayer, highlighting a desperate situation.

“Pastor Mark continues to fight for his life in intensive care,” it had posted.

The church said people’s prayers were helping: “Prayer is a vital component to him successfully coming through this and we humbly ask for your continued prayers at this time for Pastor Mark and his wife Claire and their three children.”

His progress was met by dozens of positive responses on Facebook.

Reflecting the rising solidarity in many communities across NI, many of those leaving messages said they did not know the pastor or his family, but had been praying for them regardless.

Susan Rowan responded: “Thank you God... been praying for the whole family” while Florence Wright added: “Don’t know this wee family but feel a connection as part of Gods family, praying for you all and Praise God for great news today.”

Other said they had been praying from as far afield as Omagh and Londonderry.

Valerie McGuffin said: “Wonderful news answered prayer I don’t know Mark but will continue to pray” while Amanda McLean left a similar comment. “Although I don’t know Mark, he and his family are in my prayers. So lovely to hear something good,” she added.