Free Presbyterian Church: Blanket closure of churches would damage mental well-being

The general presbytery of the Free Presbyterian Church of Ulster has made strong representation to the Northern Ireland Executive and all members of the Stormont legislative expressing deep concern over closure of churches during the current Covid pandemic.
Rev Philip Gardiner and wife Cherith pictured with Rev John Greer before his ordination at Carrick Free Presbyterian Church. Ct06-006tcRev Philip Gardiner and wife Cherith pictured with Rev John Greer before his ordination at Carrick Free Presbyterian Church. Ct06-006tc
Rev Philip Gardiner and wife Cherith pictured with Rev John Greer before his ordination at Carrick Free Presbyterian Church. Ct06-006tc

FP Church concerns, raised with Executive ministers about the recent closure of churches, contain an appeal with regard to the possibility of any further lockdowns deemed necessary.

Now, in the light of developments on Thursday, the Free Presbyterian presbytery, representing 61 congregations, acknowledges it is deeply aware of the current critical state of the Covid-19 pandemic and recognises the “very weighty decision” the Stormont Executive has now made in implementing a six-week lockdown.

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“We acknowledge the great impact this lockdown will have on the lives and livelihoods of all within society. Convinced of the God-given role of ministering to the needs of people in such times, we are thankful our churches will remain open for public worship and in pursuit of pastoral responsibilities.

“We also recognise the importance of maintaining safe practice, in line with government regulations for church gatherings.”

Church Moderator the Rev John Armstrong, says: “The Bible reminds us in First Timothy 2 to pray for those in authority and therefore we pledge ongoing prayer for our politicians. We also continue to pray for health service workers, those who are suffering and the general population in these difficult days.”

Under the new lockdown regulations agreed by the Executive, all churches will remain open for services and prayer sessions. This decision will be welcomed by churches of all denominations in Northern Ireland.

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A Free Presbyterian document states: ”The Bible and history teach that communities have benefited spiritually and mentally by means of the ministry of Christ’s church. His church is completely different in essence from any other organisation and alone can produce these spiritual and mental benefits.”

The document, issued by Ballymena cleric the Rev John Greer, presbytery clerk, further states: “Spiritually, public worship on the Lord’s Day is an important part of church life and contributes to the moral and social well-being of society. It is for our spiritual well-being and a necessary part of our duty to God. According to holy scripture, we view corporate worship as essential, (Exodus 20:8; Acts 20:7).

“There is a public benefit when the Lord’s Day is observed and people are able to meet together for worship. Sunday school for children and services for family worship are blessings which we believe are priceless. As mental health is a pressing issue in the current circumstances, we maintain that the right of religious worship accumulates positive mental well-being benefits for our community.

“By contrast, a blanket closure of churches can have a detrimental effect on those accustomed to benefitting from the mental well-being advantages of regular church attendance.”

The document adds: “Religious liberty is one of our most treasured freedoms.”