Coronavirus: Presbyterian Church cancels general assembly for first time in 180 years

Due to the exceptional circumstances surrounding the current coronavirus pandemic, ministers and elders made the decision to call off the yearly gathering which was due to take place in June.

During World War Two an October 1940 general assembly was postponed.

The decision was taken at a special virtual meeting called by Presbyterian Moderator, Rt Rev Dr William Henry, at the unanimous request of PCI’s general council when it last met prior to the lockdown.

As well as cancelling the general assembly scheduled for June 1 it was also agreed that all necessary business of the general assembly be conducted through a ‘2020 Standing Commission of the General Assembly’, which would meet either in person, or by other means, depending on the circumstances at the time.

Speaking about the decisions, Rev Trevor Gribben, clerk of the general assembly and general secretary of the Presbyterian Church in Ireland, said: “The general assembly is the PCI family coming together and meeting collectively to discuss and decide matters that are central to the life, mission and direction of the denomination.

“Something that has become part of the rhythm of our church life since 1840. Yet, unprecedented times often call for unprecedented responses to provide for a measure of certainty and continuity.

“Over recent weeks we have seen a wonderfully pragmatic response to the current situation from our congregations across Ireland to Sunday worship and other aspects of church life. In the same way, this contingency plan, agreed by the special meeting of the general assembly, will enable the PCI to continue to function and take the necessary decisions that it needs to take in the short term.”

He added: “Like many organisations trying to navigate their way through this crisis, it is important that we find ways to make the decisions that need to be taken. In doing so, we need to ensure that we keep within government guidance, with the emphasis on the health and well-being of colleagues, and in the spirit of our longstanding commitment to openness and accountability as a church. I would like to thank colleagues for having prayerfully considered the issues before them and for the decisions that they have taken, and those which others will be taking, for and on behalf of the church.

“In these difficult times I also want to take the opportunity to commend our congregations who are continuing to find ways to support those in need, quietly and compassionately in the name of Jesus.”