Today (22 June)
was a very special day in our Denomination, as Moderator I (along with many others) attended our Church in Rademon, to hear the Rev Lena Cockroft lead the service, this was a special day as 50 years ago exactly to the day a young 20 something Lena Baxter from Dromore took to the pulpit for the very first time as a lay Preacher, the rest is history and a history not to be forgotten.
As women in the pulpit then wasn't as known as it is now, indeed many would try and desist from having females in church leadership roles still to this day as Ministers and Elders were we have always been open to welcoming all and will continue to do so even if others try backslide.
In Lena's first service her Mother told her she had to cover her head, hence the appearance of a berret today to remember how times have changed, it wouldn't have been an easy journey for Lena over the years and therefore we honour the service she has given to our denomination not only as a Minister but on two occasions as Moderator - one of very few females to hold this role in any Presbyterian denomination.
We are a denomination which prides itself on allowing those in the pews to think for themselves and not be bound by any man-made creeds.
All are welcome.