Wales: Presbyterian leader says Church must engage

A prolific leader in the Presbyterian Church of Wales (PCW) has warned the denomination it will shut down if it doesn’t engage with outsiders.

As the PCW celebrates its 200th year anniversary, the Rev Iain Hodgins says the movement must make the most of all opportunities.

Speaking at the Church’s annual General Assembly in Lampeter, Mr Hodgins drew attention to churches and individuals already making the most of opportunities to develop Christian ministries.

These include Stow Park Church in Newport, where a modern new building and new leadership team have recently seen the congregation extend its ministry and build new relations with St Woolos hospital.

“I am convinced that in every area, village, town or city there are opportunities to make the most of for the Gospel,” adds Rev Hodgins.

“If we are to make the most of every opportunity, we need to speak in a way that encourages outsiders to consider Christ. Sometimes as Christians, our words can turn people away from the Saviour.

"We can be as ungracious as the disciples were when the mothers brought 'young children to Jesus'. Our words, and the way we say them can make all the difference when opportunity comes our way to speak for Christ.

“If the children of our mission field are praying for us in Wales, shouldn’t the Prayer Meeting and experience of prayer be much more on our agenda than it is.

"Yet in how many our chapels, is the solitary Sunday service the only meeting of the week?” he asked.

Dublin-born Rev Hodgins has been Moderator of the Presbyterian Church of Wales since September 2010.

He has undertaken a wide array of roles within the Presbyterian Church of Wales and is also a governor of a rural primary school, secretary of the Penclawdd Christian Aid Committee and an enthusiastic supporter of Fairtrade and Green Issues.

Mr Hodgins will be succeeded as Moderator by Rev Robert O Roberts, Morfa Nefyn.