Protestant church in Londonderry faces uncertain future

One of the last remaining protestant churches in Londonderry’s Cityside may close due to dwindling numbers.

The church’s future has come into doubt after years of falling attendance and the congregation will gather in September to debate the future of Strand Road Presbyterian Church.

According to the BBC, Rev Robert Buick has said that all options will be contemplated before a final decision is made on the church’s future.

He said, “Depending on the consultation with the congregation, the minister, and other church bodies, the presbytery will then recommend various options to the congregation.”

The due process will see the congregation’s proposal be put before the Derry & Donegal Presbytery and then finally to the Belfast General Assembly before a final decision is made.

The church’s congregation has been in decline as a large number of Protestant families have moved away following sectarian trouble in the area.