400th anniversary of Presbyterianism in Bangor

That this House recognises the 400th anniversary of the establishment of a Presbyterian presence in Bangor as marked by a recent service in City Church Bangor, formerly known as First Bangor Presbyterian Church; notes the settlement of Scottish Presbyterians in the Bangor area under the invitation of James Hamilton, 1st Viscount Clandeboye that re-established the town, and eventual city of Bangor; further notes the ordination and installation of Robert Blair according to the Scottish Presbyterian service of ordination, which was the first of its kind in Ireland, in the summer of 1623; acknowledges the significant contribution of Presbyterians and their churches to the growth and prosperity of Bangor, including the establishment of schools and community enterprises; celebrates the church’s commitment to helping the most marginalised and vulnerable people of Bangor and the wider Ards and North Down area, including important initiatives for those struggling with the cost of living crisis and helping asylum seekers and refugees; and wishes the Rev Mairisine Stanfield, who has just celebrated her 10th Anniversary as Minister of City Church Bangor, her Associate and husband the Rev David Stanfield and the wider congregation every success with their ongoing ministry and contribution to the community.