Bishop of Limerick to chair Christian Aid-Ireland

Bishop Trevor Williams has been elected Chair of the Board of Christian Aid - Ireland at its Annual General Meeting today, Monday 6 December

Commenting on his appointment, Bishop Williams thanked the nomination committee and said, ‘Christian Aid is a good news story, in a world in need of peace, justice and an equal sharing. We need to acknowledge the invaluable gift each person can bring to the common task of creating a world community founded on values of collaboration and interdependence, learning to live together in a way that not only sustains the environment but also enhances it.’

He continued, ‘I am proud of what Christian Aid stands for and the work it does. And that Christian Aid Ireland is the agency of eight Irish Christian Church bodies working together with numerous other partners and supporters who are committed to make a difference. The “Christian” in Christian Aid expresses readiness to be channels of God’s love for God’s world, for the good of all people irrespective of colour, class and creed. To have the opportunity of being part Christian Aid is a privilege for which I sincerely thank you.’

Margaret Boden, Chief Executive of Christian Aid Ireland, said she was delighted to be working with Bishop Williams and looking forward to his chairmanship. She commented, ‘Trevor brings his own personal interest in overseas development together with his long-term support of Christian Aid, and his many other qualities to the role.’

The guest speaker at the meeting was Senator Ann Ormonde who described a recent visit she had made toAfghanistan and the issues in particular which affected women there and especially in relation to marriage and education. The Senator paid tribute to the quality of agency with whch Christian Aid is in partnership with in the country.

Loretta Mingella, Director of Christian Aid, also addressed the meeting.

Bishop Williams succeeds the Revd Dr Roger Purce, Minister of Groomsport Presbyterian Church in Co Down, to the position. His appointment continues a rich relationship between the Church of Ireland and the charity. The late Dean of Christ Church, Desmond Harman, Bishops Michael Mayes and Michael Burrows have served on Christian Aid’s Board. Lady Christine Eames is a member of the Board.