President & Lay Leader
In the last number of years the Church has elected a President annually, who chairs the Conference and other committees throughout the year, as well as visiting Methodist congregations all over the island and representing the Church in the public sphere.
Lay and ordained people, both men and women are involved in decision making at all levels. The Methodist Church in Ireland has ordained women since 1978, and women may serve in all positions in the Church.
Rev David L Turtle
President 2023-24
Take My Yoke Upon You
The President’s theme for this year is ‘Take My Yoke Upon You’.
Jesus said,
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”
– Matthew 11:28-30 (NIV)
Living in the yoke with Jesus means walking at His pace, manner and pathway. If we want to experience the life of Jesus, we have to wholeheartedly walk in the way of Jesus.
David's prayer is that as followers of Jesus together we might experience more of the soul rest He promises to those who learn the unforced rhythms of grace.
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Watch David in conversation with Rev Dr Heather Morris, the General Secretary of the Methodist Church in Ireland on the ‘Living Wholeheartedly’ Podcast here.
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Each month, our President is introducing a theme that gives attention to one of the practices of Jesus, encouraging local churches to explore this practice. New resources will be added as well to help you explore these themes. View more.
Mr Tom Wilson
Lay Leader 2022-24
Hope in Jesus
Formerly Principal of Abbot’s Cross Primary School in Newtownabbey, Tom Wilson was appointed Lay Leader of the Methodist Church in Ireland at Conference 2022. The theme for his time in the role is ‘Hope in Jesus’.
The Lay Leader hopes to accompany the President on engagements throughout the year as often is practicable.
Please continue to pray for Tom & Louise.
Watch Tom in conversation with Rev Dr Heather Morris, General Secretary of the Methodist Church in Ireland on the ‘Living Wholeheartedly’ Podcast here.