THE Presbyterian Church in Ireland has elected Lisburn minister the Rev William Henry as its next moderator.
He will take over the role in June, when the Rev Dr Charles McMullen's 12-month term as the denomination's most senior office bearer comes to an end.
At 50 years of age, Mr Henry is thought to the youngest moderator in living memory.
He has been minister of Maze Presbyterian Church since 1997 and is also responsible for the Ballinderry congregration.
Mr Henry said his ministry is "open, welcoming and caring" and "centred on focusing on God's Word and encouraging the people of God to live out authentic changed lives as passionate disciples of Jesus".
"It is also centred on demonstrating God's love in simple practical ways to their friends and neighbours, showing care and compassion," said the father of three.
"Looking to God and relying on Him, we have worked hard over the years on our involvement with a whole family focus, demonstrated by a strong focus on youth work, with a contemporary feel."
Mr Henry was nominated by 11 of the 19 presbyteries in which the Church - Ireland's second largest Protestant denomination - is geographically organised.
