Below is a letter from the Rt Rev Dr John Kirkpatrick, Moderator of the General Assembly, Presbyterian Church in Ireland.
Dear Principal
On behalf of the Presbyterian Church in Ireland I wanted to extend my heartfelt thanks to you, your staff and governors for your dedication and commitment to the education of children and young people, particularly during these challenging times.
Many schools have stepped up to host school uniform swaps, provide meals and take part in other initiatives to alleviate some of the pressures faced by pupils and their families as a result of the cost of living crisis. Please know that this significant contribution to the education and wellbeing of children and young people is not taken for granted.
It has also been a real encouragement to be able to come together this year for nativity plays and Christmas Carol services, after a period when it was not possible to hold these events. I recognise too that such initiatives place extra demands on staff, who often work over and above the call of duty throughout the year.
Although it may not be your own practice or tradition to observe what might be seen to be the more religious aspects of the Christmas season, it is my heartfelt prayer that during the holiday period you will be able to take some time out to rest with your friends and family, and know something of the hope and light that we, as Christian people, believe has made all the difference in the world through the birth of Jesus Christ.
And as we approach a new year and new term I will continue to encourage those throughout our Presbyterian family to uphold you and your colleagues in prayer.
Yours sincerely,
Rt Rev Dr John Kirkpatrick
Moderator of the General Assembly
