Periodically, visiting speakers update members on their respective Christian ministry.

If a member were asked the question - WHY READ AND STUDY THE BIBLE?, this would be the answer:- In the words of the Bible GOD has given us HIS thoughts in print. In JESUS He has given us HIS thoughts in the flesh. The LORD JESUS CHRIST saw His entire life and direction predicted and guided by the OLD TESTAMENT. The scriptures, He said, were as vital as food and drink for our systems. They offer Salvation, Guidance and equipping "for every good work". Following a regular pattern of Bible Study helps one to understand and apply something from each day's reading in the scriptures. God will also draw many things to our attention to both grasp it and put it into practice.

New Booklet on the Bible Class' History

Recently following a research project of early parish records it has been determined that the Class was in existence at least from 1897 and the first leader was Mr S. McGredy JP who was also a member of the well known Portadown family who owned the world famous rose growing firm - McGredy's Roses. The present Class leader has produced a small booklet entitled "The Early Years 1897 to 1920". Among the contents one will find a list of all the leaders. Prominent amongst them are the highly revered names of Mr Samuel Fergus and Mr Lewis Bell. Mr Fergus was the Bible Teacher of the Class for 43 years and handed on to Mr Bell in 1953 who carried on as the Teacher for 38 years. The Booklet contains narrative of the actual articles of the activities of the Bible Class as recorded in the Parish Magazines from 1897 to 1920. The magazine commenced production in January 1895.

It is certain that former members of the Class have spread far and wide around the world. A number of members known to the present membership and influenced by the ministry of the Class, then entered the full time ministry of our Church. The aim and object of the Bible Class has not diminished since its formation of fostering a very worthwhile and Christian activity of Bible Study that establishes and encourages Christian Manliness in personal living and service in the Church. It has always sought to present the WORD OF GOD as the Psalmist recorded:-

Thy Word is a Lamp unto my Feet, and a Light unto my Path.
Psalm 119 v.105.

If you would like a copy of the Booklet, please write or telephone or email the present Leader (see below) and he will be pleased to send you a copy.

Kenneth Flannagan (Class Leader)
2 Wildwood, Portadown, Craigavon BT63 5EE. Tel: (+44) (0)28 3833 6461
kenneth.flannagan@tesco.net.