NEWS

Inset: Education Minister Paul Givens A major shift in how schools in Northern Ireland become Integrated has been unveiled today, marking the first full operational roadmap since new legislation came into force. On 25 February 2026, the Department of Education published revised guidance titled Transforming Together – Understanding the Pathway to Integrated Education , setting out a clearer, more structured process for schools seeking to change status. The document replaces th

(L-R) Marie Moore (Rectors Warden), Wendy Halligan, Rev Adrian Halligan, Abigail Halligan and Church Reader Sandi McKendry along with gifts presented .  There are farewells that feel routine — and then there are those that quietly mark the end of an era. On Sunday 22nd February 2026, at Craigs Parish Church, Cullybackey, Rev. Adrian Halligan delivered his final sermon to the Parishes of Craigs, Dunaghy, and Killagan — bringing to a close a ministry shaped by resilience, commu

The Police Service of Northern Ireland has confirmed it has received 101 referrals as part of its ongoing investigation into safeguarding concerns within the Presbyterian Church in Ireland (PCI), with officers emphasising that the inquiry remains a priority. Providing an update on Thursday 19 February, the PSNI said the figure includes direct reports from victims as well as referrals from safeguarding partners and other parties. The number is subject to change as further info

Education Minister Paul Givan has unveiled a comprehensive package of measures in response to a recent Supreme Court judgment on Religious Education (RE) and collective worship in Northern Ireland schools. The announcement includes a full review of the Religious Education curriculum, the introduction of formal inspection arrangements for RE across all schools, and the publication of new guidance to strengthen and clarify the right of withdrawal for pupils and parents. While t

Ballymena Elim Church is set to host a special evening of reflection and inspiration this weekend as former Ballymena United and Crusaders manager Roy Walker shares his life story with the local community. The latest instalment of the church’s Life Stories series will take place on Sunday 25 January at 6:30pm , offering the opportunity to hear first-hand from one of Northern Ireland’s most recognisable sporting figures. Roy Walker is widely known across Northern Ireland’s spo

As the festive season approaches, Ballymena Elim Church on Castle Street is opening its doors to the local community with two special Christmas services designed to bring people together in celebration and reflection. The church is hosting a traditional Christmas Carol Service on Sunday 21 December at 6.30pm , followed by a poignant Christmas Eve Candlelight Service on Wednesday 24 December from 6.30pm to 7.30pm . In a heartfelt message, the congregation emphasised their d

Christmas on Castle Street is set to make a joyful return to Ballymena Elim on Saturday 6 December 2025 , offering a warm and welcoming festive celebration for families across the borough. Running from 12 noon to 5pm , the much-loved community event promises a packed programme of activities — and best of all, every attraction is completely free. Pastor Pip Kerr said the church was “delighted to once again open our doors to the community for what we truly believe is the mos

TUV North Antrim MLA Timothy Gaston Speaking in the Assembly on Monday (November 24), TUV North Antrim MLA Timothy Gaston emphasised the importance of maintaining the Christian foundation of Religious Education (RE) in Northern Ireland’s schools, following a recent Supreme Court judgment. Describing the ruling as “the final stage in a calculated assault on the foundations of the controlled sector,” Mr Gaston highlighted the historical roots of the education system. “It is of

Revised draft byelaws aimed at tackling long-running concerns over loud buskers and street preachers in Belfast city centre have been agreed by councillors — with a proposed 70-decibel noise limit and fines of up to £500 for anyone who breaches the rules. The new regulations, years in development and shaped by extensive public consultation, are designed to address amplified noise that has been a growing issue in the city centre for more than a decade. For context, 70dB is rou

TUV MP Jim Allister has sharply criticised a recent Supreme Court judgment on Religious Education (RE) in Northern Ireland, describing the ruling as a threat to the long-established Christian ethos within the region’s school system. In a strongly worded statement, Mr Allister said he was “deeply disturbed” by aspects of the judgment, particularly the court’s reference to the potential for “indoctrination” within current RE provision. “As someone who has consistently defended

A touching tribute to those who served their country is on display at St Colmanell’s Parish Church, Ahoghill, where a Remembrance Exhibition is running until Tuesday 11 November 2025. The exhibition has been lovingly created by the church family, featuring hundreds of poppies, wall hangings, floral arrangements, wartime artefacts, secret trench diaries, and stories of local people and unsung heroes. Visitors can explore a deeply personal collection of displays that not only c

Cadets from Cullybackey Detachment C Company have been praised for their “fantastic job” preparing Craigs Parish Church ahead of this Sunday’s Remembrance Service. A spokesperson for the Parishes of Craigs, Dunaghy and Killagan said the young cadets spent Tuesday evening decorating the church in readiness for the annual commemoration. “Last night, the cadets from Cullybackey Detachment C Company did a fantastic job decorating Craigs Parish Church in preparation for Sunday m

World-renowned hymn writers to bring festive joy to the SSE Arena this December Acclaimed hymn writers and performers Keith and Kristyn...

This year, the church donated 120 kits in time for the school term, including essential stationery such as pencils, pens, rulers,...

The Sacred Heart Church Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council’s Planning Committee has deferred a decision on listed building consent...

Charlie Kirk pictured with wife Erika and their two young children. (Image: Erika Kirk) Tributes to murdered US conservative activist...

Buckna's new meeting house (Image: Gary Millar) More than 450 people gathered on Friday evening, 5 September, as the Presbyterian Church...

A large-scale Christian rally titled “March for Jesus” is set to take place in Ormeau Park later this month, following approval from...

Northern Civil Service intranet homescreen North Antrim TUV MLA Timothy Gaston has written to the Head of the Northern Ireland Civil...

Dunseverick Baptist Church is extending a warm invitation to the public for a special Tractor and Truck Service Drive-In and Barbecue,...