OLDEST IRISH MISSION AGENCY BECOMES NEWEST

USPG is both the oldest and the newest mission agency in the Church of Ireland, having been here for 300 years and yet having been re-formed as USPG Ireland. The new Irish organisation will have more autonomy to work with church partners and government agencies, to help develop links between the Church of Ireland, both North and South, and the world church.

USPG is one of the major Anglican mission agencies with 300 years experience in world mission. Working in partnership with Anglican and United churches in more than 50 countries, USPG seeks to enable people to grow spiritually, to thrive physically and to have a voice in an unjust world.

Welcoming the new initiative, Archbishop Alan Harper said, "I am delighted to welcome the formation of USPG Ireland. USPG is the oldest of all the Anglican mission agencies and from its beginnings in 1701 the Church of Ireland has been associated with its life and work. Now, through USPG Ireland we are challenged to place a characteristically Irish stamp on the task of strengthening and supporting the work of fellow Anglicans across the globe. May the work go from strength to strength and may USPG lead by example."

Speaking at the launch, Archbishop Harper said that he and Archbishop John Neill were delighted to be patrons of USPG Ireland. He spoke with enthusiasm of the way that USPG Ireland sits alongside other exciting opportunities that the Church of Ireland is currently embarking upon. "The work of mission is the work of the church."

Bishop Michael Mayes, a former USPG missionary in Japan, speaking as the Chairman of the new board, said, "At a time when so many agencies are focused on development issues, or dedicated purely to evangelism, mission for USPG and its partners has a much broader understanding. USPG is living the gospel in over 50 countries, working with churches in sharing resources - people, money, ideas. This is a huge vision that needs your support - in prayer and giving - to become reality."

Bishop Michael Doe, General Secretary of USPG, spoke about the distinctive ethos of USPG and the Society's commitment to holistic mission, generosity and reconciliation. "USPG does not pick and choose places or projects which we like. Our partners are right across the Anglican communion, and we respond to what they tell us is important for them and their mission."

The other members of the new board are: Revd Ken Gibson, CEO The Leprosy Mission; Revd Patrick Comerford, Director of Spiritual Formation, Church of Ireland Theological College; Mr Jan de Bruijn, USPG Council Member; Rt Revd Michael Doe, General Secretary of USPG; Mrs Yoshimi Gregory, USPG Trustee; Mr Roger Hird, former USPG Trustee.

Linda Chambers, national coordinator for USPG Ireland, said, "I am so very grateful for the warm welcome I have received from parishes and individuals throughout the Church of Ireland. It is the support of all those parishioners and Select Vestries that has brought us here. However, while this might feel today like an achievement, it is in a fact a beginning, and I will continue to rely on your love, prayers and support as we go forward with USPG Ireland."

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