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An internal report has critically assessed the Presbyterian Church in Ireland (PCI), describing its current situation as “shameful” in light of serious safeguarding failures. The document recommends a comprehensive review addressing not just safeguarding but also broader concerns related to the church’s governance, culture, and integrity. This report, along with its proposed actions, is scheduled to be discussed by Presbyterian ministers and elders at a special session of the General Assembly, set to take place in Belfast on Thursday.
The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) has recently announced the launch of a criminal investigation into safeguarding issues raised within the PCI. In preparation for Thursday’s public and live-streamed meeting, a letter was sent to ministers cautioning them against making any statements that could potentially defame individuals or interfere with the ongoing police inquiry. The church has made available a 23-page report online, which candidly acknowledges that while some issues may not result in criminal charges, they highlight significant challenges concerning governance and the moral ethos of the church. The report underscores that being in this situation is “a shameful position for part of the Church of Jesus Christ to be in.”
Among the recommendations outlined in the report are the establishment of a dedicated safeguarding department, commissioning an independent external review of safeguarding practices, reconsideration of the use of non-disclosure agreements, and forming a task group to examine governance, culture, and integrity matters within the church. Traditionally, two key permanent leadership roles—the general secretary and the clerk of the General Assembly—have been held by a single individual. The report suggests the possibility of dividing these responsibilities to improve governance.
Reverend Trevor Gribben, who served these dual roles for 11 years before becoming the church’s moderator in June, stepped down from his positions at the end of last month following the revelations about safeguarding shortcomings. Commenting on the situation, he acknowledged, “Although not directly responsible for the professional delivery of safeguarding within the church, nonetheless serious and significant failings in our central safeguarding functions occurred partly during my tenure as general secretary.” The current moderator, Reverend Dr. Richard Murray, began his term earlier this month. Thursday’s General Assembly meeting will include a morning worship service followed by debate sessions, with speeches carefully timed to allow proposers and seconders seven minutes and other speakers four minutes. The assembly hall can accommodate around 1,000 attendees. The report also calls on the church to “adopt a posture of a broken and contrite heart,” emphasizing the necessity for “repentance, humility and lament.” A further special meeting of the General Assembly may take place on 17 February next year
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