Rev James Porter has been ‘called’ to the newly created ‘charge’ of Rasharkin & Dunloy Presbyterian Churches.
Native to the County Antrim village of Connor, James, his wife, Hannah and their young son, Lucas, previously served at Orritor & Claggan congregations near Cookstown.
Reflecting on the family’s time there, James said: “When I came to Orritor & Claggan we were just coming out of the ‘COVID days’ which were tough enough, especially as we had to socially distance, wear masks, we had restricted numbers, laws and regulations changed weekly, even daily. However, as the months went on and restrictions eased it was a joy to get to visit and meet with folks from both congregations. We have made many friends over the years and have mostly had a blessed ministry within the congregations.”
James went on to say: “There have been highs and lows along the way but God has been faithful through it all. Even through losing our first child, Eliza, God keep a hold on us, and many from the congregations surrounded us with love, support, and prayer which we will never forget.”
Celebrating 175 years of work and witness in Claggan in 2021 following by 200 years in Orritor just last year were memorable occasions for James. One of the guests to join him on the latter occasion was the then Moderator of the General Assembly, Rev. Dr. Richard Murray, who was James’ minister as he was growing up in Connor Presbyterian Church.
Memorably, he had the privilege of baptising eight children and three adults, conducting and assisting in eight weddings, and of course many funerals, but it has been encouraging to see how God is building His church and blessing His people in Orritor and Claggan! All glory be to Christ!
Starting a new Campaigners Clan has brought much joy and a new dynamic to the congregations there:
“I’ll never forget a wee girl coming to me in Campaigners to say she’d put her trust in Christ – what a joy”, smiles James.
Looking forward to the next stage of his family’s life and ministry, James told us: “Hannah and I are really excited to see what the Lord has in store for us as we head to Rasharkin & Dunloy. This is a new joint charge, with Dunloy recently being welcomed into Ballymena Presbytery in April 2025.
With a new joint charge comes new possibilities, challenges, and opportunities for gospel ministry. Both are situated in fairly similar geographical and demographical areas but with great opportunities to share the Love of Christ.”
James added: “Both congregations have a real love for God’s Word and a desire to reach out into their communities with the love of Christ. We are really looking forward to getting to know the people there, setting up home again with Lucas, who God willing will attend the local school, and throwing myself into the work of pastoring and teaching God’s people in those areas.”
Outside Church, James admits to being a ‘coffee snob’ who owns ten different coffee machines as he strives to find the perfect brew! He also enjoys target shooting, fishing and walking as well as reading theological books or historical fiction. An armchair follower of Ulster Rugby, Liverpool FC and Ballymena United, James also enjoys spending most of his time with Hannah, Lucas and other family and friends ‘around the port’ as well as enjoying God’s creation.
James’ Installation will take place on Friday 19th September 2025 in Rasharkin Presbyterian Church at 7:30pm.
