To mark its 20th anniversary, Restoration Ministries, begun in 1988 to promote peace and reconciliation, is organising a special event on Wednesday, 24 September.

Founded by Rev. Ruth Patterson and based in Dunmurry, Belfast, Restoration Ministries is a faith-driven organisation that aims to restore and strengthen broken persons and broken society through prayer, listening, hospitality and teaching. Through organising events and meetings, which over the years have brought people from all religions and none together, their ministry has been mainly in the area of healing and reconciliation.

In their recent newsletter, the reason for the celebratory event is extended: “On 30th April our ex-Taoiseach Bertie Ahern stood before the US Congress and declared, ‘Ireland is at peace’. On the 6th May Ian Paisley, the first Minister stood with Taoiseach Bertie Ahern on the banks of the Boyne and declared, ‘To the bad old days there can be no turning back. The killing times must end forever and no tolerance must be given to those who advocate their return.’

“It was remiss of us in the Church not to call a national service of thanksgiving for the favour God has shown to our land. There is a great healing power in gratitude… With this in mind we are inviting Church leaders from all over the island to spend a day together with Jean Vanier. The day will include input from Jean, time for sharing, reflection and prayer. The purpose of this day is that hearts might be touched and that we in the Church might be given fresh hope and encouragement to move forward together in diversity.”

The event will be held in Dromantine Retreat and Conference Centre. “The biggest thing we need from you,” the newsletter continues, “is your faithful prayer support. Let this be the way we celebrate our twentieth birthday and to God be the glory!’.