Table of Contents
Introduction
We live in an age when choice — even religious choice — appears endless. In nearly every town stand a dozen different church names above the doors: Baptist, Methodist, Charismatic, Pentecostal, Presbyterian, Independent Evangelical, and many more besides. Yet you attend a Free Presbyterian Church. Why? Is it simply because your parents brought you? Is it habit — or is it conviction?
Many believers today can tell you where they go to church but cannot tell you why. They were brought along by faithful parents, raised in Sunday school, and learned the language of the gospel — yet have never paused to ask, “What makes us different?”
To some, being Free Presbyterian is merely a name; to others, a badge of stubbornness in a tolerant world. But to those who understand their heritage, it is neither pride nor peculiar tradition — it is a Scriptural conviction. A Free Presbyterian is simply a Bible‑believer who refuses to surrender the truth his forefathers bought with sweat and tears.
The call to the young people of our Church is unmistakable: know your faith, love your faith, and stand by it. Every principle that shapes the Free Presbyterian Church is drawn directly from the Word of God and faithfully expressed in the Westminster Confession of Faith.
In this 75th Anniversary year of our witness, we urge every believer aged 18 – 35, and those of ALL ages who love the truth, to join us on Saturday 21 March 2026 for a day of learning, fellowship, and strengthening in the faith — that together we may stand fast in the faith.
📘 STAND FAST IN THE FAITH CONFERENCE
A One‑Day Bible Conference for Young People and All Who Love the Truth
Carryduff Free Presbyterian Church
📅 Saturday 21st March 2026
🕙 10:15 am – 3:30 pm
🥪 Lunch Provided · Registration via Eventbrite
“Watch ye, stand fast in the faith, quit you like men, be strong.”
— 1 Corinthians 16:13
Conference Schedule
| Time | Session | Theme | Speaker |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9:45 am | Registration | — | |
| 10:15 am | Session 1 – The Word Our Foundation | Why the Bible Alone — and Why the Authorised Version | Dr. Ian Brown (Martyrs Memorial FPC, Belfast) |
| 11:15 am | Intermission & Refreshments | — 15‑minute break | — |
| 11:30 am | Session 2 – A Holy People in an Unholy World | Separation, Temperance, and Purity in Daily Life | Rev. Ian Harris (Annalong FPC) |
| 12:30 pm | Lunch & Fellowship (provided) | — | |
| 1:30 pm | Session 3 – The Worship and Witness of a Separated Church | Why We Are Free Presbyterian — Worship, Sabbath, and Conviction | Rev. Colin Mercer (Dromore FPC) |
| 2:30 pm | Session 4 – Holding the Line | Evangelism, Perseverance, and the Crown Rights of Christ | Rev. Thomas Martin (Comber FPC) |
| 3:30 pm | Conference Close & Benediction | “Stand Fast in the Faith.” — 1 Corinthians 16:13 | — |
Each session will include study notes. A literature table will be open throughout the day.
Venue & Details
Location:
Carryduff Free Presbyterian Church
87 Killynure Road, Carryduff, BT8 8EB
Date & Time:
Saturday 21st March 2026 — 10:15 am to 3:30 pm
Meals & Refreshments:
Morning tea/coffee during intermission and complimentary lunch provided.
Registration:
- Admission is free
- Registration is required for catering purposes
- A retiring offering will be available to defray expenses
- Register now via Eventbrite
Why Attend?
Come because your convictions matter.
This conference is designed to ground a new generation in the distinctives that make the Free Presbyterian witness both scriptural and necessary:
- Because God’s Word is our final authority.
We stand unashamedly upon the inspired and preserved Scriptures, using the Authorised Version as the faithful English translation of God’s Word. - Because salvation is by grace alone.
We preach the sovereign mercy of God — not religion, ritual, or human decision — but Christ crucified and risen. - Because worship must be reverent and biblical.
Our services are conducted with solemn joy, not worldly entertainment, in obedience to God’s command that He be worshipped in spirit and in truth. - Because holiness demands separation.
We believe in holy living, modest behaviour, and temperance — including total abstinence from alcoholic drink. - Because God’s created order still stands.
We uphold biblical manhood and womanhood, including the head covering as a symbol of divine order in worship. - Because the Lord’s Day still belongs to the Lord.
One day in seven is kept holy as a delight, honouring Christ’s resurrection and reminding us of His lordship over our time. - Because Christ alone is Head of the Church.
No man, movement, or government can claim His authority. We stand for the Crown Rights of the Redeemer. - Because evangelism must not compromise truth.
We reach the lost not by gimmicks or entertainment but by the faithful preaching of the gospel in the power of the Holy Spirit.
This is a call to conviction, not comfort — a summons to stand where Scripture stands and to hold the banner high for generations to come.
Closing Thought
“Stand firm in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel.”
— Philippians 1:27
Come prepared to learn, to worship, and to stand fast in the faith.
