Rev Dario Leal, minister
Dario has been the Minister of First Church since January 2018. Originally from Chile, Dario is married to Denise who is from England and their four children are all Northern Irish! Dario loves to spend time with his family. He enjoys music and football and he used to coach tennis! Dario is a husband, father, pastor and passionate pursuer of Jesus and His Kingdom. He is a leader, loyal friend and walks the walk when it comes to being a carrier of God’s presence. He expects things to happen when he prays for people. He loves having fun and eating olives (preferably at the same time). He is passionate about Jesus and the Gospel’s transforming power to change lives, communities and cities.
Heather Anthony, children, youth & family worker
My name is Heather, and I am from a little village called Waringstown. I am married eight years to my wonderful, supportive husband Andrew and we have two family pets, a cat called Logan and a dog called Maverick.
We love to travel and explore new areas of God’s wonderful creation.
I am delighted the Lord has led Andrew and myself to serve the church and community through children, youth, and families. I have a great love for the gospel of Jesus and His word, which gives life and “teaches, rebukes, corrects and trains us in righteousness.” I have a desire to teach His word to children and young people so that they may have a deep knowledge, relationship, and love for God. At First, I aim to create a safe and exciting place for children and young people to learn about Christianity and give them the skills to actively live out their faith as we build one another up in love and fellowship.
Brian mckee, clerk of session
It is an honour to serve as the current Clerk of Session at First Ballynahinch.
This was my home church, and apart for some time living away from Ballynahinch in my early twenties, I have worshipped here.
I was elected as an elder to this congregation in 1997 and have known the Lord to be constant and true as I have sought to lead alongside my fellow elders over these years.
As a husband, father, and grandfather I know and appreciate the support of family. As a church family, it is my hope that we who lead can offer support to all at First, and that this congregation will know and understand how much God loves them.
I believe in team! and in leadership where the various personal gifts of individuals are used together for the common good and the advancement of Gods kingdom.
As we continue to discern where God is leading us, it is my hope that we can look forward to seeing more of Gods plan for First Ballynahinch being revealed, and that Kingdom expanding as we grow together in Christ.