200 years of St Mark’s Parish Church, Portadown

That this House notes the 200th anniversary of St Mark’s Parish Church, Portadown, first consecrated in 1826 as the Church of St Martin on land gifted by Viscount Mandeville, later the Duke of Manchester; gives thanks for two centuries of faithful Christian witness, worship and service in the heart of Portadown, County Armagh; recognises the church’s enduring commitment to advancing Christ’s Kingdom through the proclamation of the Gospel, pastoral care, education and outreach; further recognises St Mark’s as a beacon of hope, compassion and stability for generations of families and communities; acknowledges the dedication of clergy, parishioners and volunteers who have laboured faithfully in service to God and neighbour; further notes the historic development of the church and its role in commemorating sacrifice and service, including the memorial tower honouring those who gave their lives in the First World War; and congratulates St Mark’s Parish Church on reaching this significant bicentenary, praying that it may continue to serve faithfully as a light in the community for generations to come.