I was shocked by the death of.my friend John McConnell Auld. We were room mates in Dill House at Magee College in Londonderry for two years where we were studying for the ministry. We were almost the same age. We decided on completing our studies that we would go to Australia under the Commonwealth Mission. The day we were due to leave I got word that my father had died suddenly and so was unable to go. Connell went on and spent three years there looking after a large and active church. He loved it and returned twice in later years to visit. On his second night home from Australia he attended an annual school dinner at RBAI. He was offered the position of Master of Divinity - where he spent his teaching life. In retirement he spent four years as mayor of North Down.
I renewed fellowship with him a couple of years ago and in retirement was free to visit most Thursdays. We had a cup of tea together and discussed many a difficult Bible passage which we both enjoyed as well as reminiscing a lot.
Conn told me that he had been " round the world seven times"
It was a privilege to have known him and extend my sympathies to all his family and friends.
Sunday 03 May 2020
Rev John Maddock