This project started through the building of the school in Nenas, in the highlands of Timor, which was funded by a bequest from Mrs Moira Erskine to Stormont. The school itself, which specialises in agriculture and forestry as well as providing a general intermediate curriculum, was opened in August 2011.

 

It is operated by our partner church, the Evangelical Church of Timor (GMIT) but its running costs are met by the Indonesian government. In summer 2012, the school also hosted our Moderator, Roy, Patton, his wife and other delegates from our Overseas Board on their official visit to Indonesia.

 

The Presbyterian Church in Ireland has had a close working relationship with GMIT since the 1970s and our most recent co-worker in Timor has been Barry McCroskery, who, together with wife Elsye. has been based at the church university in Timor's capital, Kupang. Barry, Elsye and family are currently back in Belfast on furlough while they both undertake further qualifications for their work. During this period we are discussing with Barry and the Overseas Board how we might develop our links with Nenas and the wider GMIT family in Timor, including the option of a trip by some Stormont members out to Timor in summer 2014. 

 

Possible schemes being looked at for this include volunteering support at one of GMIT's orphanages, developing links with specific congregations or further projects at Nenas itself.