A leading preacher, hymn writer and composer is to speak in the island in the autumn.

Church of Scotland minister John Bell will host two events with the Island Spirituality Network on Saturday, October 13.

Mr Bell, who also lectures and is a broadcaster on both TV and radio, is part of the Wild Goose Community, dedicating much of his time to the renewal of church congregations to the grass root level of worship.

He will lead event topics including ’The Bible for the People’ and ’Strands of Celtic Spirituality’ during his time in the island.

A spokesman for the ISN noted said it is a real ’coup’ for the group due his international reputation and busy travel plans.

Crowd

He added: ’John is in high demand as a speaker for congregations, clergy conferences and Christian communities and is sought after by Protestant, Catholic and non-denominational churches worldwide.

’Wherever he goes, he draws a crowd.

’Not only is he responsible for a long list of hymns and anthems sung in churches globally, but he is a popular exponent on Iona-Celtic-Christian approaches to prayer, worship and work with the world’s most needy communities.’ Mr Bell has received many awards during his time as a Scottish minister, including a Fellowship from the Royal School of Church Music and an honorary doctorate from the University of Glasgow.

He was also given the 2018 Thomas Cranmer Award by the Archbishop of Canterbury, which recognising his service to liturgy and peace building.

As well as being a regular contributor to Radio 4’s Thought for the Day, Mr Bell was also the musical editor for the Church of Scotland’s Church Hymnary (fourth edition).

Mr Bell will host the events at St Andrew’s United Reformed Church in Douglas between 10am and 4pm on Saturday, October 13. For more information search Island Spirituality Network on Facebook.