Christian centre has a new team in charge

Christian centre has a new team in charge

4 June 2014

A NEW couple have taken over at the helm of the Murlough House Christian conference centre in Dundrum.

Kieron Forbes and his wife Patricia have taken over the management reins from John Moxen, the man synonymous with the picturesque building for over two decades.

Built in 1859 by the Marquess of Downshire as his summer residence, the lease for Murlough House was purchased by Project Evangelism in 1993.

Since then, the impressive property has been used as a Christian conference centre, with large numbers of young people from all over the world, in particular America, coming to Dundrum for training which has involved them working with local churches.

Now in his 80th year, John Moxen has lost none of his enthusiasm for the Gospel and continues to work with nearby congregations.

While he still has so much he wants to accomplish, John’s body is starting to slow down. After 21 years of running the house with his wife Jo, the Murlough House Board of Directors have decided it is time to release the couple from the burden of managing the operation, allowing John to focus on what he loves most, training in evangelism and discipleship.

Management responsibility for Murlough House has transferred to Kieron and his wife Patricia. Keiron, who works in agriculture, has been on the Murlough House project board for a number of years and has worked closely with John, helping him prepare for this transition.

“The plan going forward is to better understand the needs of those who use the house so we can improve the facilities for the needs of the 21st century,” explained Kieron.

“This will necessitate a reduction in visitor numbers over the summer while some refurbishment takes place, but we are looking forward to having several open days thereafter when we can swing wide the doors and welcome all those who are interested to come and see around.”

Kieron said he knows many people visit the National Trust Reserve where Murlough House is located who would be keen to see inside the imposing property.

He added: “People are always welcome to come and visit us. The planned open days will be a great opportunity to come and learn more of who we are and what we do.