Joe, Ally and the rest of The Church Page team were saddened by the passing of Lorraine McAllister, Outreach Worker at High Kirk Presbyterian Church, Ballymena.
Lorraine had occupied the role since August 2008 and was the driving force behind the Bags of Blessing initiative, (later to become BOB’s Store), the Hope House project on the Doury Road Housing Estate and so much more of what goes on at the thriving Thomas Street Fellowship.
Following a ‘life changing’ trip to India in 2013, Lorraine became the driving force behind the Francina Foundation, a charity with seeks to help children and young girls escape from poverty and sexual exploitation there.
It was in recognition of her work both here and on the sub-continent that Lorraine was awarded the British Empire Medal (BEM) in the New Year’s Honours List 2021.
Paying tribute to Lorraine on behalf of The Church Page team, Joe said: “There is nothing I can write that adequately summarises the contribution Lorraine made to High Kirk, the Doury Road or numerous lives in India.
“I could write chapter and verse about Bags of Blessing she organised, teams she led or Hope House initiatives of which she was at the centre. None of these ‘facts’ fully convey the person Lorraine was. She was an amazing, compassionate and kind human being.
“Authentic Christianity and sheer motherly love shone out from the core of her being. She would talk to and help anyone regardless of who they were or what situation they found themselves in. I first met Lorraine at Spark in 2007 and from that day on she would never pass me without giving me a kiss or a hug. She was just as compassionate with everyone and her heart for the Lord was the catalyst for the salvation of many souls.
“People are in Heaven today because of the loving witness of Lorraine McAllister. She was a one-off and a true friend. I for one will miss her like crazy.”
We send our love and prayers to Lorraine’s husband, Maurice, and her entire family circle.
