​Presbyterian Church moderator talks of the hope and joy found in Malawi

Rev. Dr. Pat Dutcher-Walls, moderator of the Presbyterian Church in Canada, was inspired by the hope and joy to be found in the people of Malawi, Africa, during her international trip to that country

Speaking to the congregation at Knox Presbyterian Church in Kincardine, March 2, Dutcher-Walls said the church in Malawi was founded by the Church of Scotland and the people are very formal and bow to you when you are introduced.



Rev. Dr. Pat Dutcher-Walls (eighth from the right) at the Church of Central Africa Presbyterian's Centenary Celebration in Malawi, Africa; photo courtesy of Dutcher-Walls

“It’s a very poor country,” she said. “The majority live in poverty but it’s a very beautiful country as well.”

While she was there, the Church of Central Africa Presbyterian, the largest denomination in Malawi, marked its 100th anniversary with a Centenary Celebration.



A choir performs at a church service in Malawi; photo courtesy of Rev. Dr. Pat Dutcher-Walls

“We visited seminaries, a hospital, and a prison ministry,” she said. “And everywhere, their message was to rejoice in the Lord always. They read, preach and teach the Word of God. They live the compassionate mission of God in a country filled with hardship and suffering.

“And through all of this, the have a song to be shared, a dance to celebrate, and joy in their hearts.

“We do well to partner with them in Christ’s mission but also to learn from them about rejoicing in the Lord always.”

Following the service, Dutcher-Walls visited with people at a reception in the church’s activity room.



A cake to celebrate at Knox Presbyterian Church, Kincardine

Awarded the title of professor emerita in 2024, Dutcher-Walls was professor of Hebrew Scriptures at the Vancouver School of Theology, where she also served as dean of studies and co-ordinator of doctoral programs.

She has also written “Reading the Historical Books: A Student’s Guide to Engaging the Biblical Text.”



Rev. Dan West (right) of Knox Presbyterian Church, Kincardine, welcomes Rev. Dr. Pat Dutcher-Walls, moderator of the Presbyterian Church in Canada, to the pulpit, March 2



Rev. Dr. Pat Dutcher-Walls (left) enjoys a supper at Camp Kintail, with Barry and Rosemary Neilson and Andy Fraser of Kincardine