|PIC1|The work of The Salvation Army and other charities including St Vincent de Paul has been recognised with the planting of a tree in the grounds of Stormont Castle.
The planting of the Norwegian Spruce brought Northern Ireland First Minister Dr Ian Paisley and deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness together with the Leader of the Salvation Army in Ireland, Major David Jackson, and the Regional Administrator from the Society of St Vincent de Paul, Aileen Coney.
Dr Paisley said: "I believe it is appropriate to recognise and commend the important everyday work of charities especially at this time of the year."
He said that the efforts of both charities to bring festive gifts to children from underprivileged families over Christmas had been "very much appreciated".
Mr McGuiness said the tree was a "practical symbol of sustainability for years to come".
-
What is really preventing peace between Israel and the Palestinians?
-
Calls for prayer as court hears sacked chaplain's appeal
-
Veteran theologian John Lennox reflects on ageing, legacy and the hope that endures
-
UK Supreme Court rules Religious Education in Northern Ireland unlawful
-
Who was St Margaret of Scotland and why is she important?
-
Terrorist attack on church-run clinic in eastern DRC leaves dozens dead
Most Popular
News
International community urged to intervene in Sudan as cycle of civil war continues
Most of Sudan's post-independence history has been marred by civil war.
New Barna study reveals how family life is being re-written in modern America
While fewer Americans are married than in previous generations, the desire to wed has not disappeared - even as divorce, cohabitation and remarriage are reshaping family life, a study suggests.
Charter launched to protect street preachers from arrest
A new 'Street Preacher's Charter' has been launched in Parliament after a succession of fines and arrests involving pastors, some of which have led to hefty compensation payouts from police.
Hindus attempt to prevent burial of Christian man
Hindu nationalists refused to let a Christian man be buried in his ancestral village.