Trevor Gribben, a name that resonates across the Irish religious landscape, has become one of the most respected figures within the Presbyterian Church in Ireland. Born in 1961 in Tandragee, County Armagh, he grew up in a community where faith, family, and service were central values. From a young age, Trevor displayed both intellectual curiosity and a deep spiritual awareness. His early years were marked by participation in church youth groups and community programmes that nurtured his leadership potential and sense of purpose.
As a student, Trevor pursued theological studies with an ambition to serve society through the church. His strong academic foundation combined with a practical approach to faith helped him stand out as a thoughtful and compassionate leader. Those who knew him during his formative years often described him as calm, reflective, and driven by conviction rather than ambition.
The Path to Ministry
Trevor Gribben’s official journey into ministry began in the late 1980s. In 1988, he was ordained as an assistant minister at Duncairn and St Enoch’s Presbyterian Church in Belfast. This was a period of social and political tension in Northern Ireland, and working in such an environment required resilience, diplomacy, and an unwavering faith in peace. Trevor’s work during this time reflected his belief that the church should be a place of hope, unity, and healing.
By 1990, he was called to serve as minister at Leckpatrick Presbyterian Church in County Tyrone. There, he built a reputation for being both an excellent preacher and a compassionate community leader. His ministry extended beyond sermons; he actively engaged with local families, schools, and youth groups, promoting education, moral values, and reconciliation in a divided society.
In 1996, he moved to Whiteabbey Presbyterian Church in County Antrim. His time there was particularly significant, as he introduced various outreach initiatives that aimed to bring the church closer to people who had grown distant from organised religion. His ability to blend traditional Presbyterian theology with modern social issues made him a respected figure among both clergy and laypeople.
Leadership within the Presbyterian Church in Ireland
Trevor Gribben’s leadership abilities were recognised early by his peers. His combination of administrative skill, theological depth, and communication talent led to his appointment as Clerk of the General Assembly and General Secretary of the Presbyterian Church in Ireland in 2014. These roles placed him at the very heart of the denomination’s operations, overseeing matters of governance, policy, and church-wide coordination.
As Clerk, he became known for his firm yet fair approach to leadership. He worked tirelessly to ensure transparency in church operations and encouraged congregations to focus on inclusivity and faith-based community service. During his tenure, he addressed issues such as church unity, pastoral care, and the need to adapt religious communication for younger generations. His leadership combined traditional Presbyterian values with a modern understanding of the challenges faced by faith communities in a changing world.
Elected as Moderator of the General Assembly
In February 2025, Trevor Gribben was elected as Moderator-designate of the Presbyterian Church in Ireland, one of the most prestigious positions within the denomination. He received the majority of votes from regional presbyteries, reflecting widespread support across Northern Ireland and beyond.
He officially assumed the role of Moderator in June 2025, becoming the 179th person to hold the office since the church’s foundation in 1840. This appointment was historically notable because he was the first Clerk of the Assembly to also serve as Moderator since 1997. It was a clear acknowledgment of his deep understanding of both the spiritual and administrative sides of church life.
The Moderator’s position is not merely ceremonial; it involves representing the church nationally and internationally, leading the annual General Assembly, and serving as its public voice on moral and social matters. Trevor’s election was widely seen as a vote of confidence in his vision, humility, and capacity to unify different voices within the church.
Vision and Core Beliefs
Throughout his career, Trevor Gribben has maintained a clear and consistent message: the church must remain relevant to the society it serves. He believes that while the core message of the Gospel never changes, the way it is communicated must evolve with time.
His leadership emphasises compassion, understanding, and engagement. In various speeches and interviews, he has called on congregations to move beyond internal divisions and focus on the church’s broader mission — offering hope and moral guidance in a world facing uncertainty and rapid change.
Trevor often speaks about the importance of listening. For him, leadership is not about authority but about service. He insists that ministers and church leaders must listen to their congregations, especially to the youth, who represent the future of the church. His approachable manner and thoughtful words have inspired many young Presbyterians to consider roles in ministry or community service.
Approach to Modern Challenges
In a rapidly secularising society, maintaining the relevance of the church is no easy task. Trevor Gribben recognises this and has advocated for practical solutions to bridge the gap between traditional beliefs and modern realities.
He encourages open dialogue on social issues, from economic inequality to mental health and family stability. His stance is not politically driven but rooted in empathy and a desire for the church to act as a moral compass in public life. He has often reminded his fellow clergy that faith should not be confined to Sunday sermons but should influence how individuals live, work, and treat one another.
Trevor also strongly supports equality within the church. He has stated that both men and women are equally eligible for leadership roles, including that of Moderator. His forward-thinking attitude reflects a desire to see the Presbyterian Church in Ireland evolve while staying grounded in biblical principles.
Ministry Style and Communication
Those who have attended Trevor Gribben’s sermons describe his preaching style as deeply engaging yet simple. He focuses on “relevant expository ministry” — interpreting Scripture in a way that connects to modern-day experiences. His messages are often rich with stories, real-life examples, and practical advice, which makes them relatable to audiences of all ages.
He has also utilised digital media and modern communication channels to reach a wider audience. His vision includes making faith accessible through online platforms, podcasts, and live-streamed services, particularly to those who can’t physically attend church gatherings.
Personality and Personal Interests
Despite holding such high offices within the church, Trevor Gribben remains approachable and down-to-earth. He is known for his sense of humour, calm temperament, and love of conversation. Outside the pulpit, he enjoys sailing, particularly on his twin-hulled yellow racing catamaran, which he affectionately calls his “Fun-boat”.
He is also an avid reader, often seen with novels by John Grisham, which he says help him unwind after long days of ministry work. Sports fans might find it interesting that he supports Arsenal, reflecting his lifelong enthusiasm for football and team spirit.
Contributions Beyond the Church
Trevor’s influence extends beyond the boundaries of Presbyterian congregations. He has been involved in various interfaith dialogues and peacebuilding efforts in Northern Ireland, promoting understanding among different Christian traditions and communities. His role as Moderator involves meeting civic leaders, politicians, and other faith representatives, where he advocates for moral responsibility, compassion, and justice.
In addition to his leadership within the church, he frequently participates in youth conferences, training seminars, and humanitarian initiatives. His words often highlight the need for collective responsibility — that society flourishes when individuals put others before themselves.
Legacy and Future Outlook
Trevor Gribben’s election as Moderator symbolises both continuity and change. He represents a generation of church leaders who value the heritage of their faith but also recognise the need to adapt to modern challenges. His ability to blend traditional Presbyterian doctrine with progressive ideas of inclusion and communication marks him as a transformative figure in contemporary Irish Christianity.
Under his guidance, the Presbyterian Church in Ireland continues to focus on unity, outreach, and moral leadership. His emphasis on kindness, empathy, and truth aligns perfectly with the church’s mission to bring spiritual renewal to both rural and urban communities.
Even as societal values shift and new ideologies emerge, Trevor’s steady and thoughtful approach offers stability. He reminds his followers that faith is not about resisting change but about finding God’s purpose within it.
Conclusion
Trevor Gribben’s story is one of faith, service, and vision. From his humble beginnings in County Armagh to becoming the Moderator of the Presbyterian Church in Ireland, his journey reflects dedication and spiritual strength. His leadership brings a refreshing balance between tradition and modernity, proving that the church can still be a vital voice in contemporary society.
Through his life and ministry, Trevor Gribben continues to inspire not only members of his denomination but also the wider community across Ireland. His belief in hope, compassion, and communication stands as a guiding light for future generations of church leaders.
