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The United Parishes of
St Mary Magdalene
St Aidan with Christ Church
St Simon with St Philip (Drew Memorial)

The Journey of Three Churches

For generations, the parishes and people of St Mary Magdalene, St Aidan with Christchurch, St Simon with St Philip (Drew Memorial) have served as pillars of faith and community across inner city Belfast.

Each parish nurtured its own unique identity and history, yet we found ourselves drawn together by a shared pulse for deeper connection and outreach.

Recognising that our communal heart beat stronger as one, we embarked on the path to form the Blackstaff Union.

This unification has allowed us to continue to grow, support and flourish side by side.

We honour the foundations laid by our historic congregations as we open our doors to a shared future, committed to being a welcoming hub for every individual in our city.

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Our Leadership team

In March 2026, the Reverend Gareth Campbell was introduced as Minister-in-Charge. He is supported in ministry by the Venerable Barry Forde, who continues to serve the Blackstaff churches while also sharing his time with the wider Belfast region in his role as Archdeacon.

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Rev. Gareth Campbell
Ven. Barry Forde

Minister-in-Charge

Archdeacon of Belfast

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