Carla Lockhart MP Commends “The Reach” Outreach in Portadown

Carla Lockhart MP • August 5, 2025

Upper Bann MP, Carla Lockhart has praised the long-running outreach programme “The Reach,” hosted by Bethany Free Presbyterian Church, following a visit to the initiative held in Killicomaine Junior High School, Portadown.

Running faithfully for almost 20 years, “The Reach” has welcomed hundreds of young people through its doors offering a packed week of sports, games, crafts, and, most importantly, the life-changing message of the Gospel.


Speaking after the visit, Carla Lockhart MP said:


“It was such a joy to spend time at The Reach and to chat with the many young people and the incredible team of volunteers who make it all happen. This is a fantastic example of Christian outreach at its best grounded in love, run so well, and making a real difference in young lives.


A special word of thanks goes to Alan, Margaret, Jim, Naomi, Sharon, Jene and every single volunteer who gives so sacrificially of their time and energy. Your labour is not in vain in the Lord.


It was also a real encouragement to join with Mr Chris Killen a local man who was taking the daily meetings with the kids.


Bethany Free Presbyterian Church should be greatly commended for their continued vision and commitment to this work. As Scripture reminds us, ‘Suffer the little children to come unto me, and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of God’ (Mark 10:14).


May God continue to bless this vital ministry for many years to come.”



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