University of Ulster to honour former Uniting Church President

The University of Ulster today unveiled its list of honorary graduates for the summer 2006 ceremonies which included Director of the Australian Centre for Christianity and Culture Reverend Professor James Haire.

A native of Belfast he served as Chairperson of the Youth Committee of the Irish Council of Churches in 1966.

After moving to Australia, Professor Haire became President of Brisbane College of Theology, and later was elected President of the Uniting Church in Australia (2000-2003).

He serves as a member of the World Methodist Council/Roman Catholic Church International Commission, and as such is a leading scholar and contributor to dialogue between the Catholic Church and Protestant churches, both in Australia and beyond.

In 2003 Professor Haire was elected as President of the National Council of Churches in Australia (NCCA).

Professor Haire will receive the degree of Doctor of Letters (DLitt) in recognition of his promotion of interfaith understanding.

Also on the list is an award honouring the late motorcycle ace Joey Dunlop and his brother Robert – also a motorcycle racer who received an honorary degree.

Photo : Reverend Professor James Haire, Director of the Australian Centre for Christianity and Culture