Nazarene Connections: Irvine Boal

Born and raised in Glasgow and a lifelong Nazarene, Irvine Boal now lives in Troon, Scotland. He is a member of the Irvine Church of the Nazarene. The names may match, but the church name has no connection to 'Irvine' Boal other than coincidence. He enjoys Indian food, is an avid photographer, and is a faithful follower of Jesus Christ.

Scotland is on what Nazarene district?
British Isles North District, which encompasses Scotland, Northern Ireland, and the northern part of England. Philip McAlister is the district superintendent.

Church size?
Around 120 members.

Unique element of your church?
We have a group called Parents and Toddlers, which meets Monday, Wednesday, and Friday mornings. It's an effective ministry for the church as it provides support and encouragement for the parents and a healthy and happy playtime for the children. The local civic leaders recommend our | program to young parents. One reason the ministry is successful is that mothers and fathers, couples or single parents, are welcome to participate.

What does it mean to be connected to the denomination through your district?
We are quite aware of support from the district. Being raised in the Church of the Nazarene, I would never dream of missing a district assembly. It may be the one chance I have each year to meet with Nazarenes from other communities.

Why are you a Nazarene?
I am a Nazarene by birth, but also a Nazarene by conviction.

What's that 'conviction?'
I want to do everything I can for the Church of the Nazarene. If I give myself 100 percent to the church, then I'm giving myself 100 percent to God because I believe God wants me in the Church of the Nazarene. It's a calling. I believe God has a purpose for me within the Church of the Nazarene. I studied at British Isles Nazarene College (now Nazarene Theological College) in Manchester, not because I felt a calling to full time ministry, but to be better equipped to be a layperson in the church.

Does doctrine matter to you?
Yes. I endorse the doctrine and ministry of the Church of the Nazarene. I believe it's biblical. And it's true in my life. Holiness makes me a better person and equips me for living a life within the church and in society.

Favorite getaway?
South Africa was my best holiday destination. Standing on Table Mountain and looking over Cape Town was unforgettable.

Most unique destination?
While in South Africa, I visited Swaziland. That was meaningful because the church I grew up in, Sharpe Memorial Church of the Nazarene, was founded by George Sharpe. His son-in-law, David Hynd, pioneered the Nazarene medical work in Swaziland. Interestingly, in Manzini, Swaziland, there is another Sharpe Memorial Church of the Nazarene'both are named after George Sharpe. David Hynd's son, Samuel, is a retired medical missionary and lives in Swaziland. He was my host when I visited there.

Recently, Samuel Hynd was back in Scotland for the closing service of Glasgow's Sharpe Memorial Church of the Nazarene. They are constructing a new facility on the site of their century-old current structure. The reunion service was a beautiful tribute to Nazarenes who have been a part of that congregation, which extends to Swaziland and beyond.

So this is an example of the church at work'across generations and continents.
Yes. I was able to see and experience firsthand, on my African visit, what I have heard about since childhood. And it represents the globalization of the Church of the Nazarene. We are broader than any particular nation or culture. It's a privilege to be a part of our international church family.

Scotland
Capital: Edinburgh.
Largest City: Glasgow.
Population: 5.2 million.
Government: Constitutional monarchy.
Area: 30, 414 square miles (78,772 km).
Nazarene Region: Eurasia.
Nazarene District: United Kingdom British Isles North.
Nazarene District Membership: 1,871.
Nazarene District Average Worship (weekly): 2,034.
Nazarene Churches: 35.

Holiness Today, July/August 2012

Please note: This article was originally published in 2012. All facts, figures, and titles were accurate to the best of our knowledge at that time but may have since changed.