The Christian Institute has released news that its founder and director, Colin Hart, has died suddenly and unexpectedly at the age of 60.
Acting director, Ciarán Kelly, released a statement saying, ‘It is with a heavy heart that I am writing to let you know that our Director and brother in Christ, Colin Hart, has been called home by the Lord to be with Him in glory.
‘He died suddenly yesterday afternoon of a suspected heart attack.
‘We deeply mourn this great and unexpected loss. But we do not mourn as those who have no hope (1 Thess. 4:13). Rather, we give thanks to God for a servant-hearted man who devoted his life to The Christian Institute in the service of his Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.
‘In the coming days there will be many personal and organisational matters to arrange. Please pray for Colin’s family, the Institute’s staff and for all who knew him well, that we would know God’s peace and wisdom during this difficult time.
‘Pray too that He would sustain and strengthen us as we seek to continue to glorify Him through our work.’
Revd Dr Richard Turnbull, Chairman of Trustees, said, ‘We give thanks for Colin’s vision, gifts and life, and pray for his family and friends.
‘Many of you will have known Colin and will want to offer your own thanks and prayers to the Lord.
‘The work continues as Colin would desire. Thank you for your support. Please keep all the staff and Trustees in your prayers.’
The current editor of Evangelical Times, Mike Judge, worked for Colin at The Christian Institute for 14 years from September 1999 to December 2013.
Mike and Colin were close friends for 25 years, and Mike is a trustee of the Institute. He will publish his own remarks in due course.