The Presbyterian Church in Ireland has selected Rev Stafford Carson as its next Moderator.
Mr Carson (57) is the minister of First Portadown Presbyterian Church.
He was nominated by ten of the 21 Presbyteries who met today throughout Ireland to vote for a new Moderator.
He will take his position at the opening session of the 2009 General Assembly in June, replacing the current Moderator Dr Donald Patton.
Mr Carson described himself as "theologically conservative" and said he wants to see more outreach initiative to help the church connect with the community.
"In First Portadown we are trying to develop that aspect through various initiatives," he said.
"We are involving ourselves more in the daily life of the local community so that the practical side of our Christian faith is clearly seen while on Sundays the introduction of a contemporary style makes our worship more meaningful to people new to the congregation."
Mr Carson is married and has two daughters and a son.