Banff and King Edward churches say goodbye to minister and family
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Banff and King Edward parish churches have bid farewell to their minister after he served the congregations for nearly a decade.
Rev David Locke has conducted his final services prior to his move to his next parish in Stronsay, Orkney, with wife Marie and son Isaac.
Locally-made gifts were presented to the Locke family in both churches.
At the end of the Banff service three ceramic bowls, made by Watergaw Ceramics in Whitehills, were given by the session clerk Margaret Henderson on behalf of the congregation.
Mrs Henderson also paid tribute to Rev Locke for the work undertaken by him over the nine years he has been with the Banff and King Edward churches.
Church secretary Janet Simpson also compiled a video of the activities within the church and with local groups he has been involved in.
Included in this was a selection of parishioners waving goodbye and a film of the King Edward School children sending best wishes to their chaplain.
Following the presentation tea and biscuits were served in the church hall.
A spokeswoman for both churches said: "David's warmth and friendliness will certainly be missed.
"His focus on serving the community not just inside the church, but throughout Banff and King Edward has meant a great deal to many.
"David has been an active member of Banff and Macduff Community Council, a member of the chaplaincy team at Banff Academy, Banff Primary and King Edward School and has worked with the different churches in the area on various services and projects.
"David’s last two years at the churches have been marked by the pandemic. Nevertheless, he found new ways to serve and encourage the congregations and communities by shifting services online, working with Macduff Parish Church and Banff's River Church.
"During the first lockdown he organised a fundraiser walking a mile a day in his robes for 26 days.
"His final service ended with a video presentation showing some highlights from David’s time in Banff and King Edward.
"These included a special World War One commemoration service with Macduff Parish Church and River Church on Banff Bridge; the poppy display in Banff church garden; the shared light parade through Banff; Blessing of the Fleet services; as well as lighter moments like David having a turn on the bouncy castle and trying his hand at knitting.
"Photos of David and Marie’s wedding day and the arrival of their son Isaac were also shown.
"The video finished with members of the congregation waving a fond farewell to the Locke family. We wish them well as they move to Stronsay.
"For a modest man, David made a big impact on the church and the community in his nine years.
"He worked well with others to try to bring love, hope and acceptance to everyone whether part of the church, the local community or both.
