Filling ministerial vacancies remains the biggest challenge for the Church of Scotland in Moray.
Moderator the Rt Rev Dr Angus Morrison has been touring the region in one of his last official duties before stepping down later this month.
During a packed schedule the Kirk’s most senior minister visited the lifeboat station in Buckie, was at Kinloss Barracks yesterday and is due to visit RAF Lossiemouth today.
There are currently seven vacancies across Moray’s 19 parishes and Mr Morrison said he was surprised people were not “queuing up” to become a minister in the region.
He said: “I think the presbytery is rising to that challenge and everyone is working that bit harder in providing worship in these circumstances.
“I very much hope that it will be temporary and they will be filled before long.
“I would say Moray is a bit of a hidden secret, the place and the people. If it was better known then it would make it more attractive for others.”
While in Moray the moderator recognised almost 1,000 years of service to the church by presenting over 30 long-service awards.
Visits to the armed forces have been among the highlights for the minister.
Mr Morrison said: “They do a tremendously difficult job, sometimes in very difficult circumstances, but there is a wonderful spirit of teamwork and mutual support there.
“They are such a credit, to the nation really. It’s very moving to realise just what a huge responsibility is carried on so many of our young people. They deserve our full support and our prayers.”
Visits to schools, toddler groups and churches across the region were also part of the trip and Mr Morrison said the bond with the community was one of the most inspiring parts of the trip.
He said: “It seems to me that, over many years, it is something that has grown. It’s not as if the church is imposing something on the culture but it has been rising out of it.
“There are these strong bonds there and they are bringing a lot of happy partnerships and good work.”
