Ken thanks for always being there as I have fond memories of my time at church and also for you and Agnes-Anne always listening. May the Lord bless you both in the next stage of your adventure in life
Your Messages
Below are some of the messages received, but you can also view all messages here.
Dear Ken,
As convenor of the Guild it is a privilege for me to say a few words on your retirement.
Over the years both you and Agnes Ann have given your prayers and support at our meetings and events.
We wish you well as your journey begins through a long and happy retirement and that you take away with you many happy memories.
God Bless
Helen Mitchell on behalf of St Bryce Kirk Guild.
Mrs Heron, a family friend and lifelong member of St Brycedale, shared this story with me.
She and her husband had no children or family. When Mr Heron passed away, Ken was asked to take his funeral. Mrs Heron wanted to see her husband in the funeral parlour, one last time, and Ken offered to take her, which he did. Afterwards, Ken asked Mrs Heron what she and her husband liked to do. She shared that they liked driving around Fife and had a few favourite spots. Ken spent the afternoon driving Mrs Heron to some of these favourite spots where she shared her memories with him.
What Ken did, meant a great deal to Mrs Heron, she never forgot it and told me of Ken’s compassion, thoughtfulness and kindness.
Ken , you have supported me personally, professionally and spiritually. You have helped me through some dark times and given me leadership opportunities that undoubtedly helped me in my role as Headteacher at Fair Isle. Your messages have challenged my beliefs and got me thinking very differently about what it means to be a Christian. There are no words that can fully express my gratitude. I pray you have a long and healthy retirement, although I don’t imagine you sitting with your feet up somehow, God Bless
Ken,
My message is simple ... Thank You
Thanks - for your enthusiasm and passion that rubs off on others
Thanks - for your insightful and thought provoking Messages every Sunday. It always felt you were talking directly to me. So often it felt oh so personal
Thanks - for your friendship, guidance and kind words, for helping me be a better person.
Many thanks. Wishing you all the best for a long, happy and fulfilling retirement.
Malcolm
Thank you, Ken, for being my minister and friend over the last 20+ years. As well as giving inspirational messages on Sundays, you have also led the congregation by example, showing how we should all help and serve one another in our church and community. I have valued your leadership and support, especially when I was Session Clerk. You will be sorely missed in St Bryce Kirk but hopefully you and Agnes-Ann will still be in my life in the future. Enjoy your well-earned retirement.
Ken, I first met you over 30 years ago at a course on media training, learning the disciplines of speaking on TV and radio. I recognised you then as a natural communicator, with your easy manner, engaging voice and warm smile. That has been a hallmark of your ministry, humanity without religiosity. I recall the old St Brycedale being renovated, and marvelling at the innovative courage that created a new building open to the community, embodying the hospitality of God. Over the years I have benefited from your encouragement, usually blended with sharp questions of kindly critique that prodded my thinking. I have been aware of the times of struggle, and admire that resurrection resilience that has led you to persevere in your calling over these four decades. Ken, I join my voice with the many who thank God for you and your grace-filled ministry, staying long and staying fresh.
Peter Neilson
“Well Ken, it’s amazing how we never consider the good things in our
lives will end at some point. You have been a comfort and a reassurance
when times have been tough and a bon ami in happy get-togethers. You
have helped us to say goodbye to departed parents and welcomed our
grandchildren on visits to the Church. It’s a privilege to know you and
we will miss your teachings on Sundays. We are sure you will embrace
your retirement with the same enthusiasm you gave to your preaching.
God bless you,
Dick & Mary West”
Where did 41 years go? I remember our younger daughter saying similar words at her 40th birthday early this year. She would be one of your first christenings. Although we have lived away from Kirkcaldy for many years, there is still a bond with St Bryce and that is due to you Ken. May we wish you and Agnes-Ann all the best for a long and happy retirement.
Ken what can I say from the two photos shown I see the young man starting out on a journey, and the second showing a man that has achieved so much. I would like to say a big thank you for all the help you gave me when I cared for my aunt it was a difficult time for me. I also loved working in the church baking doing posters once again Ken I wish you and your family all the best enjoy your retirement and once again many thanks.