Elgin street pastors celebrate 10 years of helping the community

ELGIN'S street pastors will mark a significant milestone this weekend as they celebrate their 10-year anniversary.

Since their launch in April 2013, the group of dedicated volunteers have become a regular sight in Elgin and have provided invaluable support to the local community.

To mark the anniversary, the group will hold a celebration and commissioning service at the River Church on Elgin's Greyfriar’s Street on Saturday, June 24, at 7pm.

Over the last decade, the group have become a familiar sight in Elgin – they work closely with local authorities to help individuals in need, particularly those who frequent the late-night economy.

Gordon Methven, the Coordinator of Elgin Street Pastors said: "It is exciting to be able to hold our ten-year celebration after our charity was so badly impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic. We were unable to carry out regular patrols for almost two years. We are so thankful to the Lord, our partners, and the people of Moray, who been so very good to us."

The event will feature speeches and songs, with prominent local figures sharing their thoughts on the milestone achievement. Additionally, MSPs and ministers from supporting churches will have the opportunity to address the attendees.

The commissioning part of the celebration will be conducted by Chris Jewell, CEO of Ascension Trust Scotland. This special moment will also serve as an opportunity for newly trained street and school pastors to be formally and spiritually sent out into the community.

As Elgin Street Pastors celebrate their 10th anniversary, they look forward to continuing their mission of compassion, care, and support for the community.

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