Rab and his warm Lossie welcome
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Rab Donald is currently getting to know the congregation in his new post at Lossimeouth Baptist Church.
The 33-year-old recently arrived in Moray after eight years as a pastor in Stirling.
His appointment ends a two-year period when the church had to make do without a Minister.
Rab said: "Under normal circumstances a new Minister meets dozens of people all at once during their first Sunday service.
"That means you end up recognising lots of faces but struggling to remember names.
"Due to the pandemic, though, it's the other way round.
"I've heard about lots of people in Lossiemouth, but I'm not sure what they look like because we haven't always met face to face yet.
"However, the church elders have been really good at introducing me to folk.
"In fact, they've done a fantastic all-round job in keeping the church as the forefront of the community.
"There appears to be a lot of respect for the work of the church amongst people in Lossiemouth – and that's a testament to them."
Rab has now moved into the Manse with his dog, a Hungarian Vizsla who goes by the name of Doug.
He says he sees his role as spreading God's message of hope, but also putting words into action.
And with tier one restrictions applying within Moray, religious services may soon be able to start again – as long as the numbers in church are kept below 50.
Rab said: "My impression is that lots of people are chomping at the bit to get back.
"So far I've recorded sermons on Thursdays which get played on a Sunday, when everyone can watch together online.
"But it's not the same. They're very odd to do and I think everyone, including myself, misses the interaction.
"It's a lovely church with a beautiful hall and I'm really looking forward to the future.
"I've been made to fell very welcome in my new home, and I'm eager to get to know everyone."
