The Moderator of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland has spoken of his massive appreciation for the British Army after visiting troops in Moray.
Rt Rev Colin Sinclair said it was a “huge privilege” to spend time with the 39 Engineer Regiment Royal Engineers in Kinloss to learn more about their work.
The Moderator spends a week with the Army every year because the Church of Scotland has military chaplains who serve in the Royal Navy, Army and Royal Air Force.
They provide spiritual support, pastoral care and moral guidance to personnel and their families, irrespective of religion or belief.
Chaplains wear uniforms and accompany the troops, but do not bear arms.
Mr Sinclair said: “My wife Ruth and I were given a full briefing on the work of 39 Engineers and a tour round the barracks to see various aspects of what they do.
“We were impressed at the range of specialist skills the soldiers were trained in and the amount and range of work they undertake both in the UK and around the world.”
Mr Sinclair said he enjoyed speaking with service personnel at all levels and added: “In particular, we appreciated the joined up thinking between unit welfare, the chaplains and the chain of command and the informed awareness of mental health issues.”
Mr Sinclair was accompanied by Rev Dr Marjory MacLean, convener to Her Majesty’s Forces Committee, and Rev Duncan MacPherson, Senior Chaplain Scotland.
Mr MacPherson said it was a honour to be a military chaplain and described it as the “best job in the world”.
Aberdeen ministers Rev Shuna Dicks and Rev Keith Blackwood serve as padres in the 2nd Battalion The Highlanders Army Cadet Force, which is made up of youngsters from across the north-east.
They said their role, which they have held for seven and 11 years respectively, was a key element to their ministries.
Mrs Dicks, minister of Cults Parish Church, said: “The main commitment is the Battalion’s annual camp in July, which is attended by 180 cadets, boys and girls aged 12-17, and 50 adult volunteers.
“Keith and I are there as an important part of the welfare team and support the youngsters and the adults when needed.
“One of my favourite activities is spending a night or two ‘in the field’ with the cadets and surviving on ration packs.”
Mr Blackwood, minister of Mannofield Parish Church, said he felt “re-tuned and re-booted” after attending the annual camp.