Rev Tina Kemp retires as associate minister at Helensburgh churches

Rev Tina Kemp has retired after five years as associate minister at Helensburgh and Rhu and Shandon Parish Churches.

Tina, 62, led her final services at Rhu and Shandon on July 4 and at Helensburgh Parish Church the following week.

The former journalist was ordained to the ministry in 2005, initially carrying out her duties part-time alongside her full-time job as a reporter.

In 2012, following 33 years in journalism, Tina left to take on ministry on a more permanent basis, serving for three years with two congregations in the Clydebank area.

She then joined Rev David T. Young as part of a team ministry with the two Helensburgh area congregations.

Revs David T Young and Tina Kemp

And it was not the first time she had served the people of Helensburgh.

She said: “I did my first attachment as a student at the former West Kirk 20 years ago, then returned there for my probationary year.

“I stayed for 10 years until just after the union with the former St Columba Church to form St Andrew’s Kirk.

“Then in 2016 I found myself back at the newly formed Helensburgh Parish Church, linked with Rhu and Shandon. So in many ways it felt like coming home.”

Tina, and colleague David, led two emotional services at the churches and she was presented with generous gifts from both.

Tina said: “It was so hard saying goodbye as I have made so many friends in the congregations and I will miss the people so much.

READ MORE: Church plans to convert former office supplies store into dance studio

“It’s been a pleasure and a privilege to serve them, as well as to work with David as part of a team ministry. We have had a wonderful five years together and achieved so much.

“I’m overwhelmed by the cards, gifts and messages I have received and I’d like to say a huge thank you to everyone for their kindness.”

David, who first met Tina at a service in Clydebank in 2014, said he had always hoped they could work together.

He said: “Tina has greatly blessed the congregations and communities with her presence, adventurous spirit, energy, gentle manner and commitment to pastoral care.

“Her gift for creative writing and storytelling has enriched our worship and deepened our faith.

“On a personal level she has been a great support and encouragement to me.

“We will miss her greatly but wish her well in the new adventures ahead.”