For the past 22 years, Crieff Church has been blessed with the membership of Stephen & Carole Barratt-Peacock. In September 2001, Stephen took on the challenge of Health Programme manager at the Church’s Roundelwood Health Institution. In 2002, Carole assumed the position of Administrative Secretary at the Scottish Mission and worked alongside Pr Llew Edwards and later Bernie Holford until her retirement in 2015. In 2016, she returned to cover the maternity leave of the current Secretary. Carole also organised training workshops around the churches on “Keeping the Church Family Safe.”
When Stephen and Carole retired they decided to remain in Scotland. Over the years they have taken on various responsibilities in Crieff congregation and in service to the community.
There is a saying “If you want a job done, ask a busy person.” Stephen & Carole’s CV’s are quite remarkable.
Stephen: Elder & Lay Preacher, Sabbath School teacher, Assistant Pathfinder Leader, Song Service Leader, Bumps to Tots Club Assistant, Street Pastor, RVS Driver, Volunteer & Board member at Crieff Logos Youth initiative, helper at Primary School Scripture Union
Carole: Elder & Lay Preacher, Church Clerk, Deaconess, Song Service Leader, Bumps to Tots Club Assistant, Street Pastor, Churches Together Bible Studies
This hard-working couple have decided to return South to be near their family. The Crieff congregation requested that before they leave, they would lead the Song Service, and for Stephen to preach. His sermon was based on 1st Timothy 4, verses 9-16. Words of encouragement were directed to three categories of the membership. He challenged the children & youth, the middle- aged, and the seniors. He encouraged everyone to be kind, caring and supportive of each other. “Talk to God every day and tell him your aspirations and needs because He longs for you to live your life for Him. Whatever your hands find to do, do it to the best of your ability.”
Head Elder Paul Tompkins expressed publicly the appreciation of Stephen & Carole, for their gifts of service to God, to their church and to the community. Then he prayed for divine guidance and protection as they return to England, using their effective talents for the Lord in their home village and at Leamington SPA Mission.
The majority of the congregation then stayed at Crieff church for a special fellowship meal organised by the deaconesses, in honour of this friendly couple.
Crieff’s loss will certainly be Leamington’s gain, and your presence will be deeply missed.
