Many in the Diocese and beyond have been giving their support and care to our Dean, the Very Revd Kenny Rathband and to Ruth in the months since Kenny had to step back from active ministry because of a serious health issue. They, and all of us, have had to come to terms with his early retirement from full-time ministry which Kenny’s doctors advised. As Kenny wrote to us about making this difficult decision: “This has not been an easy decision to make and follows on from my recent heart attack. I have greatly enjoyed working with both congregations, and the privilege of being Dean for a number of years. I continue to hold everyone in my prayers.” 

Kenny’s last day as Dean of the Diocese, and as Rector of Dunfermline and Priest at Rosyth, was on 31st August, and he retired from 1st September.

2 Bishops of St Andrews, Dunkeld and Dunblane, Bishop David and Bishop Ian, the clergy who have served, and each vestry and congregation, have so much to thank Kenny for in his 14 years as Dean of the Diocese. There will be a significant Diocesan service – before Advent, we hope – at which the Diocese will express its thanks to Kenny, and celebrate his 14 years service as Dean. Congregations and individuals may wish to contribute to the Diocese’s gift which will be presented to Kenny and Ruth as a sign of appreciation and love. Details of where to send contributions will be announced shortly. 

Please continue to hold Kenny and Ruth in your prayers as they prepare to move into a new chapter of life for them. And please pray for Holy Trinity and St Margaret’s as they begin to seek a new Rector and a new Priest-in-Charge.

Bishop Ian