The Minister
Our Minister – Rev Alex Forsyth TD BA MTh.
Originally from Kirkcaldy, Alex has degrees and diplomas in Social Science, Theology, Pastoral Theology, and Biblical Studies from Cambridge University, Overdale Theological College, The Open University, and Geneva Theological College. He was ordained on the 24th July 1973.
Prior to his appointment to Markinch in 2002, Alex served the church in Birmingham, Ashington, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, Leven, and the linked parishes of Edzell, Lethnot, Fern, Careston, Menmuir and Glenesk.
He served for 10 years as chaplain to the staff and residents of ‘Northgate Hospital for Those with Special Needs,’ and went on to care for staff and patients in the surgical, psychiatric, geriatric and psycho-geriatric wards at the Victoria Hospital in Kirkcaldy.
Alex was a cadet chaplain for 25 years and recently completed 26 years as a Territorial Army Chaplain. As a padre he developed the uncanny ability to listen to others intently, and through a positive, non-judgmental approach enable them to explore their faith journey and grow and mature spiritually
In 1995 he was awarded the TD (Territorial Decoration.) In 2002 the Queen’s Golden Jubilee Medal was added to the TD and in 2005 he was awarded the VRSM (Volunteer Reserve Service Medal.) The regiments he has served include The Royal Army Medical Corps, The Royal Corps of Transport, The Royal Scots, The Cameronians, The King’s Own Scottish Borderers, The Black Watch, The Royal Artillery, and The Royal Engineers.
In addition to membership of several major boards and committees of the national church he has twice served as moderator of the Presbytery.
In 2006 he was appointed to serve on the General Assembly’s ‘Chaplains to Her Majesty’s Forces Committee.’
Married to Jean, they have two children – Julie and Richard, and two grandchildren Abbey and Alex.
Outside of work Alex’s interests include books, films, 60’s and classical music, the great outdoors and Layla his German Pointer.
Rev. Alex R. Forsyth TD BA MTh
The Manse
7 Guthrie Crescent
Markinch
Fife
Telephone No. 01592 758264
email minister@markinchchurch.org.uk