What kind of person becomes a Parish Minister? And what kind of church is it where a frail old woman can greet a rare visit from the Parish Minister with, “Oh, it’s yersel, ya bugger!”? And then get a kiss in response?
Born into the Edinburgh working class, Rev. Jack Kellet grew up surrounded by grandfathers who were both the “black sheep” of the family, parents who loved without showing emotion, and uncles who inspired with their bravery and leadership.
Having experienced his own lifetime of surprises, Jack Kellet recounts memories that have stayed with him throughout the years, such as:
Thriving through The Iona Community.
Falling in love and then three more Godsends.
Children suffering through racism.
The transforming effect of jagged shrapnel on the body of a dying man.
Piety necessitating politics.
Being taken aback by call to Holy Ministry and rejected as a Communist by American ministers at university.
Going into General Practice; midwifery in Dundee and then intensive care in Leith.
Kirk Elders who amazed their Minister and young “Assistants” who taught their boss.
Surprises in Italy, Zambia and The Bahamas, by Clement Attlee, the Proclaimers, Mike Tyson and the Queen at Balmoral!
