"As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace." - 1 Peter 4:10


Rev Dr Edmond Gatima.jpg

Rev Dr Edmond Gatima - Minister

Born and bred in Burundi, East Africa I grew up actively involved in a local Free Methodist Church where my dad was a Pastor. My growing journey took me to different other denominations including United Methodist Church, Catholic Church, Anglican Church and currently, Church of Scotland which is Presbyterian.

I came to Aberdeen in 1997 to pursue postgraduate studies in Soil and Plant Sciences at the University of Aberdeen. Since I was used to being active in Church life, the first thing I did on my arrival, was to look for a church and was directed to St George’s Tillydrone Church, where most of the African students were worshipping. I received a very warm welcome from both the congregation and the then Minister, Rev Shirley Fraser. Tillydrone became my new home church in Aberdeen. I was quickly involved in Children’s Ministry, then I became an elder, Cleck to the Board, Presbytery Elder, while still doing my studies.

Although my passion was in sciences, I was always involved in church work in so many ways, but with no intention whatsoever of becoming Minister. This idea came after my Postgraduate studies, when my friends and ministers, who I had worked with, encouraged me to give it a try and see what happens. After a long prayerful consideration, I did give it a try and by God’s grace, today I am in full time Ministry.

After completing a degree in Divinity at the University of Aberdeen, and a 15-month Probationary Period at Craigiebuckler Church, I was ordained into my first Charge here at Torry St Fittick’s in 2013. I am married to Elizabeth, and together we are blessed with 4 wonderful children.

My passion is to reach people with the Gospel of Jesus Christ and see communities changed through the ministry of His local church whose mission is to make believers out of unbelievers...and disciples out of believers. My desire is to Minister, with the goal of seeing God’s people fulfil the Great Commission in their lives individually, as well as collectively, through the local body of Christ and beyond.


​Photo Credit: dimnikolov

​Photo Credit: dimnikolov

Valerie Taylor - Parish Worker

Val has worked for the Church of Scotland, based at Torry St. Fittick’s Church, for just over 10 years. Her role falls under a category of employees known as Ministry Development Staff (MDS for short). More commonly her everyday job title is Parish Worker or Ministry Assistant.

Val’s main areas of work are to support the Minister in the provision of pastoral care, develop ways in which the church can reach out to the community, and share in the leading of worship.

In her spare time, Val enjoys being outside as much as possible; walking her dog with friends (especially when it includes a picnic or BBQ) or looking after her allotment. Otherwise trying, and failing, at DIY.