(Image: Supplied)
A Darlington church leader who has spent nearly four decades serving communities across the country has retired, leaving behind a "lasting legacy in the church and community".
Reverend Mark East, who spent the last 14 years as Rector of St Andrew’s Church in Haughton le Skerne, was honoured at his final service by the Bishop of Durham, Rt Revd Rick Simpson.
Sarah McTimoney, lay chair of St Andrew’s Parochial Church Council, said: "Mark has been known to many as a man of deep faith, kindness, and humility.
Left, St Andrew's Church Curate Rev Amy Gooding, the Bishop of Durham, the Right Reverend Rick Simpson, retiring Reverend Mark East and Darlington Area Dean Father Damon Bage
(Image: Supplied)
"Mark leaves a lasting legacy in the church and community."
During his time at St Andrew’s, Rev East grew the congregation, served as Darlington Area Dean, and helped guide the community through the Covid-19 pandemic.
The Bishop of Durham, the Right Reverend Rick Simpson, retiring Reverend Mark East
(Image: Supplied)
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He also led the creation of two missional community activities and played a key role in launching the Darlington CAP Debt Centre.
Rev East devoted altogether 37 years of ministry in different churches around the country
Ms McTimoney said: "Mark and his wife, Elaine, will be missed by the church and wider community, who wish them every blessing."
Rev East’s ministry, described as "driven by compassion," included supporting individuals in financial crisis and fostering community outreach.
The Bishop of Durham, the Right Reverend Rick Simpson, retiring Reverend Mark East
(Image: Supplied)