Elders
John Merson - Elder
For almost 25 years John has been working as an Outreach Pastor but before that he was a fisherman, and an offshore oil worker. John is a founder and co-ordinator of the Lighthouse Support Centre. John recently received his Masters from Aberdeen University in “Ministry in an urban world” through his studies at ICC. He continues to have a huge passion for urban mission and fishing. He is married to his Danish wife Anna and they have 4 grown up children and three grandchildren.
Philip Merson - Elder
Philip is an accountant and has spent his working life in the offshore energy sector. Philip is responsible for finance and safeguarding as part of his role as an elder. Over the years Philip has organised many children's/teenager's camps, and family weekends with the aim of providing good value, fun-filled holidays for young people and adults in a safe Christian environment. He is married to Linda and has three grown up children, one daughter-in-law and two granddaughters.
Deacons
Matthew Carson
Matthew is from Northern Ireland and works as a Cardiac Physiologist. He became a Christian at a youth summer camp, and continues to have a passion for youth work and evangelism. Matthew moved into the local area to be a part of the team that planted Donside, and counts it a privilege to have been involved since since the early days. He is excited to be a part of Donside Community Church and seeing how God will continue to move and change lives throughout the area over the years to come.
Matthew Hamilton
Matthew is married to Rebekah (yes that’s right we have two Matthew&Rebekah’s - confusing! They live in Tillydrone with their two sons. Matthew grew up in Newtownards and became a Christian at a young age. After finishing University he moved to Aberdeen two years ago to work as the youth worker for North East Scotland Youth for Christ. YFC work closely with the Lighthouse and their youth groups and within the local schools in Tilly. He enjoys fishing, walking, reading and watching movies… a bit of a Lord of the Rings geek!