Lighthouse Church minister accepts synod position

Lighthouse Church Geraldton will begin advertising for a new minister next month after its senior minister accepted a senior position with its affiliate organisation.

Rev. David de Kock was appointed general secretary of the Uniting Church Synod of Western Australia on February 6 and will take up the position on March 1.

Mr de Kock, who has degrees in economics and theology and a masters in business administration, has 20 years senior-level business finance and management experience.

Before being called to become pastor of Lighthouse Church Geraldton in 2013, he was a pastor at churches in Australia and South Africa for more than 20 years.

Mr de Kock moved to Australia from South Africa with his wife and children eight years ago.

He said he was sad to be leaving Lighthouse Church, but he hoped to return to Geraldton at the end of his contract.

The new appointment is for five years, which may be renewed for a further five years.

The Uniting Church WA has been without a general secretary since July, 2014.

The general secretary is responsible to the church’s general council and manages all aspects of the operation of the church.