20/03/2024
NICK THOMPSON - BENEMERENTI AWARD
There were big celebrations at St Aidan's Church, Aviemore on Sunday 11th February. Nick Thompson of The Glebe House, Insh, Kincraig has received a Special Award from Pope Francis. Nick was presented with the Benemerenti Award for his long and outstanding service to the Parish, by the Vicar General, Fr Domenico Zanre, on behalf of Pope Francis. The special Mass was attended by family, friends and visitors to St Aiden’s. The Mass was followed by a joyous Reception in the New Parish Hall. Good wishes were read out from 5 previous Parish Priests, Fr Peter Barry, Fr Ben Lodge, Fr John Paul McKinnon, Fr Derik McCulloch and Fr Francis Agada.
Nick’s constant service and wise council as Finance Officer and Eucharistic Minister began during the time of Fr John McQuade. Many changes in financial systems have taken place in the Diocese and Nick has been the steadying hand on the financial tiller, navigating us through choppy waters.
Nick also worked closely with Fr James Bell, the Chair of the Diocesean Finance Committee to manage and secure finances, architects and builders for the building of our new St Aidan’s Hall. His civil engineering skills, in all things, continue to be a great gift to the parish, as is Nick himself.
Nick and Patsy arrived at St Aidan’s in 1984. They have 2 sons, Christopher and Andrew and a lovely grand-daughter. They celebrated their Golden Wedding in Sept. 2023 which is a wonderful blessing.
A big Thank You from us all Nick! A well deserved honour from Pope Francis!
