Luke has been a student of Ridley Bible College for the past five years and moved to Kempsey in 2016, as he loves the Macleay and South West Rocks.

He now lives at his late grandparents' small farm at Verges Creek.

Luke's induction on May 1, a rare occasion in the community, was performed by Reverend Peter Davies, a former pastor in Kempsey, and current regional pastor.

The sermon/charge was delivered by Reverend Graham Gibbins, grandfather of Luke.

The service was well attended, with the little church filled to capacity.

A commemorative lunch after the service concluded the celebrations.

Kempsey Shire Council was represented by Councillor Dean Saul, and there were representatives from various churches in the valley. Included in these were Pastor David Betts from Christian Life Centre and Pastor Ken Smith from Stuarts Point.

Luke's parents, Mark and Pamela Gibbins, travelled from the Central Coast to mark the occasion as did Luke's grandparents Reverend Graham and Mrs Barbara Gibbins.

Kempsey Baptist Church was built around 70 years ago in River St, and the original building is still being used, though a new section has been added and the church modified.

The original building was built by Ted Bannerman and extended family, as well as others including the Battle family, for the small Baptist congregation that resided in the community.

Today, Luke's goal is to welcome the local community into a loving and inclusive family church and to meet the spiritual needs of the people of the Macleay Valley.

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