The South Uist and Benbecula congregation is led by Iain MasAskill, who also acts as Moderator for the North Uist, Grimsay and Berneray congregation. He is assisted in leading the work in the Uists by the elders and deacons.
Minister
Rev Iain MacAskill came to South Uist as a Free Church evangelist in 1997. He is now both Minister of the South Uist and Benbecula congregation and Moderator of the North Uist, Grimsay and Berneray congregation. He is also the Chairman of the Caladh Trust. He is originally from Grimsay, grew up in Lochmaddy and now stays in Lionacleit, Benbecula. He is married to Ann and is a fan of Bob Dylan, Johnny Cash and shellfish.
Elders
Mike Townsend stays in Grimsay and is married to Peigi. He is a teacher at Lionacleit School. He is originally from England, but has lived in South America and Barra before settling in the Uists. You might find Mike studying minerals, up a mountain, or driving his Mini.
Gordon Macleod is a native of North Uist and stays in Sollas. He is married to Morag and leads Gaidhlig singing in the congregations.
John MacAulay is also originally from North Uist and also stays in Sollas. He leads the singing in the North Uist congregation. He is married to Lena, is a retired BT engineer (with over 70 visits to St Kilda under his belt) and keeps a croft near his home. After retiring, he has more time for DIY and the sheep.
David Kirk stays in Lochboisdale. He is married to Rachel and is currently a student at Highland Theological College. He came to South Uist from Wales, where he worked as a Consultant for a Civil Engineering company. He enjoys the outdoors, espresso coffee, and Radiohead.
Deacons
Paul MacKenzie serves as a deacon in the South Uist and Benbecula congregation and stays in Benbecula. He is from Inverness, is married to Ann, and enjoys fly-fishing on local lochs and wilderness camping.
Ronald John Morrison also serves as a deacon in the South Uist and Benbecula congregation. He was born and brought up in Lochmaddy, is married to Hannah and works as a postman and firefighter. Ronald John enjoys riding his motorbike and also plays a mean game of 5-a-side.