A farewell and thanksgiving Eucharist service was held for Revd Canon David Kesterton’s Ministry in the C of E Parish of All Saints with St Peter, Luton.
The service marked a very special and emotional moment, not just for David, but for many of his parishioners and those whose lives have been touched and transformed by David.
David & his wife Susan said, “We would like to thank everyone for their love, kindness and prayers over the last 12 years. We have been privileged to walk alongside so many people through this time. Many happy memories go with us and we will continue to follow how things progress at All Saints and Saint Peters.”
Revd Canon David Kesterton served his parish and the wider Luton community with compassion, creativity, and deep faith. David’s ministry in Luton, reflects what Archbishop William Temple famously stated, "The Church is the only institution that exists for the benefit of those who are not its members.”
From the Peace Garden and Community Allotment Projects to Indoor Community Archery Club, David found inspiring ways of bringing people together and nurtured their body, mind and spirit.
As Luton Town Football Club Chaplain, David offered guidance and friendship to players and supporters alike, sharing in the joys and challenges that unite our town.
His commitment to support refugees, began well before the issue became politicised. He established a remarkable partnership with the Medina Mosque on several community initiatives including mosque-church exchange visits, street cleaning, litter picking, tidying up and decorating the local park making it accessible for the local communities.
He contributed significantly to making Luton a true City of Sanctuary. He led the annual Windrush commemoration event during the Black History Month. He also held deeply moving annual Peace Light Service, where people of all faiths gathered each year to welcome the light brought from Bethlehem by the Scouts.
No wonder, in David’s final celebration, a richly diverse gathering of Whites, Blacks, and Asians from different faith backgrounds came together in love and gratitude. Together, they acknowledged his devoted wife Susan and their children, who have always supported David’s ministry, community projects and events, even at a personal cost.
Canon David’s wisdom, warmth, and unwavering dedication has left an indelible mark on both All Saints Church and the people of Luton.
As the Luton Council of Faiths, we extend our heartfelt thanks, prayers and best wishes for his future plans after retirement.
Ryad Khodabocus, Head of Luton Council of Faiths said, “David will be deeply missed, but we are sure that his legacy of peace-building work will continue to shine in Luton in the years to come.”
Blessed are the peacemakers (The Bible-Matthew 5:9).
Revd Canon David Kesterton (L) wearing a special stole with creation symobls on it, presented by the parish church of All Saints with St Peter as a farewell gift.
Susan Kesteron always supported David’s ministry, community projects and events, even at a personal cost. The parish church of All Saints with St Peterpresented her a bouquet of flowers on behalf of everyone as a sign of collective gratitude.
David (with his wife Susan) cutting his retirement cake.