The Free Church of Scotland was saddened to learn of the passing of Rev. Prof. Donald M. MacDonald, who died early on Sunday morning.
Dr MacDonald was well known to many across the Church and beyond as a medical doctor, pastor and lecturer. After graduating from medical school, he initially spent 15 years from 1973 to 1988 as a doctor at the Lakhnadon Christian Hospital in India. Upon his return to Scotland, he served as the minister of Bishopbriggs Free Church. In 1997 he was appointed Professor of Apologetics and Practical Theology at the then Free Church College (now Edinburgh Theological Seminary), where he helped shape and influence a generation of students preparing for ministry. He was Moderator of the General Assembly in 1997.
Prof. MacDonald was also the brother of Rev Alex MacDonald, retired minister of Buccleuch Free Church, and the late Colin MacDonald, who was an elder in Cumbernauld Free Church.
Donald was something of a legend in Free Church circles: an inspirational example of tireless Christian service, deeply respected throughout the denomination. We give thanks to God for his long life and faithful service in medicine, mission, ministry and theological education, and we extend our sympathy and prayers to his family: his widow, Joan, and children, Colin, Christine, Sarah and Susan, the wider family and all who mourn his passing.
Rev Dr Donald M MacDonald’s funeral will take place on Monday 13th April at 12:30pm at Buccleuch and Greyfriars Free Church of Scotland, followed by burial at 2:30pm at Craigmillar Park Cemetery, and afternoon tea at 3.30pm. Family Flowers only. Collection will be taken for Leuchie House Respite Centre.