Sons of missing pastor praised for ‘amazing’ contribution to play

Perth: Christian group set to perform historical drama with key roles for Peter Edwards’ offspring

Sons of a missing Perthshire pastor have been praised for their “key roles” in a religious play.

Phil Edwards, 36, and his brother James, 32, who both have central characters in The Dream, have been described as “amazing” by Neil Boddy, associate director of the Perth Christian Fellowship.

The sons of Peter Edwards have had to deal with his disappearance for almost five months but have found comfort at the Perth premises, where the congregation is still praying for the safe return of Mr Edwards.

He was last seen getting off a bus in Stonehaven around 3.20pm on November 1.

The 65-year-old associate pastor of the Perth Christian Fellowship had previously been spotted boarding the same vehicle in Aberdeen around 2pm the same day. Prior to that, Mr Edwards was seen on CCTV getting off a number seven bus in Glasgow Road, Perth, at 7.43am on November 1.

Yesterday, Barry Brannen, director of Burning Issues, the Perth-based Christian drama group, who are producing the play, admitted the period of preparation for the show has been particularly difficult for Phil and James ‘Jammy’ Edwards.

“They are the sons of missing pastor, Peter Edwards,” he said.

“In spite of the heart-wrenching situation, they have committed themselves to rehearsals and to developing their characters with faith and courage.”

And Mr Boddy added: “Both sons have key roles in this play. They’ve been amazing in the circumstances.

“The congregation is still praying for Peter – that’s all we can do. We have to believe there’s still hope.”

The play will be staged at the National Christian Outreach Centre, Riggs Road, Perth, tonight and tomorrow.

It is a historical drama, based on events that took place in first century Judea told from the viewpoint of Procula, wife of Pontius Pilate.

Burning Issues is made up of 15 people from Perth Christian Fellowship.

Performances of The Dream will take place at at 7.30pm on both days.

Inspector Kevin Chase said: “We continue to pursue all lines of inquiry available, ensuring the family are kept informed.

“Anyone who has information that could assist with our inquiries is asked to contact Police Scotland on 101.”

Phil Edwards and Susanna Brannen who perform in the theatre production The Dream, staged by Perth Christian Fellowship, at the National Christian Outreach Centre in the city.

Pastor Peter Edwards was last seen getting off a bus in Stonehaven on November 1 last year.