VILLAGERS were shocked after a vicar announced he has received a new calling – to Africa.
The Rev Ian Enticott, of St Philip’s Church, Kelsall, told members of his congregation on Sunday he would be taking his family to the Midlands to become the new director of the African Pastors Fellowship.
Mr Enticott, 50, will tour the length and breadth of the country, update the APF website and, as part of his new role, will spend three months in Africa holding seminars, training sessions and Sunday schools.
It is a return to familiar territory for Mr Enticott, who will take wife Fiona and three children with him, as he was a missionary pastor in Tanzania for 10 years.
Mr Enticott said leaving Kelsall would be tough.
He said: “Just before Christmas I received a letter to say they were looking for a new director.
“That was God saying to me: ‘that’s you!’ I had a talk with the family and they agreed I should go for it. It’s a fantastic opportunity.
“We have been made so welcome in Kelsall and have become so much a part of the community we will find it very difficult to leave.
“We particularly appreciate the support given to us by past and present wardens and readers, the organist/choirmaster and members of the congregation.”
Chairman of Kelsall Parish Council John Leather said: “Ian’s objectivity, intellectual insight and calmness in a crisis will be sorely missed.
“While I am delighted Ian and Fiona have found a calling which reflects their passion for Africa, their departure will leave a hole in many aspects of this community’s life.”
Mr Enticott will deliver his final service at St Philip’s on April 25.
