A missionary from Nigeria has been appointed as priest-in-charge of a north-east parish.
Father Francis Okoro will take up the position at Our Lady of Mount Carmel, Sandyhill Road, Banff, filling a three year vacancy.
Having been ordained in Imo State, Nigeria, in 1999, he served in English parishes for 12 years before leaving to study in Ireland.
He arrived in Aberdeen in 2016.
Father Francis said: “It is a joy to find myself as a full time priest in residence at Banff and for the parish of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, having already been in post on a temporary basis in nearby Fraserburgh.
“I have grown to love the people and the distinctive communities of the region, including people like myself, who have made this area their home having come from various parts of the world.
“We are in the process of organising a Pastoral Parish Council and I am keen to embrace and enthuse anyone in our church community who wishes to play a part in rebuilding this church.
“I pay enormous tribute to all those who have kept the church going in recent times and am pleased to now celebrate mass every day.”
Roman Catholic bishop of Aberdeen, Hugh Gilbert, said: “In the 21st century, we are now blessed with the presence of many energetic, faith-filled and warm-hearted African missionaries.
“Father Francis Okoro is one such. As the Bishop of Aberdeen I wish him well in his ministry in Banff.”
Aberdeen diocesan communications director, Councillor Glen Reynolds added: “This is wonderful news for the church community in Banff and nearby communities.
“Father Francis is a real grass roots community-driven priest who will be a welcoming voice to all who walk through the door.”
