THE CHURCH of England's first Pakistani curate says his fears about being accepted have been dispelled by the warm welcome offered by local people.
The reverend Christopher Peter, who was ordained at the weekend, will serve at St Peter's Church in Darwen and St Paul's Church in Hoddlesden.
"I have been worried about breaking barriers but I have been made to feel like I have come home after a long break. People have been so kind," he said.
He will now spend most of his time meeting the people of the parish and assisting the vicar, Kevin Arkell.
Mr Peter was born a Roman Catholic in Peshawar and worked in the Middle East before coming to East Lancashire with his wife and three children in 1989 to work with an Asian Christian community.
He added: "I got my calling when I was already married and was drawn to the Church of England. I am delighted to have achieved my goal and I am looking forward to working with in this friendly community."
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