A new prior has arrived at The Friars at Aylesford.

After three years as prior of the Carmelite community, Father Francis Kemsley is moving to Walworth, an inner-city area of south London.

Replacing him is Bristol-born Father Brendan Grady. Joining him - and returning to Aylesford as sub prior - is Father Joseph Chalmers.

Fr Chalmers has served as Prior General to the Order worldwide for the past 12 years in Rome and is a well-known writer. His latest book on Elijah and Lectio Divinia, called The Sound of Silence, has been well received.

Fr Grady has spent the last three years as shrine chaplain at St Jude’s Shrine, Faversham.

Aylesford sub prior Piet Winjngaard is taking up Fr Grady’s post in Faversham.

Fr Kemsley, who left The Friars on Monday said: “I know Fr Grady well and he is a very lively character. He plans to set up a pilgrimage and retreat team and will be providing new services at The Friars.”