A PORT Glasgow priest is moving on after he was appointed as the chaplain to the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital.

Father Opara Chima Kingsley, known as Father Chima, had served as parish priest for 18 months but has left a lasting impression on parishioners.

The modest Nigerian priest, whose catchphrase has been 'Don't worry, be happy', has inspired church-goers.

He told the Telegraph: "I've had a good time in Port Glasgow spending time with good people.

"I found a good sense of community there, and people have been very nice to me, very supportive and homely.

"The Holy Family and the Port has been a home for me."

He says his new role will be a big departure but added that accepting change is part and parcel of being a priest.

Father Chima said: "It's a big change but I am looking forward to new challenges.

"That is life as a priest, you have to move forward.

"As chaplain I will be on the frontline dealing with the challenges of the pandemic and offering support where it is needed to NHS workers, patients and their families."

Fr Chima will also be assistant priest at St Anthony's in Govan.

During his time at Holy Family he helped to celebrate a milestone in its history, marking its 50th anniversary.

The parish was also active in collecting for the Salvation Army and Inverclyde Foodbank.

A statement from a parish spokesperson said: "Sadly, Fr Chima will be leaving Holy Family after only 18 months with us.

"I'm sure I speak for the parish in thanking him for all he has done for us as a community, most especially in these past seven months or so since Mass was opened up again.

"It is such a shame that we can't gather together for a farewell Mass.

"May God bless you in your new role Fr Chima, and may he continue to bless you in your Priesthood.

"Don't worry, be happy!"

The priest received best wishes from 100 people on the parish Facebook page and a further 50 with personal comments.

He said: "I am encouraged that people appreciate what I did here."