The Reverend Mark Allsop already enjoys a reputation as an action-man vicar in his rural parish on the border of Teesside and North Yorkshire. He rides a motorcycle, has completed a freefall parachute jump for charity, runs five to six miles a day and regularly visits the gym.
Now he has told his flock at St Martin's Church, Kirklevington, that God has called him to the Commandos.
He said: "I wanted to join up, but my wife had our daughter -now 16 years old - and I decided not to, but to stay at home.
....
Reverend Allsop, a clergyman for the past 11 years, will be a chaplain in the Royal Marines.
Just incredible. I have had wonderful experiences with Royal Marine padres, and really respect what they do. I wish Rev. Allsop the best and hope he kicks the youngster's behinds in training!
He must be tough. You have to be to live where he lives:)
Posted by: Pat | April 08, 2008 at 08:34 AM