The Examiner reported in June last year the Anglican parish had selected Briton the Reverend Kesh Rico Govan as the new rector following the departure of longtime leader Les Forester.

However it was only in July this year that Mr Govan, wife Catherine and their four children, Joshua, 14, Amelia, 12, Bethany, 8, and Madeline, 4, arrived in Australia.

"Visas," Mr Govan said by way of explanation.

"It took forever."

He was commissioned as the priest in charge of the Anglican parish of Nelson Bay on August 4.

"Everyone has been very friendly, nice and welcoming," he said.

"I think they think I am a breath of fresh air. I do things a bit differently."

Mr Govan became known as the "singing vicar" in England, where he was vicar of St Michael's Church in Rocester, Staffordshire, for six years.

One of eight children in a family of entertainers, Mr Govan is not shy about singing in front of his following.

While he has not yet busted out a tune for the parishioners, Mr Govan said he likes to make jokes during his service.

He said he would start working with the youth in the area in coming months.