Rev. Neil Ellis from St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church in Cobourg is leaving his position and taking on a new role with Northumberland County as Housing Services Manager.
Ellis made the announcement at the Sunday service on January 21, 2024.
Ellis was the 23rd minister to serve at St. Andrew’s Church and started in September, 2014.
Choking back tears, Ellis said, “I will be resigning as Minister of St. Andrews,” stating he has felt God has been calling him, “to something else.”
Through time and prayer and contemplation, Ellis said he has been trying to figure out what that is.
“An opportunity was put in front of me in the Fall. I prayed over it and gave it some thought and spoke with some colleagues and decided…(the video appears to have been edited at that point.)“
Ellis’ final Sunday with the church will be on February 11.
Later that month he will be taking on the role as Housing Services Manager.
“Moving into an area that I’ve had not a lot of work with.”
“This congregation has said, “go and serve upon the community,” and God I think has lead me on that path.”
Ellis, was Chair for the Board of Directors at Transition House and previously acting executive director.
Before his time at St. Andrew’s Church, Ellis was a financial advisor specializing in investments and mortgages.
Northumberland County has yet to announce the appointment.