Parishioners welcome new priest to Cumbernauld

In actual fact, Father Alexander Kisasa Mpagi is Ugandan, but has been studying at the Catholic University of St Augustine in Johannesburg, after stints studying in Kenya

He left town as the pageantry and atmosphere of the world's biggest football tournament took its grip, to the ubiquitous unofficial soundtrack of the vuvuzela!

The 36-year-old priest has joined Father Harry McKay at St Joseph's, in Carbrain.

But this is not his first time in Scotland, as he previously served at Glasgow's St Andrew's Cathedral. Now back in Scotland, Father Alexander is delighrted to be based at St Joseph's.

He said: "After two weeks I feel as if I have been here forever.

"The people have been wonderful to me - like family.

"That is important as I miss my own family back home. The support in the parish has been so enriching and encouraging."

A keen football fan, Father Alexander has been keeping a close eye on the World Cup action.

But more importantly, what does he think of the vuvuzela?

He joked: "I have one in my car . . . and I know how to use it.

"The truth is, all of Africa is just so delighted that we are hosting the World Cup."

Father Alexander believes the tournament will make the world think differently about South Africa.

He said: "When visitors experience the hospitality we offer, they will want to come back and South Africa will be opened up as a result.

"The World Cup is a God-given catalyst for South Africans to view themselves as one nation, united in this oneness."

Father Alexander added: "I hope and pray that this will continue after the competition is finished."