Fr Alex Frost: From Argos to the Altar

How did a former stand-up comedian, referee and Argos manager become the vicar of St Matthew's the Apostle, Burnley? In this in-depth interview Fr Alex Frost speaks to Premier Christianity's Sam Hailes about his call to ordained ministry, the challenges of working in an area where poverty and addiction are commonplace, why he struggles to read his own book and his passion for inclusion within the Church of England. Fr Alex featured in a BBC documentary entitled 'The cost of Covid' which shone a spotlight on deprivation in the town. But today, Fr Alex says "no one cares" and is angry that despite widespread media coverage of the serious challenges facing Burnley, many politicians continue to appear disinterested. What's the answer to the problems he's witnessing? "You'd perhaps not be surprised to hear a Christian minister say this, but...the Gospel of Jesus Christ" he says.  Fr Alex Frost is the author of Our Daily Bread (Harper Collins) which is published on 27 October.  The Profile is sponsored by Premier Christianity magazine. Receive our special Queen tribute edition, plus the next 5 print issues for just £9.99. Visit premierchristianity.com/subscribe