By Christian Coffman

NATCHEZ — The new priest at Trinity Episcopal Church has been in Natchez for four weeks and says he has received a warm welcome from the church and community.

The Rev. Ken Ritter came to Trinity after serving as interim rector for Grace Church in Chattanooga, Tenn.

In his 30 years as a priest, Ritter has previously served in leadership roles in the Diocese of Louisiana, as a priest in charge at a small parish in Innis, La., President and CEO of St. James Place, a retirement community in Baton Rouge and rector of Trinity Episcopal Church in Baton Rouge. Ritter contributed to the relief efforts in New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina.

“It’s been an interesting ride for the last 15 years,” Ritter said, laughing.

Although he is still new to the job in Natchez, Ritter is already working in the community in addition to leading Trinity’s two church services on Sunday and the one service on Wednesday evening.

“I visit the hospital to see people who are sick,” Ritter said. “A good bit of it is pastoral care, spiritual direction or pastoral needs. I’m just someone to listen to, and it’s free.

“My main focus is seeing to the needs of Trinity and its people,” Ritter said. “I want to become more involved with the Stewpot, and the  (church’s) Claws for a Cause fundraiser.”

Ritter said residents of Natchez have been extremely gracious, warm and welcoming, and he loves the town.

“I could have chose somewhere else in the United States, but I chose here,” Ritter said. “I have roots in Mississippi, so while not in Natchez, I’m familiar with the state.”

Ritter is married and has two adult daughters. He trained at Notre Dame seminary in New Orleans.

“I’m within three hours of my family, which is a big plus. I’m a southern boy at heart,” Ritter said.

Ritter said he welcomes the opportunity to serve the church and Natchez.

“We (at Trinity Episcopal Church) feel like we’re called to serve God’s people in the community, whether they’re Episcopalian or not,” Ritter said.