by Matthew Davies

[ACNS source: Industrial Christian Fellowship / Greenbelt] In an effort to encourage individuals to deepen their understanding of God's purpose in the world of work, the Archbishop of Canterbury, Dr Rowan Williams, has agreed to take up the role of President of the Industrial Christian Fellowship (ICF).

His involvement will give added prominence to the historic Christian group, originally made famous by the work of World War I hero, Woodbine Willie.

Dr Williams' appointment was today welcomed by the chairman of the ICF's Council, the Rt Hon Lord Weatherill.

"I am delighted that Dr Williams has decided to throw his weight behind the crucial work carried out by the Industrial Christian Fellowship," said Lord Weatherill. "We will benefit enormously from his encouragement and experience.”

Dr Williams is also to become Patron of Greenbelt, an annual Christian arts festival in the UK. The news was announced to some 15,000 people attending this year's festival at Cheltenham racecourse.

"This is wonderfully exciting news and we are absolutely thrilled," said Jude Levermore, the Chair of the Festival. "Dr Williams will be the most wonderful figurehead for the festival and we are delighted to be able to announce this news actually during the festival itself."