The Reverend Michael Gobbert has been appointed team rector for the new parish of Upper Skerne, which includes Sedgefield, Bishop Middleham and the Trimdons.
He is currently based in Norton, near Stockton.
He will be moving to the area next month and taking up his duties in December.
Adrian and Helen Thorpe, both priests, are temporary in the parish and will help establish the new team ministry until the Spring.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article