
Get to know us
Leadership Team
mike Parker
Minister
I came to faith in my late twenties after walking away from Christianity as a teenager, thinking it was outdated and irrelevant. I explored meaning through sport, psychology, and other religions, but was surprised to find that Christianity resonated most deeply when I gave it another look over 30 years ago.
I didn’t leave my questions at the door. That same curiosity has continued to shape and deepen my faith. Many aspects of church still felt outdated, but through studying the Bible and engaging with wisdom both within and beyond the church, I began to rediscover the heart of it all—who God is, the way of Jesus, and above all, love.
As a minister, I’ve tried to bring that openness and desire to get to the heart of things into church life. Many here value that approach—some were already on that path before I arrived. Asking deep questions hasn’t weakened my faith; it’s made it richer. I’ve seen that happen for others too.
Before training for ministry, I was what my mum called “the eternal student.” I qualified as a social worker and therapist, and worked in the probation service for 16 years. I was ordained about 16 years ago.
I’m married to Kate, and we have three adult children, two labradors, and a cat. I enjoy running, yoga, meditation, and finding joy in everyday moments.
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Live on a golf course, work on a golf course, play on a golf course. On the odd occasion that I leave the golf course you will find me at church or at a supermarket refilling my fridge!
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I love running, skiing and singing, and enjoy plenty of motorhome travel around Europe with my husband and two dogs.
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I love the outdoors, my family, my dogs and almost enjoy running!
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As a Zimbabwean I speak 4 African languages, enjoy listening to Audio books, and when at home you'll often find me in the Kitchen. Baking!!
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Cooking and entertaining is a great hobby of mine. I am from Holland but I’ve lived most of my life in the UK.