New Bishop of Exeter becomes Patron of city’s homelessness charity

The new Bishop of Exeter, Rt Rev Dr Mike Harrison, has become the new Patron of Exeter’s local homelessness charity, St Petrock’simmediately following him taking up the position formally at the start of this month.

Bishop Mike, who took up the post on Saturday 2nd November, has a long association with homelessness charities since the very beginnings of his church career as a curate in South Lambeth, and later in Bradford and Leicester, and so didn’t hesitate before accepting the invitation to become St Petrock’s Patron, before he had even formally become Bishop.

The tragedy of homelessness is very close to my heart

“I was delighted to receive the invitation to become St Petrock’s Patron,” said Bishop Mike, “as the tragedy of homelessness is very close to my heart. Practical care for those in poverty and marginalised by society is at the very heart of the gospel of Jesus Christ, and the work of the St Petrock’s team is therefore something I wish to support wholeheartedly”.

Peter Stephenson, St Petrock’s Chief Executive said, “While St Petrock’s isn’t specifically a faith-based charity, local Christians and churches were foundational in bringing the charity into existence, and they continue to be some of our most loyal and generous supporters. We literally couldn’t do what we do without them expressing their faith in practical and financial support for the charity. Throughout our history, the Bishop of Exeter has always been a Patron, so we are delighted to have Bishop Mike continue this wonderful tradition and look forward to his active involvement in our work.”

Bishop Mike’s appointment as Patron to represent the local faith community follows that of Exeter’s new MP, Steve Race, earlier in the year to represent the civic community.

St Petrock’s relies on the community for its funding

St Petrock’s relies on donations from members of the public for the majority of its funding. Donations can be made via its website stpetrocks.org.uk.