College of Canons Installations 2023

During Evensong yesterday (Thursday 4 May) The Revd Mike Parker QHC, the Chaplain General of His Majesty’s Land Forces, was installed as a Sarum Canon, an honorary position recognising his contribution to the Church and the Armed Forces and his role within the military community locally, and nationally.

Three non-residentiary canons were also be installed at the same service: The Revd Julian Poppleton, Assistant Priest in Harnham and The Bishop’s Adviser for Associate Ministry, The Revd Tim Heaton, Rural Dean of Blackmore Vale and The Revd Pat Southgate has been an Associate Priest at St. Peter’s in Parkstone and Chair of the charity Routes to Roots, which supports homeless people in Poole.

 

The Dean of Salisbury, the Very Revd Nicholas Papadopulos said: “We are delighted that Mike will be joining us as an honorary Sarum Canon. His wisdom and insight will be much appreciated, particularly given the Cathedral’s strong ties with the military. Alongside Mike, the wide-ranging experience of the three new non residentiary canons, Julian, Tim and Patricia, will also be invaluable. I look forward to working with all of them.”

The Bishop of Salisbury, The Right Revd Stephen Lake said: “I am delighted that Tim, Julian and Patricia have accepted the invitation to join the Cathedral’s College of Canons. It is important that the interests and needs of the Diocese are heard by the Cathedral and that likewise, the parishes are connected to the Cathedral. Mike’s installation as a Sarum Canon is also good news, particularly given that the Diocese will be signing the Armed Forces Covenant when the Archbishop of Cantebury visits next month.”

The College of Canons is part of the Cathedral’s extended family and meets twice a year to provide feedback on policy decisions made by Chapter, the Cathedral’s governing body, and on Cathedral activities.

Photography by ©Russell Sach.