As Mike officially leaves the diocese and cathedral this week Bishop John and Dean Sue have offered their thanks for all he has offered to us during the 23 years he has been with us. With a list of achievements that are too numerous to mention Mike has gained the respect of our diocese the cathedral community and the national church. He has been fundamental in so many projects not least the bringing of cathedral and diocesan operations together to provide creative benefits for all.
His steering of the conversations with the national church over the years has brought much support and respect to diocese and cathedral. He has enabled us to meet the many challenges we face with realism and confidence. He has brought together, inspired, supported and encouraged a talented team of individuals who will be in a position to move us forward under the leadership of Sharon Parr when she joins us in February.
Bishop John said “although I have known Mike and worked alongside him for a relatively short period of time his reputation, and the reputation of the diocese of Liverpool was a very strong reason for me accepting the call to this diocese. Since arriving his drive, determination, vision and above all concern for his fellow individuals has impressed me greatly. But above all I believe I can call him friend which is a great privilege. I know that this diocese will be forever in his prayers as he and Nikki embark of the next phase of their life together. They will be in ours as we wish them farewell but hopefully not goodbye.
Dean Sue added “Cathedral life has been transformed over recent years and this is all down to the creative, supportive and energetic leadership of Mike. His time with us has also been characterised by the humility which I know will mean he will cringe at these tributes. However, we cannot mark the end of his time with us without recognising the immense debt of gratitude we have for Mike’s tremendous leadership which brought us to a year of magnificent centenary celebrations with a platform to take us through the next six years. So on behalf of the cathedral community we offer Mike our heartfelt thanks and prayers for him and Nikki into the future.
