Originally from Northern Ireland, Philip moved to Canada to take up the post of Rector of St Paul's in March 2019. He is the proud father of two sons in their early twenties.
Philip combined a varied career in financial services and employee benefits with involvement in politics, with a stint as an elected member of a municipality and even standing for Parliament. After seminary training at Trinity College in Bristol, Philip was ordained in the Diocese of Portsmouth (Church of England) as a deacon (2007) and priest (2008).
Philip draws from a range of church traditions and can lead worship in a variety of styles. This enables him to combine 'traditional' parish ministry with developing forms of worship to better connect with people who may not find traditional church easy. This has also enabled him to build relationships ecumenically.
Within the Anglican system, Philip has been in the leadership structures of several Dioceses, as well as membership in two sessions of the Church of England's national General Synod. In the wider community, he has for many years been involved in school leadership of elementary and high schools; campaigns and initiatives such as foodbanks and a community cafe/hub. He is currently an elected member of the Diocese of New Westminster's Diocesan Council.
Philip tries to teach from the bible in a way that helps people encounter the God of love and to live differently as a result. He is loving life in Vancouver and embracing all that Canada has to offer.
.png)