Michael Parker

Mike grew up in a housing estate in south-east London but ended up homeless on the streets in 2016 due to a series of challenges. His struggle with drug addiction followed the tragic loss of his son and daughter, and then he became homeless after a failed relationship. Despite enduring six months of sleeping rough, his perspective changed when his six-year-old daughter encouraged him to attend church, where he met an LCM missionary. "I used to believe someone like me wasn't destined for heaven, but within two months of attending church, I discovered Jesus and committed my life to him."

In 2020, Mike became involved with London City Mission as a Pioneer and later transitioned to a full-time LCM project worker. He explains, "Many individuals living on the streets are unfamiliar with Jesus and, like I once was, feel abandoned by God. If he could change my life and rescue me, then I want to guide others towards him."

Currently, Mike works at the Corner House, where he builds relationships with residents in recovery, helping them in overcoming homelessness and past trauma. He elaborates, "At the Corner House, we provide up to four homeless men a fresh start, mirroring the grace Jesus offers us. They stay with us for six months, receiving shelter and support to rebuild their lives, including securing employment and permanent housing, all while pointing them to Jesus. We start our days with morning devotions, drawing inspiration from God's word, and do weekly Bible studies, among other activities."

"Some of our residents are at their lowest, feeling utterly defeated. We offer them a sense of family, as many homeless individuals believe God has abandoned them. Through the gospel, we show them how Jesus sought out broken individuals during his ministry and sacrificed himself because of his immense love for them."

Mike sees an alarming increase in the number of people sleeping rough on London's streets, with individuals from various backgrounds seeking assistance at the Corner House. He states, "Most of these men have never encountered the gospel, so our primary goal is to welcome them with compassion, reflecting Christ's love, and aid them in rebuilding their lives."

Outside of his work, Mike lives in Battersea and is a parent to four children/stepchildren and has two grandchildren.