As Rev Patrick Evans retires from local Methodist ministry, we want to take this opportunity to celebrate his remarkable contribution to Compassion Acts and to thank him for the vision, wisdom and encouragement he has given over so many years.
Patrick was one of the founding trustees of Compassion Acts, and before that of Southport & Formby Churches Debt Centre. Every organisation needs people who can see what is possible before it becomes reality. Patrick was one of those people.
From the very beginning, he recognised the opportunity to create something rooted in the Christian tradition of serving others while building a charity that would work in partnership with churches, communities and organisations across Southport. He championed a model that harnessed the generosity and compassion of local churches without being defined or limited by them. That inclusive vision helped lay the foundations for the trusted community organisation Compassion Acts has become today.
Before answering his call to ministry, Patrick worked as an HR professional, bringing with him the skills of a thoughtful listener, wise adviser and steady guide. Throughout our journey, he has offered encouragement, insight and sound judgement, helping shape not only the organisation we have become but also the values that continue to guide our work.
Our CEO, Richard Owens, was delighted to attend Patrick’s retirement celebration service in Ainsdale, where he was able to pass on the gratitude and best wishes of everyone at Compassion Acts. Patrick leaves local ministry with our heartfelt thanks for all he has contributed, and with our prayers and best wishes for this new chapter.
Knowing Patrick, however, retirement is unlikely to mean slowing down! This September he will be cycling more than 1,000 miles to raise funds for Compassion Acts and our local hospice—a wonderful example of his continuing commitment to serving others. We wish him every success on the journey and look forward to cheering him on.
Thank you, Patrick, for your friendship, your leadership and your faithful service. We hope retirement brings new adventures, fresh opportunities and much joy, and we know that whatever comes next, it will be approached with the same generosity, humility and determination that have inspired so many over the years.
You can find out more about Patrick’s cycling challenge at patrickevans.uk, and you can also read his talk from the Southport Foodbank’s 10th Anniversary celebrations.
