A VICAR from a city centre church in York has been given a new role by the Archbishop of York, Dr John Sentamu.

The Rev Canon Roger Simpson is currently the vicar of St Michael le Belfrey and has been appointed to the vital role of Archbishop’s Evangelist.

The post will see Mr Simpson working with people throughout the north of England to spread the word of Jesus Christ to those in parishes, pubs, clubs, streets and schools.

Mr Simpson will stay on as an associate minister at St Michael le Belfrey while undertaking his new role, which starts on Sunday.

He said: “I’m really excited about the potential of this role as Archbishop’s Evangelist.

“I have a real sense that God is opening doors in the north,” he said.

“Since people have heard about the appointment, they’ve been getting in touch with me.

“I’m already booked to run missions at universities, a cathedral, towns and villages.”

Dr Sentamu said: “I’m delighted to be able to appoint Roger as my evangelist throughout the north of England.

“He is passionate about sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ, and I know he will help many congregations share the good news and engage with their communities.”

Mr Simpson said the new role was an opportunity for him to extend his work across the region.

“This is the sort of work I’ve been doing all throughout my ministry, but since becoming vicar of St Michael le Belfry ten years ago, I’ve devoted my time to one particular church,” he said.

“Now I can help develop evangelism and mission across the North of England as well as at St Michael le Belfry.”