On 26th April, the Chaplain General (CG), The Reverend Canon Michael Parker, 55, will lace up his running shoes and take to the streets of the United Kingdom’s capital city for one of the world's most iconic endurance events — the London Marathon.
The Reverend Canon Michael Parker, The Chaplain General during a training run at Tidworth Bowl in preparation for the 2026 London Marathon.
The Reverend Canon Michael Parker, The Chaplain General during a training run at Tidworth Bowl in preparation for the 2026 London Marathon.
The Reverend Canon Michael Parker, the Chaplain General His Majesty’s Land Forces outside St Michaels Church.
For the British Army’s most senior chaplain, who holds the equivalent rank of a Major-General, this is far more than a personal challenge. It is a moment of remarkable significance, and a great opportunity to shine a spotlight on the vital work of the Royal Army Chaplains' Department (RAChD) and raise funds for the Army Benevolent Fund (ABF).
“I have called upon the ABF many times throughout my career to help those under my care; running for the Army’s national charity was the obvious choice.”
The mid distance runner, who grew up in Plymouth and lives in Salisbury, only stepped up to running marathons recently. He said: “I’m responsible for the spiritual, pastoral, and moral welfare of soldiers and their families across the globe.
“I have called upon the ABF many times throughout my career to help those under my care; running for the Army’s national charity was the obvious choice.”
The Power of 26
This year holds extraordinary meaning for the Methodist minister. In 2026, he marks 26 years of service as an Army Chaplain. He holds the distinction of being the 26th CG. And on 26th April, he will run the London Marathon — covering, of course, 26.2 miles. The combination of these milestones is, for a man of faith, perhaps more than mere coincidence.
“Drawing on my faith provides an inner strength to keep going, however weak the body becomes.”
“The marathon is not just a test of the body; it is also a test of the spirit,” explained the professionally qualified officer who has seen operational deployment in Iraq and Afghanistan.
“Drawing on my faith provides an inner strength to keep going, however weak the body becomes.”
Running the Race of Faith
Mike, who has been the CG for four years, has not faced this challenge alone, preparation for his first marathon has been a team effort. During his training, 26 Army Chaplains — known affectionately as “Padres" - ran at least a mile by his side.
“I like the expression ‘stronger together’. The support of my colleagues - their strength -has carried me through this training. I hope I can repay this as the first serving Chaplain General to cross the finish line.”
He said: “I like the expression ‘stronger together’. The support of my colleagues - their strength -has carried me through this training. I hope I can repay this as the first serving Chaplain General to cross the finish line.”
The Royal Army Chaplains' Department
Founded in 1796, the RAChD is one of the oldest corps in the British Army. Army Chaplains serve alongside soldiers in barracks, on operations and in some of the most challenging environments in the world. They provide confidential pastoral support, conduct religious services, offer bereavement care, support mental health and wellbeing, and are present at every level of Army life, and serve soldiers of all faiths and none.
“Chaplains are unique - their sole responsibility is to care for others. Most soldiers have a story to tell about ‘their Padre,’ some unrepeatable, but always shared with a smile and genuine appreciation.”
Mike said: “Chaplains are unique - their sole responsibility is to care for others. Most soldiers have a story to tell about ‘their Padre,’ some unrepeatable, but always shared with a smile and genuine appreciation.”
Supporting the Army Benevolent Fund
The British Army’s national charity provides financial assistance and support to soldiers, veterans, and their families in times of need. Every pound raised by Mike’s marathon run will go directly towards this vital work.
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