Rev Dr Mark Simon

Role

Vicar of St Luke's Vermont and St Alfred's Blackburn North.

Background:

Arts Law (Hons) ANU, MDiv from BCV, MTh from Ridley, PhD  from Ridley.

Family:

I am married to Louise, and we have two sons, Joshua and Lachlan.

What are you passionate about?

Helping people grow in Christ.

What are your hobbies? How do you like to relax?

Travel, DIY projects, movies, books, swimming (when I’m being more active than walking the dog).

Mark’s Story

As a teenager I was looking for meaning and fulfilment in my social life and in success, but never found full satisfaction. At age 17 I began attending a local church youth group, I was attracted by the peace, purpose and love that Christians had, and which I lacked. I said 'yes' to the good news message that God made me and loves me, that Christ died for me to restore my broken relationship with God, and that God's Spirit will fill me, guide me and produce good fruit in my life.

I’ve been privileged to serve Christ as an Anglican minister in Melbourne since 2006 (serving in churches in Clayton, Forest Hill and Blackburn). I was a New Testament lecturer in Indonesia from 2009 to 2015. I have a doctorate in Biblical Studies and I am an adjunct lecturer in New Testament at Ridley College.  I have been leading St Luke's as an Associate Minister since 2019, and from May 2024 to April 2025 I was the Acting Vicar. As of April 2025 I became the Vicar of St Luke's and I am delighted to see the members of St Luke's growing in faith, and sharing the good news of Jesus in our community through their words and actions.