Early Life and Anglican Calling
Born on March 12, 1931, in London, Michael Harper's early life was not steeped in devout religious practices. Although baptized as an infant, his parents were not particularly religious. It was his evangelical nanny who first introduced him to Christianity, nurturing his faith by taking him to Baptist churches and encouraging a life of prayer. Harper's formal education at Gresham's School and later at Emmanuel College, Cambridge, laid the groundwork for his intellectual pursuit of theology. During a pivotal Eucharist at King's College Chapel, he experienced a profound conversion that set him on a path towards ministry in the Anglican Church.
Baptism Holy Spirit Experience
In 1955, Michael was ordained and began his ministry at St Barnabas Church, Clapham Common. His journey took a significant turn in 1962 while serving at All Souls Church, Langham Place. Harper encountered what is known as the 'Baptism of the Holy Spirit', a moment that radically transformed his understanding of the Church as the Body of Christ. This experience endowed him with the ability to speak in tongues, a spiritual gift that sparked tension with some conservative evangelicals, including John Stott.
Leading Charismatic Renewal Movement
Determined to spread the charismatic renewal, Harper founded the Fountain Trust in 1964. Through this organization, he championed the charismatic message across Britain and the world, organizing conferences and writing extensively on the subject. His influence grew, making him a prominent figure in the movement from the 1960s onwards.
Anglican to Orthodox Conversion
However, by 1995, Harper found himself at odds with the Anglican Church's direction, particularly concerning the ordination of women. This led him to leave Anglicanism and join the Orthodox Church, where he was ordained in Paris. He became the first dean of the Antiochian Orthodox Archdiocese of the British Isles and Ireland and established an English-speaking Orthodox parish in London.
Michael Harper's legacy is one of transformation and conviction. His faith journey from an evangelical Anglican to a charismatic leader and finally an Orthodox priest illustrates his unwavering commitment to his beliefs and his desire for church unity. Harper's life story is a testament to the powerful impact of Jesus and the Holy Spirit in shaping a life dedicated to faith and ministry.
