In this episode of 'Coming to America,' the hosts interview Reverend Dr. Simon, an Anglican priest who discusses his extensive journey from England and Germany to the United States. Ordained in the Church of England in 1995, Simon moved to the U.S. to serve an Episcopal church, eventually becoming a naturalized U.S. citizen in 2011. He shares his experiences growing up in multicultural England, his various roles within U.S. congregations, and his current work as a chaplain and community advocate at Church at the Park, a nonprofit offering support to people experiencing homelessness in Salem, Oregon. The discussion explores cultural differences, social issues, and the contrasting elements within the U.S., such as the juxtaposition of extreme wealth and poverty and the intersection of charity and a lack of social safety nets. Simon also offers his perspective on America’s potential for opportunity and the ongoing struggle to balance its historical ideals with present-day realities.
Simon was born in Staffordshire, in the English Midlands and grew up in Germany and SE England. He attended university in Wales, Edinburgh, Durham and later Chicago. Simon was ordained as a priest in the Church of England. In 1995 he got the opportunity to serve an Episcopal Church in Troy, NY. Since then he has served congregations in Tigard, Corvallis and Salem, Oregon. Simon is currently a chaplain and community partnership advocate for Church @ the Park, a religious non-for-profit based in Salem that provides resources, shelter and community for people experiencing homelessness and those on the margins.
Simon is divorced with three grown up children. He proudly became a naturalized US citizen in 2011