It’s this last detail that makes Bishop Mick Fleming—better known as Pastor Mick—on this mission so unique. He’s established and deployed a mobile church to connect with and care for the most vulnerable populations in the UK. In an audacious step, he has already sold off his rented apartment. Today, he resides in a somewhat haggard second-hand motorhome that he lovingly refers to as his “church on wheels.” Additionally, he is passionate about using this initiative to get to those in need most. It pays particular attention to regions with too little capacity.
Fleming founded Church on the Street in Burnley. This dynamic ministry continues to bring help and hope to the homeless and underserved. His own experiences of homelessness greatly impacted the way he does ministry. To bring the church directly to the people, he now lives in a motorhome. In doing so, he opens it up to more people who might need the help.
“I kept reading in scripture about travelling light,” said Bishop Fleming. His strong belief in the minimalist philosophy compels him to lead a more nomadic existence. This decision enables him to engage in person — and more directly — with communities in crisis.
Fleming’s journey is not without challenges. “It won’t be easy, but I believe this is what I’m meant to do,” he stated, emphasizing his commitment to his mission despite potential hardships. His choice to live in a camper van speaks to the depth of his faith. It clarifies the best, most meaningful form of work he imagines himself called to do.
Through this initiative, Bishop Fleming not only seeks to give physical support, but spiritual support. So it can’t just be about me living out of a van,” he continued. The shift demonstrates his intent to live into the service and outreach principles first outlined in his ministry.
His new motorhome will give him the flexibility to be able to move it where help is needed most. “Living in a camper van will mean I can move to where people are hurting most – taking the church literally to the streets,” he declared. This inclusive, proactive closeness-up approach actively breaks down harmful barriers between faith and community service. It highlights that help can be found outside the walls of normal church structures.
