Cathedral News

A message from the incoming Dean

"As my train trundled over Rochester Bridge on my first visit to the town, I caught a glimpse of the beautiful west end of the Cathedral.  I had passed that way many times before while a student in Canterbury, but never before had I stopped to admire the building.

"Here is a statement, a beacon of both our faith and our heritage all wound up into one.  As I prepare to move to Rochester and to take up the role of Dean I am filled with admiration at those who have gone before me and left such a landmark.  This, of course, includes those who over the last 9 months have maintained its worship and mission and to all of them I say a very big thank you.

"This beacon provides us with an opportunity to proclaim the love of God for the whole of his creation in ways that are true to the Gospel and accessible to our neighbours.  As the Cathedral Mission Statement puts it "nurturing the radical hope of human flourishing in Jesus Christ". 

"We will do this by being open to those who come to their cathedral for whatever reason, being as this website suggests "an open-minded space".  As they visit this great place, it is my prayer that everyone will be touched by God and changed by their visit.

"Writing on my final day as Rector of Rugby, I ask you to pray for me as I move into this new role as I will most certainly pray for you as your journey of faith brings you into contact with this beautiful cathedral church."