The Acting-Bishop of Newcastle, Dr Peter Stuart, is delighted to advise that the Reverend Canon Katherine Bowyer has been elected to be the next Dean of Newcastle.

Canon Katherine Bowyer

Bishop Stuart said, ‘Katherine will be the first woman Dean for Christ Church Cathedral and she is the first person born in the Diocese to become the Dean.

‘I was delighted when the Cathedral Chapter unanimously accepted my proposal that Katherine be the Dean. She is a highly experienced priest who loves the Cathedral, its music and its many ministries,’ Bishop Stuart said.

Canon Bowyer’s recent ministries have been as the Rector of Cardiff and the Director of Formation where she has been responsible for training future priests.

‘Katherine is a terrific preacher who has immense pastoral and liturgical gifts. She has contributed greatly to diocesan governance. In her various ministries she has worked to promote a healthy diocesan culture,’ Bishop Stuart said.

Canon Bowyer said of her appointment, ‘I was completely surprised and humbled when Bishop Peter rang me and asked me to take on this new role.’

‘The Cathedral is iconic for the City of Newcastle. It has an important contribution to make to the City and to the Diocese. I am looking forward to joining in the Cathedral partnership with Newcastle Grammar School. I am excited about working with the Cathedral Board in ensuring the Cathedral has the physical and financial resources it needs for its work,’ Canon Bowyer said.

‘The people of the Cathedral are committed to facing the past and shaping a healthy future. I know that Dean Stephen Williams and a great team have exercised a wonderful ministry in ensuring the Cathedral is a safe, welcoming place for all. I look forward to joining with the Cathedral community in this work,’ Canon Bowyer said.

Fr Stephen Williams will conclude his ministry in August before retiring in October. Canon Bowyer will begin her ministry at the Cathedral with a commissioning service at 7pm on Wednesday 4 October 2017.