Breaking : New Dean announced for Guildford Cathedral

The Venerable Robert (Bob) Cooper, Archdeacon of Sunderland in the Diocese of Durham has been appointed as the next Dean of Guildford, succeeding The Very Reverend Dianna Gwilliams who served for a decade.

New Dean announced for Guildford Cathedral

He will be installed in the Cathedral in January next year.

Guildford Cathedral is the newest Cathedral in the Church of England and Bob will be its sixth Dean.

Speaking of his appointment, he said: “I am excited to be starting this new chapter at the Guildford Cathedral and to help grow numbers and outreach to all.

“There is a fantastic mission potential in this town and diocese, and I’d like to pay tribute to my predecessors, Dianna Gwilliams and Stuart Beake for their leadership and ministry. 

“While Guildford may have different issues and challenges to Durham, I look forward to continuing my focus in championing those people whose voices struggle to be heard, and ensuring the word of God inspires every connection and interaction the Cathedral has with our communities.”

Born and raised in Lancashire, Bob studied theology at the Universities of Aberystwyth and Nottingham. He is passionate about mission, church growth and social justice, and has played leading roles in prison chaplaincy and on his local board of education.

There are strong links with the Diocese of Durham in the very brickwork of Guildford Cathedral with the Jarrow Stone plaque honouring the philanthropic efforts of Surrey in support of the town of Jarrow, Co Durham during the economic depression of the 1930s.

His appointment will be marked by a celebration event at the Cathedral for staff, dignitaries and clergy including the Bishop of Guildford Andrew Watson, head of the Diocese of Guildford which includes 156 parishes.

The Right Reverend Andrew Watson, Bishop of Guildford said:

“We’re delighted that Bob is moving from the north-east of England to lead the life and mission of our Cathedral. Bob comes with huge experience and considerable expertise and will bring fresh energy to the Cathedral’s mission to the town, the county and the diocese. We welcome Bob, and pray his time among us is faithful, fruitful and joyful”. 

Bob is married to Kate and has four children and has served as Archdeacon of Sunderland since 2018. During his time there he championed under-represented communities to address issues including urban and rural poverty.

He takes on this new role as the Cathedral gets ready to celebrate its 65th anniversary.

📸 Credit | Diocese of Durham