New Dean announced for Lichfield

His Majesty the King has approved the nomination of The Right Reverend Janet Elizabeth McFarlane, Interim Dean of Lichfield and an Assistant Bishop in the Diocese of Lichfield, as Dean of Lichfield.

New Dean announced for Lichfield

It’s a homecoming of sorts as Jan was ordained in Lichfield Cathedral 30 years ago. She will be the first female dean in the Cathedral’s history.

The Lord Bishop of Lichfield, the Rt Revd Dr Michael Ipgrave said,

‘I am very glad that Bishop Jan will be the next Dean of Lichfield. She has handled her role as Interim Dean over the last year with warmth and deftness and I know her appointment will be popular with staff and visitors alike. Her love for the region shines brightly and her love for the things of God brighter still.’ 

Bishop Jan said,

‘I am beyond delighted to have been appointed as the first female Dean of Lichfield.

“I was ordained in Lichfield Cathedral 30 years ago and if you had told me then that I’d be returning one day as Dean, I would have grinned with utter disbelief!

“I was born and grew up in Stoke-on-Trent and so, even though I have lived in  many parts of the country over the years, I feel as if I have come home.

“It has been a joy to serve as Interim Dean in this vibrant Cathedral with its hard-working and gifted staff and volunteers; and in the wider Diocese, in all its wonderful diversity; and it’s a huge honour to be invited to lead us into an adventurous new chapter in the story of Lichfield.’ 

Jan succeeds the Very Revd Adrian Dorber who retired in March 2023. She will be installed as Dean of Lichfield by the Bishop of Lichfield on Saturday 21 September.