The Friends were delighted to receive a generous legacy of £1,000 from Mrs. (Eileen) Joan Kell. She was one of the first Friends and a volunteer guide for 25 years. In response to her gift, Chairman Andrew Paine wrote a let- ter of thanks. The Friends sent a Coventry Rose in grateful trib- JANUARY 2013 ute. Her son Dennis wrote in reply that it will be “a special reminder of my mother, the Cathedral and all the interwoven Patrons history and memories they create. It is a lovely gesture for Her Majesty’s Lords Lieutenant which we most sincerely thank The Friends.” of West Midlands and Warwickshire

President JOHN WILLIS, The Lord A VERY WARM WELCOME The success of “Journey Into The Light” - the 2012 Cathe- dral Golden Jubilee Art Exhibition exceeded all expectations, Vice - Presidents creating an influx of additional visitors and producing plaudits The , Heather Wallace, Barry Greener from art critics and art organisations alike. It was the inspired Barbara Mobbs, Prof Louise Campbell, Shirley Willis TO OUR NEW DEAN AND... vision of John Willis, a former Chairman of the Friends, who was the principal curator. Sadly in the weeks before the exhi- Friends Council Andrew Paine (Chair) bition opened, his health deteriorated and he died shortly af- Mike Stansbie (Vice Chair) terwards, without having the opportunity to see the results of Andrew Williams (Treasurer) his efforts. Gill Brooke (Membership Secretary) John was born in Kent and came to Coventry in 1961 to Rodney Bashford, Jane Corrigan. Richard Chamberlaine-Brothers start a degree course in Applied Chemistry at the Lanchester Jonathan Evans, Jain Galliford, Ted Hiscocks, Brenda Stokes College. He worked at Courtaulds and Rootes and ended his David Williams, Martin Williams career as Head of Purchasing at Peugeot. On his retirement aged 59, he achieved first class honours in Historical Studies New Members since September 2012 at the University of Warwick, and went on to attain a research Masters Degree in the History of Art. John met Shirley in 1962 Honorary Life and they married in 1964. When Shirley joined the Cathedral Patrick Reyntiens, John Reyntiens staff in 1989 John started his links with the Cathedral. His lin- guistic skills (he spoke four languages) made him useful in in- Life Dr Sarah Collins, Dr Ian Hosier terpreting the building for foreign delegations. Jim and Margaret Rushton, Ian and Susan Thompson John was Chairman of the Friends of for nine years from 1995. More recently he was Vice-Chairman Annual of the Cathedral’s Fine Arts Committee. John was part of the Rodney Bashford, Naomi Bowen, Dr Mary Charlton ...... OUR NEW ARCHBISHOP editorial group and a contributor to the Cathedral’s “Reconcil- Keith Corrigan, Prof Richard and Allison Farnell ing People” – another successful venture sponsored by the Mr and Mrs Michael Green, Peter Lawrence, Robert Longstaff Friends in 2012. Sandra Newton, Ian Marshall, Philomena Sullivan In a centre-page spread for this first issue of the New The Friends were among the first to congratulate the In “Journey Into The Light” John’s dream was to create a fit- Year, our new Dean John Witcombe speaks exclusively Bishop of Durham, the Right Reverend Justin Welby, ting tribute to the artists who created our wonderful Cathedral. RIP In doing so he helped others to follow their personal Journey Brenda Barley, Eileen Joan Kell, P G Malins to the Friends about his vision, hopes and concerns for former Sub-Dean of Coventry, on his appointment as Into The Light - just as his own journey came to an end. Peter Norman, John Willis the Cathedral and tells us about his family and his in- the Archbishop of Canterbury. His P.A. replied to our Canon Martin Williams terests. Chairman Andrew thanking him for his good wishes PETER NORMAN Passionate about the Anglican tradition and the Church and for the offer to present Bishop Justin with a limited Peter and Pam moved from Crewe to Coventry in 1974 and in the following year joined Saint Michael’s Singers. At that time of England in particular, he is looking forward to de- edition copy of “Reconciling People” - Coventry the Singers had just begun a liaison with the Caen Chamber Orchestra in Normandy. Since both of them were committed Fran- cophiles here was a perfect match – singing combined with an annual trip to France. The Singers were equally delighted to have veloping the relationship between the Cathedral and Cathedral’s Story”. It is an offer he is “delighted to ac- discovered not only two new friends, an excellent soprano and tenor, but also a professional accountant! the diocese in Coventry. cept”. The special copy will be presented during the As Treasurer of Saint Michael’s Singers since 1976 Peter was a totally dedicated and meticulous custodian of the Society’s fi- If you want to learn even more, we suspect his diary is Faith in Conflict Conference in Coventry during Feb- nances. It is thanks to Peter’s diligence that the choir’s finances remained in a solidly healthy state throughout his tenure. A committee member remembers standing with Peter and looking up the Nave towards the Tapestry. The building was totally not yet overcrowded with dinner party invitations, but ruary 2013. silent. "Isn't it such a privilege to be here; aren't we blessed?" and we truly were. Thinking about that moment again has brought don’t leave it too late! Canon Kenyon Wright pays tribute to Justin - page 2 tears to my eyes, because I know that Peter truly felt the honour of being involved at the Cathedral.” Graham Warren

8 1 THE CHAIRMAN’S COLUMN “Coventry – Cathedral of Peace” A CHALLENGE TO COVENTRY TO CREATE A CATHEDRAL QUARTER In my book I have tried to convey something of the debt I owe We all need friends to others, and the gratitude and exhilaration I felt at being called One of the things life teaches us, Speaking to a capacity audience of Friends in the Cathedral to share in the two “unique” aspects of ministry of the Cathedral. is that we all need friends. Lecture Hall last month, Dr Jonathan Foyle, Chief Executive of The international ministry was given to us by the events of the World Monuments Fund (WMF) Britain, said that ‘he had a history – by the inspired response which discerned God’s call in The Friends of Coventry Cathedral high regard for Coventry’, but that ‘it continued to ignore its glo- these events. However, that global outreach was rooted, and are there in the big moments, and rious heritage and greatest assets’. given its full meaning, in a team ministry, held together by hon- provide support in the difficult Since its Watch listing in 2012, WMF has secured over esty, affection and regular sharing. History can never be re- moments, in the life of this sacred £350,000, to repair more of the crumbling Ruins of the Old peated, but perhaps Justin Welby has said more clearly what I and “extraordinary place - whose Cathedral, to fund the development of a Tourism and Manage- tried to identify in this book, namely the changed world in which story we can’t ignore”. Andrew Paine ment plan for the Hilltop and to enable the conservation of Coventry has still a unique opportunity. Shortly before the an- Britain’s largest collection of loose medieval glass. nouncement of his elevation, I received a lecture he gave in Brief Encounter ‘What we need’, he said, ‘is a compelling narrative to tell the Zurich on 26 October to a gathering of the Gnomes ! He called Amici at Berkswell If you had a few minutes on a station platform, in a lift, or at story of Coventry’s central role in British history. Don’t let’s talk it “Repair or Replace – Where do we start among the ruins?”, and a party, to invite someone to become a Friend, what would about the City Centre, but the Cathedral Quarter. Our percep- used the story of Coventry and the nature of the Cathedral’s re- you say? It’s the ‘brief encounter’ moment. tion is immediately changed by the name. During the 14th and sponse as a lesson for a global society and economy in ruins. He There are probably three or four things you could say. 15th Centuries Coventry was Britain’s fourth City (after London, AMICI (the Latin word for “Friends”) is an informal said “The question we need to ask is ‘what can finance do to be York and Bristol) and at the heart of Lancastrian lands and power group of singers founded in 2009, under the direction of Cathe- socially useful’?. In the same way as the ruins of Coventry Cathe- Firstly, Coventry Cathedral is a quite extraordinary place. and adjacent to the great the Castles of Warwick and Kenilworth’. dral Organist Kerry Beaumont. Some of the singers are members dral were turned from a hideous symbol of destruction to a sym- The only English City with three Cathedrals. The great Priory ‘Coventry is the only city in the country to have three Cathe- of the Cathedral’s various choirs and other singers are, or have bol of hope, of resurrection. of peace and a new form of Church of St Mary, the only Cathedral demolished during the drals’. ‘The Parish Church of St Michael was the largest, by area been, connected with the Cathedral. One member, who used to civilisation, so finance can move from being the wreckage of a Tudor Dissolution of the Monasteries. The Medieval St and had the tallest spire, in England. It’s chantry chapels were sing in the Cathedral’s Chapterhouse Choir, regularly travels up hubris induced disaster, to retrieving its basic purpose of enabling Michael’s the only Cathedral destroyed during the Blitz. The built from the proceeds of the 14th century trades, including the from Southampton to sing with Amici. human society to flourish effectively. There is a need for socially new Cathedral recently voted as ‘Britain’s favourite modern dyers and weavers of the City’s famed blue cloth, the cappers and The choir’s objectives are to support the Friends and Cathedral useful purposes for banking and financial services” Welby was building’. the button makers’. in their outreach to the Diocese, to raise funds, to support the speaking to financiers, but his prophetic words are surely true for ‘Bayley Lane is a remarkable example of an unspoiled me- Cathedral Music and to provide an opportunity for leading the whole of that human society which was always the object of Secondly, Coventry Cathedral stands as an authentic and vis- dieval street. The Guildhall is arguably the finest surviving guild- singers to perform in a small ensemble. the Cathedral’s ministry ible witness to the very warp and weft of the fabric of our hall in the country, with a contemporary dynastic tapestry and Amici’s main programme is ‘Inspiration from Coventry He ended “One principle seems to me to be clear, we cannot faith - renewal and reconciliation. The power and message surviving heraldic stained glass. It was here that Henry VI Cathedral’, which is an introduction to the Cathedral Story with repair what was destroyed in 2008, we can only replace it with of reconciliation, which has never been more relevant for brought the Court, and Parliament, during the Wars of the Roses music, words and stunning big screen images. The music com- something that is dedicated to the support of human society”. our fractured world, is the Cathedral’s story and DNA, exem- in 1455, secure within the ancient walls of the City.’ prises a capella (ie unaccompanied) works drawn from the Eng- I believe he puts his finger on the radically changed world in plified in the iconic Coventry Cross of Nails. ‘The hidden story of me- lish choral repertoire and spans the centuries from Blitheman and which we minister – on some of the questions of human society Thirdly, Coventry Cathedral needs its Friends, as never be- dieval Coventry is in the Byrd in Tudor times to works by Paul Leddington Wright, Adrian which the Cathedral may be uniquely equipped to ask. fore, to provide financial and spiritual support, if it is to glass, which was salvaged Daffern and Kerry Beaumont himself. The works have been cho- We have the prospect of an interesting and exciting Arch- maintain its heritage and sustain its life. As a modern Cathe- from the clerestory of the sen specifically to reflect the history and art of both Cathedrals, bishop, one who speaks Coventry’s language! dral, Coventry doesn’t enjoy endowments, and there are Old Cathedral before the and are complemented by readings selected by John Brassington. Canon Kenyon Wright ‘two’ Cathedrals to maintain (the old and the new). If it is to Blitz. Around 7,000 frag- So far we have taken this programme to churches in Arrow, continue to inspire worshippers and visitors, it must depend ments remain and have Batsford, Bedworth, Berkswell, Kineton, Kenilworth, Shottery, on donations, subscriptions, legacies, grants and its trading A Recollection of Justin Welby in Coventry been painstakingly cata- Whatcote and Wootton Wawen. activities. I'd not long been a Church warden, and was standing in logued and conserved this This year has seen the launch of a new Advent programme, the north aisle behind the pulpit before the 10:30 am Eucharist. summer’. featuring carols and motets from the famous Coventry Carol to Lastly, Friends receive as well as give. We are a worldwide Justin began the welcome and notices with something along ‘Modern scholarship Paul Mealor’s A Spotless Rose, and including Poulenc’s four group of people who choose to support, and keep in touch these lines: "For those of you who don't know me, I'm Justin has recognized that some of Christmas motets as well as carols by Britten, Leighton, Sweel- with, this holy and ‘extraordinary place’. Membership al- Welby, the Sub-Dean here." He then paused before continu- the pieces are comparable inck, Tavener, Praetorius and Eric Whitacre. lows unlimited free access to the Cathedral, a discount at the ing, "That's silly; I'm Justin Welby to those who do know me to the work of Coventry craftsman, John Thornton, England’s Amici has also performed at Holy Trinity, Coventry and has Cathedral Shop, an invitation to the annual Friends Festival as well. Shall we start again?" greatest 15th Century glazier, who created the great East Window sung Evensong in the chapel of Blenheim Palace, as well as giving Day and AGM, invitations to social events, talks, outings, My recollection of the wording may be dodgy, but I clearly of York Minster’. a number of performances at the Cathedral. regular e bulletins, newsletters and above all, the company remember recognising how relaxed he was in what appears su- of friends. perficially to be a very formal atmosphere. Dave Goodall ‘The next stage’ he said ‘is to reinstate the Coventry Cathe- If your church, is in the Coventry Diocese, and would be in- dral Quarter, and it’s overlooked assets, as the cultural heart of terested in hosting Amici in 2013, please contact Amici’s Hon- the City of 300,000 people’. Andrew Paine orary Secretary Julie Burt: [email protected] The Secretary, The Friends, Coventry Cathedral, 1 Hill Top, Coventry CV1 5AB Email: [email protected] Registered Charity Number: 1061176 REMINDER An exhibition of some of the glass can be seen at the Sir John Soane Museum in London until 26th January. 2 7 after I had admired it in an exhibition. It’s a picture of extraordi- It was explained that an ancient ceremony had taken place nary beauty and stature. Come and see it in the Deanery! “The Cross of Nails” YORK MINSTER, 1 December 2012 in the Chapter House an hour earlier, when the prospective Dean 'A personal memory of the Installation of The Very Rev was admitted to the Chapter of York. 'The Letters Patent from Her Who is your favourite composer/what is your favourite piece of Vivienne Faull, a former Sub Dean of Coventry, as the new Majesty The Queen, granting to Vivienne Faull the place and dig- music? by Oliver Schuegraf ' nity of Dean of the Cathedral and Metropolitan Church of Saint It’s really hard to pick just one. I was taken to hear the Halle or- Peter in York were read.' Oaths were sworn on the York Gospels, chestra as a child, and I’ve always loved Britten’s ‘Young Person’s When Canon brought to York in 1018 from Canterbury and dating from the year Guide to the Orchestra’, which was my first concert. As a Adrian remarked 1000. teenager I enjoyed Prog Rock – and was most excited to find a breezily, three video of one of my favourite pieces, ‘Ricochet’ by Tangerine years ago, The long procession had been accompanied by "How shall I Dream, played live in the Cathedral. More recently I’ve come to “Gren, you’re sing that Majesty which angels do admire?' Its rapturous evoca- enjoy the classic choral repertoire, and will be enjoying Gibbons’ the very man to tion of the heavenly choir and the thousands that stand around ‘This is the Record of John’ at my farewell Evensong in Glouces- translate Oliver’s resonated with what we were experiencing. There was Vivienne ter. Last summer I went to hear Paul Simon perform his ‘Grace- book!” I must as the culminating point of all this 'majesty', almost a diminutive land’ album in Hyde Park – and I’ve just bought tickets for confess that I figure, shyly and courteously approaching, smiling as she always Springsteen in the Ricoh stadium next June! was rather in the does, slightly bemused, no doubt at being at the end of this hier- dark. archical queue; awed no doubt as well, at the journey she has How do you spend your days off? come to reach this point; but certainly not over-awed. For some Walking! Oh yes – with a pub lunch tucked into the middle It had been reason Aung San Suu Kyi, the Burmese leader, came into my somewhere. researched and mind. An absurd comparison, of course, but why was it there? written during The same quiet tenacity and dignity; and the long debarment of How do you plan to develop the relationship between the Dr. Oliver women in the Church has been a form of 'house arrest'; there has Cathedral and the Diocese? Schuegraf’s 4- been the same long wait, steadfast resolution not to give up, and The first thing is to get to know people across the diocese – I’ve year second- moral conviction now rewarded. ment to The towers of the Minster glowed, seen through the bare early asked to visit all the clergy chapters in my first few months, to December trees as I approached. They appeared to be lit up in hear what the clergy would like to see the cathedral doing for Coventry Cathe- The Evensong that followed underlined what her role will be dral from the expectation; indeed, history was being made here today for the them, and to listen to what they could offer the cathedral. The whole Church. in York, to foster this daily worship in all its beauty, and the life cathedral needs to be a flexible space, secure enough in its own Lutheran Church and mission of this glorious place. The Bishop of Leicester talked identity to offer genuine hospitality, but also able to express the in Bavaria; the of her sterling work in his Cathedral. Her legacy too. It might be German edition Our Vivienne, whom we shall never forget as a breath of fresh character of the whole diocese, so that people genuinely feel it air in her work as Canon Pastor in Coventry in the 1990s, who the recently found remains of a dead monarch, Richard III. He is their home. of the book was roguishly suggested that the people of Leicester would be glad to funded by the left us to become the first woman Cathedral Dean in the Church of England, in Leicester, and who today would reach the highest trade these 'relics' to York, if they could keep their Dean. There What role do you see the Friends of Coventry Cathedral playing Community of the Cross of Nails in Germany (whose continuing appeared to be no deal! kind support has also made the English edition possible). position of authority a woman has yet attained in the Church as over the next few years? Dean of York MInster. I hope, a crucial one. The cathedral presents many challenges – It is about the spirit of reconciliation that motivates the Com- relational and physical. There is plenty of scope to strengthen As you sit waiting you try to absorb the sheer size, the soaring relationships between the cathedral and the city and county, and munity of the Cross of Nails and its 160 or so centres around the world. The title of the original German edition spells out the mes- vaulted stone roof, the colours of the great east window behind, I hope the Friends might be active in that area, helping everyone the stone screen that is fronted with exquisite gothic canopies to feel that the cathedral is ‘theirs’. And of course the fabric of sage: ‘Vergebt einander wie Gott Euch vergeben hat’ (Forgive one another, as God has forgiven you). over the gilded figures of crowned kings. We stand as the pro- the building needs a great deal of upkeep, which means a great cession enters. First the choirs of York and Leicester, the Chapter deal of money – not just to maintain, but also to develop, to Oliver’s text falls into three main sections: part one is a very of Leicester, Cathedral Deans or other representatives, Bishops imagine new ways of using the two wonderful spaces that we of the Church of England. Then the great forces of the archdio- have. I very much hope that the Friends would recognise their readable summary of the historical roots of the CCN and the as- tonishing developments that occurred in the wake of the destruc- cese of York, suffragan bishops and archdeacons, followed by the own unique role in safeguarding the future of the cathedral at Archbishop in full splendour of mitre and cope. The procession every level. tion of 14th November 1940; in the second part, the L-R Canon Margaret Sedgwick, Ken Sedgwick. Dean reconciliation work carried out by several Cross of Nails Centres already fills the long side aisle and the whole of the nave, but there is more to come. Behind another cross and lights came the Vivienne and Canon Tim Pullen You say that you will be open to invitations for meals - do you is described, highlighting some recent and current projects in specific centres; and in its last section, the author formulates a officers and Chapter of the Minister, and, one step behind them, have any special culinary likes, or dislikes? revelation of the new Dean. Well, you’ll have gathered that I am a person of diverse tastes ‘theology of reconciliation’ out of the examples quoted – offering In his sermon Archbishop Sentamu spoke of what we were all and interests – I’m not especially keen on bland, and I’m always a practical template, a starting point for each new attempt to feeling, the joy somewhat marred by the negative decision of the open to new experiences. Really, it’s the company that counts bridge a gap of hatred, greed or envy and seek reconciliation. Synod on women bishops. His news that the Synod would be (mostly!) asked to reconsider next July drew wild applause. Copies are available via the websites of all good booksellers, Finally, what should our prayers be for you? or from the Cathedral gift shop. After we had sung '"Lo He comes with clouds descending" Taking on this new role is a privilege, an honour, an adventure – the moment came for Vivienne to stand at the High Altar and to but it is also really stretching. So, like Solomon, my prayer would It was a pleasure to have the privilege of translating Oliver’s give her first blessing as Dean. She spoke a few words letting us be for wisdom. And also for the very practical business of man- German text. If performed correctly the translator should leave in a little on how she felt with her customary crisp eloquence aging two households for a year or so, and then settling into the the reader feeling that he/she is reading the author’s original and grace; a style of leadership for empowerment, that will per- busyness and bustle of the Coventry city centre, finding that a re- words. How far I have succeeded in this I cannot tell; but if the haps be the gift that women's ministry will bring to the sourcing and refreshing place, building good and life giving book fails to move you, I can only ask you to blame that on me, Church. As she descended into the nave at the end of the retiring friendships, and maintaining a sense of humour! Perhaps above because Oliver’s original text is intensely moving. procession, applause began that rippled through the vast crowd all to know that I am walking with God, and that together we are Archbishop John Sentamu and Dean Vivienne along the nave to the West Door. In the streets outside it fused discovering the paths that he has set out for us. Gren Hatton in conversation. with the celebrations of the St Nicholas Fair. Denis Baylis 6 3 Director of Ordinands, which is a wonderful post, discovering How can the Cathedral Community best support the core Min- people’s stories and sharing in the discernment of how God is istry of Reconciliation in the future? GETTING TO KNOW OUR NEW DEAN calling them. There are two ways, really – the first and most important is by living it out. The contemporary three fold CCN agenda of: heal- What have you learned about cathedrals from your time in ing the wounds of history; living with difference and celebrating Gloucester? diversity; and building a culture of peace offer a pattern for us The Very Reverend As a residentiary canon in Gloucester I have been able to learn all to commit to, making this a truly welcoming and hospitable the ropes of how the ‘public’ face of the cathedral works, and community. The second is to pray, and to look together for ways some of the frantic paddling that can go on behind the scenes. I that God may be seeking to grow the ministry, and to commit our John Witcombe answers have learned of the incredible opportunities that cathedrals offer resources and imagination to that work. – they really do welcome in an amazing cross section of the pop- a selection of questions ulation, and can provide a space for anyone to begin to make Who is your role model? sense of their life. They also present huge challenges – they exist When I was considering ordination, I was captivated by the story to offer hospitality, often consciously owning their Benedictine and example of David Watson, who had an extraordinary gift of for the Friends New Year tradition – but struggle to find the resources to make that a reality. communicating the gospel in an attractive way. Since then, I Their ministry, and their fabric, is hugely costly to maintain, and have continued to enjoy the example of anyone who communi- this can distract from the mission to all comers. cates well, or seems to have the gift of living life to the full – Newsletter Bishop Christopher and Dean John something not all clergy manage very well. What are the opportunities for English cathedrals in the 21st century? What was it that attracted you to apply to become who is the Children’s Worker in a large church in Bristol; Joe was It’s well known that cathedrals are bucking the trend of decline Ricarda and John on top of the World Dean of Coventry? studying engineering at Bristol University but had to withdraw in attendance at worship: congregations, and visitor numbers are Actually it was the diocesan priorities that first leapt out when I with severe ME, and lives at home with us. Ricarda has two adult up. The recent ‘Spiritual Capital’ report has identified the huge saw it advertised – Worshipping God; Making New Disciples; daughters: Tabitha and Emily. Tabi is studying Natural Sciences value that the population of this country place on cathedrals: Transforming Communities. I thought, that’s what I want to do! at Newcastle University, and Emily works in a doctor’s surgery in whether or not a person counts themselves as ‘religious’, there is Then as I looked further at the priorities of the cathedral for rec- Gloucester, and lives at home with us. We enjoy being part of a something in a cathedral that draws them and enables them to onciliation both closer to home and across the world stage I large family, although it does have its challenges! touch the divine. We offer not just a place for believing, but recognised the gospel that I offered my life for in ordination. also for belonging, and finding waymarks in a rapidly changing What is your vision for Coventry Cathedral in five years time? world. In short, we offer what people find themselves looking for What are you most looking forward to, once you become Dean? I want the cathedral to be secure its sense of mission, and in the – sometimes without knowing it beforehand! All of it, really. Leading a worshipping community. Tackling the resources to carry that out. It needs to be built securely on a real practical challenges, along with the team – the financial framework of partnerships – partnerships between the cathedral How do you see your first 100 days as Dean of Coventry? challenges are huge but something to get your teeth into. Build- community itself, and the city, the county, the diocese and the Frantic! Except that I know they can’t, and shouldn’t be – be- ing relationships across a diverse diocese, all of whom need to international community of the cross of nails. I’ve already used cause they also need to include space to pause and reflect on all own the cathedral as their home. Getting to know people in the the phrase, “hand in hand in hand’, and you’ll be hearing that I am experiencing before it becomes so familiar that I forget how city and working with others for the good of Coventry. Travelling again. Like many of us, I have strong feelings about admission it may strike a visitor, or outsider. I enjoy meeting new people, to meet partners in the Community of the Cross of Nails, and wel- charges, and would dearly love to find those who would partner and I look forward to getting out into the diocese and city from coming them into the cathedral. There’s so much to be excited with us to make such charges unnecessary. I hope that as we the word go – I hope the cathedral community themselves will about. begin to move into our second half century in the new cathedral be a little patient with me as I take the opportunities of being the that we will find ways to enable it to ‘flex’ – to be supple, rather ‘new boy’ to establish some important relationships which will be important for the years to come. I look forward to days of L-R, Ricarda, Abigail, than rigid, as we explore ‘what next’ in what might appear a ‘set piece’ building. I am very excited indeed by the contemporary ‘miracles and wonder’, of new discoveries, of enjoying worship Emily, Tabitha and in the cathedral and the diversity of the city. Anna three fold agenda of the community of the cross of nails – healing wounded history, learning to live with difference and celebrate diversity, and building a culture of peace – and hope to see these What do you see as the unique problems and possibilities for really embedded across the diocese, and making a difference to Coventry Cathedral? the presence of the cathedral in the city. And I believe that God That’s quite a question! If I had a pound for every person who has a purpose for us in the wider Anglican Communion, as a has said to me – “Oh yes, I visited there. Fabulous building. I place and ministry which can draw people from quite diverse, went about thirty years ago. I haven’t been back.” – we might What are you reading at present? even opposing, backgrounds together in the service of the gospel. solve our financial challenges. The cathedral has had fifty years I usually have several books on the go. At the moment I’m read- So, quite a lot to aim for! of extraordinary history – over seventy since the old cathedral ing a collection called ‘Journey of the Heart’ in the morning, was destroyed. But what of the next fifty years? Both the build- which is an excellent overview of Christian contemplative writ- What does your present role as Director of Discipleship and ing, and the ministry, may need to ‘flex’ somewhat to respond to ers; Basil Spence’s ‘Phoenix in Coventry’ in the evening; and Ministry in Gloucester involve? changing contexts of mission and ministry, and to learn what God ‘Hope and Glory’ by Stuart Maconie to go to sleep with – that’s Well, I’m responsible for nurturing vocation and ongoing forma- is doing now and next, not just what he was doing sixty or sev- a semi-comic history cum geography of Britain in the twentieth tion in discipleship and for every sort of ministry throughout the enty years ago. Our story is unique, but isn’t at an end – we are century. I’ve just finished two fabulous books: ‘Jesus Freak’ by Gloucester diocese – alongside the Bishop, of course. Some of at a point of needing to write the next chapter. I see us playing Sara Miles, a wonderful liberal-evangelical description of out- Will you tell us about your wife and family? my team work with those considering ordination or other forms a vital part in national and international reconciliation in the reach ministry in San Francisco, very inspiring for any cathedral; My wife Ricarda is a priest, working at the moment as vicar of of licensed ministry, like Readers or members of lay ministry church (perhaps more than we have) as well as in the wider and ‘The Lying Days’ by Nadine Gordimer, an evocative and St. Paul’s and Stephen’s, a fairly inner city church in Gloucester. teams. Others support discipleship across the whole church. We world – at a time when the worldwide Anglican communion is provocative novel about South Africa from the 1950’s. We have been married for twelve years – we met after my first also support those who are in licensed ministry – ongoing min- threatening to fracture, perhaps our history and experience can wife, who was also a priest, sadly died with Multiple Sclerosis. I istry development. There are about a dozen in the team, and offer something? As with everywhere that owns such a key event What is your favourite picture? have three adult children: Joe, Abi and Anna. Anna is studying there’s never enough time for all the opportunities, but it’s been in history, we need to recognise how that enables but can also I have an original oil painting on my wall called ‘Regina’, by Osi costume interpretation (for stage or screen) in London; Abi works a very rewarding time. I’ve been in the department for over seven trap us – and we need to remember that a new generation simply Rhys Osmond, painted in the Sudan when he was there with at the moment as a teaching assistant, and is married to Matti, years, and before I was the Director I spent the first five years as may not know the story. Christian Aid. It was given me as I left my church in Uxbridge 4 5