After 21 years as a Canon of Winchester, Canon Roland Riem who is currently in the role of Interim Dean, will retire at the end of July, when he and his wife Sophie will return to Salisbury.
The Rt Revd Philip Mounstephen Bishop of Winchester said: “Canon Roly has been a remarkable servant of Winchester Cathedral and the wider Diocese over many years, and his good-humoured, calm, prayerful presence has been a great blessing to us. I’m particularly grateful to him for his leadership over the last year in bringing renewed peace and order after a challenging period in the Cathedral’s life. I wish him and Sophie God’s richest blessing in a retirement which I’m sure will be busy and full.”
Following the installation of Canon Chris Palmer as the next Dean of Winchester on 15 March, Roly will revert to his previous role as Vice-Dean. He will be supporting Dean Chris as he settles into Winchester, and will also complete some important projects as part of his handover.
Roly Riem said: “The Riem family have loved living here and being a part of this wonderful community. To have served as Canon Pastor, Missioner and Chancellor under three Deans, and having been Vice-Dean, Acting Dean and Interim Dean, has been a privilege. The multitude of talented and committed colleagues have made the duties of office both a joy and an honour. Winchester Cathedral will continue to hold a special place in my heart, and I look forward to watching, from not too far away, how the next chapter of its history unfolds with Dean Chris at the helm.”
Vice-Dean Roly’s farewell service will be at the 11am Eucharist on Sunday 5 July. More details will follow in due course.