A new Canon Missioner has been installed at Winchester Cathedral following a special Evensong service that took place on Saturday 20th November.
The Revd Dr Tess Kuin Lawton, former Chaplain at Worcester College, Oxford, officially joined the Dean and Chapter during a traditional service, in which Tess was collated by the Acting Bishop of Winchester, the Rt Revd Debbie Sellin and installed by the Dean of Winchester, the Very Revd Catherine Ogle.
Speaking of the installation, the Revd Dr Tess Kuin Lawton said, “What a symbolic and moving service! I am so pleased to be able to share the start of this new adventure with so many of the Cathedral congregation and surrounded by my family and friends.”
Ordained in the Diocese of Oxford in 2008, Tess has combined her work as NSM vicar of Black Bourton and Area Dean of Witney, with jobs as school and university Chaplain. She has a particular interest in understanding the Gospel in a secular world and through the Woodroffe Ethical discussion society, her students have helped her to wrestle with a number of contemporary questions.
Tess will now be responsible for leading the work of mission and evangelism across the Cathedral to build up its common life and enhance its contribution to the wider common good, while also developing new partnerships, working with volunteers, engaging with diverse audiences and encouraging the growth and nurture of the Cathedral congregation. This will include working with the schools and universities in the area as well as with young people and organisations throughout the city. Tess will also be a member of Chapter, the governing body of the Cathedral and will be pivotal in promoting the Cathedrals values to renew, inspire and unite people in faith, hope and love.
The Dean of Winchester, the Very Revd Catherine Ogle said, “I’m delighted to welcome Tess as the newest member of the Cathedral Chapter and to see her take her place within the life of the Cathedral. Tess brings considerable talent, experience and skills to the role of Canon Missioner as well as warmth of personality, and we’re all greatly looking forward to working with her in this important role.”
The Rt Reverend Debbie Sellin, Bishop of Southampton, said, “Tess’s appointment is a real benefit to the Cathedral and I know that she will be a brilliant addition to the team. Her creativity, wisdom and experience will be invaluable to the Chapter and the work of the Cathedral as we look to increase our contribution to the city and the wider Diocese. With Tess’s help, we will continue to grow the life and mission of the Cathedral.”