The current Director of Formation and Ministry at the Diocese will be taking up a new full-time role in Rochester Cathedral, it has been announced.
The Rev Canon Chris Dench will be the Cathedral's Canon for Worship and Spirituality.
Speaking about his new appointment, Chris said:
‘I have very much enjoyed my role as Director of Formation and Ministry for the past thirteen years and now look forward to being full-time at the Cathedral in this new role as Canon for Worship and Spirituality.'
He continued: 'I will oversee the liturgical and spiritual formation of the Cathedral community, and be responsible for leading those who resource, lead and contribute to the daily worship of the Cathedral’.
The Dean of Rochester, the Very Reverend Philip Hesketh said:
‘Canon Chris comes with an enormous amount of experience and wisdom. We look forward to continuing working with him in the Cathedral’s mission to serve the diocese, community, and nation and grow the Kingdom’.
Chris has been the Director of Formation and Ministry in the Diocese since 2010. In 2018, Chris also became a Residentiary Canon, a member of the Cathedral's Chapter, and Vice Dean of Rochester Cathedral. Chris is married to Viv, and they have two grown-up sons, both living away from home but still in Kent.
Canon Chris will continue in his role as residentiary Canon and Chapter member until he takes up his new role with effect from 1 September 2023.
The date of installation will be advised over the next few weeks.