After 13 years of ministry as Dean of Coventry Cathedral, Dean John Witcombe led his final services yesterday. His final sermon in the role was preached at Choral Evensong, bringing to a close a significant chapter of faithful and inspiring ministry. Over the past month, services, gatherings and celebrations have been held to give thanks for Dean John’s outstanding service and to mark his retirement. On Saturday 9 May, a ‘leaving do’ took place at the Cathedral with live music and dancing, alongside a number of smaller gatherings, including staff and deanery meetings, all described as being full of song and laughter.
At yesterday’s 10.30am Cathedral Eucharist, Dean John presided for the final time, giving the congregation an opportunity to gather in thanksgiving for his ministry as pastor, leader and friend. At the 4pm Choral Evensong, he reflected on the importance of imagination and the arts as vital tools in the ministry of reconciliation, and commissioned those who remain to continue this important work, choosing forgiveness over revenge. The Lord Mayor of Coventry, Cllr Rachel Lancaster, offered words of thanks on behalf of the city, as did Bishop Oliver Schuegraf, representing the Community of the Cross of Nails.
Bishop Sophie said:
“I’m grateful to John for the wholehearted way he has embraced the ministry of reconciliation, not only here in Coventry and at the Cathedral, but across the world in the name of Coventry. This is a remarkable ministry and a deeply important gift that we share with the world. It is important that I place on record my deep and profound thanks to John as he prepares for his retirement.”
In Dean John’s final week, Bishop Sophie and Dean John spent time together in the Cathedral ruins, reflecting on the arts, culture and the future.
You can watch that conversation here.
We continue to hold Dean John and his loved ones in our prayers, and we wish him every blessing and much joy as he begins this next chapter.
We also hold the Cathedral team in our prayers during this time of change, praying especially for all the people and communities who use the space or call it home. The process of appointing the new Dean of Coventry is well under way, and we remain hopeful for an autumn appointment. In the meantime, the Revd Canon Kate Massey will serve as Acting Dean of Coventry, supported by the Revd Canon Nitano Muller, Simon Danks the Cathedral’s Chief Operating Officer, and the Bishop’s Senior Staff Team.
