The Next Dean of Southwark Declared

Following the retirement of the former dean of Southwark, the next dean of Southwark a district of Central London has been declared to be Rev Canon Mark Oakley.

One year after the retirement of the former dean of Southwark Rev Canon Andrew Nunn, who announced his retirement last year after 24 years of serving the cathedral, Rev Canon Mark Oakley, the current dean of chapel and fellow of St John’s College, Cambridge, has been declared on Sunday as the next Dean of Southwark, reports Church Times.

Responding to his appointment Oakley said he is “very honored, and a little daunted, to be asked to continue the ministry of the Dean of Southwark.”

“I have been grateful all my life for the existence of Southwark Cathedral, for its witness to the gospel through learning and formation, arts and the imagination, local partnerships, and a commitment to social justice,” he added.

Oakley went on to express his gratitude for the new appointment. He also solicited prayers for his upcoming office.

“I am now deeply grateful to be asked to become a part of its life and mission, and I ask for your prayers as I prepare to join the people of the cathedral and diocese.”

“Our vocation is to embody a sacramental, poetic, and just Christian faith that resonates with both joy and integrity. I really look forward to making new friends as we seek to do this together,” he said.

The Bishop of Southwark, the Rt Revd Christopher Chessun has acknowledged  Oakley’s new appointment. He said, “Oakley is a person of depth, insight, and integrity who brings with him a wealth of priestly experience offered in many different contexts.”

Chessun added that his experience “will equip him well for the prominent role he will now take on.” He also “looks forward to working with him.”

Rev Canon Oakley will be officially installed Dean at Choral Evensong in Southwark Cathedral on 3rd December 2023.

 

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