There is much for me to give thanks for as I prepare for my diocesan farewell service on 06 July at 15.30 and my subsequent retirement as Dean of Wakefield: the privilege, along with my fellow deans in Ripon and Bradford, of supporting the ministry of Bishop Nick; the gifted team of staff and clergy I have worked with; the joy of worshipping in such a beautiful space every day; and the wonderful diversity of the congregations who make up the cathedral's worshipping community. But above all I give thanks for the opportunities for mission and ministry that Wakefield Cathedral, right at the centre of our great city, enjoys. My colleagues here are used to me referring to my stated wish, when I was appointed, to 'turn the cathedral inside out'. In other words, to make ourselves open and available to our partners across the various sectors of our city, district and diocese. Art exhibitions, concerts (ranging from the Sixteen to Jethro Tull!), graduations, nave dinners, civic services, Messy Cathedral, diocesan spirituality days, all this and much else besides brings people from a huge range of demographics into the building.
The first thing you see when you come into Wakefield Cathedral is a magnificent rood beam: the crucified Christ flanked by St John and the Blessed Virgin; and underneath the words of John 3.16: God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not perish but may have eternal life. This verse is sometimes called ‘the Gospel in a nutshell’, and we hope that the unconditional welcome we seek always to offer to all, along with the understated but profound beauty of the building, combine to offer this Gospel message of God's love for all who come through our doors, for whatever reason.
I leave the cathedral, the city and the diocese with thankfulness for God’s blessings during my time as Dean of Wakefield, with hope and confidence for all that is to come – and with a final reminder that it is your cathedral where you will always find a welcome.