Wakefield Cathedral welcomed guests from across the city, county and wider Diocese of Leeds on Saturday, March 7 for a joyful service marking the installation of the Very Revd Dr Philip Hobday as Dean of Wakefield.
The special service brought together clergy, civic leaders, representatives from local organisations and schools, and members of the cathedral congregation to celebrate the beginning of this new chapter in the cathedral’s life.
The service included a number of historic traditions that mark the start of a Dean’s ministry.
Dean Philip was formally inducted as Vicar of the Cathedral Church of All Saints and installed as Dean during the service led by the Rt Revd Toby Howarth, Acting Bishop of Leeds.
As part of the ceremony, he was presented with the keys of the cathedral and rang the cathedral bell to symbolise the beginning of his new ministry in Wakefield and the wider diocese.
Speaking after the service, Dean Philip said: “Seeing Wakefield Cathedral so full of partners and supporters from across the diocese and wider community was a huge encouragement in this new stage of its life.
“Thank you to all those who came and all who made a wonderful celebration happen, and all those who have sent kind messages.
“I am glad to be beginning this new work with the many people and communities we serve in this amazing place of Christian witness and service.”
During his sermon, Dean Philip reflected on the importance of cathedrals as places where people from all walks of life can gather.
He spoke about the cathedral as a shared space for the whole community, somewhere people can pause, reflect and connect with others in the midst of busy lives.
The congregation warmly welcomed Dean Philip following his installation, with representatives from across the region offering greetings on behalf of the county, the city of Wakefield, the Diocese of Leeds and the cathedral community.
Dean Philip has served as part of the Wakefield Cathedral team since September 2022 and became Dean in January 2026.
Ordained in 2006, he has previously served as a parish priest in east Kent and Reading and worked as a university chaplain and theology lecturer.
Alongside his cathedral ministry, he is Chair of Governors at Trinity Academy Cathedral, supporting education within one of Wakefield’s most diverse and deprived communities.
Music during the service was led by the cathedral’s choirs and following the service, guests gathered in the cathedral for refreshments and the opportunity to meet Dean Philip and celebrate together.
Wakefield Cathedral has stood at the heart of the city for centuries, serving as a place of prayer, music, reflection and community life.
The installation of a new Dean marks an important moment in the continuing story of the cathedral and its ministry to the people of Wakefield and the wider Diocese of Leeds.