Appointment by the Lord Chancellor of Rochester Cathedral's Canon for Worship and Spirituality

The Chapter of Rochester Cathedral is delighted to announce the appointment by the Lord Chancellor, of the Revd. Canon Christopher Dench, as the Cathedral’s new Canon for Worship and Spirituality. 

Chris is currently the Director of Formation and Ministry in the Diocese of Rochester, a full-time role he has held since 2010.  In 2018, Chris also became a Residentiary Canon, a member of 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.

Regarding 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 where 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’.  

Canon Chris will continue in his role as residentiary Canon and Chapter member until he takes up his new role with effect from 1st September 2023.  The date of installation will be advised over the next few weeks.