News: Installation of the New Dean of Guildford | Sunday 26 January 2025 3pm

Installation of new Dean of Guildford 

Guildford Cathedral is delighted to announce the installation of its new Dean, The Venerable Bob Cooper.  

In a special service to be held on Sunday, 26 January 2025, at 3pm. The service, a momentous occasion in the life of the Cathedral and the Diocese, will be presided over by the Bishop of Guildford, the Right Reverend Andrew Watson. 

The Venerable Bob Cooper brings extensive experience and a passion for community engagement, succeeds The Very Reverend Dianna Gwilliams who retired in September 2023. As Dean, The Venerable Bob Cooper will lead the Cathedral’s mission, ensuring it continues to be a beacon of faith, outreach, and cultural enrichment in Guildford and beyond. 

The installation service will feature: 

• A ceremonial procession of clergy and dignitaries. 

• Uplifting choral music led by the Guildford Cathedral Choir. 

• A sermon by the new Dean. 

• Prayers and blessings as Bob assume the responsibilities of Dean. 

Reflecting on this new chapter, Bob said: “I am deeply honoured to join Guildford Cathedral as Dean. This sacred space holds a special place in the hearts of many, and I look forward to working with the congregation, the Diocese, and the wider community to further our shared mission of faith, service, and hope.” 

Rt Rev Andrew Watson, Bishop of Guildford said: 

“I am delighted that Bob will be joining us in the Diocese in a challenging but exciting time in the life of our beloved Cathedral.  Bob’s gifts and experience closely match the needs of the Cathedral community at this time, and I pray that his time among us might prove fruitful and joyful” 

The Cathedral community warmly invites all to attend this joyous occasion. For those unable to join in person, the service will be live streamed via the Cathedral’s website and social media channels. YouTube link here https://www.youtube.com/@GuildCath 

The appointment of The Venerable Bob Cooper marks an exciting new era for Guildford Cathedral, building on its rich history and commitment to welcome, spirituality, and outreach. As Dean, Bob will oversee the Cathedral’s worship, operations, and ongoing efforts to serve as a place of solace and inspiration for all. 

As Guildford Cathedral approaches its 65th anniversary in May 2026, this new leadership promises to further strengthen its role as a cornerstone of the community and a symbol of faith and resilience. 

Ends  

For more information contact Nicola Pratt, Head of Development at Guildford Cathedral on 01483 547884 Headofdevelopment@guildford-cathedral.org 

INVITATION TO PRESS 

If you would like to attend the installation Nicola Pratt, Head of Development at Guildford Cathedral on 01483 547 884 Headofdevelopment@guildford-cathedral.org 

The livestream of the installation will be via YouTube and will be available for 48 hours after the service. 

Installation of new Dean of Guildford 

14 January 2024 

 

Guildford Cathedral is delighted to announce the installation of its new Dean, The Venerable Bob Cooper.  

In a special service to be held on Sunday, 26 January 2025, at 3pm. The service, a momentous occasion in the life of the Cathedral and the Diocese, will be presided over by the Bishop of Guildford, the Right Reverend Andrew Watson. 

The Venerable Bob Cooper brings extensive experience and a passion for community engagement, succeeds The Very Reverend Dianna Gwilliams who retired in September 2023. As Dean, The Venerable Bob Cooper will lead the Cathedral’s mission, ensuring it continues to be a beacon of faith, outreach, and cultural enrichment in Guildford and beyond. 

The installation service will feature: 

• A ceremonial procession of clergy and dignitaries. 

• Uplifting choral music led by the Guildford Cathedral Choir. 

• A sermon by the new Dean. 

• Prayers and blessings as Bob assume the responsibilities of Dean. 

Reflecting on this new chapter, Bob said: “I am deeply honoured to join Guildford Cathedral as Dean. This sacred space holds a special place in the hearts of many, and I look forward to working with the congregation, the Diocese, and the wider community to further our shared mission of faith, service, and hope.” 

Rt Rev Andrew Watson, Bishop of Guildford said: 

“I am delighted that Bob will be joining us in the Diocese in a challenging but exciting time in the life of our beloved Cathedral.  Bob’s gifts and experience closely match the needs of the Cathedral community at this time, and I pray that his time among us might prove fruitful and joyful” 

The Cathedral community warmly invites all to attend this joyous occasion. For those unable to join in person, the service will be live streamed via the Cathedral’s website and social media channels. YouTube link here https://www.youtube.com/@GuildCath 

 

The appointment of The Venerable Bob Cooper marks an exciting new era for Guildford Cathedral, building on its rich history and commitment to welcome, spirituality, and outreach. As Dean, Bob will oversee the Cathedral’s worship, operations, and ongoing efforts to serve as a place of solace and inspiration for all. 

As Guildford Cathedral approaches its 65th anniversary in May 2026, this new leadership promises to further strengthen its role as a cornerstone of the community and a symbol of faith and resilience. 

Ends  

For more information contact Nicola Pratt, Head of Development at Guildford Cathedral on 01483 547884 Headofdevelopment@guildford-cathedral.org 

INVITATION TO PRESS 

If you would like to attend the installation Nicola Pratt, Head of Development at Guildford Cathedral on 01483 547 884 Headofdevelopment@guildford-cathedral.org 

The livestream of the installation will be via YouTube and will be available for 48 hours after the service.  https://www.youtube.com/@GuildCath 

Find out more about Bob on your YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NZWXF3XBtko 

Find out more about Bob on your YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NZWXF3XBtko 

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Added Friday 24th January 2025