Bob’s Your New Dean at Guildford Cathedral

Published on: 5 Oct, 2024
Updated on: 8 Oct, 2024

Guildford Cathedral has a new dean – the Venerable Robert (Bob) Cooper, currently the Archdeacon of Sunderland.

The Venerable Robert (Bob) Cooper, Dean Designate at Guildford Cathedral.

The announcement was made by the Diocese of Guildford on Thursday, October 3, and his installation into his new post will take place on January 26. He will succeed the Very Reverend Dianna Gwilliams who has served in the role for a decade.

The diocese reports the new dean was born and raised in Lancashire, and studied theology at the Universities of Aberystwyth and Nottingham. He has a passion for mission, church growth and social justice, having played leading roles in prison chaplaincy and as part of his local board of education.

His appointment will be marked by a celebration event at the cathedral for staff, dignitaries and clergy including the Bishop of Guildford, the Rt Revd Andrew Watson, head of the Diocese of Guildford, which includes 156 parishes.

The dean designate, known to all as Bob, is married to Kate and they have four children.

He has served as Archdeacon of Sunderland since 2018. During his time there he has championed under-represented communities to address issues including urban and rural poverty.

He said: “There is a fantastic mission potential in this town and diocese, and I’d like to pay tribute to my predecessors, Dianna Gwilliams and Stuart Beake, for their leadership and ministry.

“While Guildford may have different issues and challenges to Durham, I look forward to continuing my focus in championing those people whose voices struggle to be heard, and ensuring the word of God inspires every connection and interaction the Cathedral has with our communities.”

The Bishop said: “We’re delighted that Bob is moving from the north-east of England to lead the life and mission of our cathedral. Bob comes with huge experience and considerable expertise and will bring fresh energy to the cathedral’s mission to the town, the county and the diocese. We welcome Bob and pray his time among us is faithful, fruitful and joyful.”