The Revd Canon Dr Stephen Evans has been installed as the new Dean of Southwell in a special service held in the cathedral.
New Dean of Southwell Installed
The service was a significant moment in the life of the Cathedral and the Diocese, and was presided over by the Bishop of Southwell and Nottingham, The Right Reverend Paul Williams.
Stephen, who brings extensive experience and a passion for community engagement, succeeds The Revd Canon Dr Neil Evans (no relation), who has served as Interim Dean since November 2024.
Over 500 guests gathered to witness the installation and the day was filled with music from the Cathedral Choir and the Minster Chorale.
Dean Stephen said: “I am enormously grateful to everyone who came together to welcome me as Dean of Southwell.
“It is a great joy to have been chosen to be the next Dean of Southwell. Diana and I are very happy to have come back to the East Midlands after almost sixteen years in central London. I am indebted to The Revd Canon Dr Neil Evans, who has brought so much to the Cathedral and Chapter through his time as Interim Dean.
“I look forward to beginning my work alongside my Minster colleagues and the congregation in proclaiming the hope-filled message of God’s healing and reconciling love, throughout the county, city, towns and villages of Nottinghamshire and parts of South Yorkshire.”
‘I have received great feedback from many who attended the service to say how tangibly they felt the warmth and love of everyone gathered in the cathedral.
“May that love continue to enfold and protect us all through the years ahead.”
In welcoming Stephen to his new role, Bishop Paul said
“I know that Stephen will bring considerable experience, wisdom and vision for the further development of the Minster. We are thrilled he will be taking on this senior role in the diocese at a time of exciting growth and development, as we seek to make a bigger difference in every community.”
The Cathedral Chapter warmly thanked CCLA Investment Management, The Friends of Southwell Cathedral and Southwell Minster Choir Association for their generous support of this event.
