The Dean of Newcastle, the Very Revd Geoff Miller has announced he will retire this November.
During his tenure, he has steered the cathedral through the covid pandemic, a major refurbishment of the Cathedral and more recently, the death of our late Queen, Elizabeth II.
The £6m National Lottery Heritage Fund project, Common Ground in Sacred Space, was inspired by the cathedral’s ancient roots to recreate it as a dynamic hub for worship, community and business activity.
Works began in February 2020 and the cathedral reopened in summer 2021 with a much-improved interior, a new heritage interpretation scheme, improved disabled access, and a landscaped outdoor terrace.
Geoff said:
“The vision we created together has driven us to offer a radical welcome, inspiring worship and encounters that empower worth in each other. Even more important than the fabric of the building are the people; that is the incredible staff and volunteers, my talented clergy colleagues, and a vibrant congregation.
“It has been a joy to play a part in the continuing story of the Cathedral, helping to make this sacred place common ground.”
The Acting Bishop of Newcastle and Bishop of Berwick, the Right Reverend Mark Wroe, paid tribute to Geoff:
“Over the last four years, Geoff has served both Newcastle Cathedral and the people of the city and diocese with passion and commitment as Dean of Newcastle, and before that the wider Diocese since 1999, including his role as Archdeacon of Northumberland from 2005.
“Through the Common Ground in Sacred Space project, which secured multi-million-pound Heritage Lottery funding, Geoff has overseen the incredible transformation of our Cathedral into an inspirational place to visit and worship in the heart of Newcastle and a building that is fit for future generations. His consistent compassion for the most vulnerable in our society and his desire to work closely with other churches and faiths, and city institutions and businesses, has ensured the Cathedral plays a key role in city life.
“Geoff leaves a legacy that is inspiring. He retires with our deep gratitude for his friendship, wisdom and for all that he has given this Diocese. We keep him and his wife Elaine in our prayers and love as they prepare to enter this new stage of life.”
Over the next couple of months, Geoff will share his love of the cathedral with The Dean’s Farewell Tours, when visitors can join him on a special tour showcasing his favourite parts.
His last formal service at Newcastle Cathedral will be Choral Evensong on Sunday 20 November.
Photo Credit – Newcastle Chronicle
