A significant moment in the life of St Albans Cathedral took place on Saturday 6 June as we gathered for a special service of Choral Evensong marking the installation of the Cathedral’s new Canon Chancellor.  The Revd Canon Dr Jennifer Cooper was formally welcomed into her new role.

The Bishop of Beswick, the Rt Revd Mark Wroe, preached at the service, underlining the importance of the occasion for both the Cathedral and the wider Diocese of St Albans.

At the heart of the ceremony was the formal installation itself, in which Jennifer was admitted to the Cathedral’s governing body, known as the Chapter. As part of the rite, she took her place in the Quire, symbolising her new responsibilities and role within the life of the Cathedral.

Canon Jennifer said:

I have been met with such kindness and hospitality since arriving. I feel very blessed. My gratitude to all who prepared and shared in this beautiful liturgy this afternoon. There is a deep sense of community at the Cathedral; I very much look forward to getting to know people here and in the wider diocese as I begin my ministry in this special place

Jennifer brings a distinguished background in theology, ministry and education, with experience spanning parish ministry, cathedral life and theological formation.

As Canon Chancellor, she now takes on a key leadership role at St Albans Cathedral. The position carries particular responsibility for education, learning and outreach, as well as helping to shape how the Cathedral engages with visitors, pilgrims and the wider community.

Dean Jo said:

We are delighted to welcome the Revd Dr Jennifer Cooper as our new Canon Chancellor. With her international ecumenical ministry, academic leadership across the Church of English and deep pastoral experience supporting curates and parishes, Jennifer brings many gifts of ministry to support our shared vision to follow Christ in Albans footsteps.  We offer Jennifer a warm St Albans welcome and look forward to all that we will share together in the years ahead.

Dean Jo (first female Dean of St Albans), Canon Jennifer (first female Canon Chancellor of St Albans Cathedral) and Bishop Jane (first female Bishop of Hertford)

📷 Toby Shepheard