Today (3rd October) The Venerable Robert (Bob) Cooper, Archdeacon of Sunderland has been appointed as the new Dean of Guildford, succeeding The Very Reverend Dianna Gwilliams who served in the role for a decade.
The official appointment which has been approved by The King will be followed by an installation at Guildford Cathedral on 26 January 2025.
Born and raised in Lancashire, Bob went on to study 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.
Guildford Cathedral is the newest Cathedral in the Church of England, having been consecrated in 1961, and is the only Cathedral dedicated to the Holy Spirit. Bob Cooper will be its sixth Dean.
Despite coming from the Diocese of Durham almost 300 miles away, there are strong links in the very brickwork of Guildford Cathedral, with the Jarrow Stone plaque honouring the philanthropic efforts of Surrey in support of the town of Jarrow, Co Durham during the economic depression of the 1930s.
His appointment will be marked by a celebration event at the Cathedral for staff, dignitaries and clergy including the Bishop of Guildford Andrew Watson, head of the Diocese of Guildford which includes 156 parishes.
Bob who is married to Kate Cooper and has four children, has served as Archdeacon of Sunderland since 2018. During his time there he championed under-represented communities to address issues including urban and rural poverty. He will take on this new role as the Cathedral fast approaches its 65th anniversary and looks to the future.
Speaking of his appointment, The Venerable Robert Cooper, Dean Designate of Guildford said: “I am excited to be starting this new chapter at the Guildford Cathedral and to help grow numbers and outreach to all.
“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 Right Reverend Andrew Watson, Bishop of Guildford 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”.