New Dean of Southwell Visits the Diocese
On Sunday, it was announced that the Revd Canon Dr Stephen Evans has been appointed as the new Dean of Southwell. On Monday he visited the diocese with his wife, Diana, to visit Southwell Minster and other churches in the diocese, and met members of the Minster Community as well as leaders from the county and diocese.
The morning included meetings with Bishop Paul, the Lord-Lieutenant for Nottinghamshire, Professor Veronica Pickering, and Interim Dean, Revd Canon Dr Neil Evans. They received a warm reception at the Minster as they were introduced to the Cathedral staff team, Chapter, and the College of Canons. During the visit, the Minster School were preparing for their Carol Services, which provided the dean designate an opportunity to meet with the head teacher, Ben Chaloner, and student representatives.
Recognising that the appointment serves the diocese as well as the Minster, Dr Evans travelled with Archdeacon of Nottingham, the Venerable Phil Williams, to visit St Mary’s in the Lace Market where he was welcomed by Revd Dr James Saunders, Vicar of St Mary’s, and Revd Jo Tatum, Nottingham Workplace Chaplain and Area Dean of Nottingham North. James took them on a short walk around the Lace Market area of the city.
They continued to Trinity Church Nottingham where the dean designate met with Revd Jonny Hughes, along with a number of younger leaders. They spoke about how Trinity was established and their hopes for the future. He also spent time with the interns and shared how encouraging he found their work and commitment. He also spoke about the importance of communicating the openness of the Church, emphasising that we all want people to hear the good news of Jesus: “it is not ours to keep to ourselves”.
We’re delighted at the appointment of Stephen as the new Dean of Southwell, and look forward to his installation at Choral Evensong in Southwell Minster at 3.30pm on 19th April 2026.