Archdeacon Paul Mackness appointed Dean of St Davids Cathedral

The Bishop of St Davids has today announced the appointment of the Venerable Paul Mackness, Archdeacon of St Davids, as the new Dean of St Davids Cathedral.

The appointment follows an open and transparent recruitment process, and Paul will take up his new role in the middle of October.

As Dean, Paul will lead the life and ministry of St Davids Cathedral, one of Wales’ most significant Christian sites and a place of worship and pilgrimage at the heart of the Diocese of St Davids.

Speaking following his appointment, Paul said:

“I am extremely honoured to have been asked to take on such an important role.

“St Davids Cathedral is not only of enormous importance to the Diocese of St Davids, but to the whole of Wales. It is our mother church, a place at the heart of the story of Christianity in Wales and home to the national shrine of St David.

“There are undoubtedly significant challenges ahead. The Cathedral is facing difficult times, both financially and structurally, but I am confident that by working together as a team, drawing on the support of others and, above all, through prayer, we can achieve good things in God’s name.

“I am very much looking forward to beginning this new chapter in the middle of October.”

The Right Reverend Dorrien Davies, Bishop of St Davids, said:

“I am delighted that Paul has accepted the call to serve as Dean of St Davids.

“He brings with him a deep understanding of our Diocese, considerable pastoral and leadership experience, and, above all, a strong commitment to the mission of the Church.

“St Davids Cathedral holds a very special place in the life of our Diocese and in the Christian story of Wales. It is also entering an important period in its long history, and I know that Paul approaches the role with a clear understanding of both the challenges and the opportunities before us.

“I look forward to working closely with Paul, the Cathedral Chapter and the wider Cathedral community as we seek together to ensure that this remarkable place continues to be a centre of prayer, pilgrimage, worship and Christian witness for generations to come.”

Paul currently serves as Archdeacon of St Davids and brings extensive experience of ministry and leadership within the Diocese to his new role.

St Davids Cathedral has been a centre of Christian worship and pilgrimage for centuries and continues to welcome worshippers, pilgrims and visitors from across Wales and around the world.

Further details regarding Paul’s installation as Dean will be announced in due course.