Everyone is invited to the The Collation and Installation of The Revd Prebendary Joseph Fernandes as Vice Dean and Canon for Congregation and Community by The Rt Revd Dr Guli Francis-Dehqani, Bishop of Chelmsford.
Joseph trained for ministry at Ripon College Cuddesdon and began his ordained journey serving his curacy in the Diocese of Oxford. Since then, he has served faithfully in the Diocese of London, as Rector of St Mary’s Acton in East London, Vicar of St Hilda’s, Ashford, Middlesex, and Area Dean of Spelthorne. He also holds the honour of being a Prebendary of St Paul’s Cathedral.
Throughout his ministry, Joseph has been deeply committed to creating inclusive, welcoming communities where people of all backgrounds can encounter God’s love and grow in faith. He is passionate about racial and social justice and serves as Diocesan Chaplain in the Diocese of London for Gypsy, Roman and Traveller communities, advocating for one of the most marginalised and overlooked ethnic groups in society.
Originally from Portugal, Joseph values the richness that diverse cultures bring to the life of the Church. Joseph is married, with two children and a beloved dog."
"I feel truly honoured to have been appointed as Vice Dean and Residentiary Canon for Congregation and Community of Chelmsford Cathedral. It is a profound privilege to begin this new chapter serving the people of Essex and East London, and I step forward with a heart full of gratitude, hope, and joy. I am excited to journey alongside the cathedral family, sharing in the richness of our faith, the strength of our hope, and the power of God’s love. Please hold me and my family in your prayers as we prepare to move, trusting deeply in God’s guidance and presence every step of the way. I look forward with anticipation to all that God has prepared in this next season."