We are delighted to announce the appointment of Stephen Stokes as our Dean's Verger (Head Verger), joining the Chelmsford Cathedral community this July.
Stephen brings with him an exceptional depth of experience, having served as a Verger since 1999. He has been Chapel Clerk at St John's College, Cambridge since 2007 and he currently serves as General Secretary to the Church of England Guild of Vergers.
Stephen's distinguished service to the Church has been recognised with a number of significant honours. In 2020 he was appointed Ostiarius of the Convocation of Canterbury, an honorary role within the House of Bishops in the See of Canterbury. Then in 2021, the Church of England Guild of Vergers bestowed upon him its Fellowship - the highest honour the Guild can award.
Chelmsford Cathedral's Canon Precentor, The Revd Canon Sebastian Harries, warmly welcomed the appointment:
"Stephen is someone whose faith is evident in everything he does, and it underpins a truly remarkable career in service to the Church. He arrives with a wealth of knowledge, deep professional roots, and a genuine passion for the ministry of verging. We cannot wait to welcome him into the life of this Cathedral and to see him lead and inspire our verging team."
Stephen takes up his new role in July, and we look forward to introducing him to our congregation and wider Cathedral family in due course.
