New Canons to Join Norwich Cathedral: A Celebration of Faith, Expertise, and Community Service
A Prestigious Recognition of Spiritual Leadership
In a significant development for Norwich Cathedral, three distinguished individuals are set to be installed as canons during an Evensong service on Tuesday, October 14. This prestigious appointment will welcome Dr. Claire Gilbert as a lay canon, along with the Reverend Dr. Richard Lamey and the Reverend Martin Greenland as honorary canons. Their diverse backgrounds and profound contributions to faith, scholarship, and community service represent the multifaceted nature of modern spiritual leadership within the Anglican Church. The Cathedral, standing as the mother church of the Diocese of Norwich, continues its centuries-old tradition of recognizing those who enrich religious life and thought throughout Norfolk and Waveney. This appointment reflects the Cathedral’s ongoing commitment to bridging historical Christian traditions with contemporary spiritual needs.
Dr. Claire Gilbert: Julian of Norwich Scholar and Public Ethics Advocate
Dr. Claire Gilbert brings a remarkable breadth of experience to her new role as lay canon. As a theologian, author, and retreat leader, she has established herself as a leading voice on Julian of Norwich, the 14th-century mystic who was the first woman to write a book in the English language. Gilbert’s acclaimed book “I, Julian” reconstructs Julian’s extraordinary life during the plague years, depicting her spiritual visions and the risks she took as a female religious writer in medieval England. Former Archbishop of Canterbury Rowan Williams praised the work as “a brilliantly illuminating companion” to Julian’s writings. Gilbert’s connection to Julian began during her theology studies at Oxford University, where Julian’s work stood out as “a shining star in an otherwise dull degree.” Beyond her scholarly work, Gilbert has made significant contributions to public ethics, having served as founding director of the Westminster Abbey Institute and as a national policy adviser to the Church of England on medical and environmental ethics. Her appointment represents an opportunity to further elevate Julian of Norwich’s profound spiritual legacy.
The Reverend Dr. Richard Lamey: Nurturing Mission and Ministry
The Reverend Dr. Richard Lamey comes to his honorary canon position while serving as the Director of Mission and Ministry for the Diocese of Norwich. In this vital diocesan role, he provides essential support to clergy and lay leaders while fostering discipleship and vocational development throughout the region. Expressing humility upon receiving Bishop Graham’s invitation, Lamey spoke of his deep appreciation for the Diocese: “I have had the most amazing time ever since I came to work in the Diocese and moved to Norwich. I am relishing working with amazing people, getting out and about to see what is happening all across the Diocese and helping us all to listen to what God is calling us to be as disciples and pilgrims.” Having quickly developed a profound connection with Norwich Cathedral, Lamey already participates in monthly midweek services and values the Cathedral’s exceptional atmosphere for prayer. He describes it as “a particularly happy and friendly Cathedral” and looks forward to strengthening the relationship between the Diocese and its Mother Church through his new role.
The Reverend Martin Greenland: Devoted Rural Ministry and Community Service
The third appointee, the Reverend Martin Greenland, brings extensive experience in rural parish ministry to the College of Canons. Having served as Rector of Acle for 17 years and as Rector of the Acle and Bure to Yare Benefice for the past decade, Greenland has demonstrated remarkable dedication to community-based spiritual leadership. He also fulfills the important role of Rural Dean of Blofield. His appointment recognizes the vital grassroots ministry that sustains parish life across Norfolk’s rural communities. With characteristic humility, Greenland acknowledged that this honor reflects not just his work, but the collaborative ministry he shares “with many others: seeking to serve God and neighbour in our local communities.” Having previously served in the dioceses of York and Sheffield before finding his home in Norfolk, Greenland brought with him a lifelong interest in nature that has flourished in the county’s distinctive landscape. In his new canonical role, he hopes to strengthen the vital connection between the Cathedral and parish churches, serving as a representative in both directions.
The Significance of Cathedral Canons in Diocesan Life
The appointment of canons represents more than honorary titles; it reflects the Cathedral’s historical and ongoing role as a center for diocesan leadership and spiritual guidance. Norwich Cathedral’s College of Canons comprises 24 ordained honorary canons and 12 lay canons, alongside archdeacons and suffragan bishops. This distinguished body meets three times annually to worship together, receive updates from Cathedral leadership, and develop strategies for advancing the Cathedral’s mission throughout Norfolk and Waveney. Bishop Graham Usher emphasized the significant contributions each new canon brings: “The two new honorary canons Revd Richard Lamey and Revd Martin Greenland, have made, and continue to make, a significant contribution to the life of the diocese. And Claire Gilbert, the new lay canon brings an impressive range of experience in policy and ethics and as well as her deep interest in Mother Julian.” The appointments strengthen the vital connections between the Cathedral and diverse expressions of faith across the region.
A Forward-Looking Cathedral in Historical Context
Dean Andrew Braddock’s comments highlight how these appointments enhance Norwich Cathedral’s dual role as both a historical institution and a living, evolving spiritual center. “Martin and Richard strengthen the Cathedral’s links with ministry across the diocese, enhancing its role as mother church across Norfolk and Waveney. Claire not only brings a rich appreciation of Julian of Norwich, but also extensive experience of the role cathedrals can play in education and shaping public debate. I look forward to working with them all.” This collaborative vision reflects Norwich Cathedral’s centuries-old tradition of adapting to meet contemporary spiritual needs while honoring its historic foundations. As one of England’s most magnificent Norman cathedrals, with its stunning cloisters and towering spire, Norwich Cathedral continues to evolve as a spiritual home for Norfolk’s faithful and a center for theological reflection and community engagement. The installation service on October 14 will not only honor these three distinguished individuals but also celebrate the Cathedral’s ongoing vitality and relevance in the spiritual life of East Anglia.
