Norwich Cathedral welcomes new Canon Pastor

Norwich Cathedral welcomed a new Residentiary Canon during Choral Evensong on Tuesday 24 February.

The Revd Canon Liz Leaver was installed as the Cathedral’s Canon Pastor and blessed by the Bishop of Norwich at the service sung by the Cathedral Choir.

In her new role Canon Liz will take the lead in the pastoral care of the Cathedral congregation and community, and she will oversee the hospitality and welcome given to the hundreds of pilgrims and visitors who come to the Cathedral each year.

Canon Liz joins the Cathedral’s clergy team that is led by the Dean of Norwich, the Very Revd Dr Andrew Braddock, and includes the Revd Dr Peter Doll, Vice Dean and Canon Librarian, and the Revd Canon Aidan Platten, Canon Precentor.

She said: “I am delighted to be joining the team at Norwich Cathedral. My Irish heritage has given me a deep love of stories, and my life has been enriched time and again by the privilege of hearing them — from all kinds of people, often in unexpected places. I look forward to hearing the stories of the cathedral community — and of all who come as visitors and pilgrims — and together encountering God.

“I also feel a sense of privilege at entering into the Benedictine heritage - with the rhythm of prayer, welcome and learning.

“My family and I really appreciate the warm welcome we have received.”

Canon Liz grew up in Belfast and moved to England to study. After a career in early AI, in 1993 she was ordained in Ely diocese and has subsequently served in Liverpool, Chester and Manchester dioceses in UK parishes and chaplaincy. Most recently she was chaplain to Stockport Grammar School in Cheshire.

She is married with two children in their early twenties and enjoys playing tennis and hiking.

The Bishop of Norwich, the Rt Revd Graham Usher, said: “It is a joy to welcome Liz as Canon Pastor of Norwich Cathedral. She will work around three areas – caring for the congregation and community; helping people grow in faith; and coordinating the welcome of pilgrims and visitors. I am looking forward to seeing all that she will bring to this important and exciting ministry."

The Dean of Norwich, the Very Revd Dr Andrew Braddock, said: “We are delighted to welcome Liz as the Cathedral’s new Canon Pastor. She brings a wealth of ministerial experience, including from parish, school and hospital settings. We look forward to all that she will contribute to the Cathedral’s life.”

The appointment of the Revd Canon Liz Leaver as Canon Pastor follows the retirement of the Revd Canon Andy Bryant last summer after 10 years as the Cathedral's Canon for Mission and Pastoral Care.