Introducing Will

As I write this, I am six weeks in post as Canon for Mission and Pastoral Care. It has been great to hit the ground running and to have already met a good number of people involved in the busy life of our Cathedral and community. The role of Canon for Mission and Pastoral Care is about looking in (at least) two directions at the same time. The Pastoral Care element of the title is about leading the team in terms of the care and support we offer to our regular worshipping congregation and also being the first port of call for baptisms, weddings and funerals. The Mission part is about looking out beyond the Cathedral to how we live out our core values and relate to local charities and organisations in our community and globally. It is of little use to have a faith that is not matched by our actions.

I have been appointed as the lead member of staff on the Environment, driving change and striving for us to become Net Carbon Zero by 2030. It is a daunting challenge but one we are firmly committed to. It will be about looking honestly at the ways we can reduce consumption, recycle and reuse our resources where possible, both as an organisation but also in our households as well. The task can feel enormous but small changes really can make a very considerable difference. Care for God’s creation is a Gospel imperative and not just a desirable extra. And alongside this, I will be working with our Social Justice Group and Mission Giving teams to look at how we can make a tangible difference to the lives of those in St Albans and beyond, especially the most vulnerable and needy. I am so excited to be in this role and look forward to being able to share news and progress regularly though our website and our publications. And do get in touch if these issues matter to you as well – I would love it if you got involved and helped us to take this Kingdom work forward.

Will Gibbs Canon for Mission and Pastoral Care