Today, on Holy Cross Day, the Very Reverend Dr Edward Dowler was installed as Dean of Chichester.
The special event was attended by the community, representatives from across the Diocese of Chichester, as well as local dignitaries including representatives of His Majesty King Charles III, the Lord Lieutenants of West and East Sussex, Lady Emma Barnard and Mr Andrew Blackman.
As Dean of Chichester, a historic role which dates back to 1105, Edward has overall responsibility for co-ordinating and developing the life of the Cathedral, in order to further its mission and ministry. As a member of the Bishop of Chichester's Senior Staff, Bishop's Council and the Diocesan Synod he will represents the Cathedral in the Diocese, across East and West Sussex.
Following today’s service, Edward said:
"I am deeply honoured to be installed as Dean of Chichester and feel truly welcomed by the community and all those present today. Chichester Cathedral holds a special place in the life of the Diocese and the county, and I am excited to be part of its continued mission. As we approach the Cathedral's 950th anniversary in 2025, I look forward to working together to celebrate this remarkable milestone, while ensuring that the Cathedral remains a flourishing place of Christian worship, culture, and outreach for future generations."
The Bishop of Chichester, the Right Reverend Dr Martin Warner presided over today’s service. Dr Warner said:
“Edward’s arrival brings to the Cathedral valuable experience from parochial life in rural, urban, and coastal towns in the East of the Diocese, strengthening a connection that has sometimes been difficult to maintain. He also brings gifts in pastoral care, thoughtful teaching, ecclesiastical law, and financial planning, which will enrich the dynamic Chapter in Chichester. With a deep appreciation for art, music, and a probing sense of humour, I warmly welcome Edward, his wife Anna, and their two children to Chichester.”
Image (left to right): Dean of Chichester the Very Reverend Dr Edward Dowler, Bishop of Chichester the Right Reverend Dr Martin Warner, Canon Treasurer the Reverend Canon Vanessa Baron and Canon Chancellor the Reverend Dr Jack Dunn
About Edward
Edward was educated at Christ Church Oxford and trained for ministry at Westcott House, Cambridge, subsequently completing a doctorate at Durham University. He was ordained deacon in 1994, and served his title at Christ Church, Southgate, in the Diocese of London.
From 1997, he served as Assistant Curate of St Mary’s, Somers Town, London and in 2001 he was appointed Tutor and Director of Pastoral Theology, at St Stephen’s House, Oxford, where he served as Vice Principal from 2003 to 2009.
In 2010, he was appointed Vicar of St John and St Luke, Clay Hill, London, and from 2013, he additionally served as the Continuing Ministerial Education Officer for the Edmonton Episcopal Area and Chair of Governors at Bishop Stopford’s School, Enfield.
In 2016 Edward was appointed Archdeacon of Hastings and since 2020, served as Priest-in-Charge of St John the Evangelist, Crowborough. He was also the Chaplain to the High Sheriff of East Sussex.
Edward is married to Anna, a journalist for The Guardian, and they have two children at university.