After holding the position for almost two decades, the Very Revd Michael Tavinor will step down in January. Michael was installed as Dean of Hereford in May 2002. Before this he was Vicar of Tewkesbury Abbey 1990-2002, and previous to that, Precentor at Ely Cathedral 1985-90. Michael served his title at St Peter, Ealing, in the diocese of London 1982-85.
During his time in Hereford, Michael has overseen many changes within the cathedral including several large conservation projects. He has also shared his passion for walking and pilgrimage with the cathedral community and celebrated St Ethelbert and St Thomas Cantilupe with the publication of several books.
The Very Revd Michael Tavinor said: “It will be hard to leave Hereford after all these years but the time now seems right. I’m well into my nineteenth year as Dean and am now sixty-seven, so am sure it is high time I handed on to another priest, who will lead the cathedral into a new chapter of its life and ministry.
I had expected to finish at the end of the Thomas Cantilupe celebrations, in October this year, but because of the extraordinary difficulties of the past few months I felt it right that I continue just a little longer. There remain several more months before I leave, so we shall continue to work for the coming of the Kingdom in this place and will seek, together, to find ways of rebuilding and sustaining our cathedral life.”
The Rt Revd Richard Jackson, Bishop of Hereford, said: “Through his prayerfulness and liturgical skill, Michael has been a heartbeat for the Cathedral for nearly twenty years. He has served in a number of roles over his long and distinguished ministry in the Church of England. His gentle, self-effacing grace and good humour mark out a ministry setting a perfect tone for many occasions over his years at the Cathedral, including my own enthronement service earlier this year.
As Dean he has brought the history of the Cathedral and her community to life through his speaking and writing. In the Chained Library and Mappa Mundi he has created one of the most visited attractions in Herefordshire, which will be enjoyed by future generations. Throughout the changing seasons Michael has remained an outstanding colleague and friend to the Cathedral and wider diocesan family. He will be greatly missed by all and we all wish him every blessing as the transition to retirement begins.”
The Dean’s final Sunday will be 31 January and his term of office will end on 28 February.
