Welcome to Guildford Cathedral...

WELCOME

For surely I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, plans for your welfare and not for harm, to give you a future with hope.
Jeremiah 29:11

Dear Friends,

It is hard to believe that a whole year has passed since Kate and I arrived in Surrey, still finding our bearings after leaving the Land of the Northern Saints. As I write these words, I find myself pausing to give thanks, genuine, heartfelt thanks for all that this year has brought.

What strikes me most, looking back over these twelve months, is quite simply how happy we are to be here.
That happiness has many sources: the beauty of this county with its rolling hills and ancient woodlands; the warmth of welcome we have received at every turn; and, above all, the wonderful people of Surrey. You have made us feel at home in a way that goes far beyond mere hospitality. You have made us feel that we belong.

The Cathedral itself has moved on a long way in just twelve months. I say that not to claim any credit, for this is the work of the whole community, the Spirit moving among us, but simply to note what is true. Our congregations are growing. There is an energy and a sense of expectation in our fellowship that speaks of a community growing more confident in its calling. New faces have joined familiar ones; old friendships have deepened while new ones have formed. The Cathedral is alive.

Our Vision and Strategy process, which has involved so many of you in conversation and consultation, is now getting ready to deliver its first draft. This is significant work and the prayerful discernment of who we are called to be and what we are called to do in this place and time. I am grateful to everyone who has contributed their thoughts, their hopes, and their dreams for our Cathedral. The process continues, but already we can see the shape of something exciting emerging.

I want to take this opportunity to express my profound gratitude to Matt, who served with such dedication as our Chief Operating Officer. His contribution to the life of this Cathedral has been immense, and we wish him every blessing in retirement. At the same time, we warmly welcome Louise, who joins us to continue this vital work. We are fortunate indeed to have her.
As I reflect on this first year, I find myself returning repeatedly to gratitude. Gratitude for the people who make this community what it is. Gratitude for the beauty of this sacred space. Gratitude for the welcome that Kate and I have received. And above all, gratitude to God, who called me to this place and who continues to call us all into deeper faithfulness.

I thank my God every time I remember you, constantly praying with joy in every one of my prayers for all of you, because of your sharing in the gospel from the first day until now.
Philippians 1:3

These are exciting times ahead. There is much to do, much to pray about, much to hope for. But as we look to the future, we do so with confidence not in our own abilities, but in the God who has brought us this far and who will not let us go.

Thank you for walking this path with us. Thank you for your prayers, your friendship, and your faithfulness. It is a privilege and a joy to serve as your Dean.

With my love and prayers,
Bob
The Very Reverend Bob Cooper
Dean of Guildford
January 26^th 2026

Please do check the Cathedral Diary and Visit Page for any access restrictions and closures which may affect your visit.