Visit Lincoln Cathedral
The Very Revd Dr Simon Jones, Dean of Lincoln Cathedral, shares his journey, insights, and vision for welcoming all to this iconic Lincolnshire landmark.
John Saxbee, Bishop of Lincoln from 2001-2011, once remarked, “God laughs when men make plans.” That statement rings true for The Very Revd Dr Simon Jones, now Dean of Lincoln Cathedral. What began as a temporary secondment last March quickly evolved into a permanent appointment, as Simon fell in love with the city of Lincoln, its people, and its historic charm — with Lincoln Cathedral at the heart of it all.
Whether drawn here through fate or faith, Simon found Lincoln to be a great place to live. Encouraged by colleagues to apply for the position of the 85th Dean of Lincoln, he was delighted to take up the role in September this year.
“I was born and raised in St Albans, Hertfordshire. I lived there until I was 18,” says Simon. “Then I went to Durham University and spent four years there studying theology. My family had some links to County Durham. Some of my father’s family were miners in the pit villages around the city, so it was really good to get to know the area and spend time at Durham Cathedral.”
“My parents weren’t active in the church, but I discovered my faith at school, mostly through music and singing. I joined the local church choir and later learned to play the organ, combining worship and music.”
During his time at Durham, Simon discerned a calling to the priesthood. After working in North London and earning a doctorate in Cambridge, he was ordained in Gloucester Cathedral at 27. He served as curate at Tewkesbury Abbey before moving to Merton College, Oxford, where he spent 22 years as Chaplain.
“I loved my job in Oxford and wasn’t planning a move. But I was asked to come on secondment to Lincoln for nine months, and I moved here last March, fully expecting to return. Instead, I fell in love with Lincoln. The Cathedral, the city, the county, and its people captivated me. Lincoln Cathedral is truly extraordinary, and the city’s vibrant community, including its strong student population, felt very familiar.”
Simon and his partner, Darren, have now settled into the Deanery near Lincoln Cathedral. Darren, formerly a Parish Priest in Oxford, has taken up a similar role in Spalding. Simon reflects on last Christmas, which marked the end of his secondment:
“The last service of my nine-month secondment was on Christmas Day 2023. It was a joyful yet uncertain time, as I didn’t know if I’d be returning to Lincoln. I applied for the Dean position in November, interviewed while back in Oxford, and was thrilled to be appointed. However, I had to keep the news confidential until the official announcement on St George’s Day.”
This year, Simon looks forward to a more settled festive season, cooking Christmas lunch in the Deanery using Lincolnshire’s finest produce. He’s especially excited about Lincoln Cathedral’s Harvest Festival, which celebrates the county’s rich farming heritage.
Simon sees his role as Dean as pivotal in making Lincoln Cathedral an inclusive space for all. “Someone once described the role of Dean as being like a ‘CEO who does God.’ I’m responsible for directing the Cathedral’s life, working with the Senior Leadership Team, the Chapter, and the Bishop of Lincoln.”
“With 90 employees and over 500 volunteers, Lincoln Cathedral functions as both a spiritual and community hub. It’s a place where people can gather in times of celebration or sorrow, find peace, and appreciate its awe-inspiring architecture.”
Simon’s vision is to ensure that Lincoln Cathedral continues to welcome people from all walks of life. Over Christmas, music will play a central role, from carol services on December 23rd and Christmas Eve to performances of The Snowman. Looking ahead, the Cathedral will host Luxmuralis in the spring, a stunning installation of projected art.
“Lincoln Cathedral is a place of beauty, inclusivity, and inspiration. Whether it’s through our festive offerings or our spring events, we want everyone to see it as their Cathedral.”
Discover Lincoln Cathedral this Christmas and beyond to view festive events at Lincoln Cathedral view our magazine online at https://www.pridemagazines.co.uk/lincolnshire/view-magazines?magazine=December-2024