Newcastle Cathedral plans laid out as new Reverend Lee Batson makes his inaugural address as Dean
The institution is looking to build on the already strong foundations of community that it represents.
by Owen Younger · ChronicleLiveNewcastle Cathedral is marking a new chapter with Very Reverend Canon Lee Batson as the Dean of the city, as he makes his inaugural address after assuming the mantle a few months ago. He is looking to build on the already strong foundations of community that the Cathedral and the wider Diocese of Newcastle represents.
His appointment was made by the Bishop of Newcastle, the Right Reverend Dr Helen-Ann Hartley and the Dean has explained his vision to engage with people and communities across the city in his first official address.
Lee, who is originally from Essex, said: "I am humbled and delighted to have been appointed as the Dean of Newcastle. We seek to further God's mission in our communities – not least by becoming ever more outward facing, younger, and more diverse."
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At the heart of this address is a commitment to defining the Cathedral's role as a 'vibrant hub at the centre of the region's spiritual and community life.' The Cathedral aims to be a dynamic force for positive change, through community engagement, inclusivity, and active participation in the lives of the people that it serves.
This community outreach includes homeless individuals being able to use the Cathedral's premises to sleep and keep warm.
Reverend Lee Batson added: "Whilst I am new to the North East, I already feel a sense of connection with the core values of the cathedral as a place of radical welcome which, through offering inspiring worship and other activities, seeks to empower worth. I look forward to playing my part in building on all that has already been done to make these values a reality – particularly through the Lantern Initiative."
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