April 2010

Dear Friends

I was completely surprised but very honoured to receive a letter from the Bishop of Hereford recently to tell me that he was going to make me a Prebendary of Hereford Cathedral.

Several people have asked me what this means and so I quote from Wikipedia

"The title Prebendary is still retained by certain dioceses as an honorary title for senior parish priests. This is usually awarded as a recognition of long and dedicated service to the diocese. These priests are entitled to call themselves Prebendary (usually shortened to Preb.) and have a role in the administration of the cathedral and their own stall behind the choir.

The Greater Chapter of a cathedral includes both the Residentiary Canons (the full time senior cathedral clergy) and the prebendaries. In the Church of England, when a diocesan bishop retires, moves to another diocese or dies, the monarch will summon the Greater Chapter to elect a successor. This election is ceremonial as the monarch (following the advice of the Prime Minister) also tells the members of the Greater Chapter whom to elect. If members of the Greater Chapter fail to attend they are declared to be contemptuous."

I will be installed as Prebendary De Inkberrow on May 2nd at 3.30 pm in Hereford Cathedral and I would be delighted to see you there at this historic service.

May God Bless you all this Easter and evermore