First full-time woman canon for Cathedral
Canon Anna Norman-Walker has become the first woman to work full-time as a Canon at Exeter Cathedral in its 900 year history.
Anna said she was excited about the opportunity to “strengthen the Cathedral’s presence in the heart of the city”.
She was previously a priest in mid Devon before becoming diocesan missioner – a role that saw her encouraging churches small and large around Devon, and gave her a part time role at the Cathedral.
In her new full time post she will continue to supervise the Cathedral’s work supporting the homeless and running Holy Ground – a monthly ‘alternative’ service for those wanting to experience reflective and creative worship.
The Cathedral will get involved in hosting more public debates, under Anna’s leadership.
She will also work alongside the visitors department enabling all who visit the Cathedral to discover it as a place, not only of welcome, but of beauty, history and spirituality.
Her new role will see her develop the Cathedral’s work among children and young people, developing links with schools as well as strengthening connections with the University.
Anna said: “Although I have been involved in cathedral life for the last few years, it has been in a very part time capacity. I am absolutely delighted that the Dean and Chapter regard this appointment as an important step for the Cathedral and have entrusted the work to me.”
The Dean of Exeter Cathedral, Very Revd Jonathan Draper, said: “We are really pleased that Anna Norman-Walker will be the first full time female Residentiary Canon in the 900 years since the present Cathedral was begun.
"The most important thing about Anna’s appointment, however, are the great gifts and energy she will bring to the Cathedral and its developing life.
"Exeter Cathedral is fully supportive of women at all levels of the Church’s ministry and look forward to the appointment of women as Bishops soon too. Anna has been appointed for her gifts and skills in ministry and we look forward hugely to her ministry among us.”
Anna was installed as Canon Chancellor of Exeter Cathedral during Evensong in Exeter Cathedral on Wednesday 26 November.
