The Very Revd Dr Simon Jones Installed as Dean of Lincoln
The Very Revd Dr Simon Jones was formally installed as the 85th Dean of Lincoln in a service held at Lincoln Cathedral on 14 September 2024. Simon returns to the city after 22 years as Chaplain and Fellow of Merton College, having previously served as Interim Dean of Lincoln from March to December 2023.
Reflecting on his return, Simon expressed his excitement: “It’s a great privilege and joy to be returning to Lincoln as Dean. My time here last year was hugely formative. During those nine months, I grew to love this wonderful city, county, and, not least, the Cathedral.”
Simon also outlined his vision for the cathedral's role in the community: “This massive medieval building is not just a great landmark but also a beacon of hope and a sign of God’s presence in the world. As Dean, my goal is to open our doors as widely as possible, encouraging more and more people to see Lincoln Cathedral as their cathedral.”
The Right Revd Stephen Conway, Bishop of Lincoln, commended Simon's leadership: “Simon made a significant contribution to the ministry and witness of the Cathedral during his time as Interim Dean. We now look forward to a new chapter under Simon’s wise and gentle guidance.”
As Dean, Simon will serve as the senior priest of the Diocese of Lincoln.
The installation ceremony, steeped in tradition, included Simon’s formal entry into the cathedral, accompanied by Professor Jennifer Payne, Warden of Merton College; the Rt Revd Dr Steven Croft, Bishop of Oxford; and Ruth Brewin, Chair of the appointment panel. Official letters from King Charles III were read, and Simon was ceremonially installed in his stall in St Hugh’s Choir, joining the College of Canons.
The service featured a blend of music, including performances by the Choirs of Lincoln Cathedral and Merton College. A special composition by Gabriel Jackson, celebrating Simon’s two decades at Merton, was performed alongside a motet by William Byrd, a former organist of Lincoln Cathedral.
The Merton community wish Simon all the very best in his new role.
