Rev Professor Jenn Strawbridge will become the new Canon Theologian in a service at Lancashire’s Anglican Cathedral this weekend.

Jenn, who will be installed as a Canon in the Cathedral and deliver her inaugural lecture on Saturday (January 18) is Associate Professor in New Testament Studies at Oxford University based at Mansfield College. She continues in that important role while fulfilling her new responsibilities as Canon Theologian.

A Canon Theologian is typically someone who is a professor and, amongst other activities, assists the Diocesan Bishop and the Cathedral Chapter in their theological reflections, studies and teaching as well as being invited to preach in the Cathedral.

The Installation Service begins at 3.30pm, with the lecture following at 4.30pm. All are welcome to attend from across Lancashire.

Speaking today, Rt Rev Julian Henderson, Bishop of Blackburn, said: "We look forward to welcoming the Rev Professor Jenn Strawbridge to the Chapter of Blackburn Cathedral.

"Jenn delivered three excellent lectures at our Diocesan conference 'The Mystery of Faith' in November 2018, which prompted a number in the Diocese to wonder whether she could be approached to fulfil this role.

“I was therefore delighted when she accepted my offer to become Canon Theologian and to deliver an annual lecture in the Cathedral."

Rev Professor Jenn Strawbridge said: “I am grateful to the Bishop of Blackburn and delighted by this invitation to a formal association with Blackburn Diocese and Cathedral alongside my role in Oxford.

“It is a great honour to serve as Canon Theologian, especially after the wonderful few days at the vibrant Diocesan Conference in 2018, and I very much look forward to getting to know the Diocese more fully.”

Meanwhile the Dean of Blackburn, The Very Rev Peter Howell-Jones, added: “As Chair of the College of Canons I am pleased to welcome Jenn, who is an inspiring lecturer. She brings great gifts to the ongoing life of the College, Cathedral and the wider Diocese.”

Ronnie Semley
15/01/2020