Paul Woodman named ecumenical canon at Winchester Cathedral

Paul Woodman, leader of City Life Church in Southampton, was installed into the new role during a special evensong last weekend.

Mr Woodman said: "Becoming an Honorary Ecumenical Canon is both humbling and encouraging.

Paul Woodman and Fr Mark Hogan were installed during a special evensong. (Image: Diocese of Winchester)

"Addressing issues of deprivation requires people from across denominations to serve faithfully and generously together.

"This recognition of ecumenical ministry feels very much shared with the many individuals, churches and communities I have had the privilege of serving alongside over the years.

"I look forward to continuing to build relationships across the diocese and discovering new ways that churches can serve their communities together."

Mr Woodman was installed alongside Father Mark Hogan, parish priest of St Peter and the Winchester Martyrs.

The appointments were made by the Bishop of Winchester to help strengthen relationships between the cathedral and the broader Christian community, along with encouraging churches to learn from one another, work together and share in serving their local communities.

As ecumenical canons, Mr Woodman and Fr Hogan will take part in major services and events and support the cathedral and diocese through prayer and encouragement.

The role also calls for promoting collaboration and shared learning among churches in service to their communities.

Mr Woodman has been part of City Life Church for 30 years and is known for bringing together churches and organisations to address homelessness, poverty and immigration.

Fr Hogan serves as Episcopal vicar for parish mission development in the Roman Catholic Diocese of Portsmouth.

His parish is currently marking the centenary of St Peter and the Winchester Martyrs and using the occasion to strengthen connections with people from other Christian and faith backgrounds.

Fr Hogan said: "I’m humbled and delighted to become an Ecumenical Canon of Winchester Cathedral.

"I hope and pray it will provide a real strengthening of the bonds which already exist between our communities.

"Above all, I pray that it may help us in our joint witness to the world to the joy of Christ’s Gospel.

"I also hope that in some small way, through prayer, presence and deeds, I can contribute to the work of the cathedral to renew, inspire and unite people in faith, hope and love."