Cleric won’t keep them singing from same hymn sheet

The Ven John Green has been made Archdeacon Pastor of the Diocese of Coventry after serving as acting Archdeacon of Coventry since February.

He was appointed by Bishop of Coventry the Rt Rev Dr Christopher Cocksworth, who created the new role of archdeacon pastor to

Brought up to pray regularly in a traditional East London family, the music lover only began attending church when his parish church was rebuilt and a new organ installed.

He studied physics at London polytechnic and worked for a lighting company before training for the ministry in 1980. Serving in a church in St Albans led him to involvement with the Sea Cadets and the Royal Navy, through which he served as a chaplain both on sea and on shore, eventually becoming Principal Anglican Chaplain and Chaplian of the Fleet.

His work there led to work with chaplains from other churches, and representatives from other religions, bringing a faith-centred perspective to financial management and personnel policy before retiring from the Navy.

Now living in New Arley, Mr Green believes the role is not just a case of keeping things shipshape and Bristol-fashion.

He said: “Archdeacons’ ministry is often thought of as enforcing church law for the sake of order. But I see my future role as safeguarding order so that loving relationships can flourish, making new disciples and transforming communities.”

Dr Cocksworth said: “John Green has won many hearts over the past months through his energy, skill and dedication as acting Archdeacon of Coventry.

“John will bring deep and varied experience of ministry in a number of settings to this new position. He already knows what it is to be an archdeacon both in the Navy and the diocese but I know that he will also bring innovation and imagination into this new work as he seeks to nurture the relationships that are needed to move a fleet of people and parishes in the right direction. I very much look forward to working with him in his new ministry among us.”

John Green will be installed as Archdeacon Pastor in the Coventry Cathedral on December 9 during the 10.30am Cathedral Eucharist.