News Release

Issued 29.3.09

For immediate use

Harrogate Vicar appointed to pioneering clergy development role

A Harrogate vicar has been appointed to a pioneering new role, developing the training and professional development of clergy across the Diocese of Ripon and Leeds. The Revd Canon Paul Hooper has been appointed as the diocese’s first ever Director of Clergy Development, a new post created by the Bishop of Ripon and Leeds in response to new terms and conditions of service being introduced nationally for all serving clergy.

Canon Hooper, (56), is expected to take up his post in September 2009, leaving the parish of St Mark’s, Harrogate after more than 14 years as Vicar. Under his leadership the church has seen substantial growth and undergone a major £800k church redevelopment project. Canon Hooper is also Area Dean of Harrogate. Previously, he had served as Chaplain and Communications Officer to the Bishop of Ripon (‘87-‘95), Diocesan Youth Officer (’84-’87) and as Assistant Curate at St George’s Church, Leeds (’81-’84).

The Rt. Revd John Packer, the Bishop of Ripon and Leeds, said that Canon Hooper would bring substantial experience to the new role. “The appointment of a full-time Director of Clergy Development is an important step for the diocese in the support and growth of clergy and churches. I am delighted that we have been able to appoint Paul Hooper to this significant new role. Paul is someone with a deep experience and knowledge of the church, someone who has a proven track record of working with and supporting colleagues, who has been deeply immersed in parish ministry and has had a wide experience of training others in a variety of roles. I am thrilled that we can make use of Paul’s substantial skills for the benefit of the whole diocese.”

Canon Hooper is married to Judi, and the couple have three sons. He said he was sad to be leaving his present post but excited by the challenge of the new role. “I am delighted to have been appointed to this newly created post. Significant shifts in our culture and in our churches make this a time of change, challenge and opportunity for our clergy as leaders in God’s mission. I have a sense of God calling me to this new role and I am trusting that the experiences gained through my 28 years of ordained ministry will help equip me for the task.”

Ends

Issued by John Carter (Rev)
Press and Communications Officer, Diocese of Ripon and Leeds

jhgcarter@aol.com
01423 530369 or mobile 07798 652707