The Bishop of London appoints the Revd Robert Coupland as her new Chaplain
The Bishop of London appoints the Revd Robert Coupland as her new Chaplain
In his new role, Robert will be responsible for providing the Bishop with spiritual guidance and practical support, including with liturgical duties and pastoral oversight.
Welcoming Robert to the role, The Bishop of London, The Rt Revd and Rt Hon Dame Sarah Mullally, said:
'Robert will bring not just knowledge, but a deep understanding of liturgical life and pastoral care that he has gained from his diverse experience in ministry. He has shown a dedication to spiritual leadership wherever he has been, from inside St Paul’s Cathedral to the communities of Brighton. I look forward to seeing him flourish in his new role and the valuable contribution he will make to our collective ministry.'
Robert joins the Bishop of London’s team from St Paul’s, where he has overseen the work of the Liturgical and Virgers’ Departments and managed the liturgical volunteer teams.
Over his five years at St Paul’s, Robert has played a significant leadership role in the planning and execution of major services, including the National Service of Thanksgiving for the Platinum Jubilee and the National Service of Prayer and Reflection following the death of Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.
Robert was also Acting Canon Precentor for eight months until October 2024, and he serves as Assistant Area Director of Ordinands for the Two Cities Episcopal Area in the Diocese of London.
Canon Chancellor at St Paul's Cathedral, Dr Paula Gooder commented:
'On behalf of the Dean and the Chapter of St Paul’s, I’d like to thank Robert for everything that he has done during his time here. For more than five years, Robert has used his many skills, including pastoral care, attention to detail and liturgical expertise, to support and enhance the worshipping life of the Cathedral. He is a much-valued colleague and will be greatly missed.'
Robert began his ministry journey as a Pastoral Assistant at St Matthew’s, Westminster. Following this, he trained at Westcott House, Cambridge, before serving as the Assistant Curate in the Benefice of Brighton at both St Michael and All Angels and St Paul’s. During this time, he also took on additional responsibilities as Priest-Sequestrator at St Bartholomew's, Brighton, and a volunteer chaplain to the YMCA DownsLink Group.
Robert will begin his new role on Wednesday 26th March 2025.
The Revd Robert Coupland said:
'It has been both exhilarating and humbling to serve as Minor Canon and Sacrist over the last five years. I am immensely grateful for the threefold gift of ministering, working, and living alongside such a dedicated, capable, and diverse community. I am deeply appreciative of the faith placed in me and pleased that the Cathedral remains at the heart of this new ministry.
'With gratitude and humility, I look forward to serving the equally dedicated, capable, and diverse ministry of the Bishop of London and supporting the apostolic life of the Diocese of London. With a heart fortified by the love of the last five years, I commit myself, in hope, to this distinctive life, office, and service.'
