The Very Revd Dr David Ison said

“Being part of the team shaping St Paul’s for the twenty-first century is a great privilege and a stretching and fulfilling experience. I have learnt much and experienced many new things, and I deeply appreciate working along-side exceptional colleagues in cathedral, diocese, city and beyond. Through all the cathedral’s opportunities and challenges, we continue to pursue the vision of enabling people to encounter the transforming presence of God in Jesus Christ.

“It is unusual to announce retirement a year in advance but a wide consultation is required to appoint a new dean, hence making public the reason why those consultations are happening. I am very grateful that those responsible for the appointment are already working with the cathedral to start the recruitment process in the autumn of 2021. This means there will be no long gap between one dean and another, which will benefit St Paul’s as it continues to cope with the financial impact of the pandemic and develop its ministry to city and nation. There will be a time next year for farewells, but during the next twelve months I will be working hard to contribute all I can to ensure that St Paul’s continues to be a beacon of hope for everyone.”

The Bishop of London, the Rt Revd and Rt Hon Dame Sarah Mullally DBE said

“St Paul’s Cathedral is a national symbol of faith, unity and hope. Under David’s skillful and sensitive stewardship, it has continued to fulfil a central role at the heart of our diocese and the City of London. It has been a vital anchor and place of worship for communities across the country and for Christians everywhere, both in times of happiness and in grief. I am immensely grateful to David for this dedicated leadership over the last ten years.

“I have had the pleasure of working closely with David on many occasions during my time as Bishop of London, and want to thank him especially for his commitment and thoughtfulness during the COVID-19 pandemic. It has been inspiring to see how he and his team of staff and volunteers have met the challenge through tirelessly supporting communities across London and ensuring the Cathedral has remained an important place of hope and thanksgiving. The work that he has begun to help communities rebuild will also be continued in his stead.

“David’s wisdom and experience will be much missed, and I thank him wholeheartedly for his service. In the meantime, I am looking forward to working with him as we commence the consultation process to appoint a new Dean of St Paul’s later in the year.”