Archbishop Cherry is delighted to announce that, following a successful application and interview, Andrew Lightbown has been appointed as the Ministry Area Leader (MAL) for the Heart of Newport Ministry Area.

Since 2022 Andrew has served as Residentiary Canon at Newport Cathedral, where he is Missioner and Chaplain to the City of Newport. Andrew is also the Diocesan Ecumenical and Interfaith Officer. He also serves as Chaplain to Newport R.F.C.

In making the announcement Archbishop Cherry said: “Andrew brings a whole raft of gifts and skills to this new ministry and a deep and genuine passion for Newport. As a natural networker, he has already built some significant relationships with those who live, work and minister in the city which will continue to bear fruit in his work as MAL. Andrew’s role as Ecumenical and Interfaith Officer for the diocese will enable him to further develop the relationships he has already made with other faith leaders.”

Andrew spent the first 20 years of his working life in the investment management industry. He then lectured in a university business school before training for ordination. His first post of responsibility was Rector of a market town benefice in Buckinghamshire.

Reflecting on his appointment, Andrew said: “The opportunity to lead the Heart of Newport Ministry Area represents a natural evolution of my ministry in a city I love and feel called to serve.”

Andrew will be licensed on March 19th at 7.30pm in St Mark’s Church, Gold Tops, Newport.

Please hold Andrew and his wife Sallyanne in your prayers as they prepare for this exciting move, as well as the Heart of Newport MA and Newport Cathedral.