The Dean of Carlisle is set to retire after 18 years leading the team at Carlisle Cathedral.
During his time in post, the Very Rev Mark Boyling has overseen development of the multi-million-pound Fratry project – a landmark education, events and hospitality space in the cathedral precinct – has steered the cathedral through the challenges of the coronavirus pandemic and has shaped many of the special acts of worship held in the cathedral.
He led the cathedral through the new Cathedrals Measure of 2021 to help Carlisle Cathedral become one of the first cathedrals in the country to achieve charitable status.
The dean moved to Carlisle from Liverpool Cathedral in 2004, where he was a Canon Residentiary for 10 years. He was ordained in 1977, after attending Cuddesdon Theological College.
He served his curacy in Kirkby in Liverpool, later becoming team vicar. From 1985 to 1989 he served as chaplain to the Bishop of Liverpool before being appointed vicar of Formby from 1989 to 1994.
Since moving to Carlisle he and his family – wife Helen and their two children – have lived on site in the city centre cathedral precinct.
The Bishop of Carlisle, the Rt Rev James Newcome, has paid tribute to the Dean, saying “It has been a constant joy and privilege to work closely with Mark over many years here in Cumbria.
“He and Helen have made a huge contribution to the county as well as to the city of Carlisle and its historic cathedral, and we will miss them very much indeed. The beautiful new Fratry building provides us all with a lasting reminder of the Dean’s vision, creativity and perseverance, and we wish the whole family every blessing in retirement.”
Lord Lieutenant Claire Hensman added: “ I wish Mark a long and happy retirement. I am so grateful to him for his spiritual leadership and service as an outstanding Dean to the Cathedral and Carlisle. He leaves a wonderful legacy: the transformed Fratry building which has brought new life and community into the Cathedral Close and opportunities for the heritage quarter of the city.”
The Dean’s last services will be held this Sunday, September 25, when he will preside and preach at both the Sung Eucharist at 10.30am and a Farewell Evensong at 3pm.
