The Revd Peter Gunstone has been appointed as a Residentiary Canon and Precentor of Carlisle Cathedral, it has been announced today.
Revd Pete is currently serving as Minor Canon for Worship and Nurture at Bradford Cathedral, following a curacy at the Fountains Church, a new Resource Church in Bradford City Centre.
In his new role, Revd Pete will be responsible for leading, overseeing and managing Worship, Liturgy and Congregational Life.
He will be a member of the Cathedral’s Chapter, the main governing body of the Cathedral, as well as being fully involved in the operational life of the Cathedral as a member of the Senior Management Team.
This appointment is subject to the usual legal checks.
Revd Pete said: “Kirsten and I are delighted to be moving to Carlisle after six very happy years serving in the Diocese of Leeds.
"During that time, it has been a privilege to be a part of the planting of Fountains Church Bradford and the continuing ministry of Bradford Cathedral, the newest and oldest Christian communities in Bradford.
"I look forward to getting to know the people of Carlisle and Cumbria, to inhabiting the Augustinian rhythms of the Cathedral community, and to joining with you in the adventure of following Jesus Christ today.”
The Bishop of Leeds, the Rt Revd Nick Baines, said: “I regret very much that we will be losing Pete from the Diocese of Leeds.
"He is remarkable and I commend him strongly for his new ministry in Carlisle.”
Dean of Bradford Cathedral Andy Bowerman added: “It has been wonderful to have Pete serving among us over the past two years. He has shared his many gifts with us generously and we are most grateful. We wish him and Kirsten God’s blessing as they head to Carlisle later in the year.”
Welcoming Revd Pete to the Diocese of Carlisle, the Acting Bishop of Carlisle, the Right Revd Rob Saner-Haigh, commented: “We are delighted that Pete has accepted the invitation to take on this important role at Carlisle Cathedral.
"We look forward to welcoming Pete and Kirsten to the diocese and I am excited about all that they will bring to our life, worship and witness here.”
The Dean of Carlisle, the Very Revd Jonathan Brewster, added: “We very much look forward to welcoming Pete to Carlisle as Residentiary Canon Precentor, a role which includes building on the strength and diversity of our worshipping communities and nurturing disciples of Jesus Christ.
"Pete brings with him the experience of both cathedral and parish ministry and a diverse appreciation of musical worship.”
Revd Pete’s Installation will take place in Carlisle Cathedral at Evensong on Trinity Sunday, June 15, 2025 at 3pm.