The Very Revd Andy Bowerman has become the new Dean of Bradford, following his installation held at Bradford Cathedral on Sunday, June 19.
The service, which was also streamed online, saw the Rt Revd Nick Baines, Bishop of Leeds, lead the service alongside the Deans of Ripon and Wakefield Cathedrals and the residentiary clergy of Bradford Cathedral, including the Revd Canon Paul Maybury, who has been Acting Dean since the retirement of the Very Revd Jerry Lepine in 2021.
The service consisted of two parts. 
During the first part Andy was ‘licensed’ by the Bishop of Leeds as incumbent, meaning that he is given the authority to exercise spiritual responsibilities in the cathedral and parish, and was then ‘inducted’ by the archdeacon, meaning that he has the authority to exercise the necessary legal responsibilities.
Secondly, he was ‘installed’ - placed in the Dean’s stall in the chancel - which marks the completion of the legal process of the appointment.
Following the service, Bishop Nick said: “It was a pleasure and a privilege to install Andy as the new Dean of Bradford.
“We have both interesting and exciting times ahead.”
The role of a dean in the Church of England combines the leadership of a particular cathedral community with membership of the team of senior ordained and lay staff who support the diocesan bishop in his or her oversight of the church’s mission.
The Very Revd Andy Bowerman is no stranger to the city.
He was ordained in Bradford Cathedral back in 2002 and ran a successful church in a café / restaurant in Saltaire. He was also Chaplain at Bradford City FC for five seasons.
The Installation on Sunday, June 19 – which was preceded by the Bradford Cathedral bells ringing out across the city - saw the building packed out with congregation members; civic guests and faith representatives; members of the council; the Lord Mayor; and friends and family of Dean Andy.
Music was provided by the Full Foundation of Bradford Cathedral Choir, conducted by Alexander Berry, alongside the girl choristers of Bath Abbey (directed by Huw Williams) of which his daughter is a member.
Other highlights included the presentation of gifts to Dean Andy and his wife from the Churchwardens, and the first sermon by Dean Andy in his new role.
The occasion was rounded off with refreshments and the cutting of the cake.
Following the service, Dean Andy offered his reflection on it: “It was a really moving experience.
“It was so humbling – but exciting - to be here in front of all those people - friends, family, dignitaries, congregation – and to be able to make the commitments and promises to God and to them, about how it’s going to be to lead this cathedral.
“It’s wonderful to be back in Bradford.
“We really enjoyed our ten years here. The people are so welcoming. They’re forthright and honest, and we’re looking forward to seeing Bradford flourish and becoming the city it can be.”
And, as Dean, there’s much to get ready for with Bradford 2025 on the horizon.
Dean Andy says: “Bradford 2025 is such a wonderful opportunity.
“Finally, people are seeing the potential here in Bradford and the cathedral absolutely wants to play a full part in making sure what is delivered for 2025 – and beyond – puts the city in the place it deserves to be across the UK.”
A gallery of more photos from the day can be found here.