On Sunday 1 September The Chapter of York announced the appointment of The Revd Canon Maggie McLean, to the new role of Canon Missioner at York Minster.

Maggie became a priest in 1994, one of the first women to be ordained in the Church of England.  She is currently vicar of the Church of Christ the King Battyeford, in the town of Mirfield, in the Diocese of Leeds.  Canon Maggie has held this post for over 10 years, having previously served in the dioceses of St Albans, Derby and Wakefield.

As Canon Missioner, Maggie will serve as an ambassador for York Minster, developing partnerships with Christian communities in the City of York, the Diocese of York, the Northern Province of the Church of England and with our link Dioceses in South Africa.

Each year nearly 700,000 visitors from around the world, and more locally, make their way to York Minster.   Our research suggests a large proportion of those who find their way to the Minster speak of experiencing “a spiritual moment” – whether it’s through the beauty of music, architecture or the rich history that is woven into the fabric of this place.  Maggie will serve alongside our existing team in supporting to develop the Minster’s response to this research.

Commenting on her appointment, Maggie said:

“I’m delighted to be making the move to York.  I look forward to this new role at the Minster supporting the spirituality of everyone who finds this a significant place – and working with colleagues to share the love of God which inspired its construction”.

Welcoming Maggie to the Minster’s clergy team, The Rt Reverend Dr Jonathan Frost, Dean of York said:

“Maggie will bring great love, sensitivity, wisdom and experience to her new role.  The whole Minster community looks forward to her arrival and to the gifts she will bring to us all.” 

Maggie will start her new role at the Minster in November.