Guernsey's Dean 'will be a key player' in relationship with UK
HELPING to build and ensure a good relationship with the Church of England will be a key role for Guernsey's new Dean, the Venerable Timothy Barker, the Bishop of Dover has said, following recent controversy and fallouts.
The Right Rev. Trevor Willmott, who is currently overseeing the islands, said the Church of England needed Guernsey and the newly-announced appointment would help to nourish and support that relationship across the Channel.
The relationship between the Channel Islands and the Diocese of Winchester broke down at the start of last year, following a dispute between Bishop Tim Dakin of Winchester and Jersey's Dean, the Very Rev. Bob Key.
'The Church in England needs the Church in Guernsey. I put it that way deliberately,' said the Bishop.
'As Dean he will represent the Bailiwicks of Guernsey and Jersey in the General Synod and be a member of my staff in Canterbury.
'He is a key player to ensuring that good relationship grows and is fruitful.'
