Last week, as Chair of the Association of English Cathedrals, Dean Jo joined three other Deans in meeting with MPs — including our own MP Daisy Cooper — to discuss the vital role English cathedrals play in the life of our nation.

The Association has commissioned independent research into the spiritual, social, cultural, and economic impact of cathedrals. St Albans Cathedral is among those taking part in the study, which will be published early next year and highlighted at the National Cathedrals Conference in Bristol in 2026.

A new working group of six Deans and their MPs has also been established to explore ways MPs can advocate more strongly for cathedrals. Dean Jo described this as “a very significant advancement in our work with MPs and in advocacy for cathedrals.”

During the visit, Dean Jo also met with the Second Church Estates Commissioner, Marsha de Cordova. Together, they reflected on the extraordinary impact of cathedrals: employing more than 5,500 people, supported by tens of thousands of volunteers, and contributing over £250 million to the national economy.

Dean Jo said:
“These were very important meetings for all our cathedrals and part of an ongoing conversation. Here at St Albans Cathedral we are so grateful to all those who support us in so many ways.”