Today during the Evensong service, the Reverend Jenny Chalmers was installed as Canon Precentor for Waiapu Cathedral in Napier.

Bishop Andrew Hedge presided at the installation and, at the same service, Archdeacons David Van Oeveren and John Matthews were collated (appointed).  

Jenny has been in the role for almost five months but her installation has been delayed by Covid.  Some of the people from Jenny’s previous parish in Taupō travelled down for the occasion, their last task before they install their new vicar, the Rev’d Robert Kereopa. 

The role of Canon Precentor is traditionally the organisation of the liturgy and worship in a cathedral.  The word precentor comes from the Latin praecentor from praecinere, to sing before, lead in singing.

Jenny also serves as Vicar General of the Waiapu Diocese, is co-chair of UCANZ (Uniting Congregations of Aotearoa New Zealand) and deputy chair of the Australian Council of Christians and Jews.