Mark Birch appointed Canon of Westminster and Chaplain to the Speaker

Ministry to the public square

As Canon Rector, Mark will share in the Dean and Chapter's governance responsibility for the Abbey, and will take a leading role in its ministry to the public square, especially through Parliamentary and other services in St Margaret's Church, and through the work of the Westminster Abbey Institute. Mark fully takes up his new roles on 7th November 2024, when he will be installed at Evensong.

Mark has been a Minor Canon at Westminster Abbey since January 2015. He is responsible to the Dean of Westminster for the daily worshipping life of the Abbey, and for designing and planning many of the special services which characterise its unique life.

Mark previously served in parishes and as Chaplain of Helen and Douglas House, Oxford, which offers hospice care for children and young adults. He was also Chaplain, and remains a patron, of Treloar’s School and College, which offers education to young disabled people. Before training to become a priest, Mark was a veterinary surgeon.

He was awarded the MVO (Member of the Royal Victorian Order) in March 2023 for his part in organising the funeral of Her late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. He also played a central role in rehearsals and preparations for the Coronation of Their Majesties The King and Queen. 

Giving voice to our hope

The Dean of Westminster, the Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle, said:

'It has a been a privilege to work with Mark for very nearly five years. I have a deep admiration for his ministry, his ability, and his selfless commitment. I know that as Canon Rector and Chaplain to the Speaker others will now benefit from his wisdom and grace. Mark will be an outstanding pastor to those who have made the often-costly commitment to public service. He will also be an effective and engaging presence as the Abbey continues to make the case for the place of faith at the heart of the nation. He will not shy away from difficulty and he will give voice to our hope.'

Experience, warmth and wise counsel

Sir Lindsay Hoyle, Speaker of the House of Commons, said 'it would be hard to find a kinder, more empathetic person' than Mark Birch:

'Not only has Mark had a central role in the rehearsals and preparations of two of the biggest events in most of our lifetimes, but his career has involved providing chaplaincy in a range of organisations, including colleges and hospices. I am certain that his experience, warmth, and wise counsel will offer a spiritual lift to MPs and staff, who work so hard in the service of our national life.'

Faith at the heart of the nation

The Reverend Mark Birch, said:

'After ten happy and eventful years as a Minor Canon, I am grateful for the opportunity to serve as a Canon of Westminster, and look forward to taking up new responsibilities within the Abbey's life and witness. It will be a joy to continue working with Abbey colleagues who have been so unfailingly kind and supportive. 

The Abbey has afforded many extraordinary opportunities to serve 'faith at the heart of the nation', especially among those who dedicate themselves to public service. As Speaker's Chaplain, I look forward to joining Mr Speaker and his team, and working with them, and others in Parliament, who offer pastoral care to MPs and their staff. It will be a privilege to serve those who serve diverse communities across the United Kingdom, and to be the one who leads the daily prayers for their work and well-being. 

The last decade has challenged and tested the institutions that shape our national life and identity. By God's grace, and with two such talented and committed groups of people, I am confident that Parliament and the Abbey will continue to rise to those challenges, and I hope I can play some small part in their vital work for the public good.'

As a Canon of Westminster, Mark joins the Dean and Chapter, which oversees the work of Westminster Abbey – it comprises the Dean of Westminster, and four Canons of Westminster, supported by the Receiver General.