It has been announced that The Bishop of London, The Rt Revd and Rt Hon Dame Sarah Mullally DBE, will succeed the former Bishop of London, The Rt Revd and Rt Hon Lord Chartres, as Dean of Her Majesty’s Chapels Royal.

An honorary appointment, the Dean of the Chapels Royal was historically the most important representative of the Church at the Royal Court. As the Royal Household became more established at palaces based in London, the roles of Bishop of London and Dean of the Chapels Royal were usually held by the same person, while remaining separate offices.

The Dean of Her Majesty’s Chapels Royal is responsible for officiating at many major church services attended by Members of the Royal Family, such as Jubilees and other celebratory occasions, and takes part in some family events. The Dean participates in the annual Service of Remembrance at the Cenotaph, and officiates at the annual Epiphany Service at the Chapel Royal, St James’s Palace.

Bishop Sarah said:

“It is an honour and a privilege to be appointed as Dean of the Chapels Royal. The role is one of great historical significance, playing an important role to this day, supporting Her Majesty and the Royal Family.”

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