Rector of Beccles with Worlingham, North Cove and Barnby Revd Canon Rich Henderson appointed as new Archdeacon for Suffolk

A clergyman who is known for supporting families in need has been appointed to one of the most senior roles within the Church of England in the county.

Revd Canon Rich Henderson, who is currently Rector of Beccles with Worlingham, North Cove and Barnby, as well as Rural Dean of Waveney and Blyth, has been appointed to be the new Archdeacon for Suffolk.

Chosen by Rt Revd Martin Seeley, Canon Henderson has been in the diocese for 17 years, was one of the first supporters of food banks in the county and is an honorary canon at St Edmundsbury Cathedral.

He said: ‘‘I’m thrilled to be appointed and looking forward to working with the clergy, churchwardens, and people across the archdeaconry.

‘‘I’m passionate about enabling parishes to grow and I’m looking forward to getting to know people right across the archdeaconry.

‘‘Beccles has within its DNA service to the community. Throughout the pandemic and the cost of living crisis we have done a huge amount together, including pop-up foodbank shops, uniform banks, providing food to families in the school holidays, practical help for the community we serve.

‘‘I will really miss the people in the community who I served with in Beccles, they are amazing and so committed.’’

Bishop Martin said: ‘‘I am absolutely delighted that Rich has agreed to serve as Archdeacon of Suffolk.

“Rich’s appointment is the result of an extensive national search for someone to succeed the Venerable Jeanette Gosney who has served in this role for the past four years with immense care and skill.

‘‘Rich is a very gifted priest who is held in high regard by clergy and laity across Suffolk. I am looking forward to working closely with him as we serve together the churches and people of the eastern half of the county.”

Canon Henderson has served in Beccles for 7 years in his current role, and previously 3 years as curate too.

He will be installed to his new role as an Archdeacon in a ceremony at St Edmundsbury Cathedral, Bury St Edmunds, on May 14.

A service of farewell and thanksgiving will be held for Archdeacon Gosney on April 23 at 3pm at St Michael’s Church, Framlingham.