Canon James Reveley

Following the retirement of the Very Reverend Mark Bonney at the end of June 2026, James was appointed Interim Dean of Ely. In this role, he chairs meetings of the Cathedral Chapter and works closely with the Cathedral’s Senior Management Group and Chief Operating Officer on matters of governance, strategy and organisational culture. He also represents the Cathedral on the Bishop of Ely’s Staff Team and Bishop’s Council.

The appointment of a new Dean of Ely is being led by the Archbishops’ Advisers for Appointments and Vocations. It is anticipated that the process will conclude with the appointment of a new Dean in late spring or summer 2027.

James’ particular responsibility as Canon Precentor is to plan and oversee the worship offered in the Cathedral. The ‘Precentor’ is literally the ‘first singer’ in the sense of being the one who sings before the others. This is very much the case at Choral Evensong when the Precentor sings the opening words and the choir responds.

He works closely with the Director of Music and others in the Music and Worship Department, the Vergers and volunteers who contribute in different ways to the daily and Sunday services. This includes training those who, for example, read lessons or prayers and serve as acolytes or Subdeacons.

James also oversees the work of our child choristers and professional adult singers. He liaises with external groups in the planning of special services - such as for Regimental associations, schools and charities - and with the Diocese of Ely in the preparation of Ordinations and Confirmations.

01353 667735 | james.reveley@elycathedral.org