James Woodward appointed to be Canon at St George's, Windsor

5th February 2009: The Society congratulates Lunarman James Woodward on his new appointment.

It has been announced from Downing Street that the Revd Dr James Woodward, Master of the Foundation of the Lady Katherine Leveson Foundation is to leave Temple Balsall at Easter to take up a new ministry.

The Queen has approved his appointment to a Canonry of Saint George’s Chapel, Windsor.

James said: “The letter inviting me to be considered along with others for this post came as a surprise. Following formal and informal meetings I have seen the immense value of the work of St George’s. As a Canon I will participate in the rich spiritual life of the Chapel and Castle community. I am also looking forward to contributing to the life of the Church of England through the theological courses and seminars laid on by St George’s at their conference centre (known as St George’s House). I am looking forward to contributing to the life of the Church and Society through this work.”

“ Temple Balsall has been an enormous part of my life since my arrival in September 1998. I have had the privilege of leading this community and enabling change and growth in all aspects of its life. This place has also been my home; a community of friends that I care very deeply about. Leaving is going to be hard for me. There will always be a special place for our work and the people here in my memory and heart.”

The Earl of Aylesford, the Chairman of Foundation Governors said: “While we are, of course, very sorry that James Woodward is leaving us, we are very excited for him. He is taking up a very prestigious position and it is clear that his success with the Foundation played no small part in the appointment. James has raised the Foundation’s profile and we can bask in the reflected glory as a unique facility embracing the care of older people, a successful school and a thriving religious community.”

The Bishop of Birmingham, the Rt Revd David Urquhart said: “James has made an immense contribution not only to the Diocese but to the wider church by being such a passionate advocate for older people. His thoughtful scholarship, skilled pastoral care and his ability to grow the church have been much appreciated over the l8 years he has ministered in this diocese.”

St George’s Chapel has especially close links with the Sovereign and the Royal family. It is the spiritual home of the Order of the Garter whose membership includes distinguished individuals, including former Prime Ministers. The Chapel welcomes over one million visitors a year.

Before moving to Temple Balsall, James was Chaplain Manager at the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital Trust, Priest in Charge of Middleton with Wishaw and Bishop’s Adviser on Health and Social Care.