In preparation for Canon Heather Patacca’s departure from the ministry as Canon Precentor in December, the Cathedral has put in place interim arrangements to ensure the continuity of our liturgical and musical leadership, as well as the ongoing success of our new church plant, Gather.
During the vacancy, Lay Canon Philip Nicholls will take on the role of Director of Worship on a half-time basis. Philip has extensive experience and a deep understanding of our liturgical traditions, and holds a research degree in theology. Some of his tasks as Director of Music will be taken on by Will Fellows, who already deputised for Canon Nicholls during his Long Service Leave.
In addition, the Cathedral has created a new full-time role of Cathedral Succentor. Where in monasteries and Cathedrals a Precentor is the ‘person who sings first’, the Succentor is their deputy, ‘the person who sings second’. We are delighted that the Revd Lydia Thangadurai, Cathedral alumna and curate of St John’s Toorak, has accepted the role. Lydia will assist the team in preaching, teaching, presiding and liturgical duties. Lydia enjoys choral music, and formal liturgy, and is very much looking forward to returning to St Paul’s.
Dean Andreas said: ‘We are sad to have to say good-bye to Canon Heather in December, but I am so pleased that such talented individuals have stepped up to take on her ministry, while we recruit her successor. Philip’s and Will’s combined experience will make sure that our liturgical and musical life continues to shine—especially as we approach our large-scale Christmas services. And I’m particularly delighted to welcome Lydia back to St Paul’s in her new capacity.’
Accepting her new role, The Revd Lydia Thangadurai said: ‘I am honoured to return to St Paul’s Cathedral in this new role. My vocation was shaped at St Paul’s, and its people hold a special place in my heart. I really look forward to being a part of the Cathedral community again, especially in helping to lead our liturgical life and leading the Gather congregation during Amy’s maternity leave next year.’
These appointments will take effect from December. On Advent Sunday, there will be an opportunity for our congregations to farewell the Revd Canon Heather Patacca—with Chapter and staff farewelling her during the first week of December. At the 10am Choral Eucharist on Advent Sunday, the Revd Lydia Thangadurai will also be installed as Succentor.
Dean Andreas added: ‘Canon Heather is irreplaceable. But I am sure that under this interim leadership, our Cathedral will continue to be a place where inspiring worship and beautiful music invite people to encounter something of the transforming love of God in Christ Jesus. I invite you to welcome Philip, Will, and Lydia to their new roles, and to keep them in your prayers as they prepare to take on their new responsibilities’.
The Cathedral is actively seeking expressions of interest from suitable senior clergy for the role of Canon Precentor. Full details may be found here: https://cathedral.org.au/2024/10/09/vacancy-canon-precentor/