Saying farewell to Archdeacon Anne

On Sunday 10 May we will sadly be saying farewell to The Venerable Anne Gell, Archdeacon of Wells.  Anne has been Archdeacon of Wells and Residentiary Canon of Wells Cathedral since 2017. She temporarily stepped back from her archdeaconry role between February 2023 and June 2024 to serve as Acting Dean of Wells.

Speaking about her departure following the announcement earlier in the year, Anne said, ‘Anne says, “I have been in Bath and Wells for nine years, during which there have been many joys and challenges. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time here, met and walked alongside some wonderful people, but it feels to be the right time to make some space to hear where God is calling me now, and perhaps to consider aspects of my vocation that I have not recently had chance to explore.’

All are invited to say farewell to Archdeacon Anne at Wells Cathedral Evensong at 15:00 on Sunday, 10 May. Messages for Anne’s farewell card can be sent to diocesan HR Manager, Enita Andrews by email: enita.andrews@bathwells.anglican.org.

We hold Anne and all her family in our prayers as they begin their new life in a differnt part of the country.

Jonathan LLoyd to be Acting Archdeacon of Wells

During the coming months, the Venerable Jonathan LLoyd will be the Acting Archdeacon of Wells, following the departure of Archdeacon Anne in May. 

Bishop Michael says, “Jonathan has an extensive and distinguished career. Most recently he has served as County Ecumenical Officer for Churches Together in Somerset. He has previously served as the Archdeacon of Germany and Northern Europe in the Diocese of Europe, as well as holding posts in Bath and Wells, Southwark and Vancouver. 

“I very much look forward to Archdeacon Jonathan serving among us and am most grateful at his willingness to support our diocese, and especially the Archdeaconry of Wells, in the coming months.”

Jonathan will begin his new ministry on 11 May and will be working for three days of each week until the new Archdeacon of Wells begins. Interviews for the next Archdeacon of Wells will take place in May and it is hoped that the new appointment will begin in September. 

Jonathan was born in Wellington and went to Nynehead Church of England Primary School. Jonathan and his wife Sue, live in Wells. They have two adult daughters and are grandparents.

A longstanding commitment means that Archdeacon Jonathan will not be with us during the month of June. During this time, support for the Archdeaconry of Wells will be provided by the Archdeacons of Taunton and Bath.