The very Reverend John Witcombe was Dean of Coventry Cathedral from 2013 until 2026. During his tenure his commitment to peace and reconciliation, accessibility and inclusion have made the Cathedral a welcoming place to everyone and has highlighted Coventry’s role as a City of Peace and Reconciliation, both nationally and internationally. 

The expansion of the arts and events programme together with the removal of the admission charge and the vibrant and diverse calendar have contributed to build a community that reflects the city of Coventry and continues to project its role more widely. 

John has been awarded Honorary Doctorates by both Coventry and Warwick Universities. John said: “I have loved my time as Dean of Coventry. Leading this remarkable community, with its local, national and international reach has been without doubt my most fulfilling time in over forty years of ordained ministry.”

 We are honoured and delighted to welcome him back to our City to give the Annual Peace Lecture.