Jump to Site Navigation

Full-time Chaplains

The Anglican Chaplain is Rev. Rowan Williams

Photograph of Rowan.

Rowan Says: Hi, I'm Rowan, the Anglican chaplain. I joined the chaplaincy team here in York in April 2010. I am Welsh by origin, but I grew up in Yorkshire- although I have moved house more than 20 times, Yorkshire is the only place I've lived more than twice, so it probably counts as home. I live just off the campus at 11 Newland Park Close with my cat Welford, who is always delighted to meet new admirers.

I enjoy singing, rugby, horses, travelling, books and coffee. Before I was ordained I worked with adults with multiple disabilities and lived in two different Christian communities, then spent 5 years in Leicester as a parish priest and hospital chaplain. I don't have a regular church of my own any more, but circulate around many of the student-friendly churches in York (mainly but not only the Anglican ones), so every Sunday is different.

I love the variety of chaplaincy, holding together the things we do every week with encounters that are completely new and unexpected. I particularly enjoy the intellectual challenge that comes with being in an academic environment: I've published one book, and I'm now half-way through a part-time PhD in mediaeval theology, but it's very easy to distract me from it....

Chaplaincy for me is not about having all the answers, it's about making a safe place to ask the questions and try out new ideas. If you'd like a chat about anything I can be reached at:

Home/office: 01904 415460
Mobile: 07919 861912
Email: rcw514@york.ac.uk


The Catholic Chaplain is Fr. Tony Lester

Photograph of Tony sitting in the coutryside.

Tony Says: Hi, I am the full-time Catholic Chaplain to the University My home is in More House the Catholic Chaplaincy building (between campus and Halifax College) which has an open door and simply provides a place of welcome throughout term-time where you can relax, brew up and find friendly company.

As an undergraduate I lived and studied for a number of years as part of an international community abroad which has left me with a love for languages and the richness that different cultures bring. I love living in York and being part of the Chaplaincy Team at the University with all the opportunities that this offers - no two days are the same!

Over the years I have also worked in prison and hospital chaplaincy, parish and retreat ministry, as well as 6 years working nationally and internationally on behalf of the Carmelite Order in which I am a professed friar. I am currently in the early stages of a PhD in Theology.

I have learnt over the years that questions we ask of ourselves, our world and God are crucially important to our human flourishing. I don't have ready answers but am willing to listen and share in any conversation you wish to have. Feel free to contact me either in More House or, if I am out and about on campus, via:

Home/office: 01904 428490
Mobile: 07971 697334
Email: antony.lester@york.ac.uk
Twitter: cathchap

Click here for the More House website


The Methodist Chaplain is Revd. Rory Dalgliesh

Profile photograph of Rory Dalgliesh against a pale background.

Rory Says: Hi, I grew up and was ordained in South Africa, but have been living and working in the UK for 10 years now. Through my mixed ancestry I feel proudly obliged to support Ireland in the Six Nations. It's a long story!

I live close to the university on the Badger Hill estate, and I have two young children: Hannah and Matthew.

I love chaplaincy, and working in a team both on campus and in the church. It is varied, interesting, and at the same time both very meaningful and a lot of fun. When I'm not being a Chaplain I love being with my children, as well as wild places, mountains, and working with my hands. I am also an experienced triathlete, and in training to compete in the UK Ironman race next summer.

I run a personal website at www.isiphenduka.com which you may find interesting and helpful.

As well as being Methodist Chaplain, I am also Methodist Minister to HeslingtonChurch, a joint Anglican/Methodist church next to the campus.

I often sit and work in one of the campus bars, so you will see me around. I'm always up for good conversation, cake and a suitable beverage. You choose the topic of conversation. I supply the beverage and cake. Don't hesitate to be in touch if there is anything that I/we could do for you.

Home/office: 01904 414398
Mobile: 07877 419112
Email: rory.dalgliesh@york.ac.uk

Back to Top