Evensong with Commissioning of LGBTQI+ Volunteer Chaplains

Bishop Helen-Ann will commission two new LGBTQI+ volunteer chaplains, Izzy McDonald-Booth and David Casati, at a special Evensong on Sunday 21 September. Izzy and David will work in the Diocese of Newcastle's LGBTQI+ Chaplaincy alongside Lead Chaplain, Revd Emma Duff.

Commenting on the appointment, David said, “It is important for me to be visible as a queer person in the Church and to encourage the gifts and ministries of LGBTQI+ people in our Diocese. I envisage a flexible ministry, made of discernment, listening, presence, teamwork and vision.”

Izzy commented: “The chaplaincy is here to make sure the Church lives out its promise to be a place for all people through advocacy and pastoral support wherever it’s needed. We, as the LGBTQI+ community, especially right now, need affirmation and recognition of everyone’s dignity under God, and this is my prayer.”

You are warmly invited to come and celebrate with us as David and Izzy are commissioned.

Please RSVP through TicketSource to assist Newcastle Cathedral and Diocesan staff and clergy with planning seating and light refreshments: https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/newcastle-cathedral-registrations/evensong-with-commissioning-of-lgbtqi-chaplains/2025-09-21/16:00/t-zzeprov

For more upcoming services and special events at Newcastle Cathedral, please visit newcastlecathedral.org.uk/whats-on

You may also like the following events from Newcastle Cathedral:

• This Saturday, 30th August, 11:00 am, Newcastle Cathedral History Tours – August & September 2025 in Newcastle Upon Tyne
• Next Thursday, 4th September, 03:30 pm, ‘Theology& Joyful Fun’ – Seminar with Fr Lee Taylor, Vicar of Berwick-upon-Tweed in Newcastle Upon Tyne
• Next month, 10th September, 06:45 pm, ‘Your City, Your Recovery’ – Recovery Month Exhibition Launch in Newcastle Upon Tyne