Meet the oceangoing, musical pastor

The Ven John Green has been made Archdeacon Pastor of the Diocese of Coventry and will be installed in Coventry Cathedral on December 9 during Eucharist.

Brought up to pray in a traditional East London family, the music lover only began attending church when his parish church was rebuilt and a new organ installed.

He studied physics at London Polytechnic and work in a church in St Albans led to work with the Sea Cadets and the Royal Navy, where he eventually became Chaplain of the Fleet.

Mr Green believes the role is not just a case of keeping things shipshape and Bristol-fashion. He said: “Archdeacons’ ministry is often thought of as enforcing church law for the sake of order. But I see my future role as safeguarding order so loving relationships can flourish, making new disciples and transforming communities.”