As Dean, Philip leads and oversees the overall life and mission of Durham Cathedral.
This involves leading worship and preaching, discerning and communicating vision for the Cathedral as a whole and also chairing the Chapter, the governing body. Philip also has a range of governance roles in other bodies across the city and Diocese.
Latest writings from Philip
Sermon for the Second Sunday after Epiphany - Philip Plyming
Sunday 18 January 2026 Sermons
John 1:29-42; 1 Corinthians 1:1-9
Read SermonSermon for the First Eucharist of Christmas - Philip Plyming
Wednesday 24 December 2025 Sermons
Isaiah 9 and Luke 2
Read SermonSermon for Advent Sunday - Philip Plyming
Sunday 30 November 2025 Sermons
Isaiah 2:1-5; Matthew 24:37-44
Read SermonSermon on Remembrance Sunday 2025 - Philip Plyming
Sunday 9 November 2025 Sermons
Micah 4:1-5 and Matthew 5:1-10
Read SermonBackground:
Philip was in parish ministry for 16 years in the south of England before returning to Durham (where he had trained) in 2017 to head up Cranmer Hall, a theological college within St John’s College, Durham University. He taught New Testament and Christian Leadership and was also on General Synod. In 2023 he discerned a call to serve God as Dean of Durham and feels "privileged to serve the mission of this wonderful community."
Contact:
Email: dean@durhamcathedral.co.uk