Michael deputises for the Dean of Durham as Vice-Dean.
As a member of Chapter, he shares in the governance of Durham Cathedral as a trustee.
As Precentor, Michael is responsible to the Chapter for the liturgy and music of the cathedral, its regular worship and special services.
Latest writings from Michael
Sermon on the Fifth Sunday of Lent - Michael Hampel
Sunday 22 March 2026 Sermons
Jeremiah 31: 27-37 John 12: 20-33
Read SermonSermon on the Second Sunday before Lent
Sunday 8 February 2026 Sermons
Romans 8: 18-25 Matthew 6: 25-end
Read SermonDurham Cathedral lines up impressive speakers for Lent talks on the creative arts
Wednesday 4 February 2026 Articles
Durham Cathedral has unveiled an inspiring programme of Lent Talks for 2026, bringing together leading voices from across the creative arts. Featuring leaders in their fields, the talks will take place every Sunday afternoon during Lent.
Read ArticleSermon on the Third Sunday of Advent - Michael Hampel
Sunday 14 December 2025 Sermons
Isaiah 35: 1-10 Matthew 11: 2-11
Read SermonBackground:
Michael was educated in Stratford-upon-Avon, Durham University and Westcott House, Cambridge.
He was ordained as Curate of Spennymoor in the Diocese of Durham in 1993 and served there for 4 years. He was then appointed Minor Canon, Precentor and Sacrist of Durham Cathedral from 1997 until 2002.
He became Senior Tutor of St Chad’s College in Durham University until 2004.
Michael left Durham in the autumn of that year to become Residentiary Canon and Precentor of St Edmundsbury Cathedral in Bury St Edmunds for 7 years until he was appointed Precentor of St Paul’s Cathedral, a post which he held until he returned to Durham in 2018 as Vice-Dean and Precentor.
