Archbishop Michael Jackson has announced the appointment of two new members to the Chapter of Christ Church Cathedral, Dublin. The Revd Garth Bunting and the Revd Alan Breen have been selected for the prestigious roles, with their official installations set to take place in due course.
The Revd Garth Bunting currently serves as Rector of Drumcondra and North Strand, while the Revd Alan Breen is Rector of Kill O’ the Grange. Both parishes are within the Diocese of Dublin.
In announcing the appointments, Archbishop Jackson commended the appointees for their service and experience within the Church. “The Revd Garth Bunting came to Dublin as Dean’s Vicar of Christ Church Cathedral and later became Rector of Drumcondra and North Strand, where he is deeply valued. His past and current roles equip him well to contribute meaningfully to the life and witness of the cathedral,” the Archbishop said.
He also praised the wide-ranging contributions of the Revd Alan Breen, stating, “Alan Breen has served the dioceses in numerous capacities since his ordination. I am delighted to welcome him to the Cathedral Chapter, where he will share his insights for the benefit of both the dioceses and its mother church.”
Dean of Christ Church Cathedral, the Very Revd Dermot Dunne, expressed enthusiasm for the new appointments, noting the unique strengths both clergy bring to the Chapter. “On behalf of the Cathedral Chapter, I warmly welcome Garth Bunting and Alan Breen. Each brings a distinctive and enriching perspective to the cathedral’s ministry. I look forward to working alongside them as we continue the life and mission of the cathedral. May their ministry be richly blessed,” he said.
Reflecting on his appointment, the Revd Garth Bunting described it as a deeply meaningful development in a long-standing relationship with the cathedral. “The cathedral has been significant to me for nearly 30 years. During my ordination training, I worked there during holidays, welcoming visitors and assisting in the shop. From 2009 to 2016, I returned as Residential Priest Vicar. To now join as a canon is a special honour. I look forward to many more years of service to the cathedral community,” he said.
The Revd Alan Breen also expressed his gratitude, calling the appointment both humbling and inspiring. “Christ Church Cathedral has, for nearly a millennium, been a sacred space where people encounter the living God. I am grateful to the Archbishop and the Dean for this opportunity. The Anglican tradition is a powerful platform for discipleship and spiritual growth. I look forward to serving alongside the Dean and cathedral staff in continuing the work of glorifying God and meeting the needs of all who come through its doors,” he said.
The appointments mark a significant step in the continued spiritual leadership and mission of one of Dublin’s most historic religious institutions.
