The Revd Dr Andrew Bowyer, Dean of Divinity at Magdalen College, Oxford, will become Master of the Temple at the Temple Church in London, after the retirement of the Revd Dr Robin Griffith-Jones.
His Majesty The King has approved the appointment of the Revd Dr Andrew Bowyer, Dean of Divinity, Magdalen College, University of Oxford, as the next Master of the Temple.
He was chosen following a competitive interview process by a panel comprising the acting Bishop of London, representatives of The Honourable Societies of the Inner Temple and Middle Temple and the Ecclesiastical Secretary to the Crown. He will take up his post on 1 September 2026.
Rory Phillips KC, Chair of the Temple Church Trust, has commented,“I am delighted that such a worthy successor has been appointed as the new Master of the Temple. The Revd Dr Andrew Bowyer will bring many relevant skills and experiences to the role and the two Inns of Court look forward very much to working with him in the coming years.”
Dinah Rose KC, President of Magdalen College, has commented, “Magdalen will greatly miss Dr Bowyer’s welcoming, inclusive and open-hearted ministry as our Dean of Divinity. But we are delighted by his appointment as Master of the Temple, and wish him every possible success for the future.”
The Revd Dr Andrew Bowyer has commented, “The Temple Church is renowned for its place in history, its fine sacred music, faithful worship, intellectual dynamism, and hospitality to visitors from around the world. I am humbled to be appointed to this role, and thrilled to be given the opportunity to serve this lively and distinguished community.
“As I prepare to commence this new ministry, I pay tribute to Magdalen College, my home for seven years, and a place that has afforded countless opportunities for insight and enrichment. I will miss serving the Chapel and Choir, and the daily conversations with students, academics, and staff, from all disciplines and walks of life.”