The Episcopal Diocese of West Tennessee is pleased to announce that the Rev. Dr. Noah Campbell has been named Dean of St. Mary’s Episcopal Cathedral in Memphis, the seat of the Bishop of the Episcopal Church in West Tennessee.
Dean Noah has served as Interim Dean of St. Mary’s Cathedral since November 1, 2024. Prior to that appointment, he served as College Missioner for the Diocese of West Tennessee and as vicar of Church of the Good Shepherd in Memphis. Following a season of faithful leadership and discernment, he now assumes the role permanently, becoming the first permanent dean of St. Mary’s Cathedral since 2019.
“Noah has demonstrated a deep commitment to the Cathedral’s mission, a heart for pastoral leadership, and a vision for the future of the Church in West Tennessee,” said Bishop Phoebe Roaf. “I am grateful for his faithful service during this interim period and delighted that he will continue leading St. Mary’s Cathedral into its next chapter of ministry.”
As the cathedral of the Diocese of West Tennessee, St. Mary’s holds a unique role in the life of the Church. According to The Episcopal Church, a cathedral “is the principal church of a diocese and contains the diocesan bishop’s seat, or cathedra. As the symbol and center of diocesan ministry, the cathedral serves as a gathering place for diocesan celebrations, episcopal services, and worship. The dean is the priest with pastoral charge of the cathedral congregation and its ministries.”
Founded in 1857, St. Mary’s Episcopal Cathedral has long been known as “A House of Prayer for All People.” At a time when most churches required parishioners to pay a “pew tax” for the privilege of worship, St. Mary’s welcomed all people regardless of their means. That commitment to inclusion, radical hospitality, and service continues to define St. Mary’s Cathedral’s ministry today as it offers respite, belonging, and community to people from all walks of life.
Reflecting on his appointment, Dean Noah said, “It is a profound honor to serve as Dean of St. Mary’s Cathedral. This congregation has a rich history of welcoming all people into God’s love, and I look forward to continuing that work alongside the people of the Cathedral and throughout the Diocese of West Tennessee.”
Please join us in giving thanks for Dean Noah’s ministry and in praying for him, the people of St. Mary’s Cathedral, and the Diocese of West Tennessee as they continue to share the Good News of Jesus Christ throughout West Tennessee.
