Cannon Eric Stephenson
Canon Stephenson was born and brought up in the North East. After serving a curacy at St.
John the Baptist, Wakefield, he moved to the Durham Diocese where he served another curacy at Seaham with Seaham Harbour. During a further period of ministry in Darlington at St. Mary's, Cockerton he accepted the post of a teacher in a local Comprehensive School at Haughton-le-Skerne. During his ten years at this school he eventually became head of the Music Department.
He became Vicar of East Boldon in 1985 and was made Area Dean of Jarrow in 1992 and continued in that post until 2001. Canon Stephenson became Non Residentiary Canon of Durham Cathedral in 1993. He has served on many boards and committees in the Diocese including over 20 years with the Board of Education and for many years was chairman of the Diocesan Schools Committee. At present he is chairman of the Stewardship Committee and of the Diocesan House of Clergy.
Canon Stephenson was appointed a Queen's Chaplain in January of this year which is not only a great honour for himself but also for the region. As Chaplain to Her Majesty he was required to preach annually in the Chapels Royal.
Father Eric retired from St. George's Church in October 2008 and we wish him a long and happy retirement.
