Bishop Robert Forsyth has announced that the Rev Deryck Howell will be the new Archdeacon of the South Sydney region in the Diocese of Sydney.

“I was very happy to recommend Deryck to the Archbishop as he is someone whom I have come to know and respect for his gentle wisdom and ability in working with people of all different kinds,” Bishop Forsyth said. “I am convinced he will relate warmly and well to the diverse range of parishes and traditions that are a mark of our region.”

Mr Howell will commence his ministry on May 12. He replaces Archdeacon Edwards, who accepted an appointment in the Diocese of Canberra and Goulburn.

Since 1982 he has been assistant minister at St Matthias’, Centennial Park. Prior to that he was rector of St Aidan’s, Hurstville Grove.

Mr Howell has been a member of the South Sydney Regional Council since its inception in 1996, which has given him an insight into the functioning of the South Sydney region. “I have really enjoyed getting to know the wider region through the work of the Council,” he said.

He is married to Glenda and they have five adult children and eight grandchildren.