Acting Judge Peter Grogan is coming out of retirement to take on the role of the Diocese's leading legal eagle.

Mr Grogan has accepted Archbishop Peter Jensen's invitation to become the new Chancellor of the Diocese of Sydney.

Mr Grogan says his new role will be an "exciting challenge'.

"There are always exciting developments, opportunities and problems that arise so the role will provide me an interesting challenge," Mr Grogan says.

The Chancellor's primary role is to give the Archbishop advice on legal matters as well as issues relating to synod.

The announcement of Mr Grogan's appointment was made at Standing Committee on Monday night by Dr Jensen.

Mr Grogan has been acting Chancellor since previous Diocesan Chancellor, Michael Orpwood QC, passed away last December after suffering from cancer.

"I was a friend and colleague of my predecessor Michael Orpwood who served with me on the Diocesan Tribunal," Mr Grogan says.

Dr Jensen says he is "grateful' that Mr Grogan was willing to fill the role of Acting Chancellor over the past three months and looks forward to his service over the next three years.

The position of Chancellor is a three-year appointment.

"Judge Grogan is noted for his integrity and probity. I value his maturity, godliness, and wisdom," Dr Jensen says.

"I know that I will be able to count on him to give me wise and sensible counsel."

Mr Grogan, 71, served for many years as a Barrister and then as a District Court Judge.

He and his wife Val have been committed members of the congregation at St Swithun's, Pymble since 1969, where Peter serves as part of the ministry team with a particular focus on evangelism. 

"I value most the opportunity this ministry gives me to serve God and be part of a very real family at my church," Mr Grogan says.

"The opportunity to work in a church doing outreach and evangelism are matters I am particularly interested in."

Despite officially retiring in 1999, the 71-year-old has kept very active.

Mr Grogan studied a Diploma of Bible and Missions at Moore Theological College in 2000. He is a Diocesan Reader and preaches regularly in church.

Mr Grogan also recently took up Masters swimming, winning a gold medal in the 100 m freestyle event in his age group at the NSW Championships last year .
Mr Grogan is married to Valerie, and together they have one adult daughter and two grandsons, aged nine and five.

Mr Grogan’s appointment tops the list of Standing Committee news over the past month. News about further decision can be read here.