Salvation Army Leader Appointed as Chair of Cytûn – Churches Together in Wales
Kathryn Stowers, Captain in the Salvation Army and leader of their work in Newport, south Wales, and the first ecumenical Canon of Newport Cathedral, has been appointed as the next Chair of Cytûn, the ecumenical body representing the Christian denominations in ecumenical fellowship across Wales. She will take up the role following the completion of Rev Dr Jennie Hurd’s term as Chair later this year, bringing extensive experience of Christian witness and community leadership to this significant position.
As Chair, Captain Kathryn will lead the strategic direction of Cytûn during a critical period for Christian unity in Wales. The role encompasses chairing meetings of Cytûn’s Trustees and Management Body, as well as presiding over the regular meetings of the Cytûn Enabling Group, which informs the organisation’s collaborative work across Wales’s diverse Christian traditions. Cytûn’s mission to witness to Christian unity has never been more vital, as churches work together to address shared challenges and speak with a unified voice on matters of our shared faith, ethics, and public policy affecting Welsh communities.
The appointment reflects Cytûn’s commitment to drawing leadership from across the full breadth of its member denominations, including the Salvation Army’s distinctive tradition of faith in action. Upon her formal appointment she succeeds Rev Dr Jennie Hurd, who has provided dedicated leadership strengthening Cytûn’s engagement with Welsh Government, the Senedd, and the wider faith communities across Wales. The transition ensures continuity of Cytûn’s vital work whilst bringing fresh vision to its ongoing mission.
Dr Cynan Llwyd General Secretary of Cytun welcomed Kathryn to the role saying,
“Kathryn is widely respected for her pastoral leadership, her commitment to supporting vulnerable people in Newport, and her ability to build bridges between organisations and communities. Her appointment comes at a time when the churches’ united witness in Wales is increasingly important, particularly as Christian communities navigate rapid social change and seek to demonstrate the relevance and compassion of the Gospel in contemporary Welsh society.
“Having been born, brought up and worked in the communities of south east Wales before embarking on her Christian ministry, I know Kathryn understands first-hand both the challenges and opportunities churches face as we seek to work and witness together.”
Captain (Canon) Kathryn Stowers, incoming Chair of Cytûn added:
“It is an honour and a privilege to be appointed as Chair of Cytûn at such an important time for the churches in Wales. The Salvation Army has always believed in working alongside other Christians to serve our communities, and I am committed to strengthening the bonds of unity between our denominations.
“Through Cytûn, we have a unique opportunity to witness to the unity of Christ’s Church and to speak prophetically on the issues that matter to the people of Wales. I look forward to working with our members to deepen that witness and to ensure that Christian voices are heard on the challenges facing our society.”
In planning the transition to new leadership, Rev Dr Jennie Hurd, outgoing Chair of Cytûn said,
“It has been deeply rewarding to serve as Chair of Cytûn, and I am delighted to hand over to Kathryn, whose leadership and pastoral heart will take the organisation forward with confidence.
“The ecumenical movement in Wales is strong because of the commitment of our members who understand that Christian unity is not merely an aspiration but a lived reality that enriches our witness and strengthens our ability to serve others. I know Kathryn will receive every blessing in the role and look forward to supporting her in this period of transition as we continue to demonstrate what it means to be Churches Together in Wales.”