The UKME Chapter at the diocese welcomes the Revd Serena Tajima as its next Dean. Serena takes over from the Revd Canon Janet Binns, who has stepped down after three years in the role.
The chapter meets twice a year for fellowship and prayer and often at other diocese-led events like the upcoming Chrism Mass. The gatherings are an opportunity to welcome new members, share news, signpost to useful resources and conferences and pray together. The chapter are also available to preach about racial justice and diversity throughout the diocese to spread the news about what is going on in the chapter.
Serena said: “I’m really excited about becoming the new UKME Dean for the chapter. I have been part of the chapter since its inception in 2020 and look forward to working with Polly, Mark and Ayo to help the chapter reach more people and provide support and resources both to chapter members and the wider diocese.”
As the chapter has grown in size and diversity, two Associate Deans have also been appointed to support the Dean. They are the Revd Ayo Audu and the Revd Mark Nam.
Mark said: “As a British-born Chinese priest, I’ve often found myself navigating the edges of different worlds. The UKME Chapter has been a space where I’ve felt seen, heard, and understood — a place of deep encouragement and shared wisdom. I’m humbled to be invited to serve as Associate Dean, and I hope to help nurture that same sense of belonging for others.
“I look forward to supporting Serena as she begins her leadership as Dean, and working alongside Ayo. Together, we can continue to celebrate the rich diversity of our Diocese and help shape a Church where everyone feels they truly belong.”
Retiring Dean, Janet added: “I would like to express my wholehearted support for Revd Serena Tajima’s appointment as Dean of the UKME/GMH Chapter. Her consistent leadership, pastoral care, and commitment to the flourishing of the Chapter have been evident over the years. I believe she will serve the Chapter well with grace and wisdom, continuing to nurture the inclusive and prophetic space we’ve all worked so hard to shape.”
Read Janet’s reflection on her time as Dean of the UKME Chapter.