Theodore W. Bean, Jr. became Provost of the Cathedral on November 1, 2005. On October 1, 2009, the Cathedral Chapter changed his title to Dean of the Cathedral in recognition of both his seniority among the diocesan clergy and also of the work completed during his tenure. Begun in 2006, a multi-million dollar multi-phase renovation of the historic cathedral church is underway. The first phase, rebuilding of the Cathedral spire and refurbishing of the carillon, was completed in June 2008. In addition a permanent, attractive handicap access ramp added to the east side entrance (main entrance) of the church was opened in September 2009. Further projects will include roof repair/replacement and a completion of the painting of the main church interior.

A native of Decatur, Illinois, he was ordained in 1974 in the Diocese of Quincy after receiving degrees from the University of Illinois (at Champaign-Urbana) and Seabury-Western Theological Seminary. He completed a master’s degree in administration from the Graduate Theological Foundation in 1991.

Archdeacon Bean came to the Diocese of Long Island in 1976. For the past three decades he has served parishes and health care ministries in Brooklyn, Queens, and Nassau including a lengthy assignment at Manhattan’s Bellevue Hospital Center. Twice named a regional dean and then archdeacon of Nassau County on January 1, 2004, prior to assuming his duties at the Cathedral, he was rector of St. Thomas Church in Farmingdale for four years.

Father Bean’s diocesan activities include several terms as chair of the Department of Mission, membership on the Diocesan Council, the Cathedral Chapter, and the Board of Episcopal Charities. He is married to the former Karen T. Clauson. They have three grown children.