My 'surreal' new job in the chapel where Henry VIII worshipped

"I didn't really think I would stand much of a chance. But I think God had other plans."

Archdeacon Robert Miller never dreamed he would one day be taking up a position which is so deeply intertwined with the history of the Anglican Church.

In a matter of weeks he will become chaplain of the Chapel Royal at Hampton Court Palace, once home to Henry VIII.

One of Londonderry's best known clergymen he will be the first cleric from the island of Ireland to hold the position.

"It felt slightly surreal being appointed," says Miller who has served as Archdeacon of Derry and Raphoe for more than a decade.

Built for Cardinal Thomas Wolsey in 1514, Hampton Court Palace was later claimed by King Henry VIII and became a centre of royal power.

And at the heart of the palace is the Chapel Royal.

Henry VIII worshipped there during the years that saw England break with the Catholic church in Rome and establish the Church of England.

The chapel is also linked to events surrounding the downfall of his fifth wife Catherine Howard.

It was within its walls that the king was given a letter detailing accusations of adultery against her, which ultimately lead to her execution.

Today, the chapel continues to be part of the King's ecclesiastical household, while also serving a regular congregation.

The chaplain may no longer preach directly to the monarch and his courtiers, but Miller is relishing the challenges of his new role.

He was made aware of the vacancy earlier this year, but was initially reluctant to apply.

Speaking to BBC Radio Foyle's North West Today programme Miller described his application for the job as a "very supported" process, involving several stages.

There were recorded submissions, interviews and a final visit to Hampton Court itself during the summer.

"It's not just purely an interview, but a process of discernment from both sides," he said.

Miller will lead worship, provide pastoral care and oversee the spiritual life of a uniquely historic church.

"There's lots of variety. It is a bit really like becoming a new parish priest," he said.

"Whilst I'm chaplain to the Chapel Royal, which has a very specific role within the Royal household, I'm also chaplain to the people who work at Hampton Court as well."

Three services are held each Sunday and are open to the public, while a regular congregation regards the chapel as its parish church.

"Although there are no members of the Royal Family currently living at Hampton Court, it is also the chapel of the companions of honour - through that, there'll be engagement with the Royal Family," he added.

"I've always looked at it as people are people regardless of where they come from. When I engage with people, it's in a confidential and pastoral way."

Nicola Andrews, palaces group director at Historic Royal Palaces says the chapel, has been "shaped by generations of monarchs".

"The Chapel Royal has been at the heart of palace life for more than 500 years and remains a thriving place of worship, music and community today," she said.

Welcoming Miller to the chaplaincy, she says he steps into a "unique role" that will involve "caring for that living tradition, leading worship and pastoral ministry while helping people connect with the chapel's extraordinary history and continuing relevance".

She added that MIller "brings a wealth of experience and we look forward to working with him as he leads the chapel into its next chapter".

Miller's installation is due to take place on 4 November.

For Bishop of Derry and Raphoe, Andrew Forster it is a "bittersweet moment".

He says Miller has given the diocese "outstanding service" during his 12 years as Archdeacon.

"I thank him for his support and that friendship and wish him a successful and fruitful ministry," he said.