Bishop Robert is delighted to announce that Mervyn McCullagh has been appointed to be the new Diocesan Secretary and Chief Operating Officer for the Diocese in Europe. Mervyn will succeed Andrew Caspari who steps down from the role in November.

Mervyn is currently Director of Strategy and Global Change at Christian Aid where he has played a key role on the executive team for seven years. Mervyn has shaped and championed the organisation’s strategy, and guided its  direction and evolution, embracing new approaches and technologies whilst supporting colleagues at all levels. Previously Mervyn was General Secretary of the Irish Council of Churches where he energised the collective work of the churches in Ireland. He has worked for the Methodist Church in Britain, the Presbyterian Church in Ireland, the National Christian Council of Sri Lanka as a partnership and strategy consultant and has extensive experience working in Indonesia. 

In London, Mervyn serves as a Lay Canon and a Non-Executive member of the Chapter at St Paul’s Cathedral.

The appointment panel included the Chair of the Diocesan Board of Finance, independent experts and the Chairs of the Houses of the Diocesan Synod. It was chaired by Bishop Robert who says:  

‘I am delighted that we have appointed Mervyn McCullagh as our new Diocesan Secretary. Mervyn comes with a wealth of experience in Christian charitable service having worked in the UK, in Ireland and across the world. He has a real heart for the work of the Diocese in Europe and will serve the DBF and all the chaplaincies with great warmth and care.  He will be very welcome across the Diocese.’

Mervyn says: ‘This is a hugely exciting time in this richly multicultural diocese which is responding to many social, economic and geopolitical changes. I look forward to serving the diocese as, through God’s grace, it seeks to harness new opportunities and build on its current work. I hope to support all the chaplaincies and staff as best I can and look forward to learning more about the rich diversity of worship as we strive for growth and innovation, seek justice and create new collaborations.’

Mervyn will take up his position on December 15 2025 following a detailed handover.  He will be based in Tufton Street in Westminster and will get to know people across the diocese both online and in person.

Please keep Mervyn in your prayers as he prepares for his new role serving the church across Europe.