This is a week of sad farewells and warm welcomes at the Diocesan Office in London.

The Head of Finance, Susan Stelfox, retires on Friday 13 June after more than 6 years of dedicated service to the Diocese.  Her attention to detail and her care for the financial affairs of every area of our work and that of all the Chaplaincies has been remarkable. 

Susan’s shoes are filled by the new Interim Head of Finance, George Ansong, who will be with us into 2026 when a permanent replacement will be appointed.  George comes to us having spent many years in a similar role in an Academy Trust (education) and then a senior position at the Methodist Church. 

Chris Lynch has joined us as the new Net Zero Officer.  He has been doing a similar role in the Diocese of Lincoln and will now split his time between the two Dioceses.  The role is funded by the National Church Net Zero Programme, working towards the Church of England’s 2030 Net Zero Carbon objective.  A range of projects are underway, and Chris will be working with Chaplaincies, the DBF and the Bishop’s Office.  Chris replaces Barbara Alger, who has sadly had to leave the post due to ill health.  We continue to hold Barbara in our prayers.