Caritas Westminster is saying goodbye to John Coleby, who steps down from his role this week. John, who has been director of Caritas for ten years, has overseen the organisation from its early days and was instrumental in the establishment of Bakhita House, Seeds Hub, and Safe in Faith as well as the development of our food programme, volunteer service and outreach through hubs into parishes and schools.
John began working for Westminster diocese in 2010 as director of St Joseph’s Pastoral Centre which was subsequently incorporated, along with the Westminster Diocese Deaf Service, into Caritas Westminster. Soon after, John became the director of the whole of Caritas Westminster.
John said “I’m leaving with a sense of gratitude for all the work the team has done. They’re a fantastic team, not only the Caritas staff, but everyone from across the curia. Without their support we can’t do what we need to do.
“There are always challenges and always more work to do, but I’ve really enjoyed it. I’ve been moved by the good wishes and thanks I’ve received in the past few days.”
Diocese staff gathered on Tuesday 27th June to say goodbye to John and wish him well for the future. Cardinal Vincent Nichols presented him with an apostolic blessing from Pope Francis.
Paolo Camoletto, Chief Operating Officer for Westminster Diocese said, “John has done a fantastic job establishing Caritas. He was the right person at the right time. His style of leadership always projects positivity.
“Personally, John is the type of person who makes you grow when you meet him. His patience, kindness and empathy makes you grow as an individual, you want to listen to him. He will be sorely missed.”
We wish John all the best in whatever the future holds for him. He will always be part of the Caritas family.
