Bishop Robert has expressed his delight at the creation of new ministry posts in Belgium which he says is good news for the whole diocese.

“The Belgian government has agreed to fund a further administrative post in the entity that oversees our relationships with the Belgian state,” he explained. “This post will be taken by The Revd Canon Stephen Murray. Stephen will remain as Area Dean for Belgium. In addition, he will be using his extensive experience of youth work to take up a diocesan responsibility for co-ordinating youth networks.”

At the same time, The Revd Canon Prof Jack McDonald will take up a part-time role as Bishop Robert’s Advisor for EU Affairs. The diocese remains closely engaged with European institutions such as the EU and the Council of Europe, where it represents the Church of England and the wider Anglican Communion. The role will involve liaising with EU bodies and ecumenical partners, writing briefings and conducting academic research which will help Bishop Robert

Canon Jack is chaplain-president of the Anglican Central Committee in Belgium, a role held by Bishop Robert before his appointment. He is also canon theologian at Holy Trinity Brussels.

“These developments will be of real benefit to the bishop and the diocese,” said Bishop Robert.” They are only possible because of Belgian State funding for our work. And that is only possible because of considerable administrative and diplomatic work within the Anglican church in Belgium to sustain our status as a recognised faith grouping. We hope and pray that this really positive relationship with the Belgian authorities will continue for a long time.”

We will have interviews with Revd Canon Stephen and Revd Canon Jack about their new roles in our News section soon.