Born in Sligo, John Cullen was ordained in 1978 for Elphin Diocese. He served in London as an Emigrant Chaplain to the Irish community before being appointed as Diocesan Advisor for Primary School Religious Education. He volunteered to serve for a few years in Kenya with the St. Patrick’s Missionary Society (Kiltegan). Pastoral appointments have been the main aspect of serving in Elphin Diocese. He edited the Diocesan Paper, 'The Angelus', for many years. He is an avid Arsenal fan as well as a great supporter of the GAA. Travelling to new places, films, art, drama, reading, writing and mountain climbing are other interests.