By The East Tennessee Catholic
Bishop Mark Beckman has named John Mecklenborg the director of communications for the Diocese of Knoxville.
Mr. Mecklenborg’s appointment was effective Nov. 4.
Mr. Mecklenborg has been a resident of Knoxville since graduating from the University of Tennessee-Knoxville with a degree in journalism-broadcasting.
He and wife Tabitha are the parents of four children: Rose, who is a third-grader at Sacred Heart Cathedral School; and Bonnie, Thomas, and Mary June, who attend Sacred Heart preschool.
The family attends the Cathedral of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, and Mrs. Mecklenborg works at Sacred Heart Cathedral School.
Mr. Mecklenborg joins the diocese with more than 18 years of media and communications experience, working extensively in digital media and television production and editing.
Mr. Mecklenborg is a native of Cincinnati. His parents now live in Nashville.
After graduating from UT in 2005, he remained in Knoxville, where he has worked with video production firms, including Jupiter Entertainment.
Mr. Mecklenborg said he looks forward to sharing the good, faith-based works happening in the Diocese of Knoxville with people who live within the diocese and those who are outside of the region.
“It is an honor to serve as the new director of communications for the Diocese of Knoxville. Drawing from my background in TV and social media marketing, I hope to share the timeless messages of our Catholic faith in meaningful and accessible ways,” Mr. Mecklenborg said.
“My hope is to gently bridge our cherished traditions with today’s digital platforms, helping more people in East Tennessee feel connected to our community’s rich spiritual heritage and dynamic cultural landscape,” he added.
Bishop Mark Beckman said he is excited about Mr. Mecklenborg joining the diocese and offering his talent and skill to advance the message of Jesus Christ and His Church.
“I am delighted to have John on board as our new communications director. His expertise, particularly with video and modern social media, will be a great gift in sharing the Gospel, especially with the next generation,” Bishop Beckman said.
Mr. Mecklenborg is looking forward to meeting the Catholic faithful across East Tennessee and having the opportunity to share their stories.
“The opportunity to work closely with our dedicated clergy, vibrant parishes, and tireless ministries in East Tennessee fills me with hope and purpose as I transition into this role. I have much to learn about the depths of our faith, and I’d be hard-pressed to find a better community to serve as my teacher,” he said.
Mr. Mecklenborg succeeds Jim Wogan, who served as diocesan communications director for the past decade.
Mr. Wogan retired in August after joining the Diocese of Knoxville in 2014.
