The work of CIYD is vital to the Church of Ireland. We treasure the contribution that our young people bring to the church, and we want them to stay and to be fully committed and active adults to their churches as they progress through life. CIYD has a network of wonderful diocesan youth officers and parish youth workers who ensure that our young people are nurtured in Christian faith and grow into mature, joyful believers. CIYD provides an array of resources to encourage professional youth work standards, and excellent training opportunities for future leaders to lead well. It is a privilege to be a part of the exciting move of God amongst young people and to celebrate their contribution to church life.

Hello! I lead the CIYD team across Ireland, based in our Belfast office but often on the road. Previously, I was a full-time youth worker for 10 years in St. John’s Parish Moira (Diocese of Down and Dromore) before joining CIYD in 2016, and came to faith at my home parish, St. Mark’s Portadown (Diocese of Armagh) age 13, through the influence and example of leaders from Boys Brigade, Sunday school & many Youth Group activities. It was here during these formative years where I saw vibrant youth ministry really making a difference to the lives of young people around me. I attended Portadown College for GCSE & A Levels and later the University of Ulster, Coleraine, for an English, Media Studies & Drama degree.

I am passionate about seeing young people have a real and vibrant faith in Jesus, for them to play an active role in their local church and to be discipled well to impact others for God’s Kingdom. What is also vital to that happening is to establish, maintain & grow quality youth ministry with employed youth workers and dedicated volunteers.

In my spare time I enjoy music, gigs, cinema, gym, travelling as much as I can, and a big mug of tea.

I have been in post since November 2016 having previously served as a diocesan youth officer with the Diocese of Leeds (previously Diocese of Bradford) for six years and as a Parish Youth Worker for ten years and fully understand the joys and challenges of such a role. Responding to God’s call to Youth Ministry was the best decision I have made. It has provided me with so many opportunities to share the Gospel, to empower young people to live Jesus shaped lives and to enable the church in its mission amongst teenagers. Youth Ministry encourages the personal, social, spiritual, emotional and educational development of all young people and demonstrates to young people their inherent worth.

I am married to Fran, who is Priest in Charge of the parishes of Geashill and Killeigh in the Dioceses of Meath and Kildare, we have two children, Katherine and Joe. I enjoy all sports, watching and playing. I love the mountains, particularly skiing down them and climbing up them. I enjoy driving and spending time with my family, I also collect Star Wars Lego!