Husband to Catherine and father to Michael. James has been at the helm of Clogher don Óige since 2018, but his involvement with CdÓ goes way back to the first diocesan pilgrimage to an International World Youth Day, way back in 2005 in Cologne.
Staying involved through his years studying Politics at university James was often a pilgrimage leader, and was always willing to lend a hand at any other CdÓ events. James was born in London, but raised just outside Pettigo (his family have a big link to Lough Derg - his maternal great-grandparents were one of the local families that ran one of the old lodging houses on the island in the time before the dormitories) - attending primary school at Saint Joseph's in Ederney and then on to Saint Michael's College in Enniskillen. Faith has always been a central part of James' life. He's been involved in youth work, both inside and outside the Church for over 15 years. Before coming back home to Clogher he spent a number of years working for the Kenelm Youth Trust in the Archdiocese of Birmingham in England, where he met his wonderful wife Catherine!
On taking up his post in the diocese James commented: "I'm really looking forward to getting back home to work in the diocese with Clogher don Óige.I have many happy memories of Church growing up: from altar serving and singing in the choir in Saint Mary's in Pettigo; to the school and parish community in Saint Joseph's, Ederney where I received the sacraments of Holy Communion and Confirmation. This solid formation of faith was developed through my years in Saint Michael's College, Enniskillen, and through my involvement with CdÓ in my late teens and ever since! I can't wait to get to work to build on the great work of CdÓ and see what new possibilities and opportunities for the Young Church of Clogher. I relish the opportunity to try and give back something of what I received from the organisation, I look forward to accompanying and journeying with young people from parishes across the diocese as they grow as people of faith and beloved sons and daughters! "