Fr Pat was born in Cong Co. Mayo, location of the film: ‘The Quiet Man’. It was there that the early seeds to be a missionary Priest were sown. He studied at St. Patrick’s College, Thurles, Co. Tipperary, Ireland and was ordained priest for the Diocese of Shrewsbury 7th June 1975. His first appointment to St. Peter’s Wythenshawe, spanned seven wonderful years, where he felt fortunate in learning from a modest and unassuming parish priest on how to – in Pope Francis’ words- have the ‘smell of the sheep.’ He was awarded an MA in Theology and Ministry in 2009 when studied at Ushaw College (University of Durham).
Fr. Pat has served as Parish Priest at Sandbach, Ellesmere Port, Hazel Grove, Northwich, Stockport and Timperley. In each of these parishes he was privileged to work with people of warmth, kindness, generosity, and fidelity. He was renowned for always being ‘on the go’ whether it be to homes, care homes, hospitals and schools. Being strongly associated with the Diocesan Pilgrimage to Lourdes over thirty-five years has been key in broadening his ministry, particularly since suffering from a stroke in 2019. Fr. Pat happily stepped down from having the overall responsibility of being Parish Priest to that of being Assistant Priest. Whilst remaining appreciative to the Bishop in being appointed as a Canon of the Cathedral Chapter (in 2021), he is more at ease in being addressed as ‘Father Pat’.
His hobby: Watching sport, reading and reflection.
He enjoys: Meeting people, pastoral engagement – he is a good listener. He also appreciates a hearty meal!