Son of a Church of Ireland clergyman, Patrick moved around as a child, but grew up in Aughnacloy, Co Tyrone.

He studied for a Hotel and Catering degree at college in Huddersfield, and worked as a catering/chef manager for several years before studying for the ministry.

“Because I was a rector’s son people often asked me if I was going to be a rector, and I would say ‘not a chance!’” he said.

“But when my own family came along I reassessed my responsibilities and reconsidered my God given talents. I felt I should be doing more for the Church.”

Patrick began his ministry as a parish reader in Drumbanagher Parish, Armagh Diocese. After training in Dublin he was ordained a deacon in 2005 and a priest the following year. He has been curate-assistant at St Mark’s for three years.

Married to Deborah, the couple has three children Adam, 11, Kate, 9, and John, 8. Maeve the dog is also an important member of the family. When they move to the rectory in Ballintoy Adam will attend Dalriada School in Ballymoney, and the younger children will go to Dunseverick Primary School.

Patrick said he was sad to leave Armagh where he and the family have been very happy, but added that he was looking forward to moving up to Ballintoy.

“We have always loved the area and I am looking forward to meeting the people there and getting to know them,” he added.

“We have holidayed on Rathlin Island since I was a baby. My dad had a boat and I remember taking it out from Ballintoy Harbour to Rathlin, so taking services in St Thomas’s on Rathlin Island will be a perk for me.”

Another perk is that Patrick is also a keen bird watcher!