 He was ordained a priest on 19 June 1960 in Maynooth College, for the Diocese of Derry.His ministry in the diocese began with teaching appointments at St Columb's College, Derry (1961–63), Carndonagh College (1963-73), and Carndonagh Community School (1973–77).He served as a curate in Strabane (1977–82) and as Administrator at St. Mary's Parish, Creggan in Derry City (1982–88).