Gary Hastings facts for kids

Gary Lea Hastings was born in 1956. He is an important leader in the Church of Ireland, which is part of the worldwide Anglican Communion. Since 2006, he has held the special role of Archdeacon of Tuam.

What is an Archdeacon?

An Archdeacon is a senior priest in the Church of Ireland. They help the Bishop manage the church's work in a specific area, called a diocese. It's a bit like being a manager who helps oversee many different churches and their activities.

Early Life and Education

Gary Lea Hastings studied at the New University of Ulster. After his studies, he became a priest in 1990. This process of becoming a priest is called being ordained.

His Journey in the Church

After he was ordained, Gary Lea Hastings started his work in the church.

First Roles

He began his career as a curate in Galway. A curate is a newly ordained priest who works under the guidance of a more experienced priest.

From 1995 to 2012, he served as the Incumbent of the Aughaval group of parishes. An incumbent is the main priest in charge of a church or a group of churches. During this time, he was also the Domestic Chaplain to the Bishop of Tuam. A chaplain is a priest who provides spiritual support to a specific person or group.

Becoming a Canon

In 2000, he became a Canon of St Mary's Cathedral, Tuam. A Canon is a senior priest who is part of the special group of clergy linked to a cathedral. Later, in 2010, he also became a Canon of St Patrick's Cathedral, Dublin.

Rector of Galway

From 2009 to 2018, Gary Lea Hastings was the Rector of Galway. A rector is another term for the main priest in charge of a parish.

Current Role

In 2018, he was appointed to the parish of Holy Trinity in Killiney, County Dublin. He continues to serve the church in this role, alongside his duties as Archdeacon.