Appointment of new Church of Ireland Youth Department staff

Monday November 21st 2016

The Church of Ireland Youth Department (CIYD) has appointed two new members of staff, Mr Simon Henry and Mr Steve Grasham.

Simon Henry has been appointed to the newly created role of Church of Ireland Youth Officer. Having served as a Youth Ministry Co-ordinator in the parish of St John’s, Moira, in the Diocese of Dromore, for almost 10 years, Simon will bring a wealth of knowledge concerning youth engagement with the Church, as well as a practical understanding of parish and diocesan youth ministry opportunities.

Simon is a graduate of the University of Ulster and also holds a Certificate in Christian Studies through St John’s College, Nottingham. As Youth Officer, Simon will lead the CIYD team, encourage its strategic development, and be a resource to dioceses across the island.

Steve Grasham will serve as the new CIYD Youth Ministry Development Officer (Southern Region). Steve has been involved in youth and children’s ministry since 1997. His most recent post has been serving as a Diocesan Children’s and Young People’s Adviser for five years in the Diocese of Leeds.

His role is to support existing and new youth ministries in the Dioceses of Kilmore, Elphin and Ardagh; Meath and Kildare; Dublin and Glendalough; Cashel, Ferns and Ossory; Cork, Cloyne and Ross; Limerick and Killaloe; and Tuam, Killala and Achonry.

Speaking of both appointments, the CIYD President, The Most Rev Pat Storey, said: “Both Simon and Steve bring much experience and enthusiasm to their respective positions. Ably supported by our Office Manager, Mrs Barbara Swann, we look forward to our new staff settling in and developing new initiatives and opportunities for the advancement of Christ’s Kingdom together.

“We very much hope that dioceses across the Church will know that CIYD is a resource that seeks to serve and encourage youth ministry at all levels.’

More information about the work of the Church of Ireland Youth Department is available through its website: www.ciyd.org