The Rev James Boyd appointed Canon of Lisburn Cathedral

Sunday October 5th 2025

The Rev James Boyd has been appointed a Canon of Lisburn Cathedral.

The Rev James Boyd, rector of Derryvolgie Parish, has been appointed a Canon of Lisburn Cathedral by the Bishop of Connor, the Rt Rev George Davison.

This follows the retirement of the Rev Canon Mark McConnell, former rector of Ballymena and Kilconriola.

James has been Derriaghy Rural Dean since 2019. He is a Connor Honorary Secretary and was appointed Pioneer Advocate for the diocese in September last year.

James is married to Shirley, and they have two daughters. He is a past pupil of Ballymena Academy and has a degree in computer programming from Ulster University. He worked in computer programming for a short time, but felt God was calling him to some level of ministry.

James worked with the Church of Ireland Year Out team in 1998-99, and during his 12 months he helped in 26 different churches across Ireland, doing short term mission work.

He was appointed Youth Ministry Co-ordinator in Moira and spent five years developing and delivering youth work in the parish.

James left in 2004 to begin training for ordination at the Church of Ireland Theological College in Dublin. After ordination, he was curate in the parish of Magheralin with Dollingstown, Diocese of Down and Dromore, for four years before his appointment as rector of Holy Trinity, Dromore, Co Tyrone, Diocese of Clogher.

James moved to Willowfield Parish, Belfast, as vicar in 2015, and was instituted as rector in Derryvolgie in November 2018.

James said he had not expected the call from Bishop George. “It is an honour to be considered, especially in my home diocese. I am looking forward to the challenges and opportunities that arise as a member of the Cathedral Chapter,” he said.

A date for the Service of Installation will be announced in due course.