Tell us a little bit about yourself:

I was born and raised in Donoughmore, but moved away for 18 years so it’s very interesting to be back in Cork having lived away so long. I’m married to Erika (from Boston), we have four kids so far. I was ordained last year as the Minister of the Presbyterian Church in Ireland for the congregations in Aghada and MacCurtain street.

What is your ideal way to spend a Friday night?

My best Fridays are when I’m totally prepared for Sunday, that way I can relax. I usually watch something with Erika on Netflix.

Lie-ins or up with the lark…which is it for you?

Defo lie-in but as I get older, I feel less satisfied with doing nothing and just lying in bed. I need to be up — there’s plenty to be doing.

Does work creep into your weekend at all?

Given that Sundays are the busiest day of the week for me then yes! That said, I keep Saturdays free for time with the family and I try to take Monday morning off too.

If money was no object where would you head to on a weekend city break? And who would you bring with you?

Honestly, there are many places in the world I’d like to see, Tokyo, Tuva, Cambodia, Svalbard but I wouldn’t waste a weekend on them. Let me spend two nights with my wife in some cottage on Sherkin Island and I’d be happy out.

Closer to home, is there some place you like to head to recharge the batteries?

I guess the last question answers that! I find though that I’m recharged most by time with like-minded friends. Give me a weekend with my colleagues, talking shop, having the craic over a few pints and I’m raring to go come the next day.

Do you like to catch up with family/friends at the weekend?

I think one of the main *unnoticed* ways that Christianity has slipped out of public conscience is the way in which we have no idea of what it means to spend Sunday as a sabbath. For me Sunday is mostly about being with other Christians and worshiping God. Recreational activity doesn’t re-energise me half as much as a good Sunday does!

Do you get to indulge in any hobbies? Even as a spectator?

I read the news and get engaged in all the debates of the day.

Entertain or be entertained? If it’s the latter do you have a signature dish?

Be entertained. I have no interest in cooking.

We have so many places to eat out in Cork — where are your go to spots for coffee/ lunch/ special meal?

Sorry I am the wrong man to be asking about this! The food place I have gone to the most is the chipper on the end of MacCurtain Street — Bistro Spice all the way baby!

Sunday night comes around too fast... how do you normally spend it?

If we don’t have folk over from the church, we usually watch a film as a family. I try to find time to teach my kids our church’s catechism and an age-appropriate overview of the entire bible. If they leave the faith when they are older, I at least want them to know exactly what they are leaving. I’ve been up from 6am at least that day so I go to bed early.

What time does your alarm clock go off on Monday morning?

Whenever our kids come into the room. Anytime between 5.30am to 7am.

Cork Heritage Open Day is delighted to include Trinity Presbyterian Church in this year’s programme. For more information, check out www.corkheritageopenday.ie

ABOUT CORK HERITAGE OPEN DAY

For one day only, many of Cork’s landmark buildings will open their doors to the public inviting them to explore their rich and vibrant history on Saturday, August 17th.

As well as almost 40 buildings taking part, a series of five self-guided walks have also been created to help people plot their perfect Cork Heritage Open Day.

Cork Heritage Open Day is organised by Cork City Council as part of National Heritage Week in partnership with the Heritage Council and is proudly supported by media sponsors, The Echo and Cork’s 96FM.

For a full list of events and booking details, visit www.corkheritageopen day.ie or pick up a brochure at Cork City Library or Cork City Tourist Information Office on Patrick’s Street.

“There’s still time to get involved in Cork Heritage Open Day,” said Niamh Twomey Heritage Officer with Cork City Council. “Volunteers are key to making this event a unique and special day, and we’d love to hear from anyone interested in supporting this event by joining the volunteer team!”

Contact Volunteer Coordinator Deirdre McCaffrey by email at corkheritage2019@gmail.com