James is keeping the faith

Teen is one of the youngest Eucharistic Ministers in the country

Almost a year ago, Bailieborough teenager James Harrington stepped into a new role in his church community - as a Eucharistic Minister. It’s a position of spiritual significance, though for James it represents more than just a title.

The position is the latest step in his personal faith journey.

“I became a Eucharistic Minister last August,” says James. “Before that, I was an older altar server. Obviously I was getting too old for that, so I just decided to continue on in a different way - a new way.”

James’ transition came around the same time as a major spiritual milestone in the local diocese - the visit of St Kilian’s relics to Cavan, which was marked by a diocesan youth celebration called Sailing with St Kilian at The Cathedral of Saint Patrick and Saint Felim.

James was one of many young people from Kilmore present affirming their faith in a modern world that doesn’t always make it easy.

Being a person of faith at 17 may not seem “cool” by some standards, but James has never let that deter him. “I find it good,” he says matter-of-factly. “The people that I see and meet at the church - they’re very nice people; the priests, the sacristans, and many others.”

Though he admits to the occasional bit of “gentle slagging”- James says he’s mostly received only support from friends and peers. His involvement in the Church has given him purpose and a community from which to draw support.

“I get a lot out of it. I find the Church very good,” he says, explaining how his faith has been a constant source of comfort and strength at a time when teen mental health concerns are on the rise.

The strong grounding has helped James in his efforts to complete the Pope John Paul II Award, and now he’s hoping to work towards earning the Papal Cross Award in the near future.

James’ commitment doesn’t stop at the doors of St Anne’s however. He volunteers regularly elsewhere in the town - at the local bingo, working as a steward during Bailieborough’s St Patrick’s Day parade, and lending a hand to the active age group during his school’s Transition Year programme.

On match days, James sometimes volunteers in the Shamrocks’ clubhouse shop.

Volunteering has opened up new paths and friendships for him.

“Before I started volunteering, I might have only seen people in town. Now I know them.”

James is also a member of his school’s chaplaincy team, recently helping induct new first-year students - another example of his desire to support and connect with others.

After school, he’s considering studying for a career in psychology or counselling. “Someone who meets people and talks through their problems with them,” says James thoughtfully.

While politics is another growing interest, James’ heart will always remain with helping people.