From Teacher to Preacher
Rev Nigel Cairns, 51, transitioned from a career in education to ministry, leaving behind his role as principal of Omagh Integrated Primary School in 2014 to train for the Church of Ireland ministry. He advanced from deacon in 2016 to priest in 2017, and now, after what he describes as "quite an extraordinary journey," he is Dean-elect at the historic St Columb's Cathedral in Londonderry, his hometown.
In addition to his new role as Dean, Cairns will serve as rector of the newly formed parish grouping of Templemore and St Augustine's within the city.
Speaking on BBC Radio Foyle's North West Today programme, Cairns reflected on his extensive experience as a teacher before deciding to pursue a different vocation.
Background and Education
The Dean-elect is a married father of two who grew up in the Waterside area of Londonderry. His education includes attendance at Lisnagelvin Primary School, Clondermott High School, Foyle College, and Stranmillis University College, where he qualified as a primary school teacher.
His teaching career spanned several locations, including Limavady, Artigarvan, and Omagh, before he left the profession to undertake ministry training.
Greater Good and Calling
Cairns shared insights into his personal life and motivations, noting that he and his wife Alison, a nurse, were "quite well-off, middle class, house, couple of cars, all the rest of it" when he felt compelled to seek a deeper purpose.
"There must be more to life than this,"
he said, describing an "increased calling to ordained ministry" that guided him to his current position.
He emphasized that his new role is not merely a job but a lifelong calling and service.
"It is more than a job, it's a life of calling and of service,"
he stated, adding that his skills as a teacher and school principal are transferable to his pastoral responsibilities.
Being a native of the city, Cairns believes he has a solid understanding of the local dynamics and the various groups operating within Londonderry.
"I'm from the city, I feel I have a reasonable understanding of the dynamics within the city and the groups that operate at different levels,"
he explained.
He expressed a desire to strengthen the existing cooperative relationships among Christian denominations in the city.
"We do see unity in virtually everything that we do, so all of those things are for the greater good,"
he said, highlighting the importance of tolerance and respect.
"I think tolerance and respect has to be in the mix of all that's done."
Looking Ahead
Rev Nigel Cairns will succeed Rev Raymond Stewart and is anticipated to be officially installed as Dean of St Columb's Cathedral in the near future.
