In the third of our Lay Workers Series, meet Brian Hickey who works in Centenary Church and University College Dublin, as he tells us a little bit about himself, his studies, his work and how he is witnessing the next generation stepping into faith experiences. 

My name is Brian Hickey and I am the Church Development Worker at Centenary Church in Dublin South City.  I also work part time as the Methodist Chaplain in University College Dublin. 

 I have lived and worked in Dublin all my life.  I am a suffering Liverpool football club fan still reeling in the loss of Jurgen Klopp. If you know, you know, if you don’t, don’t worry about it. I’m a big fan of football, watching, playing and gaming it. I’m also unapologetically a big Bible nerd. Stick me in front of scripture either listening or talking and I’m at my happiest. For the past year I have been studying my MA in Chaplaincy and Pastoral Work in Dublin City University. At time of writing…I’m doing quite well. Pray for me as I finish my studies. I’ve a big ‘minor thesis’ of 15,000 words to write on how Matthew Ch. 5 informs chaplaincy innovation in Irish 3rd level Universities.  

 There is so much going on in Centenary Church. We have seen real growth, both numerically but in terms of faith too. We have a vibrant congregation who get involved in the work we are doing here. It has been a real blessing to see the people of God step up and take the lead when they are given the opportunity. One of the biggest highlights for me was coordinating a student led service, where every part of the service, from welcoming people before to the tea and coffee afterwards, was delivered by 18- and 19-year-olds. I believe I am correct in saying that our preacher that day, Conor, an 18-year-old is the youngest preacher Centenary has ever had in its history.  

 In my role as the Methodist chaplain in University College Dublin. I am part of a team of five chaplains, two Anglican, two Roman Catholic and myself. It has been a privilege to serve alongside them as we minister to the staff and students there. No two days are the same. The events, the interactions, the people are all different. I have been so encouraged to see the next generation take the elements of their faith and step up and lead others. My role as chaplain is to support them in that. ‘Bottom up’ ministry is a lot more effective than ‘top down’ ministry in my experience so far.  

 I would ask you to please pray for the team of chaplains in University College Dublin. We have 38,000 students on campus. We can’t reach everyone, but for those that we do, pray that we are chaplains who are seasoned with salt and bringers of light. Pray for the staff, who are educating this next generation and pray for the students. They have assignments, exams, jobs, friendships, and families that they need to juggle. It’s a lot of pressure. They need your prayers.