David Armstrong hails from Belfast and graduated from Queen's University, having also trained for ministry in the Presbyterian Church. His first appointment was in Carrickfergus, Co. Antrim, as assistant minister to a former Moderator of the Presbyterian Church. While there he was also chaplain to the Glentoran football team!

Bishop Colton said "We are delighted to welcome David and his family to Carrigaline and the diocese. His gifts as pastor will be put to good use in his new parish and his ecumenical commitment will enrich not only the diocese, but the community as a whole in County Cork."

In 1980, Mr Armstrong moved to Limavady, Co. Derry where he was minister of First Limavady Presbyterian Church. In Limavady, he acted on strong ecumenical principles and, despite opposition, stood very firmly on the side of tolerance and peace. In 1984 he was awarded the American Peace Prize and is author of the book A Road to Far.

David Armstrong was invited by a former Archbishop of Canterbury to join the ministry within the Church of England and so, following two years of study in Oxford, he was appointed curate of Holy Trinity, Cambridge and subsequently vicar of St Martin s, Cambridge.

David and his wife June who is a nurse, have four children all pursuing their own careers, but youngest son Mark, joins them in Carrigaline hoping to get a computer job in Munster.

As rector, David Armstrong's first priority will be his parishioners in Monkstown and Carrigaline. He says he will be listening and learning and looks forward to a very happy partnership.