He was educated at the Christian Brothers Secondary School, Synge Street, Dublin from 1955 to 1959.
In 1960 he became a member of the SMA.
From 1960 to 1966 he studied Philosophy and Theology at the SMA Major seminary at Dromantine, Newry, Co Down.
Right Reverend Eugene Doherty, Bishop of Dromore, ordained him to the priesthood on 20 December 1965 in St Colman's Cathedral, Newry.
On 5 July 1996 he was appointed Vicar Apostolic of Bauchi and Titular Bishop of Gigthi, and ordained on
7 November 1996 by Bishop Gabriel Ganaka.