Successful banker trades it all for priesthood

A FORMER high-flying banker, who once played the international currency markets, raking in a large salary and bonuses, has given it all up to join the priesthood.

David Barrins, 32, from Collooney in Co Sligo, turned his back on the lifestyle at the height of the excess in 2005 and took a vow of poverty to become a Dominican – a member of the Order of Preachers (OP). Speaking before his ordination yesterday, Fr Barrins OP said he hopes his life experience will help him relate to people as he begins his ministry as a priest.

“I’ve seen what it’s like to face choices, to earn money, to pay bills, and to pay the mortgage,” he said.