Our Mission What We Do Our Impact Trustees Get in Touch

Established 2010 • Northern Ireland

McDonnell Trust 2010

Illuminating Paths to Sacred Knowledge

Supporting Roman Catholic students in Ireland on their journey toward priesthood and religious life through education and maintenance grants.

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Peaceful Irish countryside representing the Trust's work in Ireland

Registered Charity

NIC: 103877

Our Purpose

A Light for Students in Ireland

The McDonnell Trust was established in 2010 with a singular vision: to ensure that no Roman Catholic student in Ireland is denied the opportunity to pursue their sacred calling due to financial constraints.

We provide comprehensive support for students attending any educational establishment in Ireland, with particular emphasis on those studying for priesthood or other forms of religious life.

Our mission extends beyond mere financial assistance. We believe in nurturing the whole person—spiritual, intellectual, and personal—to form the next generation of religious leaders who will serve communities throughout Ireland and beyond.

Pastoral

Spiritual formation

Educational

Academic excellence

Our Work

Nurturing Religious Vocations

We support students at every stage of their journey toward religious life

Education Grants

Financial support for tuition, books, and educational materials for students attending Catholic institutions across Ireland.

Living Expenses

Comprehensive maintenance support covering accommodation, food, and daily living expenses to ensure students can focus entirely on their formation.

Spiritual Formation

Supporting the holistic development of future priests and religious through programs that nurture faith, character, and pastoral skills.

Where We Serve

The McDonnell Trust operates across Ireland and Northern Ireland, supporting students at seminaries, colleges, and educational institutions throughout the island.

Ireland Northern Ireland Seminaries Catholic Colleges

Our Impact

Transforming Lives Through Education

Every student we support becomes a beacon of hope for their future community

2010

Year Established

Ireland

Countries Served

100%

Focus on Catholic Education

Vocations

Nurtured & Supported

Graduates representing the future religious leaders supported by the Trust

"Without the support of the McDonnell Trust, many individuals would not be in a position to complete their studies. Our mission is to ensure that financial barriers never prevent a sincere vocation from flourishishing."

When students complete their formation and are ordained—whether in Diocesan or Missionary roles—they go on to educate and influence others in a positive manner, creating a lasting legacy of faith and service.

Public Benefit Statement

McDonnell Trust 2010

Leadership

Our Trustees

Dedicated individuals guiding the Trust's mission with wisdom and commitment

Mr David Macaulay

Chairperson

Leading the Trust with dedication to supporting Catholic education in Ireland

Rev Martin O'Hagan

Trustee

Providing spiritual guidance and insight into religious formation

Mrs Anne Glover

Trustee

Bringing expertise in education and community development

Public Contact

For general enquiries and applications, please contact our Public Contact representative.

Mr Brendan McSparran

Official

Registered with Charity Commission

Charity Number

NIC 103877

Get in Touch

Begin Your Journey

Whether you're a student seeking support or want to contribute to our mission, we'd love to hear from you.

Address

201A Torr Road, Cushendun
BT44 0PU, Northern Ireland

Send us a Message