Fr Kevin O’Brien to take over as Interim Chairperson of Changing Attitude Ireland as Mark Bowyer steps down. Sincerest thanks from the CAI Committee to Mark for his commitment and energy as Chairperson. We are delighted Mark will continue as a member of the committee.
From Mark Bowyer:
Being elected Chairperson, in March 2023, was an honour and a privilege for me. After a number of years already on the committee, I knew what I was taking on and what the challenges were to achieving the aims of Changing Attitude Ireland. My aim over the last year has been to add structure around the committee and to ensure we have an active committee, each who bring their own experience and passion to the work of CAI and having a particular role to play. I am grateful to everyone on the committee for working with me in this endeavour.
Given a recent health scare, I have, with considerable sadness, decided to step down as Chairperson with immediate effect. I remain totally committed to the aims of CAI and will continue as Treasurer on the committee. The committee now benefits from having every position filled by enthusiastic volunteers and we are in good shape. I am pleased to confirm that Fr Kevin O’Brien will step in as Interim Chairperson and I would like to thank Kevin for agreeing to take on this role. I know the committee will provide effective support to him as Chair.
Someone recently said to me, ‘being called to lead is the most challenging thing God can ask of us and leading in faith when so much of the church fails to see the human failing in their teaching and leadership is the toughest. Don’t underestimate the strength of your message’. I don’t – but I also need to be mindful of my own limitations. I am not deterred from leading again but when circumstances allow, I will of course consider how I might best do this and I know I have lot to offer. It is vital the work of Changing Attitude Ireland continues, we have so much to do within our own Church, as well as the increasing marginalisation of LGBTQIA+ people across the world.
Thank you for your continued support in this vital work.
Mark Bowyer
23 February 2025
