James Benfield, 38, was ordained to the Diaconate for the Diocese of Middlesbrough at St Mary’s College, Oscott on Saturday 30th June. James is originally from St Bernadette’s Parish, Nunthorpe. He is the son of parishioners Paul and Anthea Benfield. As an adult, he lived in St Francis of Assisi Parish, Acklam.

James began his priestly training at St Cuthbert’s Seminary, Ushaw near Durham in 2007 but moved to Oscott when St Cuthbert’s closed last summer. As a child, he attended The Newlands School FCJ and St Mary’s Sixth Form College, both in Middlesbrough. He then studied Fine Art at Cleveland College of Art and Design followed by Winchester School of Art; eventually becoming self-employed as a freelance artist. During his priestly training, he has spent time at The Sacred Heart in Middlesbrough, Our Lady and St Peter’s Parish in Bridlington, Our Lady Queen of Martyrs/St Francis of Assisi in Hull, and St George’s in York. James is now awaiting a date for his ordination to the priesthood next year.