Dr Sean Brady was born at Drumcalpin, Co Cavan, on August 16th, 1939. He was the eldest of three children. Educated at Caulfield National School and St Patrick's College, Cavan, he studied for the priesthood at Maynooth, the Irish College and Latern University in Rome. He was ordained for the diocese of Kilmore in February 1964.

Following three more years of study, and having acquired a doctorate in canon law, he began teaching languages at St Patrick's College, Cavan, until 1980. He was diocesan secretary of Kilmore diocese from 1973 to 1980, and worked in New York and Manchester during the summers. In 1979 he was assistant secretary of the national organising committee for the papal visit.

In 1980 he became vice-rector of the Irish College in Rome, and rector in 1987. In 1994 he was appointed parish priest of Ballyhaise, Co Cavan, and within a year it was announced he had been appointed co-adjutor Archbishop of Armagh. He was appointed Primate in October 1996.

Dr Brady played Gaelic football for Cavan, mainly at minor level, although he also appeared for the senior team. He represented the county board on the central council of the GAA, and arranged the papal audience for the Irish 1990 World Cup team whom he introduced to the Pope. While in Ballyhaise he became a member of the executive of the National Council of Priests.