 In 1801, Graves was presented by the Dean and Chapter of Christ Church Cathedral, Dublin, to the Prebend of St. Michael's Church, Dublin, where he laboured 'assiduously and devotedly, especially amongst the poor'.He soon became widely known as a popular preacher.In 1803, the Dean and Chapter of Christ Church elected him to the prebend of St. John's, Dublin, but he declined it, as it was not tenable with his fellowship.