Statement by Bishop Anthony Farquhar on the appointment by Pope Francis of Bishop Donal McKeown as Bishop of Derry

25 Feb 2014

Statement by Bishop Anthony Farquhar, Auxiliary Bishop of Down and Connor on the appointment by Pope Francis of Bishop Donal McKeown as Bishop of Derry

“Bishop Donal McKeown’s departure to the diocese of Derry is a great loss to our own diocese of Down and Connor. It is also a great personal loss to me.

Ever since I taught Bishop Donal at school I have seen him combine a great love of gathering knowledge and experience with a boundless enthusiasm.

I have known him for 13 years as a generous, dedicated and hard-working Auxiliary Bishop. I realise that he is well known for his work with young people both within and outside formal education.

From my experience he has always shown great kindness and sensitivity to older people – not least to former teachers! The diocese of Derry has gained a Bishop for all ages.

I pray God’s continued blessing on his episcopal ministry.”

ENDS

For media contact: Father Edward McGee, Diocese of Down and Connor 0044 7811144268, and the Catholic Communications Office Maynooth: Martin Long 00353 (0) 86 172 7678 and Brenda Drumm 00353 (0) 87 310 4444