Statement of Bishop Donal McKeown on the death of Dean Victor Griffin

12 Jan 2017

I express, on behalf of the Catholic community in the Diocese of Derry, deep sympathy to the Church of Ireland community of the Diocese of Derry and Raphoe as well as the wider Church of Ireland family, on the death of Very Reverend Dean Victor Griffin.

Dean Griffin served for many years in Derry, from his ordination in 1948 through to 1969, both in Saint Augustine’s Church and, as Rector, in Christchurch.  Upon retirement as Dean of Saint Patrick’s Cathedral, Dublin, Dean Griffin returned to the Diocese of Derry and Raphoe, residing in Limavady.

Dean Griffin was committed to justice and peace issues, both globally in his opposition to apartheid in South Africa and locally in his work for peace on this island.

Through his death, Ireland has lost a faithful Christian minister.

May he rest in peace

+ Donal McKeown

Bishop of Derry

For media contact: Catholic Communications Office Maynooth: Martin Long 00353 (0) 86 172 7678 and Brenda Drumm 00353 (0) 87 310 4444