Press Statement of Monsignor Eamon Martin on his election as Diocesan Administrator for the Diocese of Derry
Following the retirement of Bishop Séamus Hegarty as Bishop of Derry, the Diocesan College of Consultors met today and elected Mgr Eamon Martin as Diocesan Administrator for the Diocese of Derry.
On accepting election, Mgr. Eamon Martin said:
“I thank the College of Consultors for the trust they have shown in electing me as Diocesan Administrator for the Diocese of Derry. It is my prayer that I will live up to that trust.
“In thanking Bishop Hegarty for his seventeen years of ministry as bishop in the Diocese of Derry, I pray for him in his retirement, in particular for his health.
“My duty is to lead the diocese from now until a new bishop is appointed. In recent years, the appointment of bishops has taken a significant period of time and this may well be the case in Derry. During this time, I ask your prayers that, guided by the Holy Spirit, a suitable bishop will be appointed.”
Mgr Eamon Martin
Diocesan Administrator
Diocese of Derry
Issued by:
Rev Michael Canny, Diocesan Media Liaison Spokesperson
NOTES FOR EDITORS
- The Diocesan Administrator is elected to administer the Diocese of Derry, during the period of time from the retirement of Bishop Hegarty, until the appointment of a new bishop.
- The College of Consultors are a group of eight priests, who elect the Diocese Administrator. They also assist the Diocesan Administrator in the governance of the diocese.
- Bishop Hegarty’s letter of resignation as Bishop of Derry was accepted by the Holy Father, Pope Benedict XVI on Wednesday 23 November 2011.
- Derry joins another six dioceses in Ireland which are currently awaiting the appointment of a new Diocesan Bishop.
ENDS
Further information:
Catholic Communications Office, Maynooth: Martin Long 00353 (0) 86 172 7678
