Big turnout expected at ordination of new Bishop of Clogher

Over one thousand dignitaries, politicians, business leaders and community representatives have been invited to attend the ordination of Monsignor Liam McDaid as the new Bishop of Clogher which will take place at Saint Macartan's Cathedral in Monaghan. 

He succeeds Dr Joseph Duffy who has served in the role for the past 31 years and retired after reaching 75 years of age last May. 

Speaking this week, Monsignor McDaid, who has been Chancellor of the Diocese since 1994, said he was looking forward to the challenge. 

In a statement that will be printed on his ordination booklet, Monsignor McDaid said, “I am deeply humbled and honoured to be chosen for this difficult ministry to our people.  It is however encouraging to know that where God's grace is allowed to work all things are possible.  I am confident that in the ministry of our priests and in the witness of our faithful people God's word can be spoken, heard and lived.” 

“We owe this responsibility to our children and to our young people.  They need the guidance of God's word and the nourishment of the Eucharist.” 

Monsignor McDaid will become the 53rd Bishop of Clogher since the Diocese was established in 1135.  It has a population of approximately 125,000 people, 85,000 of which are Catholics. 

It has 37 parishes, 87 churches and currently has 80 priests working in the diocese.

by Sean Ryan