During his Installation Mass on Saturday, September 20, new Bishop of Derry Michael Router remarked on the Church’s presence in Derry, suggesting that it is “experienced as a network of relationships rather than simply an institution.”
“This suggests that one of the diocese’s greatest assets is the mutual affection and trust that still exists between many priests and their people,” Bishop Router continued in his homily, speaking to the audience of 850 laity and religious who attended the Mass of Installation at St Eugene’s Cathedral.
The newly installed Derry bishop also thanked his predecessor Bishop Donal McKeown for his pastoral care, “which has ensured that such a culture of love and respect is flourishing amongst the faith community in Derry today.” Bishop Router becomes the ninth Bishop of Derry since St Eugene’s Cathedral was opened.
Reflecting on his recent meetings with both clergy and laypeople in the diocese, Bishop Router recalled the resilience he saw in them in the face of difficulties. “Church scandals and changing patterns of practice are prominently mentioned, yet all speak of ‘pockets of hope’ and a ‘strong foundation to build upon’.”
“The common picture is that of a diocese whose spiritual life is sustained not only by formal liturgy but by a broad culture of popular prayer and devotion.”
