Dr Francis Lagan, former Auxiliary Bishop of Derry, dies

Bishop Francis Lagan, who served as Auxiliary Bishop in the Diocese of Derry for more than 20 years, has died. He was aged 85.
By The Newsroom
Published 9th Jun 2020, 10:53 BST
The late Dr Francis Lagan.The late Dr Francis Lagan.
The late Dr Francis Lagan.

It’s understood he passed away in the early hours of Tuesday morning - the feast of St Columba, the patron saint of Derry.

Dr Donal McKeown, the current Bishop of Derry, described Bishop Lagan as a “gentle pastor”.

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Bishop McKeown offered condolences to his extended family and close friends.

Bishop Lagan was born in Maghera in 1934. He was ordained a priest in June 1960 at Maynooth College.

His ministry in the diocese began with teaching appointments at St Columb’s College, Derry (1961-1963), Carndonagh College (1963-1973), and Carndonagh Community School (1973-1977).

He served as a curate in Strabane (1977-1982) and as Administrator at St. Mary’s Parish, Creggan, in Derry (1982-1988).

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He was appointed auxiliary bishop for the diocese in February 1988.

For almost his entire episcopal ministry, he lived in Strabane, Co. Tyrone, and assisted the Bishop of Derry with confirmations. His resignation was accepted in May 2010.

Funeral arrangements are not yet finalised and will be released as soon as confirmed. They will, of course, have to comply with the current Covid-19 restrictions.

Related topics:DerryStrabane