Rock of Ages as new Bishop celebrates Mass on Buncrana’s shores
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Fr Bradley hails a ‘wonderful occasion’ as parishioners turn out in force to welcome Diocesan leader
The new Bishop of Derry, Most Reverend Michael Router, has celebrated a memorable outdoor Mass at Fr Hegarty’s Rock in Buncrana, just three weeks after his installation.
Bishop Router made a pastoral visit to the parishes of Burt, Inch and Fahan, and Desertegney and Lower Fahan, which includes Buncrana, on Sunday, October 11, receiving a warm welcome from a large gathering of parishioners.
On an unseasonably warm and sunny day, the occasion began with a Synodal walk from the Stone Jug to Fr Hegarty’s Rock, overlooking the shores of Lough Swilly, where the bishop celebrated Mass before returning to Cockhill Parish Hall for tea and refreshments.
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Buncrana Parish Priest Fr Francis Bradley said the turnout was splendid, with a warm welcome, immense support and a tangible sense of faith among those gathered.
Despite a stiff Atlantic breeze, Bishop Router joked about the danger of being blown into the water as he celebrated Mass from the rocky outcrop, which provided a spectacular view of the congregation and the statue of Friar Seamus Hegarty.
Fr Bradley said the Bishop offered a memorable Mass, recalling the courage and hope for which Fr Hegarty was known and asking God to grant people the same gifts as they face the challenges of the present day.
Fr Hegarty’s Rock holds particular significance in the religious heritage of Buncrana. Associated with the memory of Friar Seamus Hegarty, the location provides a striking outdoor setting for worship overlooking Lough Swilly.
The nearby statue commemorates his legacy, making the site a fitting place for a gathering centred on faith, courage and hope.
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The celebration was enhanced by outstanding music and singing, while the joy of those attending, young and old, was evident throughout the occasion.
Following the Mass and refreshments, Bishop Router also visited Fr Walsh in his home before returning to Derry.
Fr Bradley paid tribute to the many people whose devotion and hard work helped make the visit such a success.
“It was a truly wonderful occasion made possible by the devotion and help of huge teams of people,” he said. “To them, and to God himself, we must always be thankful.”
The parish priest added that Bishop Router departed with a “spring in his step”, knowing that he would always be welcome in the Inishowen parishes.