Donegal priest appointed to Papal Basilica

Donegal priest Msgr Eamonn McLaughlin has been appointed as Canon for the Chapter of the Papal Basilica of St Mary Major by Pope Francis.

Pope Francis often visits the Basilica, coming to venerate the icon Salus Populi Romani before and after trips away from the Vatican.

This new announcement comes under a month since the Pope tipped Msgr McLaughlin for the position of adjunct under-secretary of the Formation Office of the Dicastery for the Clergy.

This is the third appointment for Msgr Mc Laughlin who was appointed a Monsignor at the end of the Summer by Pope Francis.

Msgr McLaughlin is a native of Downings in the parish of Mevagh, Co. Donegal and was ordained to the priesthood in 2002. He served in the Raphoe diocese as a Curate in Fintown, Lettermacaward and Doochary and as a Curate in St Eunan’s Cathedral, Letterkenny.

The monsignor is known as a cleric with a passion for supporting people pastorally and will take possession of his new office during the celebration of Vespers on Sunday, April next 28.