Diocese of Down and Connor

05/08/2026

Young people from around the diocese heading off to the MOVE 2026 youth event at Clongowes Wood College this week.

04/08/2026

Experience the soul of Ireland with Fuaimlaoi—a captivating ensemble that blends ancient Irish tradition with powerful sacred music by renowned Irish liturgical composer Ronan McDonagh.

Their rich harmonies, lyrical beauty and authentic spirit create a deeply moving concert experience, connecting audiences with Ireland’s heritage, faith and timeless song. This unforgettable performance is sure to be one of the highlights of the Fleadh Belfast Fringe programme.

St Peter’s Cathedral, Belfast
Thursday 6th August
7pm

🎟️ Tickets: £5.50 (Available for purchase at door)

  Experience the soul of Ireland with Fuaimlaoi—a captivating ensemble that blends ancient Irish tradition with powerful sacred music by renowned Irish liturgical composer Ronan McDonagh. Their rich harmonies, lyrical beauty and authentic spirit create a deeply moving concert experience,

16/07/2026

Bishop Alan McGuckian SJ welcomes the Appointment of Bishop Michael Router as Bishop of Derry

As Bishop of Down and Connor, I warmly welcome the appointment of Bishop Michael Router by Pope Leo XIV this morning to our neighbouring Diocese of Derry. This appointment brings immense joy and a profound sense of spiritual renewal not only to the faithful of Derry but to the wider Catholic Church....

15/07/2026

Fr Eugene O'Hagan recently marked his 40th anniversary with the celebration of Mass in St Peter's Cathedral, Belfast, with concelebrants Fr Brian Watters and Fr Aidan McCaughan (also a Jubiliarian).

08/07/2026

Another celebration of priesthood from Downpatrick Family Of Parishes - a jubilee Mass for Fr John Moley, Canon John Murray and Fr Jim Conway who between them have given 150 years of priestly service.

07/07/2026

Sea Sunday Message 2026 by the Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development

“Beyond Cargo and Commerce: The Human Face of the Sea”

Dear brothers and sisters, The life of the world continues to pass through the seas, rivers, lakes, and waterways of the world. Behind global trade, fishing industries, ports, inland navigation routes, and maritime networks are countless seafarers, fishers, port workers, and maritime communities who...

06/07/2026

03/07/2026

Having reviewed the pastoral needs of the people of the Diocese of Down and Connor, Bishop Alan McGuckian S.J. announces the following retirements and appointments with effect from Saturday 15th August 2026.

30/06/2026

On Sunday 28th our diocese celebrated the ordination of Fr Thomas Hampton by Bishop Alan McGuckian in St Patrick's Church in Downpatrick Family Of Parishes. Congratulations Fr Thomas and may God bless you in your ministry! Ad multos annos!