The former Church of Ireland Bishop of Derry and Raphoe, Dr James Mehaffey, has died.
The 88-year-old died last night surrounded by his family.
He led the Diocese of Derry and Raphoe for more than 20 years, from his consecration in September 1980 until his retirement in January 2002.
During his time as bishop, he officiated at funerals of many parishioners killed in the Troubles.
Last May, a Service of Thanksgiving was held in St Columb’s Cathedral in Derry to mark the 65th anniversary of the bishop’s ordination.
Dr Mehaffey, who was born near Portadown, developed a close friendship with the late Catholic Bishop of Derry, Dr Edward Daly.
The two men released joint statements, took part in foreign trips together and jointly led carol services during some of the worst years of the Troubles.
In 2015, the two retired bishops received the freedom of the city from Derry City Council.
At the time, Dr Mehaffey told the BBC: “I think that it takes two people to work together and we found that, in spite of our background in different churches, different theology, we had a lot in common.
Tags: