Monsignor Eamonn McLaughlin has been installed as a Canon for the Chapter of the Papal Basilica of Saint Mary Major in Rome.
Monsignor McLaughlin was one of seven clergymen to take possession of their Office during the celebration of II Vespers on Sunday, 28 April. They then concelebrated the Eucharistic celebration.
The new Canons, all hailing from across the continent, were appointed by Pope Francis earlier this month.
Msgr McLaughlin’s pastoral duties will be in the service of the Pope and of the pilgrims who make their way in great numbers to the Basilica of St Mary Major.
The basilica is home to the icon of Our Lady, Protection of the Roman People and the oldest church in the west dedicated to Our Lady. Pope Francis has expressed his wish to be buried in the Basilica, instead of St Peter’s in the Vatican, due to his devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary. Six popes are buried in the Marian Basilica.
Monsignor McLaughlin (46) is a native of Downings in the parish of Mevagh and his mother Mary and brother still live there. His late father Denis passed in December 2022.
He was ordained to the priesthood by Bishop Boyce in 2002 and went on to serve in the Raphoe Diocese as a Curate in Fintown, Lettermacaward and Doochary and as a Curate in St. Eunan’s Cathedral, Letterkenny.
Monsignor McLaughlin studied in seminaries in St. Patrick’s college, Maynooth, the Seminary of Paris and completed further studies in Rome while carrying out research in Germany.
See the full Picture Special here: https://www.donegaldaily.com/2024/04/30/monsignor-mclaughlin-installed-as-canon-of-the-papal-basilica-pic-special/
