Auxiliary Bishop of Derry, Dr Francis Lagan, has submitted his resignation to Pope Benedict XVI, the 'Journal' has learned. Bishop Lagan made the request following his 75th birthday on October 31, in accordance with Canon Law which requires Catholic bishops to tender resignations on reaching that age.
It is understood that Bishop Lagan has submitted his resignation, after more than 21 years as auxiliary Bishop of Derry, to the Pope via the Nuncio in Dublin.
The Maghera native was ordained on June 19, 1960 for his home diocese. On February 4, 1988 he was appointed auxiliary bishop for the diocese and Titular Bishop of Sidnacestre and was ordained a bishop on March 20, of the same year. He also served as Vicar General.
Should the resignation be accepted, Bishop Lagan, who resides in Strabane, would step down from his duties, although remain a bishop in title.
Father MIchael Canny, Administrator at St Eugene's Cathedral, told the 'Journal': "If past experience is anything to go by an announcement of the Pope accepting the resignation can take a couple of months at least. In the meantime it is business as usual for Bishop Lagan until he gets a letter accepting his retirement."
However, Bishop Lagan is not expected to be replaced by the church.
Fr Canny added: "In the recent past auxiliaries have not been appointed, for example where retirements have taken place in Dublin there have been no replacements. I have no reason to expect that Bishop Lagan will be replaced."
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