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Fr Dermott Donnelly RIP
July 8th 2022

It was with immense sadness that we learned of the sudden and unexpected death of Fr Dermott Donnelly, who died peacefully in the afternoon of Friday 8 July in hospital surrounded by his family and close friends.
Fr Dermott was Cathedral Dean from 2013 to 2019, before his final appointment as Parish Priest of Stanley, Byermoor and Dipton.
In a statement released following Fr Dermott’s death, Bishop Robert said: ‘He will be sorely missed for his energy, enthusiasm and ability to engage with all who met him. This is particularly true of his work with young people and youth ministry in the Diocese – bringing many disadvantaged and dispirited young people to Christ and Catholicism. Fr Dermott truly lived his faith, and in doing so gave so much to others. It is with great gratitude that we will remember him and all he selflessly gave.’
Fr Dermott founded the Diocesan Youth Ministry Team (YMT) in the mid 1990’s and was the driving force behind the creation of the Youth Village at Allensford, Co. Durham. He also worked at a national level with CYMFed, the Catholic Youth Ministry Federation, as long-time chairman, notably organising the FLAME event at Wembley, gathering tens of thousands of young Catholics.
Please pray for Fr Dermott’s mother, Anne; for his sisters Patricia, Camelia and Moira; his brothers Eamonn, Martin and Declan; his nephews and nieces; his extended family and his many friends at this sad time.
May he Rest in Peace.