IT was announced today that Monsignor Eamonn McLaughlin, Undersecretary for the Dicastery for Clergy, Seminary Section [at the Vatican], has been appointed, in addition, a canon of the Papal Basilica of Saint Mary Major.

This role involves pastoral duties at the basilica, home to the icon of Our Lady, Health of the Roman People [Salus Populi Romani] and the oldest church in the West dedicated to Our Lady.

Taking to social media this evening, a spokesperson from St Eunan’s Cathedral in Letterkenny wished Monsignor McLaughlin every blessing in his duties at Mary Major’s.

“We pray that he may be a point of contact for many pilgrims who make their way to this basilica beloved of the Roman faithful,” the post concluded.