LISTEN: Tributes paid to Bishop of Derry and Raphoe ahead of his funeral today

By Q Radio

Tributes have been paid to the late Church of Ireland Bishop of Derry and Raphoe ahead of his funeral today.  

The Right Rev James Mehaffey died in Hospital on Monday  - he was 88. 

The clergyman - who led the diocese from 1980 until his retirement in January of 2002 - was seen as a leading figure in the North West throughout the troubles when he struck up a close friendship with his Catholic counterpart. 

Current Bishop Andrew Forster praised Dr Mehaffey for his courage.  

Reverend Forster says many people can learn from Dr Mehaffey's example.

He also said the Church is feeling a deep sense of "gratitude" in the midst of its grief. 

A service will take place at St.Columb's Cathedral in Derry/Londonderry at 2pm today. 

Earlier this week Archbishop of Armagh Eamon Martin paid tribute to the late clergyman who he praised as a peacemaker.   

RIP #BishopMehaffey. Thanks for his warmth & kindness and the powerful and courageous witness of his cooperation and rapport with Bishop Daly during troubled times. The bridges they built together have made a real difference. Prayers & sympathy for Thelma & his loved ones pic.twitter.com/sQ2jRnRy84

— Eamon Martin (@ArchbishopEamon) January 6, 2020