Former Moneymore Parish Priest passes away

Monsignor Raymond Murray Pastor Emeritus, former Administrator of Saint Patrick’s Cathedral, Armagh, and former Parish Priest, Moneymore and Cookstown, Co Tyrone, died peacefully today at Collegelands Nursing Home, Co Armagh.

Born in 1938 in Newtownhamilton, Co Armagh, Monsignor Murray was ordained a priest of the Archdiocese of Armagh in Saint Patrick’s College, Maynooth in 1962. 

His ministry included serving for many years in Saint Patrick’s Cathedral Parish, Armagh, as well as serving as Parish Priest in Moneymore, Co Derry and Cookstown, Co Tyrone. 

Monsignor Murray was well known throughout the Troubles for his work in promoting peace, justice and reconciliation. 

He was appointed Prelate of Honour with the title Monsignor in 1995 by Pope John Paul II. 

Monsignor Murray was a noted historian and Irish language scholar with many publications to his name.

Monsignor Murray was predeceased by his parents, Vincent and Kathleen, brothers, Father Patsy and Vincent, sisters, Sister Marie and Teresa. 

Monsignor Murray will be sadly missed by his nephews and niece, cousins, Archbishop Eamon Martin, Cardinal Seán Brady, Bishop Michael Router, the clergy of the Archdiocese of Armagh, former parishioners and many others with whom he worked and served.

Reception of Remains and Midday Prayer at Saint Patrick’s Cathedral, Armagh, will take place tomorrow, Wednesday, at 12 noon, lying in repose until 5pm, and on Thursday, 1pm to 9pm, with Evening Prayer at 7pm.  Requiem Mass will be celebrated on Friday, February 28 at 12 noon, followed by burial in Saint Patrick’s Cemetery.