Roman Catholic Diocese of Derry

The Roman Catholic Diocese of Derry covers most of County Londonderry and parts of Tyrone, Antrim and Donegal. It stretches from the city of Derry to towns like Buncrana, Coleraine and Omagh. The diocese was set up in the 12th century and now has nearly fifty parishes. Religious orders run houses across the area. St Eugene’s Cathedral stands in the city as the main church of the diocese. The diocese runs schools such as St Columb’s College and Thornhill College. Adults can study for a Diploma in Pastoral Theology at Drumalis Retreat Centre. A Masters in Catholic School Leadership is offered through St Mary’s University. The Catechetical Centre works with St Mary’s to organise these courses. Bishops have led the diocese since the Reformation. Visitors find St Eugene’s Cathedral in Derry city centre. Nearby is St Columba’s Church, Long Tower, another place of worship. The landscape includes the Inishowen peninsula and the Sperrin Mountains. Towns like Limavady and Maghera sit within the diocese’s bounds. The area shows how the Catholic Church has shaped life across north-west Ireland.