The Diocese of Hexham and Newcastle announced on Friday the news that the Catholic priest died peacefully in hospital that afternoon after a short illness. TV star Declan, 46, tweeted: “It is with a broken heart that I tell you that my beloved brother Fr Dermott, @TweeterPriest, has sadly passed away this afternoon. “We are all beyond devastated. Thank you for your messages of support and support, we appreciate them DD.” In 2015, Fr Dermott officiated at his brother’s wedding to Ali Astall in Newcastle in a star-studded ceremony. A statement from the Diocese of Hexham and Newcastle said: “It is with great sadness that we have to inform you of the death of Fr Dermott Donnelly, who died peacefully this afternoon in hospital. “This was a big shock to all of us. “Please pray for the repose of his soul and keep his family, especially his mother, in your prayers at this difficult time.” Fr Dermot recently celebrated his 30th anniversary of service to his parish and community, where he was best known for his work with young people and youth ministry. He was a member of the clergy of St. Joseph’s Church in Stanley, County Durham. The Bishop of Hexham and Newcastle Robert Byrne said he will be “greatly missed for his energy, enthusiasm and ability to engage with all who met him”. Father Dermott Donnelly officiated at his brother Declan’s wedding to Ali Astall (PA) (PA file) He added: “This is especially true in his youth work and youth ministry in the Diocese – bringing many disadvantaged and disillusioned young people to Christ. “He truly lived his faith and in doing so gave so much to others. “With great gratitude we will remember him and all that he selflessly gave.” Bishop Robert noted that as Fr Dermott was born and raised in the Diocese of Hexham and Newcastle, he and his extended family were well known in the local community. He added: “Our prayers and condolences must go out to those who will be grieving so deeply at this time.” Stanley, Dipton & Byermoor Catholic Parishes also shared the news and asked parishioners to “pray for the repose of his soul”. The group announced on Thursday that Fr Dermott was “extremely unwell” in hospital and had asked for prayers for him. A similar message was posted on the Facebook page of the Pontop Partnership – a group of 10 Catholic parishes in the Diocese of Hexham and Newcastle. Following the news of his death, those who knew and worked with him shared a wealth of loving tributes on social media. During his career, Fr Dermott was a supporter of the charity The Catholic Agency for Overseas Development (Cafod) – the official aid agency of the Catholic Church in England and Wales. Cafod’s head of education, Monica Conmee, paid tribute to Fr Dermott on behalf of the charity, saying: “It was with great sadness that we learned of the death of Fr Dermott Donnelly, a great friend of Cafod who saw a burning passion and commitment to the fullness of life for all. “Fr Dermot chose to stand in the light, and through his immense talent and gifts, he so generously guided thousands of young people to experience God’s love and light in their lives, inspiring them to share it with others. “Unforgettable mountaintop moments for so many young Catholics were the Flame events at Wembley Arena, of which Dermott was a guiding light and driving force. “We are extremely privileged to have worked closely with Fr Dermott in enabling the voices of the poor and most vulnerable to be heard. “Fr Dermott will shine forever. May the angels come to greet one of their own.” In 2014, Fr Dermott appeared on Songs Of Praise alongside CBBC’s Hacker T Dog to answer questions about the church sent in by CBBC viewers. St. Joseph’s Church in Stanley will hold a gathering at 6 p.m. on July 8 to pray for Fr Dermott.
