Unexpected death of Co. Tyrone-born priest leaves communities in shock

Fr. Mark O’Hagan died suddenly last week, just two weeks after beginning his new role as parish priest for Ardee, Collon, and Ballapousta in County Louth. The 55-year-old priest, originally from Coalisland, County Tyrone, had his death announced on Friday, September 18.

Before his recent appointment on September 6, Fr. O’Hagan served in Dundalk for 22 years. St. Patrick’s parish in Dundalk expressed sadness over the loss of their former priest.

Fr. O’Hagan also served as the pilgrimage director for the Armagh Diocesan Pilgrimage to Lourdes. The Armagh Diocesan Pilgrimage released a statement praising his dedication, energy, and loyalty to the pilgrimage.