VIDEO: “It’s Been People Who Have Sustained Me” – Bishop Donal McKeown Reflects on 25 Years

A personal reflection marking 25 years of episcopal ministry in Derry

Marking the Silver Jubilee of his episcopal ordination, Bishop Donal McKeown reflects on 25 years of ministry in this personal interview.

In this short video, he speaks about what has sustained him, the challenges faced, and the hope he sees in the life of the Church today.

Below are a few key moments from the interview.

Q: Looking back over 25 years, where have those years led you?

Bishop Donal:

"I believe that the Lord is leading His church. We are rediscovering the fact that we are his flock, we are his sheep. We are known by name. He wants to form us, make us fit for ministry, make us fit for the mission that He has for the world. And therefore, I think that the next stage of the journey for this diocese, whenever it begins under new leadership, that the diocese some sense of where it's going to as the people of God in this area, bringing the mercy, the companionship, the shepherding that Jesus brought to the world, to the people of our time and our place. And these are difficult times for many people. And there's a huge need for shepherding, for healing and for companionship."

Q: What has sustained you over those years?

Bishop Donal:

"It's been people who have sustained me and their enthusiasm for the gospel and their willingness to face all the challenges that are coming down the line. It's been working with young people, marvellous teachers in schools, huge dedication in this diocese to education, to good school leadership. So yes, I'm very confident that we can face the future because God has been with us in the past. There's a Good Shepherd constantly in the middle of all the mess."

What would you say to parish communities as they look to move forward in practice?

Bishop Donal:

As a parish ask "What are the main priorities in our parish? Who would Jesus be going to — and who most needs to experience grace, healing and hope?

It's about facing that missionary challenge — a change of heart — and working together in a prayerful way to respond to the needs of today.

We need to be welcoming communities, listening to people, especially young people, and moving forward rather than looking back — responding to the needs of 2026."