Nearly one thousand guests are expected at the consecration of new Bishop-Elect of Clogher Monsignor Liam McDaid in St Macartan's Cathedral, Monaghan on Sunday, 25 July.

Pope Benedict XVI announced recently that he had chosen Monsignor McDaid, currently Chancellor of the Clogher Diocese, to replace Bishop Joseph Duffy after more than 30 years at the helm of the border diocese. The Pope also accepted the retirement of auxiliary Bishop of Derry Francis Lagan on the same day.

Monsignor McDaid (65), said he was ''deeply humbled and honoured to be chosen for this difficult ministry to our people. It is however encouraging to know that where God's grace is allowed to work, all things are possible and the weak find strength."

Monsignor McDaid was born in Bundoran, Co Donegal and is a keen enthusiast of Gaelic games. He was ordained a priest in 1969 and served for many years in St Macartan's College, Monaghan before being appointed President in 1981.

In 1993 the Bishop-Elect was appointed the Administrator of the parish of Tyholland in Co. Monaghan and took up the position of Diocesan Secretary and Diocesan Communications Officer. He was appointed Chancellor of the diocese in 1994.

In a message to the people of the diocese, the outgoing bishop, Dr Joseph Duffy said, ''I know that you will join me in congratulating Monsignor Liam on his appointment and in assuring him of your cooperation and prayers. As for myself, I hope to thank you and the people of the diocese more extensively at a later stage,'' he said.

Clogher Diocese includes Co Monaghan, most of Co Fermanagh, and portions of counties Tyrone, Donegal, Louth and Cavan. Bishop Duffy submitted his resignation to the Vatican in February 2009 on the occasion of his 75th birthday.