Cardinal Sean Brady has led tributes to two bishops who have retired on age grounds.Bishop Joseph Duffy steps down as head of the Diocese of Clogher while Bishop Francis Lagan leaves his post as Auxiliary in Derry after they both reached 75.
Cardinal Brady praised the two clerics for their work supporting peace in Northern Ireland over the past three decades.
"During their time as bishops they have witnessed the terrible violence and tragedies which were part of the Troubles," the All-Ireland Primate said.
"Thankfully in recent years they have witnessed the peace which has come to this part of Ireland. I want to pay tribute to them for their work in preaching about and striving for peace and harmony here in Northern Ireland."
The resignations were announced in the Vatican.
Bishop Duffy had served 31 years in the church and Bishop Lagan 22. Rt Rev Liam Sean MacDaid has been appointed Bishop of Clogher.
Bishop of Derry Seamus Hegarty said Bishop Lagan had given parishes under his control generous service.
"I take this opportunity to thank Bishop Lagan for his generous service in the Diocese of Derry, as priest and bishop, and to express my own deep appreciation of the years we have served together as bishops in this diocese," Bishop Hegarty said.
"On a personal level, while recognising that Bishop Lagan has followed proper protocols on reaching 75, I will miss his wisdom, his knowledge of the diocese and above all his personal friendship, his commitment and generosity."
SIC: IT