A CATHOLIC parish in Derry city has been given a reprieve following fears it was to be amalgamated with a larger neighbouring parish because of the fall in numbers and vocations to the priesthood.
Parishioners at Culmore had feared their parish was to be amalgamated with neighbouring Steelstown following the retirement of Fr Colum Clerkin.
It was also announced earlier this year that the parish was to lose its church when a lease arrangement with the Sisters of Mercy religious order came to an end.
The move could make the parish the first in Ireland to operate without a church.
However, after meeting parishioners, Bishop of Derry, Donal McKeown confirmed in his annual clerical changes for the diocese that the parish would continue to exist under the administration of Steelstown parish priest, Fr John McDevitt.
It is understood negotiations are continuing to establish a place of worship in Culmore parish.