Former bus driver with Donegal links ordained as priest in Derry

There were scenes of great joy on Sunday afternoon as Fr Stephen Baxter was ordained to the priesthood for the Diocese of Derry.

Fr Baxter was ordained as a priest by the Bishop of Derry, Donal McKeown, in St Columb’s Church, Waterside.

Fr Baxter, a former bus driver, is a native of the Waterside Parish, who was ordained as Deacon last summer.

Having studied abroad, Fr Baxter spent some time in parishes of the Derry Diocese - including the parishes in Buncrana and Moville - during his period of training.

A Derry Diocese spokesperson said: “We give thanks to God for Stephen's generous response to the Lord's call and ask your prayers for him as he begins his priestly ministry.

“May the Lord bless Fr Stephen and all those called to serve His Church.”