A "devoted priest" and "superb teacher" was remembered yesterday at the funeral Eucharist for the former dean of Christ Church Cathedral in Dublin, the Very Rev John Paterson.
In a sermon preached at the service, the former Archbishop of Dublin, the Most Rev Walton Empey, recalled Dean Paterson's "deep love" for the worship of the church. He would be remembered "as a devoted priest, caring, compassionate and faithful in all he did".
The service was led by the Archbishop of Dublin, the Most Rev Dr John Neill and the Dean of Christ Church Cathedral, the Very Rev Desmond Harman.
The President, Mrs McAleese, was represented by her ADC, Capt Brian Carley, while Comdt Michael Murray represented the Taoiseach, Bertie Ahern.
The chief mourners were Dean Paterson's wife, Pat, and their stepsons, Geoff and Colin.
Among those who attended were the Archbishop of Armagh, the Most Rev Dr Robin Eames, the Bishop of Meath and Kildare, the Most Rev Richard Clarke and the Bishop of Cashel and Ossory, the Right Rev Peter Barrett.
The current and former Archdeacon of Dublin, the Venerable David Pierpoint and the Venerable Gordon Linney, were also present.
The Catholic church was represented by Most Rev Raymond Field, auxiliary bishop of Dublin.