Michael Router

MICHAEL ROUTER

Born : April 15, 1965
Deceased :

Auxiliary Bishop of Armagh, 2019-present; Titular Bishop of Lugmad

Origin/meaning

The central symbol is the torch representing the flame of faith. This particular torch is a copy of the one St. Benan holds before St. Patrick in the stained-glass window by Harry Clarke located in the Honan Chapel in Cork. St. Benan was one of the earliest disciples of St. Patrick and he accompanied him on many of his travels around Ireland. St. Benan established a church in Drumbannon, near Bailieborough in Co. Cavan, the parish where, for the past five years, Fr. Michael has served as Parish Priest. St.Benan left Bailieborough to join St. Patrick in Armagh where he became his assistant Bishop. He died in 467 AD.

The flame is a rich symbol representing the light of Christian faith which guides the footsteps of the faithful from birth to death. A lighted candle is handed to the parents of the newly baptised child as the priest prays “May they keep the flame of faith alive in their hearts”. T

The dove represents the Holy Spirit who constantly renews the Church and ignites the flame of faith even in the most difficult of situations. The seven rays which proceed from the head of the dove signify the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit: Wisdom, Understanding, Right Judgement, Courage, Knowledge, Reverence and Wonder and Awe in God’s Presence. The background colour of blue represents the Blessed Virgin Mary.

The yew tree symbolises that Fr. Michael is from Virginia in Co. Cavan and the Irish name for the town is Achadh an Iúir meaning the field of the yew tree. The background colours of black and yellow also represent his home place. The yew tree, an evergreen tree noted for its longevity, is a symbol of renewal, regeneration and resurrection.

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Literature : Image and info from https://www.armagharchdiocese.org/bishop-michael-router/ (2020)