Cardinal Nichols stated that the Sacrament of Holy Order is based, not on a command structure, but on humble service. He said in his homily: “Service is the permanent and underlying foundation of all that is done by deacon, priest and bishop.”

As a footballer you’re caught up in the whole way of life. You never stop to take stock and think, this isn’t going to last forever. What am I going to do after?

Fr Alphonsus Cullinan will be ordained Bishop of Waterford & Lismore this Sunday.

“As a tactician he was brilliant in analysing the opposition and devising strategies to overcome them - a very inspirational figure.”