A Catholic priest is still in hospital with serious head injuries almost three weeks after he was attacked inside his Downpatrick church.

Canon John Murray, 75, was preparing to celebrate his final Sunday Mass before retirement at St Patrick’s Church on 10th August when he was violently assaulted.

The attacker reportedly approached him under the pretence of asking for confession before striking him on the head.

Canon Murray sustained severe head injuries and was taken to hospital, where he remains in a stable condition.

Sources in the diocese told The Irish News that “his condition is stable and comfortable but he remains in hospital at this time".

Local parishioners and church leaders have expressed their shock and sadness at the incident.

Father Eugene O’Neill, the new parish priest, told the congregation: “We continue to be shocked by the terrible events of that day. The impact will be felt for a long time, especially by those directly affected.”

He added that Canon Murray is in good spirits and making slow but steady progress. “He and his family are deeply grateful for the prayers and support they’ve received from across the community.”

Hugh Malone, a 30-year-old from the Belfast area, has been charged with the attempted murder of Canon Murray, as well as the murder of 56-year-old Stephen Brannigan, whose body was found in Downpatrick the same day.

Police believe the two incidents are connected. Malone is due back in court on 4th September.