Statement of Bishop Kevin Doran and Bishop Michael Duignan
on the appointment of Archbishop Francis Duffy as Bishop of Killala and the uniting of the Diocese of Killala and
the Archdiocese of Tuam in Persona Episcopi
We very much welcome the announcement that Pope Leo has appointed Archbishop Francis Duffy as Bishop of Killala while at the same time uniting the Diocese of Killala and the Archdiocese of Tuam in Persona Episcopi.
Having worked with Archbishop Francis for many years now, we have both been struck by his deep faith and the considered wisdom and commitment he brings to whatever he is called to do. Our prayer is that, under his shepherding care, the coming together of the Archdiocese of Tuam and the Diocese of Killala will be a most blessed and fruitful one. We are both conscious of the fresh challenges and the new possibilities that are presented to the clergy, religious and lay faithful of the two dioceses, and we wish them every blessing as they embark on this next stage of their journey as Church.
The uniting of both dioceses in the person of Archbishop Francis follows a similar pattern to the uniting of the Diocese of Galway, Kilmacduagh and Kilfenora with the Diocese of Clonfert and the Diocese of Achonry with the Diocese of Elphin. This is restructuring for renewal and we welcome it. The “West is Awake” – awake to the importance of developing new ecclesiastical structures which are consistent with a renewed sense of mission.
We look forward to continuing our work with Archbishop Francis and indeed the entire people of God in these parts to progress this project into the future. We pray for a new outpouring of the Holy Spirit on our three new faith communities as we journey together towards tomorrow in the hope that only Christ can give.