The Holy Father, Pope Francis, has announced this morning the appointment of Bishop Noël Treanor as Apostolic Nuncio to the European Union.
As President of the Irish Catholic Bishops’ Conference, I wish to congratulate Bishop Noël on this new appointment which he takes up at a critical time in Europe.
I would also like to express my sincere gratitude for Bishop Treanor’s contribution to the life of the Church in the Diocese, and across Ireland, and to the work of the Bishops’ Conference since his ordination as Bishop of Down and Connor in 2008.
Personally, I have had the honour of working closely alongside Bishop Treanor since I became Archbishop of Armagh and I know that he will bring his insights, understanding and life’s experience of ministry to this new calling.
For many years, Bishop Treanor has been closely involved in the work of the Church both in the European Union and at the wider European level, particularly with his work as a member and Vice-President of COMECE, and he has brought this wider perspective to the work on the Irish Episcopal Conference.
At this time, there are many challenges to be faced across Europe and at global level and the ministry of diplomacy within the Church serves to promote the pursuit of justice and peace in the world.
I know that Bishop Treanor will be missed by the clergy, religious and parishioners of the Diocese of Down and Connor where he was so warmly received and ministered over the last 14 years.
I pray that the various pastoral initiatives he launched and implemented continue. With God’s help, they will undoubtedly come to fruition in the years ahead.
I pray God’s blessings on Bishop Treanor as he prepares to take up this appointment.