Statement of Bishop Michael Duignan on the Appointment of Bishop Kevin Doran as Bishop of Achonry and the uniting of the Diocese of Achonry and the Diocese of Elphin in Persona Episcopi
I very much welcome the announcement that Pope Francis has appointed Bishop Kevin Doran as Bishop of Achonry and of the uniting of the Diocese of Achonry and the Diocese of Elphin in Persona Episcopi.
Having worked with Bishop Kevin for many years now as both a priest and a bishop, I am always struck by his deep faith, absolute commitment and the abounding energy he brings to whatever he is called to do.
I have no doubt that the Diocese of Achonry will continue to benefit greatly from his paternal leadership and that with his shepherding care, the coming together of the Diocese of Achonry with the Diocese of Elphin will be a most blessed and fruitful one.
The uniting of both Dioceses in the person of Bishop Kevin, follows the similar uniting of the Diocese of Galway, Kilmacduagh and Kilfenora and the Diocese of Clonfert and the announcement last year of a restructuring of all the dioceses in the West of Ireland. I welcome this restructuring for renewal. I have noted on previous occasions that the “West is Awake”.
Awake to the need to reconfigure and restructure for renewal and mission. I look forward to continuing to work with Bishop Kevin and Archbishop Francis Duffy and indeed the entire people of God in these parts to progress this project into the future.
I pray for a continuing renewal of the faith and of our faith communities as we journey together towards tomorrow in that hope that faith in Christ alone can give.