It comes as earlier this week, Bishop Niall Coll announced new clerical appointments and retirements in the Diocese of Ossory which will impact parishes across Co Kilkenny.
All changes take effect from August 30, 2025 with five priests retiring and multiple pastoral area coordinators changing roles.
However, some parishioners in Lisdowney, Ballyragget and Ballyouskill are appealing to Bishop Coll to reconsider his decision to transfer Fr. Eamonn O’Gorman from the parishes of Ballyragget, Lisdowney and Ballyouskill to the pastoral area of Galmoy, Johnstown and Urlingford.
In a petition posted on the Ballyragget Development Association & Forum Facebook page, parishioners argue that Fr. Eamonn O’Gorman’s departure “would be a profound loss to many.”
"We, the undersigned members of the parish community, respectfully appeal to the Bishop of Ossory, Bishop Coll, to reconsider the decision to transfer Fr. Eamonn O’Gorman from our parishes,” read the petition."Fr. Eamonn O’Gorman has been a deeply valued and spiritual leader, offering unwavering support, compassion and dedication to the people he serves.
"His presence has greatly enriched our communities, and his departure would be a profound loss to many.
"With heartfelt sincerity, we ask that this decision be reviewed in light of the strong pastoral bond he has formed with us all.”
The petition is available to sign at local businesses in Lisdowney, Ballyragget and Ballyouskill and outside weekend masses this weekend.