On 10 April 2024, the Holy See appointed the Archbishop of Tuam, in addition, as Apostolic Administrator of Killala.
The plan of the Holy See is to unite both dioceses, initially, in persona episcopi, (in the person of the bishop) and then, later, for the Archdiocese of Tuam and the Diocese of Killala to unite and form a single diocese.
This aligns with developments in other dioceses in Ireland and across Europe.
Archbishop Francis Duffy embarked upon an extensive programme of consultation in both dioceses to hear the opinions of all branches of the faithful (laity, religious, ordained) on the question of the union of the Diocese of Killala and the Archdiocese of Tuam.
A total of twenty-one meetings took place, mostly at deanery level.
The Archbishop attended each meeting, and a 'Conversation in the Spirit' - the synodal model of dialogue - was facilitated by the Diocesan Pastoral Resource Person, Niamh Morris.
Overall, the experience was very positive. Each person had an opportunity to express an opinion, a hope, or a concern.
The consultations were, in themselves, worthwhile and valuable experiences. While each meeting was unique, common themes emerged which will be invaluable in planning for the future.
Common Themes
• The attractiveness of Jesus, his life and message, and of his Church is central to lives of parishioners. This needs to be promoted in new ways in a changing cultural context in Ireland.
• Many people are positive and proud of their faith, and joyful about Jesus and his message, including the young people who commented positively on initiatives such as Volunteers at Knock Shrine (VAKS).
• We are moving at speed into a missionary type territory in Ireland. It is a time of transition from a highly institutional model to a more suitable one.
• For lay people, parish identity is important. Parishioners have a strong sense of belonging and ownership of their parish.
• Gaeltacht (Irish speaking) parishes and parishioners, understandably, wish to continue having Irish speaking priests ministering to them.
Looking to the future
• The union of both dioceses is not seen as a threat, but as ‘rebirth’ – a hopeful new opportunity for mission.
• The two dioceses already share much in terms of culture, geography and faith. This can only be of benefit to the union.
• The two dioceses can learn from each other’s initiatives and experiences.
• It will be important to understand the role of lay ministry and co-leadership, particularly in new areas such as funeral ministry and catechesis. This is already moving ahead in Killala with the recent commissioning of more than sixty lay leaders.
• Many priests asked “With the never-ending expansion of parish boundaries, how does a dwindling number of priests manage a scattered population? Will priests have a pastoral connection with the people into the future?”
• For some people in the smaller Diocese of Killala, there is a range of emotions associated with uniting, including the fear of being ‘swallowed up’ or subsumed into Tuam. Sensitivity and care is needed to alleviate this concern
• There is an awareness of the large geographical spread to be looked after in a union of Tuam and Killala. Some wondered how a sense of community can be created in such a widespread area.
• There is openness to welcoming priests from other countries.
• There were some practical and refreshing questions around the uniting - what might the new Archdiocese be called? What will the status of each Cathedral be? Where will the celebration of the Chrism Mass take place?
Recommendations
• Good communication will be key in forming bonds and keeping priests and people up to date with developments.
• Well-trained lay people need ongoing support from the parish priest, Parish Pastoral Council, and diocese. Training should be followed by opportunities to exercise skills and gifts, with reviews of practice.
• Priests should be offered continuing professional development to assist them in the changing reality
• That the Newman Centre (Killala), Knock Shrine and Ballintubber Abbey (Tuam) are invaluable resources and should be utilised as much as possible.
• Parish Pastoral Councils are an essential element in moving forward.
• The synodal pathway, which guides this report, is the way to go.
• A strategy group will be established to coordinate areas such as trusts, property, retired priests etc. A small advisory group will assist the Archbishop.
• This report is not meant to be a plan for the future; it contributes to the formulation of such a move and builds on the good work carried out by both dioceses in terms of consultation and pastoral planning.