Following the appointment today by the Holy Father Pope Francis of Monsignor Dermot Farrell as the new Bishop of Ossory, Bishop Alphonsus Cullinan has published the following statement:
“I am delighted with the appointment of Monsignor Dermot Farrell as the new Bishop of our neighbouring diocese, Ossory. I have known Monsignor Dermot in Maynooth for a brief spell and his exemplary conduct impressed us greatly in the college. Monsignor Dermot was a very diligent pastor in Dunboyne in County Meath after his time in Saint Patrick’s College, Maynooth, and he brought many new initiatives and a very strong work ethic to his role as parish priest there. Monsignor Dermot is a very fine scholar and is blessed with a very keen intellect. I am sure he will lead his diocese wisely and with great pastoral care. I have no doubt that the people of Ossory will be delighted with their new Bishop. I wish him every blessing as he takes on the role of Bishop in these challenging times. But, we are conscious that we rely on the Holy Spirit who can do all things.
“I would like to wish Bishop Emeritus Seamus Freeman every blessing also and congratulate him for all the good that he achieved during his time as Bishop. We keep him in our prayers as he battles with ill health.
“I also wish to congratulate Monsignor Michael Ryan for all that he did during his time as Diocesan Administrator in the absence of a bishop for the diocese. Along with a very busy parish he took on the role of administrator with enthusiasm and commitment.
“On behalf of the priests and people of the Diocese of Waterford and Lismore I wish Monsignor Dermot the traditional ad multos annos.”
ENDS
- Bishop Alphonsus Cullinan is the Bishop of Waterford and Lismore.
For media contact: Catholic Communications Office Maynooth: Martin Long 00353 (0) 86 172 7678 and Katie Crosby 00353 (0) 86 862 3298