Archbishop Eamon Martin has congratulated Father Michael Duignan of the Diocese of Elphin on his appointment by Pope Francis as Bishop of Clonfert. Archbishop Eamon also expressed his gratitude to Bishop John Kirby whose resignation as Bishop of Clonfert was accepted by Pope Francis.
Archbishop Eamon said, “I want to offer my prayerful congratulations and good wishes to Father Michael Duignan, whom Pope Francis has appointed as the new Bishop of Clonfert. Father Duignan’s varied pastoral experience in Elphin, particularly including his time in St Angela’s College, will bring rich experience to bear upon his new responsibilities as a diocesan bishop.”
“I also want to pay sincere tribute to Bishop John Kirby. Since 1988, Bishop Kirby has made an extraordinarily generous contribution to the work of the Irish Catholic Bishops’ Conference. In particular, his chairing of Trócaire, his interest in justice and peace, and his concern for Irish emigrants and prisoners abroad have been hallmarks of his faithful service as a diocesan bishop and a member of the Bishops’ Conference. I pray God’s blessings on him and wish him good health in his new role as bishop emeritus.”
ENDS
- Archbishop Eamon Martin is Archbishop of Armagh, Apostolic Administrator of the Diocese of Dromore and Primate of All Ireland.
For media contact: Catholic Communications Office Maynooth: Brenda Drumm 00353 (0) 87 310 4444.
