Installation of new Bishop of Achonry celebrated

THE Bishop of Elphin, Kevin Doran, was installed as Bishop of Achonry at the Cathedral of the Annunciation and Saint Nathy in Ballaghaderreen today.

After the celebration of the Installation Mass, Bishop Doran greeted members of the congregation at the front door of the cathedral.

The installation liturgy marked a historic moment when the Diocese of Achonry and the Diocese of Elphin became united 'in persona episcopi' (in the person of the Bishop) - the union of two or more dioceses under one bishop.

In his homily, Bishop Doran reflected: “We have entered into a 'new space', which presents us with all sorts of possibilities to grow together as the people of God.”

He also stated that the Church “will need to review our structures to make sure that they are appropriate to the needs of the 21st century, and of our new relationship.”

Bishop Doran was born in Dublin in 1953 and ordained a priest of the Archdiocese of Dublin in July 1977. He was ordained Bishop of Elphin in 2014.

Bishop Doran was principal celebrant and homilist at today's Mass, with His Excellency, Archbishop Luis Mariano Montemayor, Papal Nuncio to Ireland, Archbishop Francis Duffy and Bishop Michael Duignan the principal con-celebrants.