Pope Francis has appointed Bishop Kevin Doran to serve simultaneously as the Bishop of Achonry and Bishop of Elphin, marking a significant step in the reorganization of the dioceses within the Province of Tuam.
The announcement was made this morning by Reverend Vincent Sherlock, Chancellor of the Diocese of Achonry, at the Cathedral of the Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary and Saint Nathy in Ballaghaderreen, Co Roscommon.
Bishop Doran has been serving as the Apostolic Administrator of Achonry since April last year in a temporary capacity. His new dual appointment brings the two dioceses together “in persona episcopi,” meaning they will be united under the leadership of a single bishop while maintaining their distinct identities.
This move follows a directive from the Papal Nuncio regarding a gradual reorganization within the region. While the dioceses will remain separate, they will increasingly work towards unity, respecting each other’s history, culture, and traditions.
During his address to the congregation, Bishop Doran expressed his commitment to fostering unity between the two dioceses. He thanked the people of Achonry for their warm welcome and support during his tenure as Apostolic Administrator. He also acknowledged the extra responsibilities undertaken by those in the Diocese of Elphin to enable his presence in Achonry.
To facilitate the transition, Bishop Doran has established an ‘Implementation Group’ tasked with identifying the steps necessary for the integration of the two dioceses while preserving their individual heritage. The group will also focus on revitalizing the faith community and strengthening the diocesan mission.
Born in Dublin in 1953, Bishop Doran was ordained as a priest in the Archdiocese of Dublin in 1977. Over the course of 36 years, he served in six parishes and worked extensively in educational administration, university chaplaincy, and the formation of future clergy. He was also the Secretary General of the 50th International Eucharistic Congress in Dublin in 2012.
Bishop Doran was appointed Bishop of Elphin in April 2014 and was ordained as Bishop on July 13, 2014.
