MESSAGE FROM THE DIOCESE OF FERNS

I have been informed by the Apostolic Nuncio to Ireland, Archbishop Montemayor, that Pope Leo XIV has appointed me Apostolic Administrator of the Diocese of Ossory to take effect when Bishop Niall Coll is installed as Bishop of Raphoe on Sunday 25th January. This new role will be in addition to my current position as Bishop of Ferns. 

I thank Pope Leo for the trust and faith he has placed in me with this appointment, and I resolve to carry out my pastoral and administrative duties in both dioceses to the best of my ability. I very much look forward to working with the priests, diocesan staff and the people of the Diocese of Ossory.

I know that there has been much change in the diocese over a short number of years but am confident that we can all work well together to build on the proud traditions of that diocese. The Diocese of Ossory is blessed to have many talented priests and others carrying out great work and I hope to be able to assist them in every way I can. I am very conscious that this appointment also affects the Diocese of Ferns. I thoroughly enjoy my work and role as Bishop of Ferns and will continue to do so. I consider it a great privilege to be part of that diocese and have always felt a warm and genuine welcome. However, with this extra responsibility, I will not have the same time to devote to every aspect of my life and work in Ferns. I am very confident, though, that we have good strong systems in place in Ferns, a wonderful body of clergy, hardworking diocesan staff and no shortage of people willing to step up to the mark when called upon.

I thank Archbishop Montemayor for his courtesy in relaying this news to me and I know I can count on his ongoing support. I take this opportunity to wish Bishop Niall Coll every blessing and happiness in his new role as Bishop of Raphoe. He has been a kind and helpful neighbour during his time in Ossory, and I know he will have much joy and fulfilment in his new position.

 May we all continue to pray for each other and our dioceses, that God will continue bless us with the abilities to spread his word, to proclaim his kingdom and to live in his peace.

Ger Nash 

Bishop of Ferns