By Sean Ryan - 08 August, 2016
The newly appointed Bishop of Killaloe Fr Fintan Monahan said he was genuinely shocked to receive the call from the Vatican last week appointing him as the new Bishop of Killaloe.
Speaking this week to the Limerick Leader newspaper a week after his appointment Bishop-elect Monahan said, “It is with great humility and a deep sense of unworthiness that I accept the appointment.”
Of the task ahead he said, “Having worked in a diocesan office for almost 11 years, 10 of which as diocesan secretary for the Archdiocese of Tuam, I know only too well the magnitude of the responsibilities and challenges that arrive on the desk of a bishop in Ireland today.”
“However, aware of the presence and providence of the Lord, the good will and cooperation of so many people so willing to help, I joyfully and earnestly set about the work I am called to do here in Killaloe.”
Fr Monahan, who at 49 will become the country’s youngest bishop, said he was looking forward to the role.
“Being totally new to this role and the diocese, I look forward to learning all about the place and collaborating closely with priests, religious and people of many parishes in the wide territory covered by the diocese.”
“It is a privilege to be able to continue the great work in the area of evangelisation, faith development, clustering, pastoral planning, and vocations promotion, care of priests, youth ministry, safeguarding children, liturgy, prayer and spirituality.”
“Providing support and pastoral assistance for families will be a big part of our work in the church in Ireland as we prepare diligently for the World Meeting of Families, which is being hosted in Ireland in 2018.”
Meanwhile, it has been confirmed that Bishop elect Monahan will be installed as Bishop of Killaloe at the Cathedral of Saints Peter and Paul in Ennis on Sunday 25 September.
