Bishop announces changes in the diocese and priest appointments in Cork city and county

The Bishop of Cork and Ross Fintan Gavin has announced several new priest appointments and changes in the diocese which will be effective from July 26.

Fr John Collins, assistant priest in the Family of Parishes of Ballincollig, Ballinora, Kilmurry, Ovens and Farran, is to retire from this full time position. However, his priestly ministry will continue.

Canon John Kingston in the Family of Parishes of Ardfield & Rathbarry, Barryroe, Clonakilty, Kilmeen & Castleventry, Rosscarbery & Lisavaird and Timoleague is to become assistant priest of the same areas.

Fr Noel O’Sullivan in the Family of Parishes of Douglas & Rochestown, Frankfield & Grange and Turner’s Cross, will become the assistant priest covering the same areas.

ASSISTANT PRIEST

Meanwhile, Fr Michael Regan in the Family of Parishes of Ballinhassig, Clontead, Courceys and Kinsale, in the same areas will become the assistant priest.

Canon Martin Keohane in the Family of Parishes of Carraig na bhFear, Glanmire, Glounthaune and also Watergrasshill and Glenville, will step down from this position and become weekend assistant in the Family of Parishes of Aughadown, Castlehaven & Myross, Kilmacabea, Rath & The Islands and Skibbereen.

Fr John Walsh in the Family of Parishes of Ballyphehane, The Lough and Togher will become co-parish priest and moderator for this area.

Fr Emmanuel Ihomon from Wukari Diocese (Nigeria) will be curate in the Family of Parishes of Carraig na bhFear, Glanmire, Glounthaune and Watergrasshill and Glenville, while Fr Terry O’Brien in the Family of Parishes of Aughadown, Castlehaven, Kilmacabea, Rath & The Islands and Skibbereen, will be returning to the Missionaries of the Sacred Heart.

Commenting on the changes, Bishop Gavin said:

"I am grateful to the priests who are undertaking new appointments this year and to those who retire from a full-time appointment, along with Fr O'Brien who returns to his order. 

"I continue to be grateful for their willingness to minister in new ways with colleagues and with people in Families of Parishes."