Pope Francis has appointed Most Reverend Noël Treanor, Bishop of Down and Connor, as Apostolic Nuncio to the European Union.
Archbishop Treanor will continue to govern as Apostolic Administrator of the Diocese of Down and Connor, as sede vacante, until he takes up appointment in Brussels in mid-to-late January 2023. An announcement will be made regarding the pastoral care and governance of the diocese on his departure, pending the appointment of a successor.
In response to his appointment as Apostolic Nuncio to the European Union, the newly appointed Archbishop said, “I am honoured that His Holiness, Pope Francis has appointed me as Apostolic Nuncio to the European Union. I have accepted this appointment and, with God’s grace, I will seek to carry out this mission which has been entrusted to me.”
Addressing the people of Down and Connor, Archbishop Treanor said, “I have been deeply inspired by the faith, hope and resilience of the clergy and people of this Diocese over these years. Understandably, I shall be sad to move on, but as I take up this new appointment, I am encouraged by the friendship and support of parishioners, the countless volunteers who support the life of the Church in our Diocese in so many areas, as well as of friends and family. The pastoral initiatives that we crafted and took together over those years will, I hope, continue to sustain the life of our diocese and its parishes into the future. My heartfelt thanks go to one and all, for your many kindnesses.
Archbishop Treanor’s appointment as Apostolic Nuncio to the European Union comes “at a time when the world and the EU, in particular, face great challenges. In the midst of war, political and financial instability, conflict and societal change, diplomacy plays a key role in facilitating peace, understanding and goodwill among peoples and nations.”
“I ask for your continued prayers as I take up this appointment in January. I especially invite you to pray for and stand in solidarity with all those who work for peace and the resolution of conflict, protecting human rights and addressing issues of humanitarian need in Europe and throughout the world”, the senior prelate said.
ENDS
