The Diocese of Achonry has today announced a rescheduled date for the Episcopal Ordination of Father Paul Dempsey PP as Bishop on Sunday 30 August.
Father Dempsey’s appointment by Pope Francis to Achonry was announced n 27 January and his Episcopal ordination was scheduled to take place on 19 April. However, due to the introduction in mid-March of restrictions to help curb the spread of COVID-19, the decision was taken to defer the ordination.
Planning for the ordination in the Cathedral of the Annunciation and Saint Nathy, Ballaghaderreen, Co Roscommon, will be in accordance with Government and NEPHET guidelines and as a result the number able to attend will be more limited than was originally planned for 19 April.
Commenting on today’s announcement Bishop-elect Dempsey said, “It is a source of joy for me to know that we now have a rescheduled date of Sunday 30 August for my Episcopal Ordination as Bishop of Achonry. I requested the postponement of the ceremony, which was originally scheduled for 19 April, in light of the coronavirus pandemic. It was a difficult decision but I felt it would not have been appropriate to proceed with the ordination at that time.”
Father Dempsey continued, “I am grateful to Archbishop Jude Thaddeus Okolo, Apostolic Nuncio to Ireland, and to the priests, religious and faithful of the Diocese of Achonry for their patience and understanding as we have been dealing with the unprecedented consequences of Covid-19 in our country and in our world. I am especially grateful for the support of Father Dermot Meehan who has administered the diocese over these challenging weeks and months.
“As I prepare to leave Kildare and Leighlin Diocese I offer my renewed thanks to Bishop Denis Nulty and to the people and priests of the diocese, especially the people of Newbridge Parish for their support at this time. I ask for your prayers as I prepare to take on the role of shepherd in the Diocese of Achonry.”
More information on the ceremony will be available closer to 30 August.
ENDS
