He will serve as Bishop of Achonry and Bishop of Elphin
Pope Francis has appointed Bishop Kevin Doran to concurrently serve as Bishop of Achonry and Bishop of Elphin, uniting the two dioceses under his pastoral leadership. This decision, announced last Sunday, follows a period of reorganisation within the ecclesiastical province of Tuam.
Bishop Doran, born on June 26th 1953, in Dublin, was ordained a priest for the Archdiocese of Dublin on July 6th 1977. He has served as Bishop of Elphin since his appointment on May 14th 2014, and subsequent episcopal ordination on 13 July 2014. In April 2024, he was designated Apostolic Administrator of Achonry, a temporary role that has now transitioned into his formal appointment as Bishop of Achonry.
The unification of the dioceses “in persona episcopi” allows both to maintain their distinct identities while sharing a single bishop. This move aims to address evolving pastoral needs and optimise resources within the region.
In his address at the Cathedral of the Annunciation and Saint Nathy in Ballaghaderreen, Bishop Doran expressed his commitment to fostering unity: “I gladly accept my responsibility as Bishop of the two Dioceses to work with you as we grow together into that unity to which we are called.”
Archbishop Francis Duffy of Tuam welcomed the appointment, noting that it reflects proactive engagement with the Holy See’s vision for diocesan reorganisation. He commended Bishop Doran for diligently consulting with the faithful and embracing the path toward unified governance.
This development signifies a significant step in the ongoing reorganisation within the Province of Tuam, aiming to enhance pastoral care and mission effectiveness across both dioceses.
