Yesterday, at a meeting of the Diocesan College of Consulters of the Diocese of Galway, Kilmacduagh and Kilfenora, Canon Michael McLoughlin, the Parish Priest of Moycullen, was elected as Diocesan Administrator. Canon McLoughlin takes up his new responsibility immediately. After his election Canon McLoughlin expressed his gratitude to Bishop Martin Drennan – who retired as bishop of the diocese last Friday – and acknowledged Bishop Drennan’s dedicated ministry to the diocese over the past eleven years. Canon McLoughlin said that Bishop Drennan was held in high affection by his priests and people alike, and that he could rely on their prayerful support in the years ahead.
ENDS
Notes to Editors
- A diocesan administrator is elected to oversee a diocese when a bishop dies, retires or resigns, pending the appointment by the Holy Father, Pope Francis, of a new bishop for the diocese. While a diocesan administrator has many of the responsibilities of a bishop, he does not have the authority to make significant changes or innovations.
- Canon Michael McLoughlin is a native of Galway City, and he studied for the priesthood at Saint Patrick’s College, Thurles, Co Tipperary. Canon McLoughlin was ordained to the priesthood in 1982.
For media contact: Catholic Communications Office Maynooth: Martin Long 00353 (0) 86 172 7678
