For the past 31 years, John Kirby has been Bishop of Clonfert. It has been a privilege to serve with him in the Episcopate. As a member of the Irish Episcopal Conference he had a special interest in social issues, national and international. For many years he utilised his academic and pastoral skills, directing Trócaire and more recently became involved in the pastoral outreach of the Irish Church to our Emigrants.
Bishop John’s episcopal motto “Críost Linn” is one on which he must have reflected and which sustained and supported him through challenging situations in recent years. He will be missed very much by the people, religious and priests of his diocese whom he served diligently, faithfully and generously.
On behalf of the bishops of the Tuam Metropolitan province I wish to express my deep appreciation and gratitude to Bishop John for his support, loyalty, encouragement, humanity and humour. I join with my brother bishops and the people of Clonfert in wishing him a very happy retirement and the good health to enjoy it.
+Michael Neary
Archbishop of Tuam
ENDS
For media contact: Catholic Communications Office Maynooth: Brenda Drumm 00353 (0) 87 310 4444.