New Bishop of Galway on the horizon
Religious observers are predicting the new Bishop of Galway, Kilmacduagh and Kilfenora will be appointed shortly following the announcement of a new papal nuncio to Ireland.
Archbishop Jude Thaddeus Okolo (60) is the first African priest to become the papacy’s diplomatic representative here.
Dr Okolo will take up the role during the summer, replacing outgoing papal nuncio Charles Brown.
The New York native finished his term in March, taking up his new appointment as papal nuncio to Albania.
The Galway diocese is one of seven out of 26 diocese that is currently without a spiritual leader. Dr Martin Drennan, 72, stepped down last July citing ill-health.
A spokesman for the Galway Diocese said there is “no information whatever on the naming of a new bishop”.
“The appointment of a new Papal Nuncio recently will undoubtedly help expedite things but it can sometimes take a year or more to fill an episcopal vacancy,” said the spokesman.
He revealed that Bishop Drennan is “keeping well” and living in Doughiska where he often helps out in the local parish.
He recently attended the Diocesan Retreat and continues to write.
“He also very much appreciates the support and kindness shown by so many people to him since his retirement,” added the spokesman.
The Association of Catholic Priests said one of Archbishop Okolo’s first tasks will be the appointment of a number of bishops.