In a significant development, Pope Francis has responded to the Archbishop of Dublin’s request by appointing Fr Donal Roche as the new Auxiliary Bishop. With an impressive 38-year tenure in Dublin, Fr Roche, currently overseeing Job’s Town Church, brings extensive pastoral experience to church leadership. The Archdiocese, comprising 197 parishes and over 1.5 million Catholics, faces challenges amid a declining number of priests nationwide.
Archbishop Dedment Farrell expressed gratitude for the appointment, emphasizing Fr Roche’s invaluable contribution. Fr Roche’s journey began in 1986 at Morne Road parish, followed by roles as a clergy teacher, chaplain, and vicar in various locations. Despite the diocese navigating a challenging path in the last two decades, the Archbishop believes in the resilience of the Church, rooted in the commitment and faith of its priests and people.
This appointment underscores the Vatican’s recognition of Fr Roche’s dedicated service and aims to bolster the Archdiocese amid prevailing uncertainties.