Archbishop Duffy appointed as Bishop of Killala

HIS Holiness Pope Leo XIV has appointed Archbishop Francis Duffy to minister simultaneously as Archbishop of Tuam and as Bishop of Killala.

News of this Episcopal appointment was made public following the celebration of Mass in Saint Muredach’s Cathedral, Ballina, this morning, with Archbishop Duffy in attendance.

Archbishop Duffy paid tribute to his predecessor in Killala, Bishop John Fleming, who served as bishop in the diocese for 22 years.

“Bishop John’s vision, his ability to listen and read the signs of the times, and his dedicated work have contributed immensely to pastoral initiatives in this diocese,” he commented.

Now, for the first time, the Bishop of Killala is, at the same time, the Archbishop of Tuam. The Church describes this as the union of dioceses in persona episcopi, in the person of the Bishop. The two dioceses remain distinct, their individual identities are preserved, they are governed separately, but they share the same Bishop.

Today’s announcement follows from an extensive synodal-style consultation across the Dioceses of Killala and Tuam during the spring and summer of 2025, through which lay women and men, religious, clergy, and youth had an opportunity to contribute to the conversation and to have their voices heard in the decision-making process.

Said Archbisop Duffy: “When I became Apostolic Administrator almost two years ago, it was a priority for me to get to know the priests, people and parishes of Killala, not to mention its geography. It was a great experience to visit priests in their homes and listen to their accounts of life and their views.

“These visitations brought me across great stretches of territory, and beautiful landscape, from Blacksod Bay in Erris over to Drumard in Co. Sligo, down south to Ballycroy and Glenhest in Mayo.

“Having already accompanied you since Bishop John’s retirement, I am honoured to have been given this appointment, and I invite you to join me as we, trusting in the Lord, go forward together into a future full of hope.”