Longford mass-goers welcome new Bishop

The 65-year-old takes over from Archbishop of Tuam Francis Duffy who vacated the position in November 2021 following an eight year spell in charge.

News of the appointment by Pope Francis was warmly greeted by Fr Connell's predecessor who alluded to the latter's four decade long career in both the Church and more specifically as principal of Saint Finian’s College in Mullingar as key factors in his elevation to the role.

"Father Paul brings to his new position a wealth of experience in Catholic education at both local and national levels," he said. 

"His role, until now, as Chancellor in the Diocese of Meath, together with his work as Principal of a large diocesan secondary school, and his pastoral experience, has already equipped him for the responsibilities involved in leading a diocese. 

"Father Paul is well respected by the priests and people of his native diocese which he has served for more than forty years.  I know, from experience, that he will receive a warm welcome from the parishioners, religious and priests of the Diocese of Ardagh and Clonmacnois."

Ordained a priest in October 1982, Bishop elect Connell also holds a doctorate in history from NUI Maynooth to his name and also served as chaplain in Saint Mary’s Hospital, Mullingar.

Archbishop Eamon Martin of Armagh and Primate of All Ireland said while Fr Connell's promotion will be seen as a loss for the priests and people of his home diocese of Meath, the broader Church and its religious community would be all the better as a result.

"His (Fr Connell's) pastoral gifts, spiritual leadership and Episcopal calling today, especially at this time of renewal for the Church in Ireland, will greatly assist the Church in Ireland as we continue to walk the Synodal journey at local and national level over the next five years," he said.

Father Tom Healy, Diocesan Administrator of Ardagh and Clonmacnois followed suit, saying Fr Connell's close proximity to Longford and the broader diocese was a feature which would serve him well as Bishop.

"Father Paul hails from the neighbouring Diocese of Meath, and has family roots in our diocese, so I feel that we are welcoming a near neighbour and hope that his transition to Ardagh and Clonmacnois will be a smooth and happy experience for him.

"I know that Father Paul has wide experience particularly in the field of education since his ordination in 1983 and so he will bring much wisdom to his new role," he said.

A special mass following the announcement was led by Archbishop Francis Duffy along with other senior church figures in St Mel's Cathedral this morning.