Papal visit welcomed by dioceses of Kilmore and Clogher

The announcement by Taoiseach Enda Kenny that Pope Francis has confirmed he will travel to Ireland in August 2018 has been welcomed by both the Bishop of Kilmore, Leo O’Reilly and the Diocesan Administrator of the Diocese of Clogher, Monsignor Joseph McGuinness.
Speaking to the Celt today (Tuesday), a spokesperson for Bishop O’Reilly said: “Throughout his papacy, Pope Francis has highlighted the primary role of the family as the basic unit in society. He has emphasised our responsibility to support and protect families.
“While it is a great joy to hear that Pope Francis has confirmed his plans to visit Ireland in August 2018, it is important to bear in mind that the central purpose of the visit is to participate in the World Meeting of Families, and we should not allow other issues deflect our attention away from this.”
Monsignor McGuinness, meanwhile, has said that the forthcoming Papal Visit to Ireland is “very positive and encouraging”.
He added: “The visit emphasises the Holy Father’s support for the World Meeting of Families event and its significance for the Church here in Ireland and across the world. Preparations for it are underway and all of our parishes, schools, youth groups and families will be actively involved during the lead-in period.”
The Diocesan Administrator said that as a diocese with territory across the political border in Ireland, Clogher would especially welcome the inclusion of venues north of the Border in such a visit. The Diocese of Clogher encompasses all of Co Monaghan, most of Fermanagh and portions of Tyrone, Donegal, Louth and Cavan.
Monsignor McGuinness is the Diocesan Administrator of Clogher since his election on October 3, 2016, pending the appointment of a new bishop there.