The clergy of Cloyne and over 800 parishioners joined together in St Colman’s Cathedral, Cobh last Sunday for the Episcopal Ordination of Canon William Crean as the 67th Bishop of Cloyne. Archbishop Charles Brown, Papal Nuncio to Ireland, officiated at the ordination ceremony, assisted by the Archbishop of Cashel and Emly, Most Reverend Dermot Clifford DD and the Bishop of Kerry, Most Reverend William Murphy DD. His Eminence Seán Cardinal Brady, Archbishop of Armagh and Primate of All Ireland, presided at the Mass.

Speaking after his ordination, the new bishop said, “Croí le brí nua – heart with a new vitality – is the simple motto I’ve chosen to represent this day and the journey that we, the priests and people of Cloyne, set forth on from this day forward. As I begin my ministry as Bishop I am encouraged and affirmed by so many cards and letters from people, priests and religious throughout the diocese; all have promised prayer and support. Today I renew my commitment to continue the work of healing and reconciliation that is so necessary for all.  This work will take time understanding and patience. Ar aghaidh linn in ainm Dé.”

The official document from Pope Benedict XVI appointing Bishop Crean was read by Monsignor Eamonn Goold PP VF, Midleton.

Following the ceremony Bishop Crean attended a reception for the faithful of the Diocese of Cloyne in the Great Island Com-munity Centre where he received a very warm welcome and many congra-tulations.

For more, see page 40.