Pope Francis has appointed Bishop Kevin Doran as the new bishop of the Diocese of Achonry. The appointment, which was made public on February 16, 2025, also sees Bishop Doran continuing his role as the bishop of the Diocese of Elphin. This dual appointment means that the two dioceses will be united “in persona episcopi,” or “in the person of the bishop.”

The news was delivered by Very Reverend Vincent Sherlock, Chancellor of the Diocese of Achonry, during a ceremony at the Cathedral of the Annunciation and Saint Nathy in Ballaghaderreen. The announcement was simultaneously made in Rome.

Bishop Kevin Doran has been serving as the Apostolic Administrator of Achonry since April 2024, following the appointment of the previous bishop, Paul Dempsey, as auxiliary bishop for the Archdiocese of Dublin. With this new appointment, Bishop Doran will now officially lead both dioceses.

In his address to the congregation, Bishop Doran expressed his gratitude for the support he has received from the people of both dioceses. He emphasized the importance of unity and collaboration as the two dioceses work together to fulfil their mission. “I gladly accept my responsibility as bishop of the two dioceses to work with you as we grow together into that unity to which we are called and as we discover the gifts that God has given us to share,” he said.

The appointment is part of a broader plan for the reorganization of the Province of Tuam, as announced by the Papal Nuncio last year. While each diocese will retain its unique identity, it will gradually become one diocese over the next few years, respecting the culture, history, and unique gifts of each.

Bishop Kevin Doran, who was born in Dublin in 1953, has served as the bishop of Elphin since 2014. He brings a wealth of experience to his new role, having previously worked in educational administration, university chaplaincy, and as the Secretary General of the 50th International Eucharistic Congress held in Dublin in 2012.

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