Diocese ‘imports’ priests to solve shortage crisis

Clonfert has become the first West of Ireland diocese to “import” priests from Nigeria to take up ministry.

Due to a decline in vocations and the consequent shortage of diocesan priests, Bishop John Kirby has invited the priests to serve in Clonfert which includes parts of Galway, Roscommon and Offaly.

The bishop has concluded an arrangement with Bishop Charles Hammawa of Jalingo to have the priests serve in Clonfert for a three-year period, with a view to later renewing the deal.