Bishop Alan McGuckian SJ Announces Key Diocesan Appointments for Down and Connor
Diocese of Down and Connor Announces Pastoral Changes
Belfast, Northern Ireland – Bishop Alan McGuckian SJ, the esteemed leader of the Diocese of Down and Connor, has officially unveiled a series of significant clerical retirements and appointments. These changes, made after a thorough review of the pastoral needs within the diocese, are set to take effect on Saturday, August 15, 2026.
Retirements and Recognition
The announcements include the retirement of two long-serving priests who will transition to the role of Pastor Emeritus. Bishop McGuckian expressed profound gratitude for their dedication and service to the diocese.
- Very Rev Canon Sean Emerson, formerly Parish Priest of Antrim, will now serve as Pastor Emeritus.
- Very Rev Canon Eddie O'Donnell, formerly Parish Priest of St Brigid's, Belfast, will also assume the role of Pastor Emeritus.
Both priests have generously offered to continue assisting within their resident Family of Parishes whenever possible, underscoring their ongoing commitment to their communities.
New Appointments and Administrative Roles
The comprehensive list of appointments reflects a strategic realignment of clerical resources to best serve the faithful across the Down and Connor diocese. The new roles encompass a variety of parish priest and administrative positions:
- Very Rev Canon Colm McBride has been appointed Parish Priest of Loughguile.
- Very Rev Peter Carlin will serve as Parish Priest of St Anthony's, in addition to his duties at St Matthew's.
- Rev Joe Davis steps into the role of Administrator of Carrickfergus.
- Very Rev Paul Fleming is appointed Parish Priest of Our Lady Queen of Peace, Kilwee.
- Very Rev Martin Graham will take on the responsibilities of Parish Priest for Drumbo and Carryduff, as well as Saintfield.
- Very Rev Henry McCann has been named Parish Priest of St Malachy's, Belfast.
- Very Rev Thomas McGlynn will serve as Administrator of St Peter's Cathedral Parish, Belfast.
- Very Rev Patsy Mulholland is appointed Parish Priest of Antrim.
- Very Rev Michael Sheehan will become Parish Priest of St Brigid's, Belfast.
- Very Rev Rory Sheehan takes on the role of Parish Priest for Glenavy and Killead.
- Rev Thomas Hampton, recently ordained, has been appointed Curate in Ballymena.
- Deacon Joe Baxter will serve as Administrator of Sacred Heart Parish, with Very Rev Eamon Devlin CM as Priest in Residence.
- Rev Jose Bharanikulangara has been appointed Curate in Antrim, while Rev Jain Mathew will return to the Syro-Malabar Diocese in Rome.
These significant changes highlight Bishop McGuckian's ongoing efforts to ensure robust spiritual leadership and pastoral care throughout the Diocese of Down and Connor.