BISHOP of Raphoe, Niall Coll, has welcomed Bishop Ger Nash as the newly appointed Bishop of Ossory.
Bishop Coll was formerly the Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Ossory, which takes in most of county Kilkenny and portions of counties Laois and Offaly.
“I warmly congratulate Bishop Ger Nash on his appointment as Bishop of Ossory while continuing his ministry as Bishop of Ferns,” said Bishop Coll.
“During the past six months, following my transfer to Raphoe, Bishop Ger has served with dedication as Apostolic Administrator of the Diocese of Ossory. In that time, he has gained a deep appreciation of the diocese, its people and its pastoral needs. This experience will serve him well as he now assumes the office of diocesan bishop.
“Bishop Ger brings a wealth of wisdom and pastoral experience, shaped by many years of faithful priestly ministry in his native Diocese of Killaloe and, since his appointment as Bishop of Ferns in 2021.
“His deep commitment to the Church’s synodal journey of renewal, his encouragement of the faithful to embrace more fully the dignity and mission of their baptism and his vision of vibrant parishes and pastoral areas where all can participate in the Church’s mission will be a great blessing to the people, Religious and clergy of Ossory.
“As Bishop Ger begins this new chapter of his episcopal ministry, I pray that the Holy Spirit, will inspire him with wisdom and courage, sustain him in joyful service of the Gospel and abundantly bless his ministry among the people entrusted to his pastoral care.”
“In the words of Pope Leo XIV, may his ministry help to build ‘a Church founded on God’s love, a sign of unity, a missionary Church that opens its arms to the world.’ May the people of Ossory, under his pastoral leadership, continue to grow together in faith, hope and love as missionary disciples of Christ.”
Bishop Ger Nash, Bishop of Ferns, and newly appointed Bishop of Ossory (Catholic Communications Office archive)