BREAKING: Bishop Niall Coll Appointed Bishop of Raphoe, Homecoming!

UPDATE: In a significant development for the Diocese of Raphoe, Bishop Niall Coll has been appointed as its new Bishop, marking a poignant return to his roots in Donegal. The announcement was made this morning at St Eunan’s Cathedral in Letterkenny by Diocesan Administrator Monsignor Kevin Gillespie, alongside Bishop Philip Boyce, Bishop Emeritus of Raphoe. This urgent news comes as the diocese has been without a bishop since the departure of Bishop Alan McGuckian SJ in 2024.

The appointment, confirmed by Pope Leo XIV, puts an end to speculations regarding a possible amalgamation with a neighboring diocese, providing a much-needed sense of stability and leadership in the area. Monsignor Gillespie emphasized the need for prayers for Bishop Coll during the morning Mass, calling for divine wisdom as he steps into this significant role.

Bishop Coll, aged 62, hails from Hillhead in St Johnston and has deep ties to the local community. He served as an altar server in his youth and has fond memories of his hometown. “I have a great love of a sense of east Donegal,” he stated in a previous interview, highlighting his enduring connection to the region.

With an extensive background in theology and education, Bishop Coll was ordained as a Bishop on January 22, 2023, in Kilkenny, after being appointed as Bishop of Ossory. His return to Donegal is seen as a homecoming, and he is expected to bring his wealth of experience to the Diocese of Raphoe.

During his career, Bishop Coll has held various roles, including lecturer in Systematic Theology at Saint Patrick’s College in Carlow and editor of several publications promoting Catholic education. He also served as Parish Priest in multiple parishes, where he was known for his commitment to the community and education.

The announcement today reinforces the Diocese’s commitment to nurturing its spiritual leadership while fostering growth and unity among its members. As the community welcomes Bishop Coll back, there is a shared sense of hope and anticipation for a flourishing future under his guidance.

As this story develops, many will be watching to see how Bishop Coll’s leadership will shape the Diocese of Raphoe in the coming months. His deep understanding of the local culture and his extensive theological expertise make him a promising choice for the role.

Stay tuned for more updates on this breaking news as the community rallies around their new shepherd.