Bishop of Clogher Larry Duffy has warned that providing a priest for every parish is becoming increasingly difficult, as more than half of the diocese’s priests are now aged over 70.
Announcing diocesan changes for 2026, Bishop Duffy said 53% of priests are over 70, while only 21 are under 65 and nine under 60.“The task of providing a priest for each parish is very challenging and calls on us to look at different options for the short and medium term,” he said.
However, Bishop Duffy pointed to signs of hope, including the recent ordination of Fr Stephen Sherry and increased interest among men discerning priesthood.
He also stressed the importance of permanent deacons, lay ministry and parish pastoral councils as responsibility for the life of the Church is increasingly shared.
The bishop said Clogher must also look to the wider Church for support, thanking overseas priests already serving in the diocese and saying further international appointments are being explored.
He urged Catholics to “re-double our prayers for vocations to the Priesthood”.
