Priests across the Diocese of Raphoe have warmly welcomed the appointment of Bishop Niall Coll, describing the Donegal native as a man of intelligence, pastoral sensitivity, and deep local roots. expressing hope that his leadership will bring unity and renewed purpose after nearly two years without a bishop.
Fr Paul McGeehan, a retired priest ordained 42 years ago, said the sense of homecoming was immediately felt. “It’s great to have one of our own. He’s a great fella,” he said. Because Bishop Coll already knows the parishes, landscape, and clergy, he believes the transition will be smoother than for an outsider. “With Niall, what you see is what you get. He’s down to earth, in touch with ordinary people, always willing to listen.”
Among the key challenges he hopes Bishop Coll will address, Fr McGeehan highlights empowering the synodal pathway and involving the laity in meaningful ways. “That’s where a vibrant Church comes from,” he said.
Fr Lorcan Sharkey, PP of Glenfin and ordained 51 years, echoed the joy felt among older clergy. “I think it’s nice — he’s from our county, a priest we know,” he said, adding that Donegal’s Irish-speaking regions have posed a challenge for bishops unfamiliar with the language. “But I am absolutely delighted for Niall.”
Fr Adrian Gavigan of Drumholm, who worked closely with Bishop Coll during a parish handover, noted the sense of unity returning to the diocese. “We were without a bishop for about 20 months. The bishop gives someone to rally around,” he said. Looking ahead, he hopes Bishop Coll will guide the diocese in “discovering our identity in a secular Ireland” and help address the spiritual hunger of young people. A strong presence in Catholic schools, he added, remains essential for passing on the faith.
Fr Anthony Hartnett, PP of Letterkenny and ordained only 17 months, said the appointment has brought real joy to parishioners. He expressed confidence in Bishop Coll’s ability to address structural needs, strengthen collaboration with schools, continue healing from past wounds, and “find new ways to spread the Gospel and meet people where they are”.
From recently ordained clergy to those with decades of service, the message is consistent: Donegal is ready to rally around its new bishop, and hopeful for the road ahead.
