Bishop Elect of the Diocese of Killaloe Fr Kieran O'Reilly has said he faces many challenges in his new ministry, in particular the challenge of meeting the pain of victims of clerical sexual abuse. Fr O'Reilly was speaking at a news conference in Ennis, where he was introduced to priests and members of the Diocesan Pastoral Council.
He said they must now help victims in the enormous burden they carry and accompany them and help them in their suffering.
While he was surprised by his appointment, Fr O'Reilly said he was deeply honoured by the request to become the new Bishop of Killaloe and will undertake his duties in the spirit of service.
Fr O'Reilly has been the Superior General of the Society of African Missions for the past nine years and has worked most of his time in Africa and Rome. He has been a member of the order since 1970.
He said he is particularly interested in the areas of justice and peace and on helping those communities on the margins.
Fr O'Reilly will be installed as Bishop of Killaloe at a special ordination ceremony at Ennis Cathedral on 29 August.
Bishop Willie Walsh said his successor takes over at time when a dark cloud has been across the Irish church for some time in relation to victims of sexual abuse.SIC: RTÉ