The Diocese of Kerry has announced its annual clerical changes, bringing a direct swap between two local priests.

Fr Kieran O’Brien, who has been the Parish Administrator in Killarney, is moving to become the Parish Priest of Rathmore.

Moving in the opposite direction, Fr Pat O’Donnell will leave Rathmore to take over as the new Parish Administrator in Killarney.

Both priests are well-known and highly regarded in their communities, meaning they will be missed in their old parishes but widely welcomed into their new roles.

Other changes affecting the Killarney area include Fr Vitalis Barasa moving from Killarney to become the Parish Priest of Ballymacelligott.

Fr Sean Murphy will move from Kenmare to minister in Killarney, and Fr Jim Lenihan will take over as the Moderator for Kilcummin.

With three parish priests retiring across the region this summer, there are eleven changes in total, affecting seven of the diocese’s twelve pastoral areas.

Bishop of Kerry Ray Browne thanked the clergy for taking on their new responsibilities.
"The announcement of the appointments list is an annual opportunity for all of us to remember and reflect on activity and progress through the past year," Bishop Browne said. "With three parish priests retiring this summer, naturally there are many new appointments.

Sincere thanks to the retiring priests for their lifelong ministry in the priesthood. Sincere thanks to all the priests who have agreed to take up new appointments this summer."

Photo: Marie O’Sullivan-Carroll