INIS CATHAIGH PASTORAL AREA (Parishes of Cooraclare, Killimer, Kilmihil & Kilrush)

In the recently published Diocesan Appointments by Bishop Fintan, the Pastoral Area of Inis Cathaigh sees the announcement of Fr. Des Hillery to the Imeall Bóirne Pastoral Area and of the retirement of Fr. Peter O’Loughlin.

This announcement sees just two priests under 75 years of age active in the Pastoral Area, namely Fr. Tony Casey and Fr. Pat Larkin.

Fr Peter, while retired, will be available for the coming year for Masses, Baptisms and Funerals in Kilmihil parish.

Fr Tony has been advised to focus on the parish of Cooraclare, but will be available for weekend Mass rota across the pastoral Area of Inis Cathaigh.

Fr Pat will take responsibility for the administration of Kilmihil parish and the preparation for First Holy Communion and Confirmation.

The Pastoral Area of Cois Fharraige (Parishes of Carrigaholt, Cross, Doonbeg & Kilkee) with Frs. Michael Casey & Ger Kenny are available to assist when possible in Inis Cathaigh Pastoral Area.

In response to this reality the priests have agreed:
1. To continue the current schedule of Masses until October 29th
2. In the meantime, discussions with each Parish Pastoral Council in the Inis Cathaigh Pastoral Area
to take place to plan for this new scenario.
3. That new schedule of Masses will come into effect on October 29th.

Adjustments to the current administration of parishes in the Pastoral Area will also be part of the discussions.