RATHKEALE parish priest Fr Alphonsus (Phonsie) Cullinan has been appointed Bishop of the Diocese of Waterford and Lismore.
Welcoming the appointment, Bishop of Limerick Brendan Leahy said that Limerick and Rathkeale’s loss is Waterord’s gain as Fr. Cullinan would bring an array of qualities to his new role.
Bishop Leahy said that since he became a priest after working as a schoolteacher, Father Cullinan gained a wide range of pastoral experience in parishes and schools, third-level chaplaincy and hospital pastoral ministry.
“He has shown good pastoral initiative, mindful of the need to dedicate time especially to young people. In recent years, he has come to know and generously serve members of the Travelling Community.
“Fr. Cullinan will bring many fine qualities with him into his new ministry. As well as pastoral wisdom, he has pursued studies to doctorate level in moral theology. Caring, prayerful and courteous, Father Cullinan has also worked to promote priestly fraternity. His loss to Rathkeale and the Diocese of Limerick will be the Diocese of Waterford and Lismore’s gain.”
Bishop Leahy said that Fr. Cullinan’s contribution to the Diocese of Limerick will be missed.
“He is currently chair of the Priests Council and a member of the Cathedral Chapter. I am sure, however, he will take up his new mission as Bishop of Waterford and Lismore with enthusiasm, dedication and prayer.
“Together with the priests of the Diocese of Limerick and those who have benefitted from his ministry, on this Feastday of the Presentation of Our Lord, a special day in the Year of Consecrated Life proclaimed by Pope Francis, I wish Father Cullinan every blessing in the years to come and assure him of our prayers”, Bishop Leahy concluded.
