The Bishop of Ardagh and Clonmacnoise has warned that two of the diocese's largest parishes face a shortage of priests in the coming year.
Francis Duffy made the comments as he announced a number of changes to roles in the diocese which has reduced the number of clergy in Athlone and Longford.
The Bishop has explained that due to the age profile of some religious as well as a lack of vocations, some priests will not be replaced as they retire or are re-assigned.
Bishop Duffy has also thanked parish councils for their ongoing assistance and is encouraging continued prayer for vocations in the diocese.
The new changes are below:
Fr Patrick Murphy, PP Mohill and Fenagh, appointed Administrator Athlone.
Fr Nigel Charles, Administrator Streete and Rathowen, appointed PP Mohill and Fenagh.
Fr Declan Shannon, Administrator Athlone, appointed Chaplain, the Defence Forces, Custume Barracks, Athlone.
Fr Pierre Pepper, CC Athlone, appointed Administrator Streete and Rathowen.
Fr Reji Kurian, CC Longford, appointed resident priest Boher, Syro Malabar chaplain and assist in Athlone.
Fr Joseph Okere, on study leave and resident priest Boher, is appointed to the staff of the National Missionary Seminary of St Paul, Abuja, Nigeria.
