New post for Revd Paul
Dean's Vicar within the Nenagh Union and Killaloe Group of Parishes Paul Fitzpatrick will be moving on this summer to take up a new post as Rector of Carlow Union.
Reverend Paul took on the Nenagh/Killaloe position to assist Dean Rod Smyth in early 2020. He brought an energy and enthusiasm that saw him quickly became a popular figure among the local community.
His full-time incumbency in Carlow was announced last week, though Revd Paul will not likely be commencing the new role until mid-July. His replacement was also recently announced with Kinsale native the Revd Keith Barry to become the next rector in Nenagh in succession to Revd Rod in June.
Revd Paul will be returning to his native Carlow as a Church of Ireland rector, having left as a Roman Catholic priest. He was a third level student and seminarian in Carlow between 1978 and his ordination in 1984.
“I'm from Carlow and I'm delighted to be returning,” Revd Paul said. “I've worked in north Kildare and Laois but I've never actually ministered in Carlow so it's good to be returning to my native town. That's a lovely dimension to it. I was chuffed and delighted that it was offered to me.”
Moving from the Diocese of Tuam, Limerick and Killaloe to that of Cashel, Ferns and Ossory, it is interesting to note that present Bishop of Tuam, Limerick and Killaloe Michael Burrows was the bishop for 16 years in Revd Paul's new diocese.
Following studies at the Church of Ireland Theological Institute between 2017 and 2018, Revd Paul began ministry within the Church of Ireland, serving as curate of Limerick City Parish. He is married to Betty and they have a daughter Maebh.
Revd Paul said he would carry to Carlow with him a great pride and appreciation for his town roots, history, education, faith, and Christian heritage.
“My family and I look forward immensely to returning home and to contributing to the rich and varied life of the parishes, to learning, and to exploring further – collaboratively – the growth God has in store, as we serve the Lord faithfully together.”
A date for the formal Service of Institution will be announced in due course.