Pope Leo Appoints New Bishop to Lead the Diocese of Raphoe
Pope Leo XIV has appointed Bishop Niall Coll as the new Bishop of the Diocese of Raphoe. This announcement was made during a Mass at St Eunan’s Cathedral in Letterkenny, County Donegal, on Thursday morning.
Bishop Niall Coll’s Background
Bishop Niall Coll hails from Letterkenny in County Donegal. Prior to this appointment, he served as the Bishop of Ossory.
- Educational Background:
- Attended St Baithin’s National School and St Eunan’s College in Letterkenny.
- Entered St Patrick’s College, Maynooth, in 1981.
- Earned a BA in history and geography (1984).
- Obtained a Bachelor of Divinity degree (1987).
- Ordination:
- Ordained a priest in 1988 by Bishop Séamus Hegarty for the Diocese of Raphoe.
Theological Studies
After ordination, Bishop Coll pursued further studies in Rome. He earned a license in theology from the Gregorian University. He also completed a doctorate in theology, focusing on Christology. His doctoral thesis was published as “Christ in Eternity and Time: Contemporary Anglican Perspectives.”
Career Milestones
- Bishop Coll’s career has included teaching roles:
- Chaplain and teacher at St Eunan’s College (1989).
- Lecturer in systematic theology at St Patrick’s College, Carlow (after returning from Rome).
- His pastoral roles have also encompassed:
- Chaplain at Pobalscoil na Rossan.
- Curate in the parish of Dungloe.
Previous Episcopal Role
Bishop Coll was appointed as the Bishop of Ossory by Pope Francis in October 2022. His dedication to education and pastoral care marks his commitment to the church.
As Bishop of Raphoe, he aims to continue his mission of service and spiritual leadership in the Diocese.
