Archbishop offers forgiveness in last address to diocesan in-service

Archbishop Michael Neary said he forgives those who have wronged him and offered thanks to those who helped him make difficult decisions, in his last address as archbishop to the Tuam diocesan in-service.

The prelate, who turned 75 in April and under Church rules was obliged to tender his resignation to Pope Francis, said he came into office at a challenging time in the history of the Church and the archdiocese.

Difficult decisions

“Some very difficult decisions had to be taken, and I want to thank those who helped me in reaching those decisions,” he said, “I have been particularly blessed in those who worked with me.”

He asked for “forgiveness from you if I have offended or hurt you in any way”.

“I also forgive those who have done wrong to me. I never took that as personal, however. I know that there are some who find it very difficult to deal with those in positions of authority, and when I was on the receiving end of their frustrations and anger, I always regarded it as something associated with my office rather than anything personal. So, please be assured, as my time as archbishop draws to a close, that I harbour no ill-will towards anybody.”

Clerical circles have identified the current Bishop of Elphin Kevin Doran as one of the likely successors along with Bishop Brendan Leahy of Limerick and Killaloe’s Bishop Fintan Monahan.