This article is from page 17 of the 2010-02-02 edition of The Clare People. OCR mistakes are to be expected so download the original SWF or the rendered page 17 JPG
THE contribution of Bishop Willie Walsh to the diocese of Killaloe was the subject of widespread tributes last week after he submitted his resigna- tion to Pope Benedict on reaching his Rll metaretee ys
Dr Walsh, who has served as Bishop since 1995, is to remain in charge of the diocese for a number of months until a successor is appointed.
Feakle parish priest, Fr Brendan
Quinlivan said: “Bishop Walsh has provided a model for leadership in the 21st century in how he led the di- ocese. He is a true Christian and has been Christ-like in how he interacted with others.”
Fr Quinlivan said that Bishop Walsh stepping down as Bishop “will not only leave a deep void in the diocese, but leave a void in the hierarchy”.
‘As a Christian, Bishop Walsh has tremendous credibility amongst the people and he has lived the Gospel as
he preached it. His affability, warmth and kindness was there for all to see in how he dealt with others.”
“IT cannot speak of him highly enough. He has provided effective and inspiring leadership and _ this came from his deep humanity. Bish- op Walsh has always been available to priests and was never more than a phone call away,” Fr Quinlivan said.
Stating that the diocese had bene- fited from Bishop Walsh’s leadership humility, collaboration, availabil-
ity and affirmation, Ennis priest, Fr Tom Hogan said that “the Holy Spirit came the way of the Diocese of Kil- laloe when Dr. Walsh was appointed Bishop”.
‘We have been blessed by his pres- ence. He has enabled so much to hap- pen. He is a very wholesome man, who is very comfortable with him- self,’ Fr Hogan said.
Parish priest of Shannon, Fr Tom Ryan said that Bishop Walsh becom- ing bishop was one of the greatest
blessings for the diocese in his life- time. He said that Bishop Walsh is a man of deep prayer and is respected and admired throughout the country.
‘He has provided tremendous lead- ership. It was providential that he became bishop when he did. He has given 50 years service to the Church and we will miss him. I am delighted that he is in good health and I wish him the best in his retirement where he can enjoy life at a slower pace. He deserves it.”