All change for Kilkenny as Dean of Ossory elected new Bishop of Meath and Kildare

The Very Rev Stephen Farrell, Dean of Ossory, is set to depart Kilkenny and his current role in the coming months having been elected as the new Bishop of Meath and Kildare.

The Episcopal Electoral College for the Diocese of Meath and Kildare, met in Christ Church Cathedral, Dublin, this week where it elected Dean of Ossory Farrell as the new Bishop of Meath and Kildare. Dean Farrell succeeds the Most Revd Patricia Storey, who retired in July of this year.

Dean Farrell was appointed to his current position based in St Canice’s Cathedral 2022 after serving as rector in Zion Parish, Diocese of Dublin 2011-22. The search will now begin for a new Dean of Ossory.

“I have much pleasure in announcing that Stephen Farrell has been elected Bishop of Meath and Kildare,” said The Most Revd Dr Michael Jackson, Archbishop of Dublin and Primate of Ireland, who chaired the Electoral College.

“I look forward to working with Stephen in his new capacity and role as he serves the church anew in the diocese and across the Church of Ireland. Stephen has many skills and talents to offer to the diocese and its clergy and people. I wish him and his family all that is best for the future.”

The Bishop–elect said: “I am humbled and delighted in equal measure to have been elected to serve as Bishop of Meath and Kildare. I ask for the prayers of all those with whom I will work as we labour together in this corner of God’s Kingdom.”

Following confirmation of the election by the House of Bishops, the Bishop–elect will be consecrated as a bishop on a date to be determined.

Dean Farrell served as Dean Farrell studied law at Jesus College, Oxford before completing a Masters in Canon Law at Cardiff University in 2015 and then studying for the ministry at the Church of Ireland Theological Institute. Dean Farrell is married to Laura with three children.