Scottish Catholic Observer

The Vatican has announced that it has accepted the resignation of the leader of the Catholic Church in Ireland, Cardinal Séan Brady of Armagh.

Cardinal Brady (above), who has been the leader of Ireland’s Catholics for 18 years, offered his resignation to Pope Francis in July, just ahead of his 75th birthday, as Canon Law requires.

Archbishop Eamon Martin (below) has been formally announced as Cardinal Brady’s successor, with Pope Francis has appointing Archbishop of Armagh and Primate of All Ireland. He was appointed as coadjutor archbishop of Armagh in January 2013 and ordained in April 2013.

“I am pleased that Pope Francis has today accepted the resignation which I offered to him on the occasion of my 75th birthday,” Cardinal Brady said in a statement. “Above all I want to take this opportunity to say thanks to the people, priests and religious of the Archdiocese of Armagh for their welcome, friendship and so much kindness over many years. It has been a great joy and privilege for me to serve as their Bishop and also to travel and meet people from all over Ireland in my role as Primate.”

The cardinal said he was very grateful ‘to the leaders and members of the other Churches in the archdiocese and throughout Ireland and to all who have assisted me in any way to spread the Good News of Jesus Christ’.

“The people of this Cathedral City of Armagh have been so good to me and will, of course, always remain close to my heart.,” he said. “I warmly congratulate Archbishop Eamon Martin who today becomes Archbishop of Armagh, Primate of All Ireland and Coarb Phadraic. I pray that God may give to Archbishop Eamon in abundance all the graces he needs and I assure him of my help and total support at all times.”

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