Parishioners in Kilmacrennan have organised a candlelit vigil this Friday as they pray for popular priest Fr Paddy Dunne to remain in their community.
Fr Dunne is due to be moved to Kilbarron in Ballyshannon on 24th June.
The move was announced by Bishop Alan McGuckian as part of the annual diocesan changes.
However, Fr Dunne’s mark on the Kilmacrennan community has been so strong that a campaign has been set up to keep the Letterkenny priest in the village.
A candlelit vigil has been arranged in the Kilmacrennan Chapel car park this Friday at 9pm. Candles will be provided.
Meanwhile, an online petition has gathered almost 700 signatures.
Petition organiser Anjanee Shields wrote: “Anyone that knows Father Paddy knows that he’s more than a priest to our parish and community. He’s one of us.
“We are a parish that should now stand together and try our best to save this situation and prevent our much appreciated and valued priest having to leave.”
Donegal Daily has contacted the Raphoe Diocesan Office for a comment. None was forthcoming, however, the office released a general statement which read: “Bishop McGuckian, SJ, thanks all those who have accepted these new appointments in the Diocese.”
