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Bosco Macdonald to become the new bishop of Clifton
The appointment of a new bishop of Clifton has been approved by the pope.
Bosco Macdonald will be ordained in Clifton Cathedral following the resignation of Declan Lang who has been bishop since 2001.
Clifton Diocese is the Catholic diocese covering an area including Bristol, Bath, Gloucestershire, Somerset and Wiltshire.
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Sixty-year-old Macdonald was born in Bath and attended seminary in Valladolid in Spain.
During his priesthood, he served as the parish priest at Holy Family in Patchway and before becoming bishop-elect was dean of Clifton Cathedral.
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MacDonald said: “I am humbled that his holiness pope Francis has called me to become the tenth bishop of the Diocese of Clifton, following the retirement of bishop Declan Lang who has served us so lovingly and faithfully for 23 years, giving his life completely to the joys and hopes as well as the challenges of our Catholic communities here in the west of England.
“As I embark on this new journey, I am filled with gratitude for the prayers and affection of so many wonderful priests and people, family and friends far and wide.”
He added: “I accept this new role in obedience to my priestly call with a commitment to serve the priests and people of Clifton to the best of my ability, with care, tenderness, and compassion.”
Bishop Declan Lang said: “I would like to congratulate canon Bosco MacDonald and accompany him with my prayers on his appointment as the tenth bishop of the Diocese of Clifton.
“He has many years of pastoral experience having worked in a number of parishes both as an assistant priest, parish priest and dean of Clifton Cathedral.
“He brings much experience to his new ministry within the diocese which he will carry out with dedication and faithfulness.
“I am sure he will also be a valuable member to the Bishops’ Conference of England and Wales as we discern the way forward in a changing society.”
Main photo: Catholic Bishops’ Conference of England & Wales
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