# Kevin Doran

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Irish Roman Catholic prelate (born 1953)

The Most Reverend, Dr. Kevin Doran PhD Bishop of Elphin Bishop of Achonry Church Roman Catholic Diocese Elphin Achonry Appointed 14 May 2014 (Elphin) 17 February 2025 (Achonry) Predecessor Christopher Jones (Elphin) Paul Dempsey (Achonry) Previous posts Apostolic administrator of Achonry Administrator of Sacred Heart parish, Donnybrook Secretary General of the Preparatory Committee of the 50th International Eucharistic Congress Parish priest of St Kevin's parish, Glendalough Lecturer at Mater Dei Institute of Education and Milltown Institute of Theology and Philosophy Director of Vocations and Director for the Permanent Diaconate for the Archdiocese of Dublin Spiritual director at the Pontifical Irish College Chaplain at University College Dublin Catechist and Chaplain at Ringsend Technical Institute Orders Ordination 6 July 1977 by Patrick Dunne Consecration 13 July 2014 by Christopher Jones Personal details Born (1953-06-26) 26 June 1953 (age 73) Dún Laoghaire, County Dublin, Ireland Parents Joseph and Marie Doran Alma mater Pontifical Gregorian University Pontifical Irish College University College Dublin Holy Cross College Motto Unum corpus in Christo (One body in Christ) Coat of arms

Styles of Kevin Doran Reference style The Most Reverend Spoken style Your Grace Religious style Bishop

**Kevin Peter Doran** (born 26 June 1953) is an [Irish](/source/Republic_of_Ireland) [Roman Catholic](/source/Catholic_Church) [prelate](/source/Prelate), [bioethicist](/source/Bioethics) and theologian who has served as [Bishop of Elphin](/source/Bishop_of_Elphin) since 2014 and Bishop of Achonry since 2025.

## Early life and education

Doran was born in [Dún Laoghaire](/source/D%C3%BAn_Laoghaire), [County Dublin](/source/Dublin) on 26 June 1953, one of three children to Joseph Doran and his wife Marie (née Brady).[1]

He attended primary and secondary school at [C.B.C. Monkstown](/source/C.B.C._Monkstown), where his father worked as a teacher. Doran studied for the priesthood at [Holy Cross College](/source/Holy_Cross_College_(Dublin)) between 1970 and 1974, completing a [Bachelor of Arts](/source/Bachelor_of_Arts) in philosophy and French at [University College Dublin](/source/University_College_Dublin), and at the [Pontifical Irish College](/source/Pontifical_Irish_College), [Rome](/source/Rome), between 1974 and 1977, completing a [Bachelor of Sacred Theology](/source/Baccalaureate_in_Sacred_Theology) at the [Pontifical Gregorian University](/source/Pontifical_Gregorian_University).[2][3]

He was [ordained a priest](/source/Holy_orders_in_the_Catholic_Church) for the [Archdiocese of Dublin](/source/Roman_Catholic_Archdiocese_of_Dublin) on 6 July 1977.[2]

## Presbyteral ministry

Following ordination, Doran received his first diocesan assignment as [catechist](/source/Catechesis) and chaplain at [Ringsend Technical Institute](/source/Ringsend_Technical_Institute), during which time he also completed a [higher diploma in education](/source/Diploma_of_Higher_Education) at [University College Dublin](/source/University_College_Dublin). He subsequently served as an advisor for [VEC](/source/Vocational_Education_Committee) schools in the diocesan secretariat for education, and as an occasional lecturer in midwifery ethics at the [Coombe Women's Hospital](/source/Coombe_Women_%26_Infants_University_Hospital).[2]

Doran returned to University College Dublin in 1983, where he was appointed university chaplain until 1990. It was during this time that he completed a [Master of Arts](/source/Master_of_Arts) in philosophy between 1985 and 1987. He subsequently returned to the [Pontifical Irish College](/source/Pontifical_Irish_College) in 1990, where he was appointed [spiritual director](/source/Spiritual_direction), during which time he also completed a [Doctor of Philosophy](/source/Doctor_of_Philosophy) in [philosophical anthropology](/source/Philosophical_anthropology), with specific focus on the philosophy of [Pope John Paul II](/source/Pope_John_Paul_II), at the [Pontifical University of Saint Thomas Aquinas](/source/Pontifical_University_of_Saint_Thomas_Aquinas).[2][3]

Doran returned to the [Archdiocese of Dublin](/source/Roman_Catholic_Archdiocese_of_Dublin) in 1995, where he received his first pastoral assignment as [curate](/source/Curate) in Our Lady of Perpetual Succour parish, [Foxrock](/source/Foxrock). During this assignment, he was also a lecturer in philosophy and [Catholic social teaching](/source/Catholic_social_teaching) at [Mater Dei Institute of Education](/source/Mater_Dei_Institute_of_Education) and occasional lecturer in midwifery ethics at the National Maternity Hospital.[2]

Doran was appointed parish chaplain to St Anthony's parish, [Clontarf](/source/Clontarf%2C_Dublin), and diocesan vocations director in 1998. He was subsequently appointed national vocations co-ordinator for the [Irish Catholic Bishops' Conference](/source/Irish_Catholic_Bishops'_Conference) in 2000 and a lecturer in philosophy and Catholic social teaching at [Milltown Institute of Theology and Philosophy](/source/Milltown_Institute_of_Theology_and_Philosophy). Doran was subsequently appointed parish priest in St Kevin's parish, [Glendalough](/source/Glendalough) in 2005, and four years later as parish chaplain to St Vincent de Paul parish, [Marino](/source/Marino%2C_Dublin).[2]

He was appointed diocesan director for the [permanent diaconate](/source/Deacon) in 2008 and [administrator](/source/Administrator_(of_ecclesiastical_property)) of Sacred Heart parish, [Donnybrook](/source/Donnybrook%2C_Dublin), five years later.[2][3]

Doran also served as secretary general of the Preparatory Committee of the 50th [International Eucharistic Congress](/source/Eucharistic_congress) between 2008 and 2012. He also served on numerous governing bodies, including the [Mater Misericordiae University Hospital](/source/Mater_Misericordiae_University_Hospital), from which he resigned in October 2013 after hospital management confirmed its intention to comply with the [Protection of Life during Pregnancy Act](/source/Protection_of_Life_During_Pregnancy_Act_2013).[4][5]

## Episcopal ministry

### Bishop of Elphin

Doran was appointed [Bishop-elect of Elphin](/source/Bishop_of_Elphin) by [Pope Francis](/source/Pope_Francis) on 14 May 2014.[2][4] He confessed his surprise at his appointment, saying:[6]

"Two weeks ago, we finalised a development plan for [[Donnybrook](/source/Donnybrook%2C_Dublin)] parish, and that was the only plan I had in mind for the foreseeable future. I have learnt over the years, however, that vocation is never static."

He was consecrated by his predecessor, [Christopher Jones](/source/Christopher_Jones_(Roman_Catholic_bishop)), on 13 July in the [Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception](/source/Cathedral_of_the_Immaculate_Conception%2C_Sligo), [Sligo](/source/Sligo).[7][8]

It was reported in February 2017 that Doran had reached an agreement for a new community of religious sisters to establish a house in his diocese. The community, who are members of the Servant Sisters of the Home of the Mother congregation, settled in Sacred Heart parish, [Roscommon](/source/Roscommon).[9][10]

Speaking at [Knock Shrine](/source/Knock_Shrine) on 21 August 2022, Doran stated that even though “there are some who quite comfortably think of themselves as worthy, while judging others to be unworthy", the [Eucharist](/source/Eucharist_in_the_Catholic_Church) should be made available to all who wish to receive it. He also received praise from former [President of Ireland](/source/President_of_Ireland) [Mary McAleese](/source/Mary_McAleese) for his contribution to the [synod on synodality](/source/Sixteenth_Ordinary_General_Assembly_of_the_Synod_of_Bishops) in Ireland, with special reference to the [LBGTI+](/source/LGBT) focus group in his diocese – which prepared its own report in parallel to the report prepared by the diocese – whose "powerful voice drew particular attention in the national synthesis document". McAleese also congratulated Doran for his integrity in publishing that focus group report in its entirety, as agreed with its participants, and for ensuring it would go to Rome as written, describing his actions as "courageous in the extreme".[11]

#### Apostolic Administrator of Achonry

In response to a wider reorganisation of diocesan church leadership in the [ecclesiastical province](/source/Ecclesiastical_province) of [Tuam](/source/Roman_Catholic_Archdiocese_of_Tuam), and following the appointment of the [Bishop of Achonry](/source/Bishop_of_Achonry), [Paul Dempsey](/source/Paul_Dempsey_(bishop)), as [Auxiliary Bishop](/source/Auxiliary_bishop) of [Dublin](/source/Roman_Catholic_Archdiocese_of_Dublin), Doran was appointed [apostolic administrator](/source/Apostolic_administration) *[sede vacante](/source/Sede_vacante)* of [Achonry](/source/Roman_Catholic_Diocese_of_Achonry) on 10 April 2024.[12][13][14][15][16]

### Bishop of Achonry

Following the simultaneous announcement by Pope Francis that the Dioceses of [Elphin](/source/Roman_Catholic_Diocese_of_Elphin) and [Achonry](/source/Roman_Catholic_Diocese_of_Achonry) would be united *[in persona episcopi](/source/In_persona_episcopi)*, Doran was appointed [Bishop-elect of Achonry](/source/Bishop_of_Achonry) in addition to his appointment as Bishop of Elphin on 16 February 2025.[17][18][19][20]

He was installed on 30 March in the [Cathedral of the Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary and St Nathy](/source/Cathedral_of_the_Annunciation_of_the_Blessed_Virgin_Mary_and_St_Nathy%2C_Ballaghaderreen), [Ballaghaderreen](/source/Ballaghaderreen).[21][22][23][24]

## Controversies

### Marriage and parenthood

In December 2004, Doran urged Catholics to consider the appropriateness of participating in or attending a register office marriage. Writing in [Alive!](/source/Alive!_(newspaper)), he said Catholics needed to consider if this was "in conflict with the truth" and said "This would be particularly important for someone who is asked to act in a formal capacity as a witness".[25][26]

On 24 February 2015, in advance of a [referendum](/source/Thirty-fourth_Amendment_of_the_Constitution_of_Ireland) on [permitting civil marriage for same-sex couples](/source/Same-sex_marriage_in_the_Republic_of_Ireland), Doran said[27]

"The reality is that those who wish to change the Constitution are not actually looking for marriage equality. They are looking for a different kind of relationship which would be called marriage; a relationship which includes some elements of marriage, such as love and commitment, but excludes one of the two essential aspects of marriage, which is the openness of their sexual relationship to procreation. This is only possible if we change the meaning of marriage and remove that aspect of openness to procreation."

Speaking on *[Newstalk](/source/Newstalk) Breakfast* on 9 March, Doran differentiated between [marriage](/source/Marriage_in_the_Catholic_Church) and [same-sex relationships](/source/Same-sex_relationship), saying that "[one] [...] is of its very nature, directed towards the upbringing, the care of children, and one [...] isn't and they can't be said to be the same", that gay and lesbian couples who have children are "not parents" and that some "people who have children are not necessarily parents'.[28]

When asked in the same interview whether homosexuality was what God intended, Doran said that "That would be to suggest if some people who are born with [Down syndrome](/source/Down_syndrome) or [spina bifida](/source/Spina_bifida), that that was what God intended either".[29][30]

The [Archbishop of Dublin](/source/Archbishop_of_Dublin_(Catholic_Church)), [Diarmuid Martin](/source/Diarmuid_Martin), described Doran's choice of words as "an unfortunate phrase" and hoped that offence had not been caused. Doran later expressed his regret over the hurt experienced by people, either due to his choice of words or to the manner in which what he said had been subsequently reported.[31] Following this event, the Archbishop declined to comment on whether or not Martin had retained his confidence.[32] Doran expressed regret days later saying he was “conscious that whatever the situation, some people were hurt by either what I said or what they thought I had said and I very much regret that”.[33]

### Abortion

In 2013, while a member of the [Mater Hospital](/source/Mater_Misericordiae_University_Hospital) board, Doran said the hospital "can't carry out abortions because it goes against our ethos". As an institution listed in the [Protection of Life During Pregnancy Act](/source/Protection_of_Life_During_Pregnancy_Act_2013), the hospital was obliged to carry out or assist with terminations where the life of a pregnant woman was in danger. A spokesperson for Department of Health replied to say that the Act "does not provide for conscientious objection by institutions" and consciousness objections related solely to the rights of the "persons involved in the delivery of the treatment only". In the case of an immediate risk to the life of a pregnant woman, the health professional has a "duty to ensure that another colleague takes over the care of the patient as per current medical ethics'.[34]

Speaking on *Newstalk Breakfast* on 9 March 2015, Doran caused controversy by suggesting that rape victims seek abortions to "get back" at their perpetrators:[29][30]

"Objectively speaking, to kill another human being is always sinful. The child is still a human being, you don’t destroy a life in order to get back at the mother’s rapist."

Following the passing of a [referendum](/source/Thirty-sixth_Amendment_of_the_Constitution_of_Ireland) on [liberalising abortion laws](/source/Abortion_in_the_Republic_of_Ireland) on 25 May 2018, he encouraged Catholics who voted Yes in the referendum to [repent](/source/Sacrament_of_Penance).[35] While he believed those who voted in favour of the motion knowing abortion would be the outcome had committed “a sin”, Doran also stated that any decision by Catholics who voted yes to receive [Communion](/source/Eucharist_in_the_Catholic_Church) was "a matter for their own personal conscience".[36]

### Contraception

At an event commemorating the 50th anniversary of the papal [encyclical](/source/Encyclical) *[Humanae vitae](/source/Humanae_vitae)* in August 2018, Doran claimed "the fact that [women who use [contraception](/source/Birth_control)] are less likely to become pregnant also takes away from women one of the principle motives or freedoms for saying no to unwanted sex", stating that "there is a very direct connection between the contraceptive mentality and the surprisingly high number of people who seem ready to redefine marriage today as a relationship between two people without distinction as to sex".[37]

The then-[Minister for Health](/source/Minister_for_Health_(Ireland)), [Simon Harris](/source/Simon_Harris), tweeted in response:[38][39]

"Please just make it stop! Increasing access to & availability of contraception is and will remain public health policy. Religion plays an important role for many on an individual basis – but it will not determine health and social policy in our country any more. Please get that."

### COVID-19

In an article for *[The Irish Catholic](/source/The_Irish_Catholic)* in January 2021, Doran warned that lives would be lost if significant numbers refused to take the [COVID-19 vaccine](/source/COVID-19_vaccine). One of the most outspoken [pro-life](/source/Anti-abortion_movements) voices in the [Catholic Church in Ireland](/source/Catholic_Church_in_Ireland), he insisted that "[vaccination], as an aspect of preventive medicine, is recognised and encouraged by the Catholic Church as an essential element of the mission of healthcare professionals".[40][41]

In July 2021, Doran defied [government advice](/source/Irish_government_response_to_the_COVID-19_pandemic) by advising priests in the Diocese of Elphin to proceed with celebrating the sacraments of [First Communion](/source/First_Communion) and [Confirmation](/source/Confirmation_in_the_Catholic_Church).[42] In an article for the *[Irish Independent](/source/Irish_Independent)* on 30 July, he opined that the mission of the church could not be put on hold indefinitely. This prompted a response from the then-[Taoiseach](/source/Taoiseach), [Michéal Martin](/source/Miche%C3%A1l_Martin), who questioned whether it was "too much to ask" for adherence to public health advice, adding that he didn't "approve of any unilateral breaching of regulations no matter what quarter they come from".[43]

### Assisted suicide

Doran was reported to have had his [Twitter](/source/Twitter) account temporarily [restricted](/source/Twitter_suspensions) on 22 February 2021, after he Tweeted on 31 January his opposition to efforts to legalise [assisted suicide](/source/Assisted_suicide) in Ireland.[44][45] However, by 23 February, the Tweet was restored and restrictions on Doran's account were removed.[46]

Kevin Doran (@KevinElphin) tweeted:

There is dignity in dying. As a priest, I am privileged to witness it often. Assisted suicide, where it is practiced, is not an expression of freedom or dignity, but of the failure of a society to accompany people on their “way of the cross”

31 January 2021[47]

## Bibliography

- Doran, Kevin (1988). *More Joy in Heaven: The Sacrament of Reconciliation*. Dublin: Veritas. [ISBN](/source/ISBN_(identifier)) [9781853900013](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/9781853900013).

- Doran, Kevin (1989). *What Is a Person?: The Concept and the Implications for Ethics (Problems in Contemporary Philosophy)*. New York: Edwin Mellen Press. [ISBN](/source/ISBN_(identifier)) [9780889461406](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/9780889461406).

- Doran, Kevin P. (1996). *Solidarity: a synthesis of personalism and communalism in the thought of Karol Wojtyla / Pope John Paul II*. New York: Peter Lang. [ISBN](/source/ISBN_(identifier)) [9780820430713](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/9780820430713).

## References

1. **[^](#cite_ref-1)** ["Bishop Kevin Doran"](https://www.elphindiocese.ie/bishop-kevin-doran-2/). *Elphin Diocese*. 2 June 2015. Retrieved 15 April 2024.

1. ^ [***a***](#cite_ref-:0_2-0) [***b***](#cite_ref-:0_2-1) [***c***](#cite_ref-:0_2-2) [***d***](#cite_ref-:0_2-3) [***e***](#cite_ref-:0_2-4) [***f***](#cite_ref-:0_2-5) [***g***](#cite_ref-:0_2-6) [***h***](#cite_ref-:0_2-7) ["Pope Francis appoints Father Kevin Doran as Bishop of Elphin"](https://www.catholicbishops.ie/2014/05/14/pope-francis-appoints-father-kevin-doran-bishop-elphin/). *Irish Catholic Bishops' Conference*. Retrieved 10 March 2023.

1. ^ [***a***](#cite_ref-:4_3-0) [***b***](#cite_ref-:4_3-1) [***c***](#cite_ref-:4_3-2) Kelly, Michael (14 May 2014). ["Fr Kevin Doran is new Bishop of Elphin"](https://www.irishcatholic.com/fr-kevin-doran-is-new-bishop-of-elphin/). *The Irish Catholic*. Retrieved 10 March 2023.

1. ^ [***a***](#cite_ref-:1_4-0) [***b***](#cite_ref-:1_4-1) ["Dublin priest appointed as Bishop of Elphin"](https://www.rte.ie/news/2014/0514/617221-bishop-of-elphin-kevin-doran/). *RTÉ*. 14 May 2014. Retrieved 9 March 2015.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-5)** ["Fr Kevin Doran resigns from Mater Hospital board over new abortion law"](https://www.independent.ie/irish-news/fr-kevin-doran-resigns-from-mater-hospital-board-over-new-abortion-law-29628390.html). *Irish Independent*. 2 October 2013. Retrieved 10 March 2023.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-6)** ["Dublin priest appointed as the new bishop of the midlands and west of Ireland"](https://www.irishtimes.com/news/social-affairs/religion-and-beliefs/dublin-priest-appointed-as-the-new-bishop-of-the-midlands-and-west-of-ireland-1.1794460). *The Irish Times*. 14 May 2014. Retrieved 9 March 2015.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-7)** ["Episcopal Ordination today of Father Kevin Doran as Bishop of Elphin"](https://www.catholicbishops.ie/2014/07/13/episcopal-ordination-today-of-father-kevin-doran-as-bishop-of-elphin/). *Irish Catholic Bishops' Conference*. 13 July 2014. Retrieved 10 March 2023.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-8)** Mac Donald, Sarah (15 May 2014). ["Fr Kevin Doran appointed to Elphin diocese"](https://www.catholicireland.net/fr-kevin-doran-appointed-elphin-diocese/). *CatholicIreland.net*. Retrieved 10 March 2023.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-9)** ["New Community of Sisters for Roscommon"](https://catholicnews.ie/new-community-of-sisters-for-roscommon/). *CatholicNews.ie*. 20 February 2017. Retrieved 10 March 2023.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-10)** Gately, Susan (15 March 2018). ["Nuns 'on the run' from Mother's House"](https://www.irishcatholic.com/nuns-on-the-run-from-mothers-house/). *The Irish Catholic*. Retrieved 10 March 2023.[*[permanent dead link](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Link_rot)*]

1. **[^](#cite_ref-11)** McGarry, Patsy (21 August 2022). ["Communion is for all, says Bishop of Elphin Kevin Doran"](https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/2022/08/21/communion-is-for-all-says-bishop-of-elphin-kevin-doran/). *The Irish Times*. Retrieved 10 March 2023.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-12)** ["Bishop Kevin Appointed Apostolic Administrator of Achonry"](https://www.elphindiocese.ie/bishop-kevin-appointed-apostolic-administrator-of-achonry/). *Elphin Diocese*. 13 April 2024. Retrieved 15 April 2024.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-13)** Mac Donald, Sarah (10 April 2024). ["Pope Francis announces biggest restructuring of the Catholic church in Ireland in 900 years"](https://www.independent.ie/irish-news/pope-francis-announces-biggest-restructuring-of-the-catholic-church-in-ireland-in-900-years/a674763480.html). *Irish Independent*. Retrieved 15 April 2024.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-14)** Deering, Paul (10 April 2024). ["Bishop of Elphin Kevin Doran to assume additional role in Achonry diocese"](https://www.independent.ie/regionals/sligo/news/bishop-of-elphin-kevin-doran-to-assume-additional-role-in-achonry-diocese/a1531899369.html). *The Sligo Champion*. Retrieved 15 April 2024.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-15)** ["Local bishop to administer extra diocese"](https://www.westmeathindependent.ie/2024/04/10/local-bishop-to-administer-extra-diocese/). *Westmeath Independent*. 10 April 2024. Retrieved 15 April 2024.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-16)** Coppen, Luke (10 April 2024). ["How Pope Francis is reshaping the Church in western Ireland"](https://www.pillarcatholic.com/p/how-pope-francis-is-reshaping-the). *The Pillar*. Retrieved 15 April 2024.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-17)** ["Pope Francis appoints Bishop Kevin Doran as Bishop of Achonry"](https://www.catholicbishops.ie/2025/02/16/pope-francis-appoints-bishop-kevin-doran-as-bishop-of-achonry/). *[Irish Catholic Bishops' Conference](/source/Irish_Catholic_Bishops'_Conference)*. 16 February 2025. Retrieved 31 March 2025.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-18)** Millare, Kristina (16 February 2025). ["Pope Francis names Bishop Kevin Doran to lead second Irish diocese"](https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/262251/irish-bishop-appointed-to-lead-diocese-of-achonry-while-retaining-elphin). *Catholic News Agency*. Retrieved 31 March 2025.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-19)** Conneely, Ailbhe (16 February 2025). ["Pope appoints Doran as Bishop of Achonry and Elphin"](https://www.rte.ie/news/ireland/2025/0216/1497086-bishop-kevin-doran/). *[RTÉ News](/source/RT%C3%89_News)*. Retrieved 31 March 2025.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-20)** Coppen, Luke (17 February 2025). ["Ireland's 'in persona episcopi' experiment advances"](https://www.pillarcatholic.com/p/irelands-in-persona-episcopi-experiment). *The Pillar*. Retrieved 31 March 2025.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-21)** ["Bishop Kevin Doran to be installed as Bishop of Achonry this Sunday"](https://www.catholicbishops.ie/2025/03/24/bishop-kevin-doran-to-be-installed-as-bishop-of-achonry-this-sunday/). *[Irish Catholic Bishops' Conference](/source/Irish_Catholic_Bishops'_Conference)*. 24 March 2025. Retrieved 31 March 2025.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-22)** McGrath, Pat (30 March 2025). ["Doran formally installed as Bishop of two dioceses"](https://www.rte.ie/news/regional/2025/0330/1504891-bishop-elphin-achonry/). *[RTÉ News](/source/RT%C3%89_News)*. Retrieved 31 March 2025.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-23)** ["Installation of new Bishop of Achonry celebrated"](https://www.con-telegraph.ie/2025/03/30/installation-of-new-bishop-of-achonry-celebrated/). *Connaught Telegraph*. 30 March 2025. Retrieved 31 March 2025.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-24)** ["Official coming together of Diocese of Elphin and Diocese of Achonry to take place today"](https://www.roscommonherald.ie/news/official-coming-together-of-diocese-of-elphin-and-diocese-of-achonry-to-take-place-today_arid-52902.html). *[Roscommon Herald](/source/Roscommon_Herald)*. 30 March 2025. Retrieved 31 March 2025.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-25)** ["Priest warns against register office marriages"](https://www.irishtimes.com/news/priest-warns-against-register-office-marriages-1.1169569). *The Irish Times*. Retrieved 20 October 2023.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-26)** ["Preaching morals from a rocky platform"](https://www.independent.ie/opinion/analysis/preaching-morals-from-a-rocky-platform/26227606.html). *www.independent.ie*. 19 December 2004. Retrieved 20 October 2023.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-27)** McGarry, Patsy (24 February 2015). ["'No obstacle' to gays marrying, just not each other, says bishop"](https://www.irishtimes.com/news/social-affairs/religion-and-beliefs/no-obstacle-to-gays-marrying-just-not-each-other-says-bishop-1.2115808). *The Irish Times*. Retrieved 9 March 2015.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-28)** Hennessy, Michelle (9 March 2015). ["Bishop says gay couples with children are not parents"](https://www.thejournal.ie/kevin-doran-gay-parents-1981026-Mar2015/). *TheJournal.ie*. Retrieved 15 October 2023.

1. ^ [***a***](#cite_ref-:2_29-0) [***b***](#cite_ref-:2_29-1) ["Bishop of Elphin: Gay parents of children are not necessarily parents"](https://www.newstalk.com/newstalk-breakfast/bishop-of-elphin-kevin-doran-gay-marriage-newstalk-breakfast-same-sex-marriage-666981). *Newstalk*. 9 March 2015. Retrieved 10 March 2023.

1. ^ [***a***](#cite_ref-:3_30-0) [***b***](#cite_ref-:3_30-1) O'Doherty, Cahir (11 March 2015). ["Bishop Kevin Doran's anti-gay remarks spark international outrage"](http://www.irishcentral.com/opinion/cahirodoherty/Bishop-Kevin-Dorans-anti-gay-remarks-spark-international-outrage.html). *IrishCentral.com*. Retrieved 10 March 2023.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-31)** McGarry, Patsy (16 March 2015). ["Bishop of Elphin expresses regret over comments about gay parents"](https://www.irishtimes.com/news/social-affairs/religion-and-beliefs/bishop-of-elphin-expresses-regret-over-comments-about-gay-parents-1.2140902). *The Irish Times*. Retrieved 16 March 2015.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-32)** ["Martin refuses to back Bishop Doran after interview"](https://www.irishtimes.com/news/social-affairs/religion-and-beliefs/martin-refuses-to-back-bishop-doran-after-interview-1.2133614). *The Irish Times*. Retrieved 15 October 2023.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-33)** ["IVF, sterilisation and morning-after pill banned by Sisters of Charity"](https://www.irishtimes.com/news/social-affairs/religion-and-beliefs/ivf-sterilisation-and-morning-after-pill-banned-by-sisters-of-charity-1.3064123). *The Irish Times*. Retrieved 20 October 2023.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-34)** Hosford, Paul (9 August 2013). ["Doctor's right to object to abortions is "not absolute" - Department of Health"](https://www.thejournal.ie/a-doctors-right-to-object-to-abortions-is-not-absolute-1029688-Aug2013/). *TheJournal.ie*. Retrieved 20 October 2023.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-35)** Clarke, Vivienne; McGarry, Patsy. ["Catholics who voted Yes should consider confession, says Bishop"](https://www.irishtimes.com/news/social-affairs/religion-and-beliefs/catholics-who-voted-yes-should-consider-confession-says-bishop-1.3511127). *The Irish Times*. Retrieved 6 November 2020.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-36)** Ní Aodha, Gráinne (28 May 2018). ["Bishop says Catholics who voted Yes have sinned and should go to confession"](https://www.thejournal.ie/bishop-catholics-who-voted-yes-sinned-4039904-May2018/). *TheJournal.ie*. Retrieved 10 March 2023.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-37)** Gleeson, Colin (5 August 2018). ["Principles of contraceptive ban 'ignored for too long', says bishop"](https://www.irishtimes.com/news/social-affairs/religion-and-beliefs/principles-of-contraceptive-ban-ignored-for-too-long-says-bishop-1.3586958). *The Irish Times*. Retrieved 5 August 2018.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-38)** [Simon Harris \[@SimonHarrisTD\]](/source/Simon_Harris) (5 August 2018). ["Please just make it stop! Increasing access to & availability of contraception is and will remain public health policy. Religion plays an important role for many on an individual basis – but it will not determine health and social policy in our country any more. Please get that"](https://twitter.com/SimonHarrisTD/status/1026017924778270720) ([Tweet](/source/Tweet_(social_media))). Retrieved 10 March 2023 – via [Twitter](/source/Twitter).

1. **[^](#cite_ref-39)** Barry, Aoife (5 August 2018). ["'Please just make it stop!': Simon Harris hits back at Bishop over contraception comments"](http://www.thejournal.ie/bishop-kevin-doran-contraception-4165712-Aug2018/). *TheJournal.ie*. Retrieved 5 August 2018.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-40)** Kelly, Michael (14 January 2021). ["Vulnerable may die if people refuse vaccine – Bishop Doran"](https://www.irishcatholic.com/vulnerable-may-die-if-people-refuse-vaccine-bishop-doran/). *The Irish Catholic*. Retrieved 10 March 2023.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-41)** Doran, Bishop Kevin (14 January 2021). ["Vaccines – an aid to forming conscience"](https://www.irishcatholic.com/vaccines-an-aid-to-forming-conscience/). *The Irish Catholic*. Retrieved 10 March 2023.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-42)** Moore, Jane (30 July 2021). ["It's bishop's 'right' to hold communions despite Covid advice, says Catholic Comms Office"](https://www.thejournal.ie/bishops-right-to-hold-communions-despite-covid-advice-catholic-communications-office-5510347-Jul2021/). *TheJournal.ie*. Retrieved 20 October 2023.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-43)** ["Taoiseach 'does not approve' of Communion, Confirmation ban breaches"](https://www.irishtimes.com/news/politics/taoiseach-does-not-approve-of-communion-confirmation-ban-breaches-1.4634998). *The Irish Times*. Retrieved 20 October 2023.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-44)** Wall, Eva (21 February 2021). ["Irish bishop bizarrely 'barred from Tweeting' for post opposing assisted suicide"](https://extra.ie/2021/02/21/news/irish-news/irish-bishop-twitter-opposing-assisted-suicide). *Extra.ie*. Retrieved 10 March 2023.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-45)** ["Twitter restores Irish Catholic bishop's post on assisted suicide after review"](https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/246598/twitter-restores-irish-catholic-bishops-post-on-assisted-suicide-after-review). *Catholic News Agency*. 23 February 2021. Retrieved 15 April 2024.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-46)** ["Twitter restores Irish Catholic bishop's post on assisted suicide after review"](https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/246598/twitter-restores-irish-catholic-bishops-post-on-assisted-suicide-after-review). *Catholic News Agency*. 23 February 2021. Retrieved 10 March 2023.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-TweetKevinElphin_47-0)** Kevin Doran [@KevinElphin] (31 January 2021). ["There is dignity in dying. As a priest, I am privileged to witness it often. Assisted suicide, where it is practiced, is not an expression of freedom or dignity, but of the failure of a society to accompany people on their "way of the cross""](https://twitter.com/KevinElphin/status/1355889940819795974) ([Tweet](/source/Tweet_(social_media))) – via [Twitter](/source/Twitter).

## External links

Wikiquote has quotations related to ***[Kevin Doran](https://en.wikiquote.org/wiki/Special:Search/Kevin_Doran)***.

- [Bishop Kevin Peter Doran](https://www.catholic-hierarchy.org/bishop/bdorank.html) on [Catholic-Hierarchy.org](/source/Catholic-Hierarchy.org)

- [Bishop Kevin Peter Doran](http://www.gcatholic.org/dioceses/diocese/elph0.htm#55677) on GCatholic

- [Kevin Doran](https://twitter.com/kevinelphin) on [Twitter](/source/Twitter)

Wikimedia Commons has media related to [Kevin Doran](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Category:Kevin_Doran).

v t e Roman Catholic Bishops of Elphin William Magennis Gabriel de Serio Bernard O'Donnell Bernard O'Higgins Andrew O'Crean Nicholas a Patritio Raymund Galvin Boetius Egan Dominic de Burgo Ambrose MacDermott Patrick French John Brett James O'Fallon Edward French George Thomas Plunkett Patrick Burke George Joseph Plunket Browne Laurence Gillooly John Joseph Clancy Bernard Coyne Edward Doorly Vincent Hanly Dominic Joseph Conway Christopher Jones Kevin Doran

v t e Catholic Church in Ireland Irish Catholic Bishops' Conference Dioceses Province of Armagh: Archdiocese of Armagh Diocese of Ardagh and Clonmacnoise Diocese of Clogher Diocese of Derry Diocese of Down and Connor Diocese of Dromore Diocese of Kilmore Diocese of Meath Diocese of Raphoe Province of Cashel: Archdiocese of Cashel and Emly Diocese of Cloyne Cork and Ross Diocese of Kerry Diocese of Killaloe Diocese of Limerick Diocese of Waterford and Lismore Diocese of Kilfenora Province of Dublin: Archdiocese of Dublin Diocese of Ferns Diocese of Kildare and Leighlin Diocese of Ossory Province of Tuam: Archdiocese of Tuam Diocese of Achonry Diocese of Clonfert Diocese of Galway and Kilmacduagh Diocese of Elphin Diocese of Killala Bishops Archbishop of Armagh (Eamon Martin) Bishop of Ardagh and Clonmacnoise (Paul Connell) Bishop of Clogher (Lawrence Duffy) Bishop of Derry (Donal McKeown) Bishop of Down and Connor (Noel Treanor) Bishop of Dromore (sede vacante) Bishop of Kilmore (Martin Hayes) Bishop of Meath (Thomas Deenihan) Bishop of Raphoe (Alan McGuckian) Archbishop of Cashel and Emly (Kieran O'Reilly) Bishop of Cloyne (William Crean) Bishop of Cork and Ross (Fintan Gavin) Bishop of Kerry (Raymond Browne) Bishop of Killaloe (Fintan Monahan) Bishop of Limerick (Brendan Leahy) Bishop of Waterford and Lismore (Alphonsus Cullinan) Archbishop of Dublin (Dermot Farrell) Bishop of Ferns (Gerard Nash) Bishop of Kildare and Leighlin (Denis Nulty) Bishop of Ossory (Niall Coll) Archbishop of Tuam and Bishop of Killala (Francis Duffy) Bishop of Clonfert and Bishop of Galway, Kilmacduagh and Kilfenora (Michael Duignan) Bishop of Achonry and Bishop of Elphin (Kevin Doran) Ukrainian Greek-Catholic Apostolic Visitor (Kenneth Nowakowski) Churches Armagh Cathedral Belfast Cathedral Cavan Cathedral Derry Cathedral Letterkenny Cathedral Longford Cathedral Monaghan Cathedral Mullingar Cathedral Newry Cathedral Cobh Cathedral Cork Cathedral Ennis Cathedral Killarney Cathedral Limerick Cathedral Skibbereen Cathedral Thurles Cathedral Waterford Cathedral Carlow Cathedral Dublin Cathedral Enniscorthy Cathedral Kilkenny Cathedral Ballaghaderreen Cathedral Ballina Cathedral Galway Cathedral Loughrea Cathedral Sligo Cathedral Tuam Cathedral List of Catholic churches in Ireland See also Knock Shrine St Patrick's Purgatory St Patrick's Pontifical University, Maynooth List of monastic houses in Ireland List of Catholic schools in Ireland by religious order List of saints of Ireland Apostolic Nunciature to Ireland Holy See–Ireland relations Catholicism portal Ireland portal

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Adapted from the Wikipedia article [Kevin Doran](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kevin_Doran) by Wikipedia contributors ([contributor history](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kevin_Doran?action=history)). Available under [Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0 International](https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/). Changes may have been made.