Ireland: Dramatic Decline in Number of Priests
More than 21% of Ireland’s entire population of parish priests and brothers — both serving and retired — have died in just three years.
The Association of Catholic Priests says that parishes are going to have to be amalgamated, churches closed, and fewer Masses held.
Fr John Collins, one of the ACP’s directors, said: “The figures are shocking. It is very sad to see so many have died in such a short space of time.
“We are all aware of an ageing priest population, but it is only when you look at the figures that you realise what a high number it is.
Source: Irish Examiner
