Former journalist and broadcaster Michael Kelly is to take on a new role for a charity supporting the most marginalised and vulnerable people in the world, including in Gaza and Ukraine.
The former editor of The Irish Catholic newspaper has been appointed director of public affairs for the Irish office of the Pontifical Foundation Aid to the Church in Need.
The charity, Aid to the Church in Need International (ACN International), was founded in the aftermath of World War II and supports some 5,700 communities in 140 countries.
The Irish office supports the international work through the generosity of members of the Irish public.
Mr Kelly, originally from Omagh, has worked in journalism and broadcasting for over 20 years.
Viewers and listeners to RTÉ will know him as the voice of Pope Francis, as the English language translator and commentator for the Pontiff’s traditional Christmas and Easter blessings.
He said he is looking forward to embracing the challenge of supporting what he described as “the suffering Church” in troubled parts of the world.
“Most people don’t realise that Christians are the most persecuted religious community in the world, and are under threat in many parts of the world including the historic cradle of Christianity in the Holy Land and the wider Middle East,” he said.
“Through the phenomenal generosity of Irish people, ACN Ireland is able to demonstrate concrete solidarity with these communities and show them that they are not alone.”
Harry Casey, ACN Ireland interim national director, said Mr Kelly “brings a wealth of professional experience to the role”.
