Tributes have been paid following the death of Archbishop Noel Treanor, the former Bishop of Down and Connor, at the age of 73.
He passed away in Brussels at the age of 73 on Sunday morning.
His colleague Archbishop Eamon Martin said like so many others, he is “greatly shocked” by his sudden passing.
“At this sad time for all who knew him across Ireland, Europe and throughout the universal Church, I join with Bishop Alan McGuckian SJ of Down and Connor, and with Bishop Larry Duffy of his native diocese of Clogher, in offering my prayers for the happy repose of the soul of Archbishop Noel, and for the comfort of his brother, sister, extended family members and close friends at this difficult time,” he said.
“In June, I had the privilege of meeting with Archbishop Noël when he spoke to the Plenary Assembly of the Council of European Bishops’ Conferences which took place in Belgrade, Serbia.
“Archbishop Noel served most of his ordained ministry in working to forge positive relations with partner countries of the European Union and to help nourish the Christian heart and soul of Europe.
“At our meeting in Belgrade, bishops reflected on the future of the Christian faith in Europe, and Archbishop Noël’s keen intellect, insight and leadership provided an invaluable contribution to our discussion.”
Ordained as a priest in 1976, Bishop Treanor had served as curate in the diocese of Clogher and hospital chaplain in Monaghan town.
His most recent appointment had been to the diplomatic role of apostolic nuncio to the European Union in 2023.
Paying tribute Parish Priest of Corpus Christi in west Belfast, Fr Paddy McCafferty praised Archbishop Treanor’s empathy.
“As an abuse survivor, I experienced great kindness and compassion from Archbishop Noel when he was Bishop of Down and Connor,” he said.
“I found him to be always attentive, available and empathetic. I will always remember him with love and affection”
Archbishop of Dublin The Most Revd Dr Michael Jackson said everyone involved in Christian witness and engagement in Ireland and beyond is saddened by the death.
“I first met Noel in the Diocese of Clogher that is native to us both. Bishop Joseph Duffy and I felt that parishes should mark the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity in their parishes and communities during The Octave of Prayer,” he recalled.
“We held gatherings on the afternoon of Pentecost Sunday in a range of different ecclesiastical sites outdoors.
“Noel spoke at one of those held in his native Co Monaghan with ease and eloquence, with faith and friendliness. He moved gracefully among neighbours, school friends and family members.
“I wish to record his personal friendship and support over many years. I wish also to express my condolences.
“Most of all I want to thank God for the opportunity to know a good man.”
