A senior priest from the Diocese of Paisley has been honoured by Pope Leo XIV after being appointed a Chaplain of His Holiness.
Father Joe Burke has received the honorary title of Monsignor, an honour which recognises a priest’s faithful and distinguished service to the Catholic Church.
The Greenock-born priest has served as Vicar General of the Diocese of Paisley for more than 10 years and previously held the role of diocesan Treasurer.
Ordained in 1998, Monsignor Burke has served parishes across the Diocese of Paisley, including in Paisley, Port Glasgow, Johnstone, Houston and Barrhead. Since 2020, he has served as Administrator of St Mirin’s Cathedral in Paisley.
The appointment was announced by the Diocese of Paisley, with Bishop John Keenan paying tribute to Monsignor Burke’s years of service.
Bishop Keenan said: “I want to congratulate Monsignor Joe on this honour which is well merited on account of his dedicated service to the clergy and faithful of the Diocese of Paisley over many years of priestly service, as well as his assured service in the Diocesan Curia.”
Responding to the appointment, Monsignor Burke said: “I am very moved and surprised by this appointment. It is a special privilege. I am thankful to God for calling me to be a priest and for the many opportunities He continues to give me to serve His people in the Diocese of Paisley.”
The appointment was made by Pope Leo XIV and formally recognises Monsignor Burke’s contribution to the Church and the Diocese of Paisley over nearly three decades of priestly ministry.