rural.ie
April 12, 2026

Father Edward Flanagan elevated to Venerable by Pope

Father Edward Flanagan, a priest from the Roscommon/Galway border who founded Boys Town in Omaha, Nebraska, has been elevated to Venerable by Pope Francis—a significant step toward canonization. The announcement was welcomed by the Father Edward Flanagan Visitor Centre in Ballinamore and church leaders including Bishop Kevin Doran. This recognition honours Flanagan's pioneering work with homeless and at-risk children.

Father Edward Flanagan, Bishop Kevin Doran, Fidel Macron
Father Edward Flanagan Visitor Centre located in Ballinamore, open to public; established three years ago