Catholic World News News Feature

New nuncio to replace slain archbishop in Burundi January 22, 2004

Pope John Paul II has named Msgr. Paul Richard Gallagher, an experienced Vatican diplomat, to become apostolic nuncio in Burundi, replacing Archbishop Michael Courtney, who was assassinated in late December.

Msgr. Gallagher, an English-born cleric who has been serving as permanent observer for the Vatican at the European Council in Strasbourg, will assume the title of archbishop along with his new assignment. The new papal nuncio was well acquainted with his slain predecessor; Archbishop Courtney also served at Strasbourg before his assignment to Africa.

Officials in Burundi are still investigating the murder of Archbishop Courtney on December 29. The archbishop was shot and killed when his diplomatic vehicle was ambushed on the road after a pastoral visit. Burundi's government has blamed the rebel National Liberation Forces for the killing. The rebels have denied responsibility-- while threatening a Catholic bishop who supported the government's charge.