Kevin Gillespie (/ɡɪˈlɛspi/ ghil-ESP-ee; born 1972/3)[2] is an Irish priest who since 20 August 2018[3][4] serves as Vicar Forane and Administrator of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Raphoe's Cathedral Parish of Conwal and Leck.
Having spent much time at the Vatican and worked closely with two Popes (Benedict XVI and Francis),[1] he has been mentioned as a possible future Bishop of Raphoe.
[1] Following his ordination at St. Eunan's Cathedral, he returned to his native Gaoth Dobhair where the "people of Gweedore gave a tumultuous and warm welcome to Father Kevin Gillespie.
Gillespie recorded the recitation of the Sorrowful Mysteries of the Rosary as part of the CD 'An Paidrín Páirteach.'
[13] He led the procession of cardinal electorss into the conclave which chose Jorge Mario Bergoglio to succeed Pope Benedict XVI (and with whom Gillespie also worked closely).
Gillespie had earlier led Holy Thursday Mass at the Pontifical Irish College in Rome.
[20] He is credited too with exerting his considerable influence to get an Irishwoman into Pope Benedict's funeral and, having achieved this, she was able to give the Second Reading.