Brian Farrell

Brian Farrell, LC (born 8 February 1944) is an Irish Catholic prelate who spent his career in the Roman Curia beginning in 1981, ending as secretary of the Dicastery for Promoting Christian Unity from 2002 to 2024. He is a member of the Legionaries of Christ.

Early life and education Farrell was born in Drimnagh, Dublin on 8 February 1944. He is the older brother of Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Holy Roman Church, Prefect of the Dicastery for the Laity, Family and Life and Bishop Emeritus of Dallas.

He was ordained a priest for the Legionaries of Christ on 26 November 1969. As an official of the Secretariat of State, he opposed the Health (Family Planning) (Amendment) Act 1985, permitting the sale of condoms in Ireland without having to present a prescription.

Episcopal ministry Farrell was appointed secretary of the Pontifical Council for Promoting Christian Unity and titular bishop-elect of Abitinae by Pope John Paul II on 19 December 2002. He was consecrated by Pope John Paul II on 6 January 2003 at St Peter's Basilica, Rome.

His appointment was confirmed by Pope Francis on 19 February 2014. As secretary of the Pontifical Council for Promoting Christian Unity, Farrell was also ex officio vice-president of the Commission for Religious Relations with the Jews.

In 2003, he contributed an article to the catalogue for "The Tension of Origin", an exhibition of works by Italian artist which engaged in Judaeo-Christian dialogue through artistic expression.

In 2010, Farrell was one of four advisors to Velasio de Paolis when de Paolis was the papal delegate tasked with reorganising the Legionaries of Christ.

He retired as secretary of the Dicastery for Promoting Christian Unity on 23 February 2024.