A Word From Fr Jim: 18th August 2022

A Word From Fr Jim.

You may have read about the Synthesis document sent to Rome in preparation for the Synod of 2023. You can read it here at;

https://synod.ie/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/National-Synthesis-17-50-Fri-12th-August-.pdf?swcfpc=

It calls for a major change in the Church’s attitude to women, those married, divorced and single parents. It also recommends the removal of mandatory celibacy for priests. Some thought the bishop would fudge it, not so. In his covering letter, Archbishop Martin of Armagh said, “ Our listening process has identified the need for a more inclusive outreach, reaching out to those who have left the Church behind and in some cases feel excluded, forgotten or ignored”. It’s really worth a read . Some have expressed disappointment that important issues outside the Church structures barely got a mention. Social justice, care for the poor, care for the earth etc. I share this frustration, but this is where we come in. We of course need to provide new structures of lay leadership and inclusion. We need to prepare for a lay- led parish after Fr Dermot and I depart. We need to prepare new leaders especially among the young but, it all has to be based on personal transformation and renewal based on the Gospel. Thus our Building Hope Mission of meditation and service is urgent, let us begin. A few very important dates for your diary. Tuesday 13th September @7.00pm (Talk by Fr Laurence Freeman on meditation) Monday 3rd October @7.00pm (Commissioning of Ministers for service in the parish for the next 3 years.) September (Season of Creation) With My Love & Blessing Fr Jim