.
Bishop of Kerry Ray Browne.
THE Diocese of Kerry is introducing a new ministry, the Ministry of the Lay Pastoral Leader, as a response to the changing needs of parish communities.
Training for this role begins next September and the diocese is offering people the opportunity to express interest in the role and explore the commitment and training involved at this time.
The lay pastoral leaders will work alongside the clergy parish councils and pastoral councils. Their role will be to lead, co-ordinate and support different aspects of parish life.
Continued below…
.
The role of the lay pastoral leader is to co-ordinate and take responsibility for a particular aspect of ministry, in response to local needs.
Possible ministries will be:
• Preparation for Sacraments – Nurturing the relationship between home, school and parish; co-ordination of initiatives to support families presenting their children to receive sacraments.
• Pastoral Care – Co-ordinating visitation of the housebound/elderly/those in nursing homes; Supporting nursing home staff and residents to celebrate moments of prayer.
Liturgy – Co-ordinating the various liturgical ministries that enliven our Sunday celebrations of Mass.
• Faith formation – Exploring faith with adults, facilitating opportunities for prayer and exploring the Word of God.
• Youth Ministry – Ensuring that youth and young people are supported, valued and enabled to reach their God-created potential.
For more information visit: https://www.dioceseofkerry.ie
In launching the new role on Sunday April 3rd, Bishop Ray Browne said; “I warmly welcome the Ministry of Lay Pastoral Leadership that we embark upon. The future Church will be different, not better or worse!”
People already involved in parish or community activity, who have initiative and energy, and who want to work in their local pastoral area, are encouraged to apply.
Training for this new volunteer ministry will begin in September 2022. It is expected that there will be a team of lay pastoral leaders working in each pastoral area over the coming five years.
