Bishop William Crean announces clerical changes and pastoral plans in the Diocese of Cloyne.
Each passing year changes our circumstances in the Diocese. Over these past number of years, we have had to review and readjust the manner in which our priests can serve all the parishes. This has involved some parishes not having a priest in residence as we have been accustomed to. This readjustment is difficult to embrace but we need to do so in a spirit of generosity and co-operation. In this refiguration process three parishes will be affected this year; Churchtown-Liscarroll, Ballyclough-Kilbrin and Buttevant-Lisgriffin. Instead of three priests heretofore, now, two priests will share the pastoral care of the three parishes. I am grateful to Fr. Eugene Baker and Fr. Mícheál Leader for their willingness and generosity in embracing this new challenge as Fr. Robin Morrissey takes on the pastoral care of Castletownroche and Ballyhooly.
I am indebted to the priests who have, in a spirit of priestly service and humility, accepted their new assignments in the vineyard of the Lord.
I welcome our new permanent deacon, Leonard Cleary, who will serve alongside the priests of Charleville parish.
Synodality
This is a word we will become more familiar with as we engage with the Synodal Pathway called for by Pope Francis. This process will be directed in the Diocese by a small steering group co-ordinated by Fr. Jim Moore (Co-ordinator of Mission and Ministry). The group includes Ms. Jennifer Buckley, Cobh, Martha Kent, Mitchelstown, and Brian Williams (deacon), Macroom.
Lector and Acolyte
Recently Pope Francis announced the formal establishment of the offices of Lector and Acolyte for women and men. This is a grace– filled opportunity for the Diocese to offer formation and training for those who feel called to this service in the Church. We will embrace this initiative to make it a reality as part of supporting faith and practice in families and parishes.
