Mission & Ministry Weekend – 25th / 26th October
Launching the New Ministry of Catechist in the Diocese of Ossory
This weekend we celebrate Mission & Ministry across our Diocese, giving thanks for all who already serve so generously in our parishes.
As part of this celebration, Bishop Coll has launched the new Ministry of Catechist in the Diocese of Ossory.
A Pastoral Letter, which is to be read at all parish Masses on Saturday 25th / Sunday 26th October, outlines the vision and purpose of this new ministry and invites those who feel called to explore it further.
In his Pastoral letter, Bishop Coll notes that from the earliest days of Christianity, the faith has been handed on “by people like you, “ordinary believers sharing the love of Jesus with their families, friends, neighbours, and communities.” He emphasises that catechists are those who “teach not only with words but with their example – by the way they live.”
Acknowledging the changing context of Church life, Bishop Coll writes that “fewer priests, increasing secularism, and possible changes in how faith is supported in schools mean we need to find new ways to keep the light of faith alive in our parishes. Catechists will be a key part of that future.”
He continues:
“This isn’t about creating ‘mini-priests’ or expecting a few people to do it all. It’s about recognising that, through our baptism, each of us — priests and people alike — has been given gifts to build up the Church. The Spirit is already at work in our communities. This is about nurturing those gifts, supporting one another, and giving people the formation they need to respond confidently and faithfully to this urgent call.”
Looking to the future, Bishop Coll believes this ministry will play a vital role in renewing parish life and evangelisation in Ossory: “In the years ahead, trained catechists will play a vital part in building up the Church in Ossory. Some may go on to serve as pastoral workers, chaplains, liturgy leaders, administrators, or in new ministries we have yet to imagine, all helping to shape a Church that is alive and active in the world.”
Parishioners across the Diocese of Ossory are invited to pray, discern, and consider whether they might be called to this ministry. A period of discernment will begin in Advent 2025, leading to a two-year formation programme starting in September 2026.
If you feel this ministry might be for you an information workshop is being organised. This “Go & Make Disciples” event will be an opportunity to learn more about this ministry and to begin a journey of prayerful reflection. An Information leaflet is available in all our churches with more information on the ministry of Catechist and details of how to register for the ‘Go make Disciples’ event.
Let us give thanks for all who already minister in our communities and pray that the Holy Spirit will guide and inspire those being called to serve as Catechists in our Diocese.
