Pathways to the Future.
We are all challenged by Pope Francis, clergy and lay alike, to set out as missionary disciples with ‘Hearts on fire, feet on the move’ (Lk 24:13-35). Bishop Donal McKeown, Apostolic Administrator, has chosen today to write to all the faithful of the Diocese with a further missionary challenge for each one of us to step up to – to actively participate in the renewal of the Church in Down and Connor. He calls on us to be “voices of hope” for the Church and for the generations of faithful to come.We want you to think about what the suggested Families of Parishes that have been shared with you today means for your parish and what it means for you personally. What role could and will you play as part of your Family of Parishes?
“… as soon as you heard the message that we brought you as God’s message, you accepted it for what it really is, God’s message and not some human thinking; and it is still a living power among you who believe it.” 1 Thessalonians 2:13.
The Launch of Pathways to the Future will begin on Sunday 5 November. The Launch will be accompanied by a Pastoral Letter and supporting video from our Apostolic Administrator, Bishop Donal McKeown, and the announcement of the suggested Families of Parishes. This is your opportunity to join the conversation about the future of our Church in Down and Connor and to be a voice of hope for the future.The Pathways to the Future Steering Committee will host conversations across the Diocese during weeks commencing 13 and 20 November.
Parish of Maghera Meeting:
Date: Thursday 16 November 7-9pm.
Venue: The Carriage Room, Montalto Estate, Spa Road, Ballynahinch.
Our suggested Parish Family includes the Parish ofMaghera, Upper & Lower Mourne. To register please contact Brenda during office hours: brenda@parishofmaghera.com giving your full name, email address, telephone number.
Registration to attend the meetings will be open to all parishioners from Sunday 5 November but due to capacity numbers are extremely limited. A reserve list will be compiled. An A5 Booklet that includes the Pastoral Letter and the full list of suggested Families of Parishes will be made available to parishioners from Monday at the Church porch and Parish Office during office hours.
There will be other opportunities for parishioners to have their voice heard beyond the meeting on 16th Nov, as parishes will be hosting their own local conversations over the coming months.
