At the recent February meeting of the Parish Pastoral Council, the following matters were discussed:
Stations of the Cross – Margaret Monaghan to follow up on the Stations of the Cross script.
Heating Oil – will wait to see the cost of alternative fuel later in the year before considering switching over the Church heating system
Funeral Ministry – Fr. Stephen had met with Sr. M. Byrne, Monica Morley, Mary Connolly, B. Clesham (former Chaplin in Dunmore school) Sr. Margaret Buckley. It was decided it was not feasible to have training up and running for Lent. Some priests need to be convinced; Archbishop Duffy is due to meet priests to further discuss the issue . It is important that there is buy in from priests. If four or five parishes set up a Funeral Ministry team, it would help to convince others of its value in a parish.
Diocesan Parish Council – Julia and Kristina had attended. Two people had put themselves forward to be trained as facilitators for synodal pathway. Training will focus on the theme of “Conversations in the Spirit. It is a way of listening without arguing. It is a whole new way of doing things, less hierarchical, more like the way it was done in the early church. Kristina mentioned that there are many opinions and some confusion and felt we need structure. Fr. Stephen noted that there is structure, but it is moving to a round table as opposed to the traditional hierarchical structure.
Safeguarding
Our local safeguarding representative Jacinta Flynn had been unable to attend recent training, however slides from training had been circulated. Fr. Stephen outlined the key items covered which included responsibilities of Parish Priest and LSR, Vetting requirements, need to complete a risk assessment.
Easter Preparations
At our last meeting, the possibility of a live Stations of the Cross to be enacted on Main St or possibly in the Friary grounds was raised, however after discussion it was agreed that the time frame was too short. It was agreed to consider having an event next year with planning to begin late this year and no later than January 2024.
Holy Water bottles will be filled in the Community School.
Washing of Feet – a discussion took place about people who could be asked to have their feet washed on Holy Thursday evening. Fr. Stephen noted that is usually focused on people who serve the community/parish in some way. It was suggested that members of the adoration group could be approached. Ann Phillips suggested that we should change focus this year from people who serve the community to include all parishioners. Fr. Stephen and Kevin Henry mentioned that this Mass is broadcast and there was a need to be able to have a commentary on the reason people had been chosen. It was agreed that six members of the Adoration Group would be asked, and Ann Phillips will draw up a list of six others.
Church Refurbishment
Fr. Stephen went through the slides presented at a meeting with the architect on 22nd February. There was detailed discussion about the numerous suggestions arising from the presentation. It was agreed that the slides would be circulated to the group so that it can be discussed further at the next meeting with a view to then progressing the matter. It is important that this project moves on without much further delay. It was agreed that Fr. Stephen would ask for a “mock up” showing the ceiling painted in a lighter colour. It was also agreed that members of the council should try to visit Balla church ahead of next meeting.
AOB
Grid not moved from side door. Fr. Stephen/Irene to arrange its removal.
Faith & Light Group held their fiesta last week. Will have full report for next month’s meeting.
Agreed to provide a cup of tea/coffee in the Community Hall after Mass on St. Patrick’s Day.
Date of next meeting 8:30pm on Tuesday 19th March.