The Diocese of Kilmore in conjunction with Maynooth University have developed a course to train lay people as catechists and pastoral care workers. The average age of priests in Kilmore is 71 but the needs of every parish remains as demanding as ever.
To address the issue of an ageing clergy and how to continue delivering services, the Catholic Church has devised a programme to train lay people to carry out some duties. The new QQI Level 7 Diploma in Pastoral Ministry was developed following a series of meetings held across the diocese last autumn and which were attended by over 2,000 people.
Martina Gilmartin is Diocesan Director of Pastoral Development and Faith. She said people can learn more at upcoming information meetings to be held across Cavan. Martina said while people do not have to commit to becoming a lay pastoral worker at these events, she would urge anyone who feels a calling to "have courage to step forward"; "The programme will officially start in January 2025 and we'll do a six-month discernment phase, it just helps participants again to see if this ministry is for me," Martina told Northern Sound, "Then, in September 2025 we will have an initial meeting in Maynooth and then the rest of the programme will be delivered in Kilmore Diocese. If people want to have more information they can reach out to me, Matrtina Gilmartin, on phone number 085 864 0299 so, if there's any questions or any clarification people need please ring me on this number."
