THE NEW EVANGELISATION
Mary, Star of Evangelisation, Pray for us.
Archbishop Nolan has made Evangelisation the focus of archdiocesan life.
Together we seek a new spirit of evangelisation to create vibrant, faith-filled communities where Christ's presence is celebrated. We seek a renewal of priestly and lay ministry. We seek a more collaborative experience of ministry. In fidelity to those who have gone before us we seek a new Pentecost for the Church in the Archdiocese of Glasgow.
New Deanery structures are in place in the Archdiocese. Fr. Greg and Mrs. Karen Morris represent our Parish on our Deanery Council, named for St. Columba of Iona. (Image: Icon of the Council of Jerusalem.)
At the end of 2023 the Deanery Council, along with other Deaneries across the Archdiocese produced a Report on the process of reflection on our journey into the future as a diocese with an emphasis on Evangelisation.
The finalised version of the Report can be read by clicking on the 'Button' below. This is the initial contribution of St. Columba's Deanery Council.
The reflections and recommendations from these reports have informed the way forward for the Archdiocese.
The Way Ahead
'Looking to the future whilst being faithful to the past.'
​
Readers of this month's 'Flourish' will have learned more about the first steps being taken across the Archdiocese as to arrange parishes in a way which can be sustained into the future, building on the reflections and recommendations of the reports from each Deanery.
​
Change is never easy and the announcements made this month may have caused anxiety and upset in some parish communities. However, as Archbishop Nolan said, we have to use our resources well and this will mean some difficult decisions have to be made. But at the same time it is an opportunity to build larger, more vibrant parish communities.
​
Our own Deanery has seen changes, with the overall number of priests reducing and parishes being joined to be served by one priest. This should lead to sharing of resources and expertise, with sharing ministries and rescheduling of liturgies leading to more effective evangelisation.
​
We are called to evangelise ... but what does this mean? FireCloud, based at Our Holy Redeemer in Clydebank, provides learning and formation opportunities which celebrate the Catholic faith and inspire people to use their gifts and talents to build a more courageous and loving world. They are offering a new programme on Evangelisation is parishes - 'Salt, Leaven and Light'. We would love to have members of our parish take up this opportunity to learn more about Evangelisation.
​
Our young people are the future of Church and parish life. Supporting and encouraging them on their faith journey is an important part of our mission. A new training programme has been developed for anyone interested in parish youth ministry and we're looking for volunteers to take part. This is being run online to make it easier to take part. The details are as follows:
RCAG PYM TRAINING | 5 Sessions over ZOOM | Mondays from Oct 21st| 1900 - 2030
Are you passionate about guiding and inspiring the youth in your parish? We're excited to invite you to our Parish Youth Ministry Training—a comprehensive five-part training series designed to equip you with the skills and knowledge to lead a vibrant youth group. Whether you're a seasoned volunteer or new to ministry, this training is for you!
​
If you are interested in either of these opportunities, please speak to Fr. Greg or Karen Morris as soon as possible.