The following report is published in the current edition [September 2018] of ‘Newlink’, the Diocesan Magazine for the United Dioceses (page 12):
Continuing Ministerial Education
The training days for people in ministry in the dioceses resume after the summer break with workshops in Askeaton Rectory on the topic of Spiritual Tourism and preparing for Remembrance Day.
Spiritual Tourism
On Monday 3 September, Canon Patrick Comerford and Archdeacon Simon Lumby are leading a working day on bringing spiritual tourism to our parishes. This day includes a field trip to two or three sites in Askeaton linked to Spiritual Tourism, including the ruined Templar Tower at Saint Mary’s Church and the cloisters in the ruins of the 15th century Franciscan Friary. Participants are asked to bring with them examples two opportunities for spiritual tourism they have experienced during their summer holidays: one positive and one negative. The programme is offered in two sessions: from 11 am to 3.30 for day-time participants, and from 7 pm to 9.30 pm for people in ministry who are also in secular ministry.
Preparing for Remebrance Day
This year marks the 100th anniversary of the end of World War I, and Remembrance Day this year falls on a Sunday, Sunday 11 November 2018. A working day in the Rectory in Askeaton on Monday 15 October looks at how to plan for Remembrance Day on this year’s centenary. Where do I find resources and readings? What is appropriate in a parish church on this Sunday? How can we be sensitive to a variety of views and challenges to this day in a parish? Once again, this programme is offered in two sessions: from 11 am to 3.30 for day-time participants, and from 7 pm to 9.30 pm for people in ministry who are also in secular ministry.
Although these days are designed for priests and readers, spouses, partners and friends are always warmly welcome. Further details are available from Patrick Comerford.
