07.03.2014
Dublin and Glendalough Parishioners Urged to Have Their Say in Diocesan Vision
A new initiative to create a Vision Statement for Dublin and Glendalough is underway. The document will help to guide the expression of vision and mission in the United Dioceses and in order for it to reflect the voices of a wide range of people, the Archbishop is looking for input from parishioners throughout Dublin and Glendalough.
For the first time parishioners in all areas are being asked their opinions. They are being asked for information which will provide a picture of life in their parish and what they as parishioners celebrate together.
The aim of the process is to tie two strands of life together – the life of the parish and the life of the dioceses. Parishioners often think of their parochial lives as taking place within certain boundaries. However, what they do in their parishes contributes to the overall life of the dioceses and can be celebrated in that broader context.
This process of finding points of celebration started with the Diocesan Growth Forum in Autumn 2012. Many initiatives have sprung from that gathering but are often going unsung by the diocesan family. Other parishes may find inspiration by seeing what their neighbours are doing and may be able to look to each other for help and support.
The survey will provide direction for diocesan thinking. By providing a picture of what is going on in the parishes, parishioners will help to shape where the dioceses as a whole is going and where development and resources can be channelled in the future. Clergy have also contributed at a gathering which took place in November.
Archbishop Michael Jackson is urging every parish to take part as it is only by hearing a wide range of voices that a full picture can be painted. He points out that activities which a parish may consider insignificant can be part of the lifeblood of the parish.
“I am delighted to be able to encourage all members of the United Dioceses to participate in the Mission and Vision Initiative which I am offering to the people of the dioceses. I trust that it will give you a chance to celebrate and to share what matters most to you in the life of your parish. As I go from parish to parish I see strong evidence of commitment to making a difference in parishes and in communities in Dublin, Wicklow and Kildare,” he stated. “I also hope that you will enjoy doing this together and that you will find the hand of God moving you forward as you participate in shaping the next stage of Christian presence in your community. I wish to express my appreciation in advance to you for your participation. I wish you all that is best as you discover the exciting things which you are already doing as well as those you want to do in your parish in the future,” he concluded.
A letter from Archbishop Jackson has been emailed to representatives in every parish along with a questionnaire.
Anyone who has not seen this communication can download it here.
It is suggested that parishioners gather in groups to complete this survey on behalf of their parish.