The  Local Lay Ministers (Pastoral) (previously known as lay pastoral assistants) of the Diocese Cork, Cloyne, & Ross met on the 30th January in Northridge House for an evening of reflection and renewal.

The Local Lay Ministers (Pastoral) have a unique role in the diocese, being called to bring Christ’s presence to all, through their care for others. They are lay volunteers who are  part of the local parish ministry team, and each  is in a mentoring relationship with the rector or priest-in-charge. They completed a two year course in pastoral studies laid down by the Bishop of Cork, and delivered under the supervision of the Rev’d Bruce Pierce, Director of Education at Northridge House Education and Research Centre at St Luke’s Charity Cork

The evening was facilitated by the Rev’d Bruce Pierce who encouraged, and affirmed their ministry and offered his guidance to them.

The Revd Paul Arbuthnot, Chaplain to the Guild of Lay Ministry commented:

The Local Lay Ministers (Pastoral) greatly enrich the life of this diocese, and we give thanks for their calling. The Guild are very grateful to the Rev’d Bruce Pierce for his time, wisdom, and skill in facilitating this evening.

If there are lay people in the United Diocese of Cork, Cloyne and Ross who are interested in training to serve voluntarily in this local ministry they should speak with their rector or priest-in-charge.

Some of the trained Local Lay Ministers (Pastoral) from Cork, Cloyne and Ross who attended the evening of reflection and renewal.