The Children and Family Ministry Working Group in the United Dioceses of Cork, Cloyne and Ross, in dialogue with the Bishop, the Right Reverend Dr Paul Colton, have developed a Learning Process to encourage all parishes in the Diocese to reflect on their outreach, inclusion and engagement of children and families.

The Learning Process was piloted in three parishes: Cobh and Glanmire Union, Fanlobbus Union, and Kinsale Union. They presented their experiences at the CCR Children and Family Ministry Gathering on 1st March, and a summary presentation on plans for the Learning Presentation was given at the clergy day conference on 3rd March.

The Learning Process is now being rolled out across the entire Diocese of Cork, Cloyne and Ross.

Bishop Colton explained:

A renewed focus on children and family ministry was one of the objectives I set for my silver jubilee year as bishop in 2024. I am delighted to have had the partnership in this of both the Children and Family Ministry Group in the Diocese which is convened by the Reverend Abigail Sines, and also the Diocesan Board of Education. A lot of work went into preparing the materials and testing the process in pilot parishes. Now I encourage every parish and chaplaincy to engage with this process.

The upcoming summer offers a great opportunity to engage with families and to gather input for the learning process. This can place in a variety of ways — over a cuppa in the hall, a picnic in the church yard or an informal chat after a Sunday morning service.

All parishes in the Diocese are encouraged to complete their Learning Process portfolio by Friday, 14 November upon which they will receive a basket with family ministry resources and a framed certificate. All parishioners and visitors will be able to see the certificate displayed in the church or church hall once the parish’s participation is certified.

The convenor of the Cork, Cloyne and Ross Children and Family Ministry Group, the Reverend Abigail Sines, said:

The Learning Process is an opportunity to engage with parishioners in an intentional and creative way. It will open up a space to develop ideas for projects or initiatives to strengthen engagement with children and families.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact the CCR Children and Family Ministry Working Group here.