During March, eighteen priests from diverse regions around the globe came together for this year’s Orientation Course, an initiative jointly organised by the Irish Catholic Bishops’ Conference and Spiritans Mission Ireland.
The participants hailed from Nigeria, India, Zimbabwe, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Ghana, Kenya, Indonesia, and Angola. The programme is designed to equip priests with the pastoral and cultural understanding needed to serve effectively in ministry in Ireland.
The intensive two-week course offered valuable insights into Irish society, Church life, and the unique pastoral challenges faced by clergy in the country. It included sessions on topics such as intercultural ministry, pastoral care, safeguarding policies, and the role of the Church in modern Irish society. Through dynamic discussions and the sharing of experiences, the priests were able to deepen their understanding of their mission within a new cultural and ecclesiastical context.
Commenting on the initiative, Father Willie Purcell (pictured with participants), National Diocesan Vocations Coordinator of the Bishops’ Conference, and who serves as one of the course tutors, said, “This course is a vital step in helping priests integrate into their new pastoral roles in Ireland. It provides both practical pastoral training and spiritual guidance, ensuring they are well-prepared to engage with parish communities across the country.
“This programme reflects the universal nature of the Church and underscores the importance of collaboration across cultures. We are deeply grateful for the dedication of these priests and their commitment to serving in Ireland.”
A standout feature of the course was the sense of fraternity and mutual support it fostered among the priests, who will now take on pastoral assignments in dioceses and religious congregations throughout Ireland.
The Orientation Course, held biannually, demonstrates the Church’s ongoing commitment to welcoming and supporting international clergy as they embark on their mission in Ireland.
For more information about this programme, visit www.spiritan.ie.
ENDS
CatholicNews.ie thanks Father Willie Purcell for providing this story.
