May Update from the Pastoral Council

Our first meeting after the Easter break took place on the 13^th May. The following is a report from the items discussed.

Child Protection.

At every meeting of the Pastoral Council the Child Protection Guidelines are a fixed item on the agenda.

This means that our Child protection Guidelines are under constant review. Part of our policy is that children must be accompanied by an adult or guardian when using toilet facilities in the church. Our Child Protection Representative has reminded all concerned of this important aspect of child safety.

Looking to the Future.

The Pastoral Council consider it important that members of our community be given an opportunity to meet and discuss issues which are necessary in trying to discern what is best for our parish in the coming years. We are at present seeking advice from someone who is an expert in pastoral policy. We are considering the possibility of a gathering in the parish for this purpose in 2012. We will keep you informed of our progress.

Clustering.

A lot has been happening in the diocese on the Clustering Process. Up to now Ballygall has been working most closely with Our Lady of Victories. It has been recommended by the diocese that our cluster should expand to include Our Lady of Dolours (Glasnevin), Corpus Christi (Drumcondra), Our Lady of Victories (Ballymun Road) and Iona Road.

A Deanery meeting of all the priests of the diocese has taken place this month and Archbishop Martin is positively encouraging the process.

Another Deanery meeting of all the Parish Councils was also held in Whitehall Parish during April. This allowed the members of the various councils to meet again, helping us get to know each other. It was an opportunity to hear about the progress of the various clusters. Many expressed a need for more training for Pastoral Councils. Archbishop Martin attended this meeting and addressed the Pastoral Council members. A training night for Chairpersons of Pastoral Councils has taken place since.

Parish Team.

The Parish Team work closely with the Pastoral Council giving regular reports on the day to day issues that arise in parish life. This allows the Pastoral Council to be in touch with what is happening in the parish as it happens and also allows them to be more informed in preparation for the council meetings.