KANDLE is Calling: New Lay Pastoral Minister Training Programme in Diocese of Kildare and Leighlin
KANDLE is Calling: Bishop Denis Nulty Announces New Lay Pastoral Minister Training Programme in Diocese of Kildare and Leighlin
The Diocese of Kildare and Leighlin, under the leadership of Bishop Denis Nulty, is inviting people with the courage to step forward and answer an important call to service. A new training programme has been developed to equip laypeople with the essential skills they need to serve as Lay Pastoral Ministers within parishes and pastoral areas.
In response to the ongoing need for more vocations and the ageing profile of priests, the Diocese of Kildare and Leighlin has announced a comprehensive new Lay Pastoral Minister Training Programme. The programme has been developed in partnership with St Patrick's Pontifical University, Maynooth (SPPU), and Mount Saint Anne’s Conference & Retreat Centre.
Bishop Denis Nulty expressed his enthusiasm for the programme, stating, "We are committed to empowering lay leaders within our diocese. This training will provide the necessary tools and knowledge for lay pastoral ministers to contribute meaningfully to our parish communities."
The Lay Pastoral Ministers (Diploma in Pastoral Ministry, Level 7) programme aims to nurture and develop the talents of lay leaders, preparing them to undertake significant roles within their parishes and pastoral areas. “The role of laypeople in our Church is crucial to ensure we invigorate faith in our communities. This is an exciting and important opportunity for people who want to explore their faith on a deeper level and be part of the future of our Church.”
Earlier this year, in June 2024, Patrick Roche was also appointed as Diocesan Director of Parish Development with the aim of supporting the involvement of more laypeople in Church life through training and education.
Members of the public are being invited to a series of information meetings across the diocese to find out more about the Diploma in Pastoral Ministry, Level 7. These meetings will offer an opportunity to anybody who is curious to learn more about the course, its objectives, and the benefits it offers to participants and their communities.
Information Sessions take place as follows:
- Monday, 4th November: Mount Wolseley, Tullow
- Tuesday, 5th November: Westgrove Hotel, Clane
- Wednesday, 6th November: Solas Bhríde, Kildare Town
- Thursday, 7th November: Dolmen Hotel, Carlow
- Wednesday, 13th November: Parish Centre, Leighlinbridge
- Thursday, 14th November: Mount Saint Anne’s, Killenard
All meetings will commence at 7.30 pm, with tea and coffee available from 7.15pm.
Bishop Nulty encourages anyone who feels called to serve as a Lay Pastoral Minister to attend one of the information evenings. "I keep meeting people who tell me I’d love to be more involved in my parish, I don’t know what to do. This is a unique opportunity to deepen your faith and make a tangible impact within your parish community. Even if you are unsure of what to expect, we welcome everybody to come along and we will be happy to engage and answer questions," he said.
Feature Image by Mary Browne. Pictured are Bishop of Kildare and Leighlin, Bishop Denis Nulty (left), with Colette Cummins and Patrick Roche, Director of Parish Development. Bishop Denis Nulty has announced a new Lay Pastoral Minister Training Programme in the Diocese of Kildare and Leighlin.)