Resources and materials have already been planned by the Congress committee and some of these will be introduced at the gatherings. It is hoped that the Congress won’t just be a week long event for people but rather, a rediscovery and renewal of our communion with Christ and with one another.

We will be joined on the two evenings by Colette Furlong who teaches Sacred Liturgy in All Hallows College, Dublin and recently, Colette presented a wonderful four night programme in our diocese on different areas of Liturgy. Those who attended the programme felt it very worthwhile and Colette’s practical approach was greatly appreciated. She has been appointed the Pastoral Development Officer for the Eucharist Congress and already she has been facilitating workshops all around the country in preparation for next years event.

In many respects, the evenings which are being offered in both the northern and southern end of the diocese, will be the beginning of our journey as a diocese towards the Congress. They will be very much focused on reflecting on the mystery of the Eucharist itself and on the great gift that it is.

Whilst the evenings will be of interest to everyone, they will be of particular interest to members of Parish Pastoral Councils, members of Parish Liturgy Groups, Ministers of Word and Eucharist and anyone who is actively involved in parish life or in the life of the Church. Alot of practical ideas and suggestions will be offered as to how we might move forward in our parishes to develop peoples understanding and appreciation of Eucharist. We suggest that you advertise the evenings as best you can and we encourage you to ensure that a representation from your parish attends what promises to be very worthwhile evenings.

The evenings will take place from 8pm – 10pm in:

St Patrick’s College, KIllymeal Rd, Dungannon on Tuesday 25 January
&
Ballymacscanlon House Hotel, Dundalk on Thursday 27 January

Hoping you had a pleasant Christmas and wishing you well for the New Year ahead.

Yours sincerely

Rev Peter McAnenly