The next initiative by Bishop Stephen is a constitutional process in which we will try to ascertain specific roles in the parish, especially lay involvement. The Parish Council will look at this more closely at their next meeting. The first stage will then be followed up by part two. All will have to be completed before 4th June. We will then look at the broader partnership development.

Our bringing together young people from the local parishes for the Confirmation Programme has been a very positive exercise. The programme run by Sarah and Ciaran is a possible template for future cooperation in other areas. We are particularly blessed in the parish having a highly motivated and dedicated group of younger parishioners willing to drive us forward with new and creative initiatives. They are ably supported by mature parishioners who are already doing Trojan work in the vineyard.

Our young people rely greatly on the wisdom shared by more senior members of the parish. This was born out at our recent parish retreat, which was possibly our best to date. Shared hopes and fears were facilitated at a deeper level in an atmosphere of loving acceptance of each other mixed with an evening of song and stories. Again, our senior parishioners providing wisdom and enthusiasm that was greatly appreciated and invaluable to its success.

Also, Katie’s growing expertise in group facilitation was pivotal. These are events that bring us together as parish with such a great representation from each part of the Durham Martyrs, and I take this opportunity to thank each one of you for making it an exceptional gathering. We are planning a Sunday Mass in the new St. Leonard’s School in July. More on this later.