Bishop Christopher Jones and members of the Elphin Diocesan Liturgy Commission recently spent three days in the beautiful surroundings of Glenstal Abbey, Co. Limerick, reflecting on their ministry and purpose.

The decision to spend time in Glenstal arose from the Commission’s recognition that it was necessary to revisit the role of the commission and to agree a programme of work for the coming two years.

During the course of their stay members took time to partipate in the monastic liturgies, enjoyed guided tours of Glenstal’s Icon chapel (with Fr. Ambrose) and new library (with Br. Colmain). They were also supported in their work through a thought provoking and encouraging input from Fr. Columba (John McCann), a former priest of the Dublin diocese, with years of experience of working with the Dublin diocese’s Liturgy Commission.

Recommendations of the Commission, arising from the visit are to be raised with representatives of the Elphin Council of Priests, Diocesan Pastoral Council and Pastoral Planning Groups when representatives of all four groups spend two days with Bishop Jones planning a diocesan programme of work for the coming two years. This meeting will take place in St. Angela’s College, Sligo in August.

Front Row: Brother Colmain OSB (Glenstal) , Sr. Dorothy Gallagher OSU (St. Mary’s, Sligo), Sr. Moya Hegarty OSU, (St. Angela’s, Sligo), Sr. Breege Donohoe RSM (Athlone), Jenny Darcy (Lecarrow, Co. Roscommon).

Back Row: Fr. Eamonn O’Connor (Tarmonbarry, Co. Longford), Bishop Christopher Jones (Diocese of Elphin), Fr. Ian Kennedy (Aughenagh, Co. Sligo) and Justin Harkin (Pastoral Development Office, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon).