Pastoral Development

Pastoral Development is an integral aspect of the Diocesan Pastoral Centre. The aim of the Pastoral Development is to support priests and people working together, sharing responsibility for the life and mission of the church. Over time, it is hoped to develop and harness an expanding network of enthusiastic, committed and trained volunteers to support all aspects of this work on a diocesan-wide basis. Our pastoral development supports are offered on an outreach basis.


Does your parish want to develop a Parish Pastoral Council? A PPC is a shared leadership team within the parish where priests and people work together to help the parish become a vibrant Christian community. Four key areas a PPC focuses on are the prayer & liturgical life of the parish, the community life of the people, the faith development of all members of the parish and the outreach of the parish as a source of support, hope and solidarity to those in the wider community. We have a team of facilitators trained and ready to come to your parish, introduce you to the idea of what a PCC is and how it works and to accompany you on the journey. Contact the Pastoral Centre 074 9121853.

Does your parish need some help with training Ministers of the Word or Ministers of the Eucharist? Would you like to start the "Do this in memory" programme for children preparing for First Holy Communion or the "You shall be my witnesses" programme for children preparing for Confirmation? Do you want to develop a Baptism Team or a Bereavement Support Team? Contact the Pastoral Centre 074 9121853.

Are you looking for ways to deepen your faith? Would your parish like to explore opportunities for Adult Faith Development? Contact Pastoral Centre on 0749121853 or to see what resources and ideas we can offer you including Maryvale, Alpha and scripture reflection.

PATHWAYS - An Adult Faith Development Programme
Pathways is a two-year, one day a month course for adults who wish to explore their faith. It runs from October to June each year. There are no exams and no written work. The only requirement is an openness to listen to others and participate. Each day consists of input from excellent and engaging speakers and the opportunity for discussion.
The cost is €250 for the coming academic year. Booking is now open. Contact: Fr Cathal O'Fearrai 0719851295



The Pope John Paul II Award encourages young people to put their time, talent and energy at the service of their parishes and local communities.We have young people singing in choirs, cleaning chapels, working on children's Liturgy, being Ministers of the Word, visiting elderly people in their community, coaching sport, raising funds for charity, mentoring younger students, involved in tidy towns, working in charity shops and many more activities. The participants are invited to reflect on their experience in the light of faith and to think what it means for them to be baptised members of the Church. If your parish wants to get involved or you are a young person (aged 16+) who would like to take part in the Award contact Pastoral Centre on 0749121853 . More information about the Award can be found on www.thepopejohnpauliiaward.com/raphoe