Issues outlined at priests' gathering of Irish Priests in Portlaoise, Ireland /Irish Times

The Irish Times - Thursday, September 16, 2010

http://www.irishtimes.com/newspaper/ireland/2010/0916/1224278993367.html

GENEVIEVE CARBERY

"CHALLENGING THE role of women in the church and the treatment of priests falsely accused of abuse are among the objectives which were outlined at the inaugural meeting of the Association of Irish Priests yesterday."

"Some 300 priests turned out for the meeting of the association which aims to provide a “voice” for clergy. Organisers had expected between 50 to 70 priests to attend the meeting at the parish centre in Portlaoise, Co Laois and had to change venue to accommodate the interest."

"The high turnout showed that the association had “touched a nerve” and that there was a “voice needed” by the Irish clergy, one of the founders, Fr Brendan Hoban, said. The association will be very proactive and will have spokesmen on issues that arise in the church and society, Fr Hoban said."

"He outlined the aims and objectives which he said are based on the teachings of the second Vatican council. The role of women in the church is “in need of a change”, Fr Hoban said."

Bridget Mary's Reflection.

This gathering of Irish priests is a breath of fresh air for the church. When 300 priests speak out and stand in solidarity, the Vatican will notice! Surely, they can't fire 300 priests. Who would be left in the priest-short parishes? Now if this band of progressive brothers could only light a fire for other such gatherings of priests worldwide, perhaps, then, all of us who are working for reform and renewal in our church could come together for Vatican 3, the Council of the People of God. Let us pray and dream together that God's power working within the community of faith can move mountains---no matter what the resistance!

On a personal note, tt gives me great joy to think that such a movement is born in Portlaoise where some of my cousins live and not far from where we lived when I was a child. We spent several days there this summer and celebrated our most recent family wedding there last year. Amazing and wonderful, indeed!

Bridget Mary Meehan,RCWP

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