A new e-publication was launched nationally this week, focusing on the unsung heroes of our parishes, hospitals and prisons, those working in lay pastoral ministry, across Australia.
The Australian Catholic Council for Lay Pastoral Ministry (ACCLPM) is producing the first e-publication of its kind in Australia, known as ‘Lay Pastoral Ministry News’.
It features reflections, stories, prayers, resources and personal profiles from lay people working on the ground in pastoral ministry.
Sister Kari Hatherell OSU, Chairperson of the ACCLPM, explained that “today, many lay people work as pastoral associates, catechists, sacramental coordinators, youth ministers in parishes as well as hospital and prison ministry, and a variety of other settings. The list is endless”.
Editor of Lay Pastoral Ministry News, Donella Johnston, said the e-publication provides a platform for the unsung heroes of our Church to share their stories and experiences about working behind the scenes to keep parishes going and support the work of their priest, hospital or prison chaplain.
“Mission and ministry is not some airy fairy thing just for priests and holy people,” Ms Johnston said.
“It is the day-to-day hard slog of keeping the parish community running.
“Ministry is essential to offering a place for Catholics to gather, hear God’s word, celebrate the Eucharist and go out into the world refreshed and inspired to live and share the Good News,” she said.
A major focus for the ACCLPM is a research project investigating the current landscape of lay pastoral ministry in Australia. From this project, national guidelines will be published to promote and support Lay Pastoral Ministry.
“This e-publication has been established so that we can begin sharing some of the results of the research and engage as many people as possible in drafting the guidelines,” Sr Kari explained.
The e-publication has a dedicated website where all of the news and stories can be shared. Everyone is welcome to sign up and receive Lay Pastoral Ministry News via the online form at https://acclpm.catholic.org.au.
The ACCLPM is an advisory body of the Bishops Commission for Church Ministry.
For more information about LPM News or to share a story with the Editor, contact Donella Johnston at acclpm@catholic.org.au.