Future Church ‘about increased involvement of lay people’ says bishop-elect

Future Church ‘about increased involvement of lay people’ says bishop-elect Papal Nuncio Archbishop Jude Thaddeus Okolo and Bishop-elect Fr Martin Hayes and others seen outside St Patrick and St Felim cathedral Cavan town after Mass. Photo: John McElroy

The newly-appointed Bishop of Kilmore has insisted that laypeople must play an increasingly important role in decision-making.

Bishop-elect Martin Hayes said the Church of the future will see more lay involvement and co-responsibility between priests and the laity.

Speaking on his appointment as Bishop of Kilmore, Bishop-elect Hayes said his brief “will be to listen, learn and draw upon my recent experience of pastoral planning”.

“I am aware of the time invested in pastoral planning in Kilmore,” said Fr Hayes (60), “and the efforts to respond in changing times with a mission that can be effective and relevant.

“My hope and prayer is that we can work together here in Kilmore with the help of the good Lord to nurture the faith and continue to ensure a place of welcome and hospitality for all.”

Vision

Fr Hayes hoped the diocese could carry out Pope Francis vision of the Church as ‘a field-hospital’, especially as we emerge from the impact of the pandemic.

“May we be a refuge of healing and encouragement with space for all who are searching for meaning,” said Bishop-elect Hayes.

A number of bishops offered a warm welcome to Bishop-elect Hayes, including Archbishop Eamon Martin.

“I offer my sincere congratulations and prayerful support to Bishop-elect Hayes on what is a joyous day for him, his family, friends and for the faithful of the 35 parishes of Kilmore,” Archbishop Eamon said.

“Fr Hayes’ considerable pastoral experience and interest in youth, vocation, marriage and family issues will be of great benefit not only to his leadership and pastoral care in the Diocese of Kilmore, but will also bring fresh ideas and insights to our discussions at the bishops’ conference.”

Bishop-elect Hayes has a great deal of pastoral experience, being appointed in 2017 to the position of Director of Pastoral Planning & Development in the Archdiocese of Cashel and Emly.

He undertook two ‘Listening Process’ with 46 parishes in 2017/18, as well as taking part in the ‘Gathering of Parishes’ in 2019.