Paul KeenanA newly established confraternity for Irish clergy hopes to support clerics in their lives and ministry, the group’s chairman has said.
Established during a meeting of priests in Knock, Co. Mayo in late October, the Confraternity of Catholic Clergy is based on successful bodies already working for the wellbeing of priests in Australia, the United States, and Britain.
Well received
Speaking to The Irish Catholic, group chairman Fr Gerard Deighan said the formulation of the confraternity had been well received by priests from across Ireland who very often work alone in their respective parishes.
“I myself feel the need to meet other priests for prayer and for ongoing faith formation,” Fr Deighan said.
He went on to explain that the Confraternity of Catholic Clergy aims to offer this “mutual support and encouragement”.
The confraternity, he added, hopes to further assist clergy through conferences and lectures locally and nationally.
Pointing out that the group utilises the term ‘clergy’ in its name, Fr Deighan insisted the confraternity is open to deacons and bishops as well as priests.
Any clergy interested in the work of the Confraternity of Catholic Clergy can email the group at ccceire@gmail.com