Mission Statement of the Bishop of Cloyne

In a world where the signs of darkness are evident as:

· economics becomes the new religion;

· the potential of technology for good or evil increases;

· the fabric of society is weakened by threats to the family, unemployment, violence and communal conflict;

· the Church suffers from scandals, erosion of membership, decline in vocations and other weaknesses;

and in a world where the signs of light and life are evident in:

· a growing sense of the brotherhood and sisterhood of mankind;

· a new tolerance and regard for the riches inherent in diverse cultures and faiths;

· the many emerging charisms and the commitment of many people working to build Christian community;

· the call to a New Evangelisation;

MY MISSION AS BISHOP OF THE DIOCESE OF CLOYNE IS:

BECOMING A CLOSE FRIEND OF CHRIST IN CONTEMPLATIVE PRAYER AND, CAPTIVATED BY THE DEEP WONDER AT HUMAN DIGNITY AND WORTH WHICH IS AT THE HEART OF THE GOSPEL, TO CONTINUE CHRIST’S MISSION BY PROCLAIMING THE GOOD NEWS, IN SEASON AND OUT OF SEASON, TO ALL PEOPLE AND ESPECIALLY TO THE POOR AND THE MARGINALISED.

I will fulfil my mission through….

· A new pastoral strategy, based on a collaborative approach to ministry, harnessing the variety of charisms among men and women of the Christian Community;

· Adopting language, liturgies and devotions relevant to the modern context and in keeping with the norms of the Church, always retaining what is best in the traditional;

· Celebrating the Sacraments especially Confirmation and the Eucharist;

· Encouraging, loving and resourcing the priests and catechists of the Diocese;

· Promoting peace, reconciliation and healing activity as a bridge-builder whenever there is division;

· Paying special attention to the family and young people;

· Inspiring a missionary and evangelising Church which reaches out to other Churches in greater need;

· Being ready humbly to seek help and advice when I am in need

Through communion with my fellow Bishops and with the Universal Church, especially with the Vicar of Christ.

Inspired by this Mission, to which I have been called by Christ, I shall radiate confidence as I go out to bring to all the Message of Eternal Life.

+ John Magee

Bishop of Cloyne.