Meath diocesan gatheringspirituality day
Meath Diocesan Gathering/Spirituality Day
Theme: The Pioneers, Beacon of Light in the Darkness of Addiction
Following a successful event last year, the Pioneers of Meath Diocese are holding another Gathering/Spirituality Day in Bloomfield House Hotel on Sunday October 4.
The theme of the day is ‘The Pioneers, a Beacon of Light in the Darkness of Addiction’.
Pioneers promise to remain off alcohol and illegal drugs for life and to say a short prayer twice daily. This prayer and sacrifice is offered to those who are suffering from addiction.
People who are addicted to alcohol or drugs often cut themselves off from family and friends so the prayer of the Pioneer might be the only hope they have of lifting themselves out of this darkness.
A full and interesting day is promised. It will kick off with an address from Pioneer president James Shevlin, on his vision for the organisation during his term of office.
This will be followed by a talk from spiritual director Fr Bernard McGuckian, who has interesting stories from his long experience of life in the Pioneer movement.
After lunch (always good at Bloomfield House!), Bishop Eamonn Walsh will speak on the implications of the Pioneers’ future role as a Lay Association of the Faithful.
Next there is quiet time of prayer and reflection led by Fr Barry Condron PP, former chairman of the association.
Fr Micheál McGreil will be on hand with advice and encouragement for the future. One of Ireland’s most significant and influential sociologists, as is evidenced in his recent book ‘The Ongoing Present’, Fr Micheál will have many interesting things to say.
Bishop Micheál Smith, who has always been supportive of the organisation, will celebrate Mass in the evening.
That will be followed by evening tea and there will be a bit of informal musical entertainment for those who are not exhausted by then!
Agenda
10.30am: Arrival and Registration.
10.45am: Address of Welcome by Margaret Brady, chairperson of Diocesan Pioneer Committee.
10.50am: Address by new president James Shevlin, on his vision for the organisation (followed by questions from floor).
11.45am: Address by spiritual director, Fr Bernard McGuckian, on the theme of the Gathering followed by questions and suggestions from the floor.
12.30pm: Lunch
13.30: Address by Bishop Eamonn Walsh on new role as a Lay Association of the Faithful under the direction of the Episcopal Conference followed by questions.
14.30: Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament guided by Fr Barry Condron, PP.
15.30: Fr Micheál McGreil drawing on his vast experience to give hope and encouragement for the future.
16.00: Break for raffle and preparation for Mass.
16.30: Celebration of the Eucharist with the Bishop of Meath, Most Rev Dr Micheál Smith.
17.15: Closing Address by Fr Seamus Houlihan, PP, spiritual director of Meath Diocese.
17.30: Tea and refreshments.
18.00: Short time of music and song for those who wish to stay a while.