Continuing The Way Forward
January 2011: Bishop Seamus writes about the recent meeting of the Bishop's Council:
"Last Easter the Bishop’s Council met over four days to plan for the future of our diocese. Three of the priorities identified were: spiritual development, formation for all, and new structures. Since then a strategy committee of people and priests has been meeting and there have been gatherings for everyone in the diocese. Prayer and reflection as well as planning for the future have been at the heart of every meeting.
"From 10th - 13th January, thanks to funding from charitable trusts, the Bishop’s Council was able to meet again. This was in order to consider how the diocese might realise some of the hopes and dreams of the past nine months. Once again the meeting was residential and each day was centred around Mass and the Prayer of the Church. The Council was also energised by the appointment of Kathryn Turner as Co-ordinator for Spiritual Development in the diocese – a significant part in laying the foundation stone on which all our work must rest. The optimism which Kathryn’s appointment has generated amongst those who have met her meant that the Council met in a spirit of confidence and hope for the future.
"The four days spent together resulted in several decisions which will have long term implications for the diocese. First, there will be new structures for its governance; second, lay people as well as priests will have their part to play in these structures. Other important decisions about almost every aspect of diocesan life were taken and will unfold in the months ahead once those directly concerned have been informed.
"Every baptised Catholic in the Diocese of Hexham and Newcastle has been trusted by God to fulfil a calling which is theirs and theirs alone. As people and priests together may we be energised and joyful in living out our vocation."
+ Rt Rev Seamus Cunningham
Bishop of Hexham and Newcastle