Bishops welcomed Pope Francis’ Apostolic Letter Antiquum ministerium of 10 May formally instituting the ministry of catechist, a ministry present in the Church from its earliest times. In encouraging a formal institution of this ministry, Pope Francis is reminding the faithful that there is a variety of lay ministries in the Church, new ways lay men and women can formally offer their service for the benefit of many. Catechesis can be a privileged form of evangelization. It is clear that in Ireland there is a growing recognition of how much we need Catechists in pastoral areas and dioceses to assist in the handing on of the faith not least using the new means of communication available today. Bishops look forward to a growth in the numbers exercising this ministry across Ireland.
