The Diocese of Kerry developed a new role in pastoral leadership in response to the synodal call that each baptised person should play a part in their local communities. The diocese said the new role was created as there is a growing concern about the future of the parishes with the dropping number of available priests.
“We must ask ourselves how our local church communities can remain a vibrant Christian presence,” the ‘Ministry of Pastoral Leader’ brochure reads. Answering that question, the diocese is creating an opportunity for the community to work alongside clergy in keeping the church communities alive and vibrant.
The new Pastoral Leaders will co-ordinate, support and take responsibility for particular aspects of ministry “in response to local needs.” The diocese explains this role will “involve taking responsibility for some ministries traditionally carried out by priests.” It does not mean replacing priests, but it “complements” the ministry of deacons and priests.
Pastoral Leader “is an evolving role [in Kerry Diocese] as the parish and pastoral areas respond to a new way of being Church.” Training starts in January 2026 and is designed to be a blend of online modules and in person gatherings in St John Paul II Pastoral Centre, Killarney
