Scottish Catholic Observer

In a short video that shown to congregations in all parishes last weekend, the bishop explained some of the problems that the diocese is currently dealing with, including a shortage of priests, falling congregations, inability to cover school and hospital chaplaincies and less opportunity for priests to make house and pastoral visits.

As such, the diocese is looking to join together some existing parishes to form a single new parish, with a new name and new parish priest.

The diocese has already seen the twinning of parishes in recent years, with one parish priest providing cover to more than one church in some parishes at present, however churches will be maintained where possible in light of the new plans.

The bishop has also proposed that the new parish be given a new name, while maintaining the dedication of the present churches.

“Whilst I understand that change can be challenging for all of us, new structures and ideas can be invigorating and create opportunities for growth and new life,” Bishop Toal said. “It will be important to set out a timeline in which the planned amalgamations will need to take place. Good cooperation between the faithful of the original parishes coming together as one new parish will be necessary. Wise leadership and support from the priests will be of critical importance for the birth and future growth of the new parish. I ask all of you to come together, to work together and to plan together to create a vibrant, loving and caring parish.”

The bishop acknowledged ‘There is obviously some pain in the proposals I am making’.

“I know how loyal and dedicated many of you are to your own parish and are very attached to what you have,” he said. “It is, however, increasingly difficult to maintain the current position. I think now is the time to move ahead. As bishop, it is important for me to care for the clergy of the diocese. My proposal to reduce the number of parishes will assist the clergy to cope with the added workload they face. I ask you to work with me and the diocese in bringing about these necessary changes. It may indeed be beneficial for all of us to be part of a larger parish community with more resources and fuller churches for the celebration of Holy Mass.”

“The priests of the diocese need your support and prayers. As your bishop, I ask you too to for your support and prayers. Let us pray together that the Lord will support and bless us in our efforts, and help us to do what is best for the future of our Catholic parishes of the diocese of Motherwell,” he concluded.

More details of the plan will be announced in the near future.