Sir, - The structures of the church in Ireland are essentially maintenance structures. What is needed now is to shift the balance from maintenance to mission. This would be similar to what the theologian Fr Bernard Haring has described as a move from "a moralistic paradigm of obedience to an ethic of responsibility and co-responsibility". It will require a paradigm shift as large as that of the "sick man" Ireland of 10 years ago to the Celtic Tiger of today. This is not as far fetched as it seems because many of the energetic innovators throughout Ireland who created the Celtic Tiger are members of the Church, whether practising or not, and would be available if the Church could develop the insight to call them to its flag.
We know how creative the Irish people can be. The Irish church was creative once and could be again if the energies can be released.
A great many parishes in Ireland are actively involved in parish development and renewal programmes. I myself was involved in a parish where over 500 were involved in parish ministry at any one time. Many were educating themselves in theology and scripture and over 30 took the trouble to study ministry for two years in All Hallows College. The willingness is there in the laity to be more involved in the Church's work, but unless the overall structures are overhauled none of these efforts will endure. It is the inherent understanding of this that is causing frustration to priests and people alike.
A church that could command the commitment and energies of its people would also have a profound influence on ecumenism, especially in its relationship to the Church of Ireland. Those of us who live and work in rural Ireland appreciate the witness of the Church of Ireland clergy and people have drawn close to each other in parishes all over the land. It is in these parishes that inability to share the Eucharist is most keenly felt. It is in such settings that the two traditions form one community.
- Yours, etc.
Donard, Co Wicklow.