Events set to explore life’s big questions

A GROUP of people who have completed the Lay Pastoral Ministry programme are organising a series of events in Limerick city to answer some of life's big questions, such as, Is there a God?

They are especially interested in starting a conversation about faith with people who would typically describe themselves as spiritual but not religious. They want to open up a space for those who are searching for deeper meaning in life, who may often be uncertain or ambivalent about organised religion.

The events will run for five consecutive Mondays from 7.30pm to 9.30pm, starting on Monday, February 10, in the Hook and Ladder cafe on Sarsfield Street in the city, discussing Is there a God?

Attendees will explore the questions: Is Christianity just a moral myth? Science versus faith: is God irrelevant? How can a good God allow suffering? And what is the meaning of life?

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One of the organisers, Mossy Hynan, explained: “The whole point is about having a conversation around these things with people who would maybe self describe as spiritual but not religious, who are maybe open to asking questions but are not sure about where they stand with regard to an organised religion.”

He continued: “Our role is to facilitate the conversation rather than kind of trying to impose any kind of agenda on people... It's a safe space for reflection, conversation, and friendship.”

Each session will focus on a particular ‘'big question,’ there will be some input on the particular topic, followed by group discussion. The venue will be open from 7pm so that people will be able to settle in and get a tea or coffee etc. before the meeting begins.

Mr Hynan said they're seeking to open up an honest conversation about “the role of faith in our fragmented and polarised world... We would hope to create a sense of community among the participants.”