Report highlights challenges facing Diocese of Limerick

THE Limerick Diocesan Overview has revealed the significant resources challenge facing the Catholic church in Limerick.

The report, which has been distributed to parishes across the diocese, details the activity currently being carried out by clergy, parishioners, religious, staff and volunteers.

The overview revealed that the largest weekend Mass attendance in Limerick is currently 882 while the smallest is 42.

The report states that the average age of the 88 priests in the diocese today is 72 years, with just over half of them under 75.

The overview also reveals that in 15 years time, there will be just 13 priests under 75 compared to 47 today. Conversely, there is just one seminarian in the diocese today.

The recently-completed report goes into detail on the financial challenges currently being faced, with services provided by the diocese incurring losses over income in excess of €1m each year.

The shortfall is currently funded through investments; however, the overview also suggests a variety of new forms of financial support for parishes including the Charitable Donation Scheme, standing orders, online donations, QR-code contributions and contactless payments.

The overview revealed that there has been a 37% drop in offertory collections, the primary source of income in parishes, since 2010.

Current priest income is €30,000 per annum, with 26 of the 60 parishes in the diocese struggling to provide that.

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Priests serving in the 60 parishes receive a basic gross income from the four collections held in support of the clergy throughout the year but may receive additional offerings for the celebration of the sacraments and Mass intentions.

Where a priest does not receive the basic income, he is helped to reach the basic income through support from his fellow clergy who have received more than the basic income in their parishes.

The overview also stated that there are some 2,500 volunteers helping out in various ways across the 60 parishes and 16 pastoral units.

Collectively, among other services, these provide for 436 Masses weekly, 168 on weekends, as well as regular visitation of the sick and housebound, funerals and bereavement ministry, plus support of Limerick Social Services.

Bishop Brendan Leahy said that the report highlights the good news from the diocese while helping them plan for the future.

“We have to take a new direction, we have to work together to find that and I’ve every confidence we will do that.

“The overview illustrates the incredible work being done by so many, work that must be continued. Yes, there are challenges and change is always needed to meet challenges. But the church is still an enormously powerful community of good in Ireland.

“So, I’ve every confidence that we will find that way forward and continue this amazing work.”

He added: “This overview comes at a right time. It’s an opportunity to show the amazing giving that happens week in and week out and also to issue an invitation to others to join in this wonderful mission of ours.

“St Thérèse of Lisieux, who was patron saint of missions, said it is confidence and nothing but confidence that must lead us to Love and to be love is our mission, it is the heart of the church.”