Eucharistic Minister Training Days

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We were delighted to invite Fr Chris Thomas and Sr Moira Meeghan from the Irenaeus Project to St Clare’s Parish Hall, Sefton Park on Saturday 7 September to deliver their thorough and thought-provoking training to a new batch of Eucharistic Ministers from the Liverpool South Pastoral Area and environs.  It was very encouraging to welcome so many who had responded compassionately to the call to this most rewarding ministry – especially ‘younger’ parishioners.

There was lively discussion, especially around the topic of Vatican ii and should parishioners wish to explore this further, do let me know and we can arrange something. Sr Moria also gave us training as Dementia friends enabling us to appreciate more fully the joys of dementia as well as being aware of how to support those who display signs of the disease. Grateful thanks to St Clare’s Parish for hosting us so generously.

Two identical sessions on consecutive afternoons (15 & 22 November) were arranged for current Eucharistic Ministers from the Liverpool South Pastoral Area at the Carmel Monastery, Maryton and over the two sessions we welcomed 33 ministers.

Starting with a profound eucharistic reflection on part of paragraph 236 of Pope Francis’ Encyclical Laudato Si, given by MaryAnne Francalanza fcJ, we were able to ground ourselves spiritually as we explored the interconnectedness of the eucharist within the cosmos. The far-reaching implications that the celebration of the Eucharist in a humble country church connected with each and every one of us globally, was particularly striking.

Mgr Peter Fleetwood then invited us to look at the way Catholics have traditionally approached death (many asking for “the Last Rites” which do not actually exist).  Anointing of the Sick (administered to bring spiritual strength during an illness and not exclusively near the time of death) was discussed in depth.

We explored ways of ministering to the sick and dying based on a booklet by Fr Stephen Cooper and Mgr Peter Fleetwood (originally produced for Fazakerley hospitals) containing meaningful prayers and support suggestions.

We ended our time joining the Sisters for Evening Prayer and Benediction and are deeply grateful to them for hosting us, and to our facilitators for leading this emotive time of profoundly spiritual and personal reflection.