A beautiful experience of sharing the journey with others

Elizabeth Parsons, Training Coordinator – Pastoral Development Department

Congratulations to the 37 participants who recently graduated after completing their Certificate in Pastoral Ministry from Loyola University.

It was our privilege to host the ceremony at the St Margaret Clitherow Centre, joined by representatives across our partnering dioceses as far afield as Clifton and the northeast, as well as several graduates attending with their family and friends.

Starting their first module in January 2021, this group made their commitment to Pastoral Ministry before Covid lockdowns had even begun. Many of them described how their studies acted as a lifeline, giving them contact with each other, as well as having something to focus their attention.

When asked to describe some of the benefits of their course, they commented it had given them ‘knowledge, so we have a roadmap to put faith into action’ and that it had been a ‘beautiful experience of sharing the journey with others.’ At the graduation we had an inspiring wall fully filled with benefits.

Joined by a representative of Loyola University, Mariana Miller, who spoke about how the course can act very much as an Emmaus Walk. It is purposefully set up to encourage people to interact and participate in discussions, learning from others’ experiences and insights, as well as their own.

Bishop Tom Williams celebrated Mass, during which the certificates were presented to the graduates. The pride in the room was overflowing and there were even one or two who enquired afterwards about when the next course would be starting – clearly a positive recommendation.

Following lunch, I asked the group to think about their next steps now that they had gained this knowledge. Some had a clear idea of the path ahead, for others the path was more unsure, but one thing was certain – the group wanted to keep in touch with each other and maintain the support they have gained and benefited from over the last two years. They wrote some advice for future groups undertaking this course. Here is a small excerpt from it:

‘Expect to change –perspectives and attitudes.’

‘Wisdom can be found just as much in other’s posts as within the course material.’

‘Don’t worry, it’s a journey which will put you in a better place with your faith.’

Please keep these graduates in your prayers as they venture forward in their ministry. If reading this, you feel inspired to enquire about the Loyola Certificate in Pastoral Ministry, please email e.parsons@rcaol.org.uk