A campaign to reach out to youth, newcomers and those who do not attend church regularly has been launched in the Catholic diocese of Kildare and Leighlin. The "Reach Out" campaign was launched by Bishop Jim Moriarty in Newbridge, Co Kildare.
It is a response to issues raised by people in the diocese following the publication last year of Together in Christ, a draft guide to the diocese. That publication marked the start of a dialogue about what should be key priorities in the diocese over coming years.
From next Sunday, the Second Sunday of Advent, congregations in all the churches in the diocese will be invited to bring home a specially designed candle and leaflet, and to drop them to neighbours. Everyone will be invited to light this candle in their home on Christmas Eve. A larger version will be lit in every church at Christmas as a further symbol of welcome and unity.
The "Reach Out" campaign will continue into 2005, supported by the relaunch of the diocesan website, awareness campaigns, a programme of visitation throughout the diocese, and a joint initiative with Trócaire for Lent 2005.