What people want

The main findings of the Listening Process in St Joseph's Parish are typical of the response throughout the diocese. They are as follows:

Liturgy: Homilies should be relevant to everyday life e.g. drunk driving, fraud and contain one central point providing something to reflect upon afterwards. Priests should be willing to receive suggestions on topics. Readings should be chosen by lay people. Old Testament readings are unhelpful and negative especially to women. Language to be inclusive e.g. the word "humanity" substituted for "mankind". Teaching on Vatican II requested.

Community: Concern and dissatisfaction was expressed at the disintegration of the community. Previously the parish was a meeting place; today, fearing crime, people are cocooned in their homes. Before, families attended Mass together and spoke to one another afterwards. This needs to be rekindled through hosting Masses specifically for families. There were requests for the formation of different types of community groups with Masses tailored to the needs of these. The need to maintain the buzz and vibrancy created by the listening process was also stressed.

Education: Need for a more informed laity - religious education should not cease with school. Education also requested around problems of everyday life, including voting in elections, the PR system explained, need to come together for discussion, support and community building.

Spirituality: People wanted courses in methods of prayer e.g. meditation, contemplation, chanting etc. Bible study in small groups at parish level. Street Masses, house Masses and open-air Masses in parks called for. Taize and folk Masses and congregational singing desired. The spiritual side of Christmas to be encouraged. Theological reflection groups needed.

The Family: Deep concern that those between 20 and 45, the "cornerstone of the community", have turned their backs on the church. Special Masses for young families needed where they are involved choosing readings etc with children leaving to do drama or art at homily time. Young children could receive a special blessing when communion takes place. Young and new families should be visited by priests and links maintained. Courses on parenting and communication skills desired.

Youth: Young people alienated, no longer a foregone conclusion that those who "stray" will come back when they have children. Funerals, baptisms and weddings can be turning points provoking a return. These should be made relevant to the lives of young people. Gatherings organised in schools so youth in particular parishes can get to know each other fostering a community spirit. Youth asked for adults to be supportive and listen to them. Courses on Christian meditation requested. Special Masses to be held praying for exam success, correct career choice etc.