The Archdiocese of Tuam has recently launched a new quarterly magazine aimed at improving communications between the diocese, the clergy and parishioners.The magazine entitled, New Dawn, has been developed as a result of a number of listening meeting organised by the Diocesan Pastoral Council over the past two years, where one of the issues identified was the lack of a proper communications structure to keep people informed on what is happening within the church.
It is expected that New Dawn will shine a spotlight on the vast range of activities throughout the Archdiocese of Tuam, exploring the changes in the Church as the laity, through pastoral councils and cluster groups , take on a greater role supporting the work of the Church.
The first edition of the magazine contains features of the increased role of Pastoral Councils, a foreword by the Archbishop of Tuam, Archbishop Michael Neary as well as articles on the contribution made by people from the Archdiocese in the celebration of the Eucharistic Congress, the great work being done with the elderly by Transition Year Students as well as interviews with two newly ordained priests Fr Eugene O'Boyle and Fr Shane O'Sullivan.
Speaking about the magazine, editor Fr Finatn Monahan, who is also the Diocesan secretary, said “The magazine is our response to the demand expressed by very many people for an improved communications structure to keep people informed about the many happenings going on in the Church and parishes of the Archdiocese. The intention of the editorial board is to ensure the magazine is responsive to the needs of the people and reflects what is happening in the church, at the level of the clergy, at pastoral council level and among young people.”
He added, “It is a difficult time for the church because of the decline in the number of priests but is also a challenge and a time of opportunity for greater involvement by lay people.”
New Dawn was launched in the McWilliam Park Hotel in Claremorris in County Mayo by Archbishop Neary.
As well as Editor Fr Fintan Monahan , the editorial board will also include Fr Pat Farragher (Chairman), Christy Loftus (assistant Editor), David Harkin, John Healy, Denise Horgan, Trena Lynch, Ann McHale, Sean Rice and Sean Staunton.
Journalist John Fallon from Media West Ireland will act as consultant editor.
The magazine, which will publish its next edition in September, retails at €3.