“There is great hope for diocesan priesthood in Ireland” – Father Purcell

Commenting on a recent gathering and retreat for young adults that took place on 15 to 18 August, Father Willie Purcell, the director of the National Office for Diocesan Vocations, said, “It was great to be present at the Youth 2000 gathering in Clongowes Wood College SJ, in Clane, Co Kildare, and to join with over 500 young people who are so joyful and enthusiastic about living their faith.”

Father Purcell continued, “It was also encouraging to meet with the 25 men who joined us for our workshop on diocesan priesthood. Taking the risk for Christ and committing to serve Him as a priest is eternally rewarding. There is great hope for diocesan priesthood in Ireland.”

The National Vocations team, which comprises Bishop Alphonsus Cullinan, chair of the Council for Vocations of the Irish Catholic Bishops’ Conference; Father Purcell; and, Reverend Eric Cooney (Deacon), administrator of the National Vocations Office, were in attendance at the Youth 2000 summer festival.

Call to Action

To find out more about vocations to the diocesan priesthood, email eric.cooney@vocations.ie or visit HERE.   

For details on the work and activities of Youth 2000, email nationalleader@youth2000.ie, or visit HERE.