By Sean Ryan - 18 October, 2015
An exciting new initiative for young people in the Diocese of Kerry was launched this weekend by Bishop Ray Browne.
Ógra Beo is a faith-based parish programme for post primary young people.
The programme has been launched in response to the concern expressed by parishes in the diocese of Kerry over the lack of involvement of young people.
It is intended to be a resource for parishes as they reach out to young people.
It was prompted by the words of Pope Francis that “young people are the windows through which the future enters the world”.
The Pontiff also suggested that the Church has to create the material and spiritual conditions for young people’s full development.
The Ógra Beo programme was developed to help create a sense of welcome and belonging for young people in our parishes.
It will also enhance their lives of prayer and worship, provide opportunities for them to understand and live their faith and encourage them to reach out to people who are in need both locally and globally.
According to Bishop Browne “Ógra Beo is an opportunity for young people to participate in training workshops which will include getting involved in the parish, learning to work as a team, developing leadership skills, prayer and reflection, meeting friends and having fun.”
He said that having participated in the training workshops young people will be enabled to identify and carry out an action in response to a need in the local parish.
“On completion of the Ógra Beo programme parishes will acknowledge and celebrate the commitment and gifts of young people,” the Bishop of Kerry explained.
Following this launch, training with adult leaders from around the diocese begins in Killarney on Thursday 22 October.
These adults will engage young people at parish and pastoral area level. All parishes are invited to participate and the young people will be welcomed into groups.
Ógra Beo will be coordinated by the Diocesan Pastoral Team and will provide training and a resource pack for adult leaders in local parishes.
Policies and protocols on safeguarding children will be fully integrated into the delivery of this programme.
