During COVID-19 restrictions it is very timely to talk about vocations in a time of great silence and solitude, and when people have more time to reflect on their lives and where their lives are going – Fr Willie Purcell

Two men are beginning their studies for the priesthood this autumn and a third is embarking on the permanent diaconate.

"I am very keen to encourage and nurture vocations to the priesthood from among our own young people, many of whom have strong faith and great gifts to offer our Church. How might this be done?” asks Archbishop Eamon Martin.

“At present, there are 90 priests ministering in our diocese; 27 of them are over 75. This stark figure reminds us that a radical reappraisal of what a parish community should be, how it should be organised, co-ordinated, funded and ministered, is necessary.”

“Vocations are born in prayer and only in prayer can they persevere and bear fruit” – Pope Francis.

Archbishop acknowledges frustration over constant condemnation which has given rise to “justified resentment” among priests, religious and committed Catholics at being “unfairly” attacked.

‘God has committed some work to me which he has not committed to another. No one is unimportant to God.'

Up to 600 parish representatives join Bishop Buckley and members of Cork & Ross' religious orders to mark the Year for Consecrated Life.

"We haven't been 'praying and inviting' for twenty years, and look where it has got us!" states Vocations Director.

From a low point of 7 in 2004, the numbers have steadily increased to a high point of 45 in 2014.

"Potential vocations are all around us."

Nearly 100 men and women entered seminaries and religious houses in 2013.