Although faith sharing house groups in some form or other have been present in the parish for many years, the present form of the Faith Sharing House Groups really only started in Lent 2015. Since then we have had similar groups during Advent 2015 and Lent 2016. During these three Liturgical Seasons the numbers of participants has been between 45 and 50, divided into 5 or 6 Groups.
It is extremely encouraging that most groups have continued in some shape or form outwith these Seasons. Perhaps the following points could be commented upon further and I could do so at the AGM if you wish:
1: The Groups bonded together in a very inspiring way. It was easier for the larger groups to become self-driven. It was less easy for the smaller sized groups to become self- sustaining. At these, if one or two couldn’t attend a meeting, it became less easy to sustain. There may be an optimum size for faith sharing groups.
2: The meetings were all relaxed, friendly, supportive and informal.
3: There appears to be a hard core of about 50 in our parish who benefit greatly in this form of regular mutual self-support in their faith. It is quite amazing and very encouraging.
4: The material for the groups to discuss is improving and seems to be well received. It is quite time-consuming to produce it. It was particularly hard this last occasion because Lent came very, very soon after Christmas. We all owe a debt, particularly to one person who just got on with it and wrote nearly all of it.
5: A huge debt of gratitude is due to all participants and to hosts and leaders. They shone with enthusiasm and inspiration, which the rest of us can feed on.
6: If you haven’t managed to attend a Faith Sharing House Group, try to come along in the future. The support is very definitely there. It has been very good so far but it can only get better with more of you involved.
Contact – Deacon Len Moir