Church and Society Commission
'Local Partnerships' booklet launched
Local Partnerships: A theological & pastoral reflection was launched by The Church in Society Social Justice & Theology Panel (RI) on Monday 20th November in Church of Ireland House, Dublin.
Local partnerships are organisations that define services to groups in need in particular localities. The partnership is made up of the statutory services and local people working together to provide the necessary services.
Speaking at the launch, the Rt Revd Dr Michael Jackson, Bishop of Clogher and Chairperson of the Church in Society Committee believes that the Church of Ireland ought not to be reticent in engaging with the community. ?If we have a Gospel to proclaim, as we so often sing, then we ought to proclaim it by action as well as by words ? generously, structurally, locally,? he said. He welcomed the publication praising its succinct and informative style, its ability to engage with the Church?s history of social action and its use of contemporary and practical examples.
?This admirable publication offers us a way back into the proper engagement of Christian people in the things which matter locally, within the society of which we are part and beyond the church door?, he said.
The Very Revd Gordon Wynne, Chairperson of Social Justice & Theology Panel (RI) of the Church in Society Committee stated that the aim of the pamphlet was to encourage the Church in the Republic of Ireland to engage in active and social care locally.
He emphasised the importance of volunteers working together with statutory agencies to provide local services and drew a parallel between this booklet and the Government?s Task Force on Active Citizenship.
?To be credible and effective the Church needs, we believe, to be critical of itself and to learn to stand beside people to minister among them, not to stand over them to minister to them. This is not necessarily an easy lesson to learn, but we believe it to be the right thing,? he said.
The Appendix offers a guide for use in the parish and suggests ways in which this booklet can help to enrich parish life. The questions can be modified for use by schools and colleges or youth organisations. A copy will be distributed to all serving clergy in the Republic.
The Very Revd Gordon Wynne, Chairperson of the Social Justice & Theology Panel (RI) and Mr Lachlan Cameron, Retired Educationalist and member of the Panel at the launch of 'Local Partnerships'