Safeguarding Children

The Diocese of Meath has over recent years worked very closely with the HSE in putting in place trained child protection representatives in all parishes. Progress reviews take place at regular intervals during the course of the year between Diocesan and HSE personnel.

The Diocese has shared and continues to share with the HSE all information in relation to concerns that arise in the area of child protection. The advice of the HSE is followed in setting up reporting procedures, for which the Diocesan Delegate and parish representatives have been trained by HSE personnel. If a complaint arises, the Diocese gives its full cooperation to the Gardaí.

If anyone has a child protection concern, disclosure or allegation, the Diocese asks you to come forward so that children can be safeguarded and healing can begin.

Contact details for the Diocesan Delegate and parish representatives are available in church porches.

25 November 2009

A little holiday reading...
 

Pope Benedict's recent homilies and reflections provide valuable insights worthy of reflection at this time when some will take a break away for a time of renewal with family and friends.

His schedule over the past few months has seen the conclusion of the Jubilee Year of St Paul, the opening of the Year for Priests. On these occasions, his homilies and letters have directed hearts and minds to a deeper reflection of the message of Christ and its increasing relevance in the lives of priests and people.

During his vacation in the Italian Alps, he saw his injury as a means of learning greater patience and humility. We might take some hope in this vision of life as we work through any disappointments of the past while and prepare for the coming months.

The Sunday Gospels at this time focus our thoughts on the Eucharist. The Holy Father's reflection on the little boy with the fives loaves and two fishes might apply to all our lives and all the parishes in our diocese. His reflections on Gospel values in the world of sport highlight the importance of team-work in supporting the ethical and moral education of our youth.

If you are taking a break and want to bring some spiritual reading with you, perhaps you could consider some of these reflections as suitable food for thought and prayer.

Let us remember each other at the altar of God.


+Michael Smith
Bishop of Meath