Announcing the annual collection in churches to fund the education of student priests for the diocese, Bishop Fintan Gavin invites support for two men who are continuing their studies.
This September two Cork and Ross seminarians, Emmanuel Ezeh and Alan McNamara, have commenced their studies in St. Patrick's College Maynooth.
Both have already completed a year of initial formation at Valladolid in Spain.
“I would ask you to keep both of these men in your prayers at Masses and at prayer groups in your parishes," Bishop Fintan says.
Another man has started his second year of studies for the Permanent Diaconate in the Diocese.
The annual appeal in churches is to meet the costs associated with training, accommodation, education and college fees and associated costs. It will be taken up at Masses on Saturday 23rd and Sunday 24th September.
Seminary courses do not qualify for any state support or grants so the full cost is borne by the diocese.
Last year the annual collection for the Priesthood Education Fund reached €70,616 which was very generous. However, the full costs of the year amounted to €112,491.
This year’s projected costs will in the region of €110,000.
“Appreciating that these are difficult financial times, I would ask you to be as generous as you can to the Priesthood Education Fund annual collection this year in order to support the future
mission of the Church in Cork and Ross,” Bishop Fintan said.
“As we plan for the future, I would ask you to continue to pray for vocations to the priesthood and religious life and in a particular way during this current Year of Vocations to Diocesan Priesthood.”
People may also support the seminarians by making a secure online donation
