The Ossory Diocesan Forum, established in 2004, following widespread consultation in the Diocese, has developed as a network of Pastoral Councils at Parish, Pastoral Area and Diocesan level. The purpose of these pastoral councils is to facilitate two-way communication, dialogue and consultation about all that pertains to the faith life of the Diocese. The vision at the heart of the Forum is a synodal one, where bishop, priests, religious and lay people, by virtue of their Baptism, share responsibility for promoting the Kingdom of God in Ossory. Identifying and addressing pastoral concerns in an on-going way and planning for the future of the Diocese is the mission of the Forum.

THE GROUPINGS THAT MAKE UP THE FORUM

The Ossory Diocesan Pastoral Council (ODPC) (Serving as an advisory group to the Apostolic Administrator)

This is the Executive body of the Forum. Its role is to be a consultative group with whom the Bishop can explore and discuss pastoral matters. It is responsible for promoting, supporting and coordinating the work of Pastoral Area Councils and Parish Pastoral Councils in the context of the Diocesan Pastoral Plan. 

The ODPC was reconstituted in January 2024 and the new Council had its first meeting of their four-year term on 19^th January.

Pastoral Area Councils (PAC)

The forty-two parishes in the Diocese are grouped into thirteen Pastoral Areas to enable the member-parishes to work collaboratively. Each of the thirteen area groupings has a Pastoral Area Pastoral Council.

Parish Pastoral Councils (PPC)

Each parish has its own Parish Pastoral Council.