Archbishop Dermot Farrell recently issued a Pastoral Letter for the whole Archdiocese of Dublin. Alongside it, he published a formal document called, "The Process for the Modification of Parishes for Mission" (May 2026).
These are important texts. They speak honestly about the challenges facing our Church today – fewer priests, changing communities, and the need to “travel lighter.” But more than that, they are filled with hope. The Archbishop is not asking us to give up. He is asking us to renew, to work together, and to trust the Holy Spirit.
We know that official documents can feel long or difficult to read. That is why your Partnership Pastoral Council has prepared a simple, warm, and accessible summary – written especially for our three parishes.
What’s inside the summary?
A clear explanation of the Archbishop’s main message: becoming a “living Church”
What “Building Hope” means for us
A step‑by‑step guide to the parish modification process (in plain English)
What you can expect as a parishioner
A prayer and our partnership mission statement
How to get your copy
Printed copies are available at the back of each of our three churches (Hartstown, Huntstown/Littlepace, and Mountview/Blakestown) this weekend and going forward.
Download or read online below – click the link to view the full summary document.
What happens next?
Nothing is decided yet. The process begins with prayer, listening, and honest conversation. You will be invited to open parish meetings when the time comes. Your voice matters.
If you have any questions after reading the summary, please speak to any member of the Parish Pastoral Council. We are here to listen, to walk with you, and to journey together.
A prayer for our pilgrimage
Come, Holy Spirit, fire of love. You lead us on this pilgrimage together – three parishes, one family, walking as partners in renewal. Give us courage to face reality, hope to travel lighter, and trust that every one of us has a gift to give. Amen
Let us move forward with faith, not fear. Let us be faithful, creative, hope‑filled and resilient – just as the Archbishop asks.
St. Peregrine’s Partnership Pastoral Council
For more information, the full Pastoral Letter and the Process for Modification are also available at www.dublindiocese.ie/pastoral-letter-may-2026/
