OLSASP (Our Lady of Sorrows and St Philip) Internet Discussion Group
November 2010
What is this about?
One of the key purposes of a Pastoral Parish Council is to nourish the spiritual life of its community. We are well and truly in the digital age now and some of us have been wondering about how that fact could be used beneficially for our community.
As a parish, some would say that we are very good at all sorts of activities from looking after the buildings and finance to providing marvellous support for projects such as CAFOD and the Poitiers Project, but that we are not quite so good at fostering our own spiritual lives as individuals or as a community. We have therefore decided that for those of us who would like to take advantage of such an opportunity, we will set up a parish internet discussion group with that very aim of nourishing the spiritual life of our community. How the group evolves is yet to be seen, but at the outset we would expect the focus to be squarely on us as a community and our spiritual life. Living our faith can often be a solitary journey and some would welcome the opportunity to share with and support each other as we strive to live lives with Jesus at their centre.
How does it work?
For those not familiar with discussion groups, they work by having members who can send in (i.e. post) comments to different ongoing discussions. Any member can start a discussion and, or, post original comments or replies to others’ comments in any discussion.
Do I have to write anything?
Some people might have no inclination to post anything (which is fine, it’s meant to be a help, not a source of stress) but they might find they do like to read the discussions.
What kinds of things might be discussed?
People may have questions to ask, they may want to recommend a book they have read or website they have found, or bring to people’s attention a forthcoming TV or radio programme or some other event, or recommend going somewhere they have just been on a retreat; anything in fact that has to do with our community’s spiritual life.
Who can join the group and see what we write?
Initially, since one key focus of the group is us as a community, membership will be restricted to only members of our parish and those closely connected to it. Only members of the group will be able to see what is written. This means that people will have to apply to join the group, which actually only means telling us your email address and who you are.
How do I join the group?
To join the group, go to this website: OLSASP
Steve Berry Chairman PPC