by Jim McKendrick

With the easing of Covid restrictions, the Diocese of Galloway has embarked on an exciting new initiative which will allow parish groups to meet in person or online. The Sycamore course is being introduced to encourage groups throughout the diocese to meet to revitalise the experience of parish community.

Sycamore is a video-based programme which allows parishes to choose from a range of topics in order to engage parishioners in sharing and reflection. The programme is available online for those who find it easier to join virtually. Parishes have been encouraged to organise core teams of lay leaders who are familiar with the material, and who can present it in the way they feel most comfortable. Each session is a mixture of a video presentation from Father Stephen Wang (heavily involved in the creation and delivery of the course since 2014 and recently appointed as the new rector of the English College in Rome), interspersed with times of sharing and reflection. It is a very professionally produced series of presentations, and a very good resource to encourage conversation and exchange.

Fr. William McFadden, in his role as Adult Education Co-ordinator, is leading the introduction and roll out of Sycamore throughout the diocese. He explained: ‘The timing of the programme is flexible, depending on local needs, but it is hoped that most parishes will use the period between 11th October to 19th November, and so give a sense of diocesan togetherness and unity’.