In the wake of the Oct 17th 2026 Irish Synodal Assembly in Gormanston, Co Meath, Ireland’s Caholic bishops are to undertake an immediate review of the work of parish and diocesan pastoral councils (PPCs).

They are also to promote the ministry of parish catechists.

They declare this intention following their own Autumn 2026 meeting in Maynooth.

“As an immediate step, bishops agreed to review the work of parish and diocesan pastoral councils.  They also committed themselves to further developing the ministry of Catechist, supporting people who help others understand and grow in their faith.  A pilot project of training for this ministry is to begin in a number of dioceses in September 2027.” 

An ACI pilot study in 2019 indicated that while about two in every three Irish parishes had PPCs, not all were considered effective.

A recent Vatican report suggests that Catholic canon law may soon be amended to make PPCs mandatory for all parishes, and to allow bishops to make rules for their operation.