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16th October 2023

Dear Father, Deacon, Sister and Brother,

100 years of Apostolic Work

October, Mission month, reminds us that we are part of a global Church - and especially of those areas of the world where our missionary priests, brothers, sisters and lay people are bringing the good news to communities who have not heard the Gospel message.

This month provides an opportunity to acknowledge the work of the many charitable organisations who work tirelessly to support those in need, especially those Christian organisations who work on our behalf.

Apostolic Work has been celebrating this year 100 years since its formation, and 84 years in the Archdiocese of Armagh. What is very clear to me is that the work of the Apostolic Work continues to be valuable and is still most worthy of our support.

At a recent meeting of the Apostolic Workers from the Archdiocese of Armagh and the Diocese of Dromore, I was encouraged to hear that in 2022 the organisation sent over £130,000 in financial aid to the missions, as well as more than 50 Mass kits, 50 Chalice & Paten sets, 80 Chasubles and many other necessary liturgical items.

While the work of Apostolic Work may be changing in nature from the practical sewing of linens and making of vestments, the need for these and other items such as vessels and material goods continues.

I am hoping that parishes across the Archdiocese of Armagh and the Diocese of Dromore, especially those who have had a tradition of Apostolic Work would consider ways in which they can reignite this Missionary Spirit. To that end, on November 18th at 2pm in the Synod Hall in Armagh, a new executive committee for Apostolic Work in the Archdiocese will be elected. Existing or previous Members are encouraged to attend this meeting as well as anyone with an interest or willingness to become part of this worthy missionary group.

I wish to take the opportunity to thank the members of Apostolic Work for their wonderful work in supporting our overseas missionaries.

I ask God’s blessing on all the voluntary organisations who do so much in the support of the developing Church and those in need.

With good wishes,

Yours sincerely,

Most Rev Eamon Martin

Apostolic Administrator

Diocese of Dromore