Vocations shortage - Change in faith blamed

Bishop of Kerry Dr Bill Murphy’s statement yesterday that Ireland has the lowest number of vocations in the western world may surprise many people. His suggestion that this has been the result of “affluence” and the opposition of parents to having a son enter the Church may be even more surprising.

In a comparatively short time, things have certainly changed from when this country had one of the highest levels of vocations and essentially exported priests around the globe. There were so many priests that comparatively small areas formed parishes, but — as in other countries — it is now likely many parishes will have to amalgamate.

Smaller families have undoubtedly contributed to the change in attitude towards a priest in the family. Most parents want grandchildren and frequently, they wish to hand on a business or farm to one of their own.