Posted by Don Browne on 12/13/16
Another Boy
Sleepless and bewildered but gloriously proud, the husband of Mary emerged from the stable and made his way to the census taker’s booth. For it was the decree of Imperial Rome, ordering a general census, that had brought them to Bethlehem. The angel’s song hummed through ... Read More »
Posted by Don Browne on 11/19/16
How These Lost Heroes of the Diaspora Can Inspire Us in Today’s Troubled World
The absolute shock from last week’s US Presidential Election results can be felt on both sides of the pond. Even those who wanted Donald Trump were utterly astonished by his margin of victory. This ... Read More »
Posted by Don Browne on 11/10/16
In last week’s newsletters, I was particularly moved by two cover story tributes to parish members who should always be remembered for their contributions AND their sacrifices.
Tribute to Sister Ellen from Brackenstown
I never knew Sister Ellen O’Donoghue, S.M.R., but after reading the St. Cronan’s cover story entitled ... Read More »
Posted by Don Browne on 11/02/16
I remember when I served on my Parish Pastoral Council a few years back, there was a big ado over re-writing our church’s mission statement. The existing statement was very uninspiring, seemingly written out of obligation, and before our current pastor – a more progressive “pro-Vatican II” priest ... Read More »
Posted by Don Browne on 10/18/16
The last book of the Bible – Revelations – was written in the years 94-96 AD. While there is still much to learn, debate and be inspired by from all the writings of the Old and New Testaments, I’ve often wondered if there would be more books added ... Read More »
Posted by Don Browne on 10/05/16
Welcome to our new website, AND our new Blog – the Parish Awakens!
We believe there is a new spirit of re-birth in the church, and we’ve witnessed it in the many parishes we serve and have visited. This blog was created to share our encounters as well as ... Read More »
Posted by Don Browne on 9/02/16
Vibrant Newsletter Tips – Hospitality is what we ARE
Last week we discussed the importance of branding, and having a consistent brand identity starting with your weekly newsletter, and integrating throughout all your parish communications.
While having a dynamic and recognizable logo is essential, a parish looking to become ... Read More »
Posted by Don Browne on 9/02/16
Vibrant Newsletter Tips – Branding Your Parish
Archbishop Thomas Murphy wrote that “Belonging leads to belief.” The same can be said for branding. The more you see a consistent brand identity for a product or organization, the more convinced you are of its legitimacy. And like it or not, ... Read More »
Posted by Don Browne on 9/02/16
Vibrant Newsletter Tips – 12 June 2016
Your Newsletter can also be the Church’s Bridal GuideI received a very nice email from the secretary of one of our member churches who loves the newsletter for one reason that they hadn’t thought of when they signed on with us.
“When ... Read More »
Posted by Don Browne on 9/01/16
Vibrant Newsletter Tips – 20 July 2016 – Mourne Road Celebrates Church Refurbishment
The last 2 issues of the Mourne Road weekly Parish Newsletter are a shining example of how the church can utilize its bulletin to celebrate special milestones, as well as their parish history.
... Read More »
