Returned Missionaries Group – suggestions for future actions:
1) Social interaction is important: set up a WhatsApp group for members to share their experiences, “so not to feel alone” and to keep up with various events taking place across the country, such as marches/protests. AMRI noted that they recently acquired a banner representing the membership and blessed by Pope Leo. This was launched at the recent National Climate Demonstration in Dublin on 15th November, where AMRI marched alongside other faith-based organisations
2) Volunteering and getting involved: some returned missionaries have time and energy to be open to invitation to volunteer their time and be involved in or be a part of something, for e.g. teaching English as a foreign language, befriending, etc.
3) Be social media savvy: in this way be a resource for future generations. Education and tools for social media for returned missionaries would be welcomed, that could facilitate putting forward ideas, reflections, experiences and connect with others across various platforms including Facebook, Instagram, TikTok. AMRI noted that they are exploring a Digital Ministry workshop in the spring for young religious and will extend an invitation to all religious.
4) The importance of music ministry was highlighted with a reminder not to underestimate how it can speak to many different types of audiences. It was noted how the new format of the RTE mass could be a mechanism to incorporate the ‘music of the mission’.
5) One participant noted how important it was for returned missionaries to link in with and support missionaries into Ireland who originate from the many countries where that they (have) spent their own lives working and ministering.
6) Another suggestion was for a (social) day together in the spring that focused on grieving, closure and letting go. Kevin Egan was suggested as someone who might facilitate the day, or another psychologist who understood the context of mission.
7) AMRI recommended those present to regularly check out the AMRI website: https://www.amri.ie, their FaceBook and Instagram pages and to subscribe to their noticeboard for updates on happenings and volunteering opportunities across the membership.
