The Association of Catholics in Ireland (ACI) carried out a pilot study among members in 36 parishes to explore the extent of lay leadership in the Catholic Church and the role that the laity plays in parish leadership.

Studying and developing our faith is a transfiguration experience. "As faith grows, our vision of Christ transforms us" - Archbishop Brown.

Fr Dermot Ryan is director of adult faith development in the diocese as well as chairperson of the Ossory council of priests.

“From the beginning he was a teacher, and a very good one by all accounts. The word most often used by people was kind. Quiet in disposition and very discreet.”