Keep the Thoughts of My Heart Before You, Lord, My Rock and My Redeemer

“Let the words of my mouth meet with your favour, keep the thoughts of my heart before you, Lord, my rock and my redeemer.” Psalm 19:15

Introduction

Enhancing Communications is Priority 4 in our Pastoral Plan, and is also an overarching need for other priorities and objectives. The position of Communications Officer was launched in June 2015 in fulfillment of our Pastoral Plan. The past year has yielded progress of two types: 1. fulfillment or initiation of objectives within Priority 4, and 2. general activities: the planting of seeds, if you will, for a new chapter in diocesan awareness, connectedness, and activity.

Some Highlights:

 New Diocesan Website: This was launched in March 2016, and continues to grow in popularity and information.

 New Logo and Colours: Our tree and a colour scheme symbolizing rebirth were launched in January and are showcased in our new pastoral centre. The diocesan shield also remains in use.

 This Month in the Diocese: Our diocesan monthly e-newsletter was launched in August 2015 to a positive response. Circulation is via email lists, website and Facebook page, with some parishes sharing print copies.

 Diocesan Facebook page: The Facebook page used for the Congress in 2012-13 was relaunched as the Antigonish Diocese page in October 2015. Likes and reach are slowly growing. About the Communications Officer

 Location: This position is based at the Chancery Office; Jennifer also works out of the pastoral centre and her home office in New Glasgow. To date this has supported face-to-face meetings and relationship-building with office staff and parish clergy in centres throughout the diocese.

 Updates and Accountabilities: Our Communications Committee maintains a guiding/advisory role and meets on average once per month in person or via teleconference. This committee, with members Bishop Brian Dunn, Fr. Paul Abbass, Fr. Donald MacGillivray, Fr. Bill Burke, Irene Khattar and Lucia MacIsaac, is of tremendous benefit to the Communications Officer position, providing insight, information, perspective, and parameters for planning and development. Our gratitude as well to our webmaster, Deacon Art Riley. His willingness to share his talents and experience is a great asset to communications in the diocese.

Priorities for the Coming Year:

 Continue networking, through emails, phone conversations, visits and meetings Inquiries and comments on our communications activities are both invited and encouraged; these conversations are pieces of the puzzle that is our communications strategy, and building blocks for our activities.

 Continued development and coordination of content for use in our E-News, on our website, and in connections with mainstream media. Parishes are invited to submit photos and news of events, milestones, and celebrations to be shared on our website, Facebook page and/or newsletter.

 Completion of the Communications Strategy A draft document is being developed. The goal is to have the document ready for input and discussion at the deanery level this autumn. Jennifer will be in touch as work proceeds and welcomes the opportunity to present and discuss the document at your deanery meetings.

Conclusion This has been an active year, made both manageable and enjoyable by the great enthusiasm and talents of all those I have met and worked with in the diocese. Thank you for your prayers and support: both will continue to help the diocese move forward on its critical issue of open, transparent, and inclusive communication in this Extraordinary Year of Mercy. Respectfully submitted,