Margaret
I have over 30 years’ experience in working with young people. I am qualified in general nursing, have a BA Hons Rel Sc (Theology), a Higher Diploma in Education and a MA Humanities where I researched Adult Faith Formation. I spent 13 happy years as a nun with the Salesian Sisters, a religious order, working with young people in both formal and non-formal settings through the ethos of St Don Bosco who said, ‘It is enough that you are young for me to love you.’ I have been the Director of the Pastoral Centre since 2003.
I am constantly amazed and inspired by the sense of spirituality young people have. I enjoy their energy, enthusiasm, and willingness to approach new activities with an open mind. My experience of working with young people over many years has convinced me that where the Gospel values of welcome, acceptance and loving-kindness are central, there is space for young people to flourish.
I also have an MSc Art Psychotherapy. I practice counselling as part of the Pastoral Centre’s expanding work meeting the needs of young people and adults in today’s world.
Maura
I joined the retreat team in 2012. I have a BA Hons, PGCE and CED. From my childhood, faith was a central part of my home. As a wife, mother of four and granny of three, I’ve been privileged to nurture their spiritual journey alongside their personal, social, and emotional development.
In the pastoral centre I’ve had the opportunity to meet many young people, some sure about God, many unsure and others with questions to ask and opinions to voice. In a safe, non-judgmental atmosphere we walk with them to seek God inside themselves and in the world around them.
‘Let the Holy Spirit guide our lives.’ Galatians 5:16.
Kerry
I joined the team in 2017. With a background in community outreach/family support and early years I have an insight into the many social, emotional, and behavioural needs children, young people and families can experience. As a mother of five children, I place my faith at the centre of parenting and home life. I enjoy nurturing faith development with young people through discussion, meditation experiences, and fun to enable young people to voice the own views, opinions and offer them a safe place to ask questions. I hold a BA in Theology and recently completed a Diploma of Pastoral Care in Education.
It amazes me to see a positive lift in the young people as they finish a day here at our centre. It restores my faith that God is truly working among us each day and fills me with joy.
Michelle
I re-joined the team in 2023 working 2 days a week, before this I was a member of the team from 2010 – 2015. I have a degree in Community Youth Work from Ulster University and worked in Ardoyne youth club and Quaker House before taking up the post in De La Salle Pastoral Centre. I have always been deeply involved in my parish organising experiences in community and faith for young people believing that through relationship we experience God in our lives.