The Pastoral Council, or Parish Council, is a
consultative group which assists the pastor in discerning how the parish can
best carry out the mission of the Church. Although the pastor is the chief
administrator and primary policy maker of the parish as well as the
representative of the teaching authority of the Church, he encourages
participation in decision-making. We respectfully acknowledge that the
pastor has the final say in administration.
The Pastoral Council is not a policy making body.
It's main function is planning and defining the "vision of the parish". The
appointed leadership and representatives seek consensus through prayerful
discernment, discussion and trust. The Council functions differently than
the administrative staff. The parish administrative staff is primarily
responsible for the implementation of plans and policies. Parish Council
responsibilities may include priority setting. The Council is a think tank,
in touch with the pulse of the parish. Members can dream about the future of
the parish. New possibilities are sought.
Most members normally serve a three year term,
which are staggered. Election, appointment, and ex-officio status determine
membership. The Pastoral Council generally meets once every other month in
this parish. The second Sunday of the month.