The goal of this planning process is to allow for the best use of our diocesan resources in light of present realities. The annual October Count indicates that several parishes have declining populations. The diocese is experiencing a decrease in the number of priests available for parish ministry. Also, there is much duplication of effort in many areas, as each parish does its best to provide all needed parish activities.
The planning process is intended to assess these realities as best we can, and to plan for a future that uses our diocesan resources well, and still ensures that everyone in the diocese has the opportunity for vibrant and life-giving parish life.
The parishes of each deanery have been grouped together into clusters of three or four parishes. Each parish has three (or four) representatives who have committed to this process of study and discussion for the next six months. The goal of the process is to prepare recommendations for the future, which will be presented to Bishop Cote.
A major task of the regional committee members is to communicate with their respective parishes (and the pastor/administrator if he is not attending the meetings) about what is happening at the regional meetings. Equally important is that the committee members hear the concerns of the parishioners and bring those concerns to the regional meetings.
Minutes from the First Meeting
Minutes from the Second Meeting
Minutes from the Third Meeting
Minutes from the Fourth Meeting
Minutes from the Fifth Meeting
