Please contact the parish office for prior months meeting minutes.
The PASTORAL COUNCIL OPERATING NORMS
Membership Membership on the parish pastoral council is not normally a matter either of appointment by the pastor or election by popular vote. However, because leadership ministry requires particular gifts, a process of discernment with the guidance of the Holy Spirit should choose council members. The Pastoral Council is a consultative body rather than a governing body and issues are determined through consensus.
Council Size The size of the council may be 15 members. But in the case of partnered parishes or of a very small parish, these numbers may vary to maximize effectiveness. There is no need for alternate members since 100% commitment is expected from each person, with the hope that continued presence and participation promotes a sense of community among the members so necessary for effective leadership.
Council terms The terms of council may be on a rotating basis using the discernment process every 2 years. The initial members may determine rotation of the first council and then new members may be added to fill those seats as they are vacated. Some initial members may choose to continue to serve. The discernment process should occur each time in November so that new members may begin in December.
Attendance Members are expected to attend all meetings. Those who miss 30% of the meetings during a year may be asked to resign.
Resignation A Council member has the right to resign for reasonable cause. A letter of resignation should be sent to the pastor.
Discerning Members Council members are selected through a process of prayerful discernment. This approach identifies those with gifts for the ministry of leadership and comes to consensus about which parishioners are needed to carry on the leadership role. A parishioner may write a letter of intent to the pastor or meet with him in person before the initial discernment, or via a series of meetings to discuss with others suggested to be considered.