Working with the neighboring parishes in our Lincoln Square grouping, we have been invited to consider and give feedback on how we can collaborate for spiritual renewal, align resources to invest in ministry, and renew our parishes and schools. To initiate discussion, the Archdiocese has offered a set of initial scenarios that show potential models of how our parishes and schools could be configured in the future. Please plan to come to our next parish meeting to learn more and share your feedback and input:
- In English at 7 p.m. Tuesday, September 17 in the Parish Center
- In Spanish at 7 p.m. Thursday, September 19 in the church basement
The initial scenarios (5 for parishes, 2 for schools) are described in the handout included with the bulletin on September 8, 2019 or in the links below:
These initial scenarios are only conversation starters, and they will be shared in detail at our next parish session on September 17 and 19. No decisions have been made. These scenarios will be evaluated against a set of criteria determined using data across the Archdiocese for how a structure would support vitality and ensure viability, such as:
- Ministerial and spiritual needs of the community
- Parishioner count and Mass attendance
- Pastoral manageability
- Parish financial stability and facilities
- School quality and financial stability
As we review the scenarios, it is important for all us to do so prayerfully keeping in mind that the spiritual and structural renewal to which we are called to foster are connected. The best and most effective and efficient stewardship of our resources (structural renewal) can allow us to invest more into the ministries that directly work toward making disciples, building community and inspiring witness (spiritual renewal). Just as Jesus asks us to pray always, He also invites us to trust always. Together, we pray for the guidance of the Holy Spirit to determine how Our Lord will use existing structures to create new ones that bring more people into relationship with Him.
As always, for more information, please visit RenewMyChurch.org, or ask me.
—Monsignor Jim Kaczorowski, Pastor