UNDERSTANDING PASTORAL COUNCILS
What is the Role of the Pastoral Council?
The parish pastoral council is the ministry chosen by the church to provide consultation and assistance to the Pastor. The Ministry of Pastoral Council is to assist the pastor or the appointed leadership, in discerning the will of God for the parish at this time through the wisdom of the graced community.
What does Canon Law say?
CANON 537-1: “…a pastoral council is to be established in each parish; the pastor presides over it , and through it, the Christian faithful along with those who share in the pastoral care of the parish, in virtue of their office, give their help in fostering pastoral activity.”
CANON 536-2: “This pastoral council possesses a consultative (role) only and is (regulated) by norms determined by the diocesan bishop.
What does Diocesan Policy Say?
Each parish in the Diocese of San Bernardino shall have an active Pastoral Council. The parish pastoral council is the ministry chosen by the church to provide consultation and assistance to the Pastor. Through pastoral planning and wise consultation, the pastoral council will contribute to the carrying of the mission of Jesus Christ.
The Pastoral Council does not...
RUN THE PARISH
ORGANIZE MINISTRIES AND PROGRAMS
MANAGE THE PARISH STAFF
AND THEY GO BEYOND ONLY LISTENING TO REPORTS
