Parish Pastoral Council

What does the Pastoral Council in my Parish do?

The purpose of a Catholic Pastoral Council is to serve as a consultative body that supports the parish priest in fostering the pastoral well-being and mission of the parish. Rooted in the principles of prayer, discernment, and shared wisdom, the council is composed of lay members who represent the diverse perspectives within the parish community. They gather regularly to advise and collaborate with clergy, providing insights and recommendations on issues that affect parish life, including worship, faith formation, outreach, social justice, and evangelization.

The council’s role is not to manage or make binding decisions but to discern and articulate the pastoral needs and priorities of the community. Through thoughtful discussion, it seeks to envision and promote ways to deepen the faith, unity, and participation of parish members. The council brings forward the hopes, concerns, and gifts of the faithful, supporting the priest in his role as shepherd while fostering a vibrant, mission-focused community.

Ultimately, the council encourages a spirit of shared responsibility within the parish. It promotes lay participation, empowering members to live out their baptismal calling as active participants in the Church’s mission. By embracing the voice and needs of the community, the Pastoral Council strives to build a welcoming and spiritually enriching environment, ensuring that the parish responds to the Gospel call in ways that are both faithful and relevant to the times.