What to Expect from Your Parishes
We have extended the Year of Discipleship for a few weeks, since the Year of the Eucharist was pushed back to the beginning of 2021. One thing our staff worked on during the Year of Discipleship was a list of expectations. Most of us appreciate clear expectations; we like to know what is expected of us and what we can expect of others.
We created two lists which are being printed in the bulletin this week and next week. The first one consists of 10 expectations that parishioners can expect from their pastoral region. This list is what you can expect from us and next week’s list consists of what we can expect from you. These aren’t entirely realized, but we are always working toward them. They are 10 ways that we try to serve parishioners and the larger community. Here are the 10 things a disciple can expect from their parishes:
- Worship. The Mass is the center of our Parish life. We put effort into making it a beautiful experience centered upon the Sacrifice of Calvary and the grace which flows to us. We encourage our parishioners to actively participate in the offering of praise to God.
- Adoration Chapels. In many ways, these chapels are the heartbeat of our parishes. We acknowledge their importance and trust in their Divine efficacy.
- Prayer. Not only do we encourage our parishioners to pray, but we lead by example. The most important part of any meeting is prayer which opens us to God’s will.
- Heal. We recognize that all of us are broken and yet strive to grow in holiness. We provide a place where Jesus can heal wounds and sins. This includes support groups and lots of opportunities for the Sacrament of Reconciliation.
- Communal. Our parishes are intentional about supporting communities of faith. These include small faith groups and the family. This also means connecting parishioners from across our pastoral region.
- Opportunities for Growth and Witnessing. We provide opportunities to grow as Jesus’ Disciples. These opportunities feed the mind and the soul. We also provide training an opportunities to serve others and share the joy of the Gospel.
- Invest in Future Generations. It is vitally important that we raise up the next generation of Catholics. We focus on ministries toward children, teenagers, young families, young adults, and engaged couples. This includes promoting vocations to the priesthood and consecrated life.
- Stewardship. Our parishioners generously give their financial resources to our parishes. We use this money as wisely as possible. We regularly evaluate the most effective ways to use their gifts.
- Listen. As best as we can, our parishes listen to the thoughts, opinions, and ideas of our parishes. We prayerfully reflect on them.
- Strive. Our Pastoral Team always strives to do things better. We look for better ways to form disciples, spread the Gospel, communicate with parishioners, and serve the people of God. Sometimes we make mistakes, but we learn from them. We figure out how to move forward.
Next week we will print “10 Expectations of a Disciple of Jesus Christ.”
Sincerely in Christ,
Fr. Sean Wilson
