ARCHDIOCESE OF PHILADELPHIA

September, 2003

"So it is that while the Catholic School fittingly adjusts
itself to the circumstances of advancing times,
it is educating its students to promote effectively the welfare of the earthly
city, and preparing them to serve the advancement of the reign of God. "
Declaration on Christian Education of the Second Vatican Council

Cluster 17 comprises the following parishes:

Goal 3 of our Cluster Pastoral Plan, approved by Cardinal Bevilacqua on January 21, 1998 states:

Develop cluster-wide processes to ensure the maintenance and development of quality Catholic schools.

The pastors of the Manayunk area parishes (Holy Family, St. John the Baptist, St. Josaphat, St. Lucy and St.

Mary of the Assumption), the principals of our five schools, along with the Regional Vicar, Monsignor Francis W. Beach and representatives of the Offices of Catholic Education and Parish Financial Services, have in recent weeks been meeting to discuss how this goal can be accomplished.

Mindful of the importance of complete and open communication with the parents of our school children and all parishioners, it is our desire to share our findings in order to determine how to move forward to provide the best quality Catholic education for every child in our Manayunk area Catholic schools. As a result of the above-mentioned meeting in July of 2003, Cardinal Bevilacqua has granted permission to begin a Feasibility Study for the possible restructuring of our schools.

The continuing declining enrollment (principally caused by the aging population of the Manayunk/Roxborough area, in addition to the changing demographics) and the escalating costs of maintaining our individual schools, is prompting us to examine alternative methods of providing quality Catholic education.

Consequently, you are invited to help us explore ways to strengthen Catholic education. Input from every parishioner and parent is not only welcomed, it is essential. At each parish meeting, a survey will be distributed.

PARISH MEETINGS