Executive Summary- Cluster 43
Cluster 43 began the Cluster planning process in January of 1998. The four parishes of Cluster 43 (Saint Basil the Great, Saint Joseph, Saint Peter, Saint Thomas More) joined to share information and experiences about each parish; strengths and limitations, history, and their collective vision for the Church in Chester County.
The committee met for the first time on March 11, 1998, and continued to meet each month thereafter. The committee reviewed the internal strengths and limitations of the Cluster as well as the external opportunities and challenges. Many of the challenges facing the Cluster stem from the growth and development within the 300 square miles covered by the present four parishes in the Cluster; the need to provide education opportunities and to
increase involvement in parish activities of both active and non-active members. From this information, the committee then developed a list of goals to be addressed by the Cluster in the coming years. This list varied over the weeks of the planning process with original goals on the list being eliminated and new goals being added. The final list of goals for Cluster 43 is found below:
1. Recommend the establishment of a new parish.
2. Increase involvement and training for laity.
3. Explore the development of evangelization activities.
4. Explore Catholic elementary education opportunities.
5. Promote vocations to the priesthood, Diaconate and religious life.
An Implementation Committee, and Sub-Committees corresponding with each goal, will be formed subsequent to the approval of this plan.