One of the greatest models of collaboration within the Archdiocese of
Philadelphia continues to be the Parish Pastoral Council. Since the initial
formation of councils in 1992, Pastors and Parish Pastoral Councils have
labored to create and implement a vision of ongoing renewal within each
parish. Through the service of Parish Pastoral Councils, mission statements
and pastoral plans have been formulated and continue to be revised and
implemented within each parish. It is my hope that these efforts have been
fruitful experience for pastors, pastoral staff members, parish pastoral
councils, and all parishioners.
As we journey together in this new millennium, the work of consultative
bodies such as the Parish Pastoral Council, assists in fostering mutual
relationships between the clergy and the laity. Working together, clergy and
lay leaders seek new and creative methods to live fully the Christian mission
in the context of contemporary life. In doing so, Parish Pastoral Councils
"enable the proclamation of Christ to reach people, mold communities, and
have a deep and incisive influence in bringing Gospel values to bear in
society and culture" (Novo Millennio Ineunte, 29).
All of us can look toward the future with the hope that Parish Pastoral
Councils will continue to work collaboratively with pastors and parish staff
members to bring greater vitality and vibrancy to parish life. To bring this
hope to fruition, I encourage all pastors to remain committed to the
development of Parish Pastoral Councils, consulting with them to address
the varied aspects of parish life. I also encourage the laity to continue to
step forward to lend their gifts and talents to the ongoing development of
Parish Pastoral Councils and the building up of their parish communities as
communities of prayer and worship, communities of faith and service.
I encourage Parish Pastoral Councils to continue the process of faith-filled
discernment by remaining attentive to needs of their parish communities as
well as the Church's mandate: "Go into the whole world and proclaim the
gospel to every creature" (Mk 16:15).
Rationale, Principles and Guidelines for Parish Pastoral Councils
- Introduction By, Cardinal Justin Rigali, Archbishop of Philadelphia
- Rationale for Parish Pastoral Councils, Based in Documents of The Second Vatican Council Based on the 1983 Code of Canon Law
- Principles Guiding Parish Pastoral Councils
- Purpose of Parish Pastoral Councils
- Function of Parish Pastoral Councils
- Role of the Pastor in Parish Pastoral Councils
- Parish Pastoral Council Size, Membership & Terms of Office
- Parish Pastoral Council Meetings and Relationships with Other Committees