Customer Reviews

Revisioning the Parish Pastoral Council

5 star:		(3)
4 star:		(3)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

Built on research and loaded with examples of how it works, this approach led us through the re-visioning process at Good Shepherd parish here in State College PA -- right to a "pastoral Plan" for our parish. Having a framework we could all understand, and the steps to follow are invaluable when working with volunteers with so many other demands on their time.

A word of caution: get ready for change! Not everyone will want to. Mary Ann's process will take you to new places.

We originally purchased one workbook. After I reviewed it and passed it to my pastor, he decided it was a great resource for our re-forming the pastoral council. We subsequently purchased 3 more copies for the clergy at the parish. Our pastoral council has been in formation for a year and the laiety and fellow clergy are starting "to get it". It is an exciting process and we are fortunate to have this tool to guide us along. Rev Mr. R Williamsen, St Frances of Rome, Riverbank, CA

Very good guidance in formulating pastoral plan for the parish. The seven essentials for parish life were well explained but there could have been more emphasis on the council's role versus that of the pastor. The book was lacking, however, on some practical issues such as parish commissions and how that structure can guide operating goals and objectives. Information on developing a Mission Statement was very helpful but there was nothing on vision statements.

Our parish began the challenging process of building a new pastoral council two years ago, using this book as our initial guide. The book has been an extremely valuable reference tool for defining council responsibilities, criteria for membership, consensus decision making, and setting goals and objectives.

We initially found the "seven essential elements" an effective model for designating ministry clusters, or organizing councils, but have since reduced the number to five based on Thomas Sweetser's book. However, we will undoubtedly continue to reference the Gubish workbook for years to come.

This thoughtful, faith filled workbook provides a user friendly, clearly developed process to assist pastoral councils in their work at every stage.

To date I have bought nearly 100 copies of this book and use them when facilitating the formation of Parish Pastoral Councils. It is a wonderfully thorough text.