What is “Parish Life Night” and why is it becoming “Parish Life Gathering?” As a parish we hold all our parish committee (team) meetings once per month at the same time in the parish center. There are many reasons for this: people can serve on only one team; there is energy in the room when people at other tables are also contributing to parish vibrancy; we pray together for our parish, we keep everyone informed of what it is that each team is doing; and we have opportunities to ask clarifying questions and share wisdom with each team to enable us to tap the gifts, skills and talents of everyone who is present.
We are experimenting with moving our gatherings from the second Monday night of each month to after the 10:30 Mass on the second Sunday of the month. This gives us the opportunity to meet right after Mass and not have to come back another time. It eliminates another night meeting which many people feel they have too many already, and also provides younger people an opportunity to join our Parish Life Teams since we can also provide babysitting options for those who may need them; and students who wish to join teams on a non-homework time.
Our Parish Life Teams are: Community Engagement: mobilizes our community to influence the world around us to become the place that God intended it to be. This ministry educates and trains the parish about local, national and world needs and coordinates direct service projects, both faith-based. Faith Formation: develops intergenerational opportunities so that all parish members might come to know and love the God who calls us. Utilizing the “ONE CHURCH, ONE MESSAGE” model, learning is life-long, inclusive of all ages and abilities, and occurring in multiple environments. Operations: exists to provide behind-the-scenes and foundational support for the parish in the areas of Finance, Building & Grounds and Technology. Stewardship: focuses on directing the parish to be good stewards with the gifts that God has bestowed on us, by teaching us to accept our gifts gratefully and return them abundantly. The Stewardship Ministry will assist in identifying, affirming, blessing and calling forth the gifts of all members of the community. Worship: creates an irresistible environment where everyone can experience God’s love wherever they are on their spiritual journey. It is responsible for welcoming, information sharing, helping visitors find ways to connect with the parish, and fostering friendly relationships so that all feel accepted and enjoy being together.
I am inviting all of you to consider sharing your wisdom with our parish life teams by joining us this Sunday November 10th following the 10:30 Mass.
Fr. Bill