Pastoral Council Meeting Minutes April 8, 2018

Call to Order: The meeting was called to order at 6:30 p.m. by Al Mercatante.

Reflection: Mary Louise shared “A Womanpsalm of Praise” by Miriam Therese Winter. With the following day being the Feast of the Annunciation this year (normally falls on March 25), this reflection focused on Mary’s visit to Elizabeth. Mary and Joseph were both frightened and confused with the announcement of Mary giving birth to Jesus, but both said “yes” to God. We also need to be ready to say “yes” to God’s will, even though we may be uncertain of the future.

Members Present: Joe Budd, Mary Louise Chesley-Cora, Anita Delaney, Sharon Gidumal, Father Graney, JoAnn Hedrick, Rich Mayes, Al Mercatante, Mike Mitchell, Maritza Poza-Grise, Joe Quinn, Mike Reis, Mike Rzucidlo, Dick Schwer, Susan Sheahan, Kathy Swain.
Members Absent: Deacon John Falkowski, , Jack Sanders
Guests: Deb Buckels, Elaine Little, Linda Malm, Nancy Maloney.

Minutes Approved: Mike Reis moved to approve the February minutes, Mike Rzucidlo seconded the motion, and the motion carried.

Old Business:

Planning of parish’s 50 ^th anniversary celebration: Sharon asked about status of announcement to go to out to parishioners. Father Graney noted that Patricia Herron would be willing to help out with the celebration, and Sharon agreed to talk with her in the near future. Rich suggested that the announcement could also be put in Debbie Seymour’s weekly e-mail to parishioners, and everyone agreed this was a good idea.

Dick asked if there was a budget for the celebration. Mike Reis replied that $2500 was allocated in the budget for this.

Youth participation on Pastoral Council: Elaine noted that she sent out a request twice to parents concerning a youth representative, but got no response. Dick asked if lack of interest in position would be a problem in the future.

Elaine does have a couple of people she can ask to participate next year. She also shared some feedback from her kids, who said they felt attending meetings in the past wasn’t the best use of their time- they weren’t aware of all the issues brought up during council meetings, and as a result, felt it was hard to contribute their thoughts during the meeting. Elaine then asked about the purpose of participation by the Youth Representative- is their job to collect information from the Pastoral Council, or is their purpose to provide info, regarding their activities, to the council?

Al suggested that transfer of information could be done in more informal manner than attending entire meeting. Father Graney emphasized that we want the Youth Representative to know that we value their input, but that we solicit their input in a way that we don’t waste their time in the process. Getting input on the picnic, for instance, would be helpful. Dick wondered if it might be better to get youth participation ad hoc.

Nominating committee: Father Graney noted that Debbie found the poster that was used at the nominations table- everyone greatly appreciated this! As far as positions go, four of the steward positions are open for re-election: Mike Reis’s (cannot re-run- term limit), Joe Budd’s, Sharon Gidumal’s, and Mike Rzucidlo’s. It was noted that the election would be a good opportunity to request parishioners to update their contact info.

Adult Formation Program and Coordinator: Father Graney shared that a letter was written to be sent out regarding the position. Discussion of the role included a person that could coordinate things with small groups, and a person who had energy and time to devote to the program. Someone asked about attendees of Father Corrigan’s after-10:30-Mass discussions, and whether one of them would be interested in such a role. During this discussion, the idea of using a potluck to attract new parishioners came up. Sharon asked if Adult Formation was included in the Parish Administrator job description. Maritza replied in the affirmative, emphasizing that the Administrator would oversee Adult Formation, but would need help from someone taking care of the details.

Father Graney emphasized the need to identify someone to head up Adult Formation. Mary Louise noted that Jesus House is looking to reach out to parishes with programs, and that other parishes do come to them to partake in programs. Participating in parish programs could help fill gaps currently existing in Adult Formation offerings at Resurrection Parish.

Discussion was then tabled so that Ray Manza, a guest from St. Mary of the Assumption Church, could talk to the council about his church’s experiences with Flocknote. He noted that their parish had completed a survey, with 800 comments received from 400 parishioners, and that what people wanted most was better communication. They started using Flocknote, and in spite of not having a “Sunday Signup” event, it was successful. Ray noted that it was important to link Flocknote to other modes of communication that the parish is already using, including forms on the parish website and Facebook. The parish will also be using Venco, a credit card payment system, in two to three weeks. He’s noted that only four people have opted out of receiving Flocknote messages.

Flocknote’s help staff has been very helpful for them. Ray mentioned that using Flocknote in moderation is best; for instance, sending just a couple of messages out in Lent is fine. Ray also mentioned that older people at the parish have been good with use of Flocknote.

Ray described a hierarchy of groups that exists within the Flocknote page for a parish, and that it is important to have only 2 or 3 people that can send messages out to the entire parish. He said that you can send attachments in Flocknote, and suggested that the parish create a banner that’s placed at the bottom of outgoing e-mail messages. He noted that Flocknote is better for mass communication, and that one-on-one communication is best done via traditional e-mail. Flocknote also has interesting features, whereby events can be set up, invitations sent out, and responses to those invitations can be requested.

Ray noted that since his parish didn’t have a signup event, that people not associated with ministries are not in the Flocknote system. Father Graney asked Ray what he thought was a good reason to change from our current system (Mailchimp) to Flocknote.

Ray noted that a simple Excel file can be used to import contacts into Flocknote. He warned that there is a glitch in the system, where only one record might be imported if two records have matching information in a field (can happen with a husband and wife, for instance.) Elaine said that she was going to work with the importing of contact information within Flocknote, and update the council on how it worked. For the Flocknote page, there is a hierarchy of user levels- there is a super administrator (the one who pays the bills), as well as an administrator. It was noted that people who send messages out to parish groups should get trained on the basics of Flocknote, but that people who are using Flocknote to receive messages and occasionally respond to messages do not require training.

St. Mary’s of the Assumption has been using Flocknote for 18 months, and Ray mentioned that people are responding more. Flocknote does provide feedback regarding the reading of messages and responses. Ray also noted that responses to messages can be sent to a single person, or to everyone receiving the messages, depending on settings. It was mentioned that if a person is in two groups that are both going to receive the same Flocknote message, that they will only receive the message once (prevents duplicate sendings.)

As far as using Flocknote to keep updated contact information, an administrator can make changes to a person’s contact info, but the person themselves can also update their contact info as needed.

The Pastoral Council was very appreciative of Ray’s insight, and his willingness to take time to talk with the council about Flocknote!

Charitable Giving Committee Update: Dick reported that there would be a meeting on the night of April 9 ^th to review charitable giving for the next fiscal year. This would then be presented to the Pastoral Council next month. People on this committee include Cheryl Christiansen, Tom Regan, Sandy Landoll, Kate Lennon, and Patricia Herron. Target giving is 5.5% of offertory income (~$28,600.) Al thanked the committee for their work.

Committee reports were then reviewed. It was noted that the presence of the committee reports on the Google Drive, starting this month, was not communicated well. Maritza suggested that the next time an agenda is sent out, that a note could be included to remind people to check the Google Drive for most recent committee updates. Below are the reports, with additional discussion in red.

Objective: Communicate more effectively to all parishioners about our Jesus-centered faith community

Activities/Accomplishments:	Since your last Status Report, what have you accomplished on your Objective & Goals work?
Welcomed Mr. Ed Baum to committee Met with members of Improve Parish Council to discuss possibilities for directory Created Flocknote subgroups for Youth Ministry Offered to do same for other ministries Contacted Mr. Ray Manza, Flocknote admin for St. Mary of the Assumption, who will be joining us for 20 minutes Requested and received from staff, instructions for monitor use
Challenges/Discoveries:	In the course of doing you project work, what problems did you encounter and what discoveries did you make?
Need to revisit date of next Welcoming Weekend: is May 20, 21 feasible? Found no new suggestions in box. Discovered that trying to expand use of Flocknote, pre-Easter, was futile
Actions Taken on Challenges/Discoveries:
Will raise issue of when to hold next Welcoming Weekend at council meeting. Would like to consider returning suggestion box to original place. Reached out to Flocknote admin from SMA, invited to meeting Worked with Youth Minister to create Flocknote groups and subgroups Offered to create same for other ministers.
Additional Resources	What additional resources or information do you require to continue to make progress? If so, from whom would you like assistance and for what actions?
Planned Activities	What are you planning to accomplish prior to your next scheduled Status Report?
Continue to advance Flocknote agenda: work with staff and ministers; plan Signup Sunday Build database of parishioners with up-to-date contact info, via Flocknote

Joe Q. noted that Ed Baum has now joined the committee. Al asked if any additional suggestions had been collected in the box, and Joe said no. Sharon asked how people became aware of suggestion box, and whether we need to remind people to use it. Joe replied that the box was announced in the bulletin. Rich asked how suggestions are currently handled, and noted that in his prior experience, suggestion boxes can be a black hole. He suggested including responses to general suggestions in the bulletin. Susan liked this idea, adding that it shows parishioners that their suggestions are being acknowledged and addressed. Al asked if the team could work out a way to respond to general suggestions. Maritza asked if there was an electronic suggestion box to go with the physical one- it didn’t sound like there was one, yet. Joe Q. and Sharon also suggested putting responses to suggestions on website.

Objective: Increase parish membership

Activities/Accomplishments:	Since your last Status Report, what have you accomplished on your Objective & Goals work?
Scheduled and Attended a Committee Meeting on Wednesday, April 4, 2018 with Team Members noted above along with Carol, a longtime Parishioner We brain stormed and gathered ideas as a first step in establishing a Plan to Attract and Retain New Members in Resurrection Parish Some of the ideas were: Form a Greeters Committee Identify and Welcome New Visitors to Resurrection- Use Real Estate information regarding New Home Owners, if able Attract Younger Families/People through special events and programs Increase Accessibility so New People are able to realize the uniqueness of Resurrection Parish Add Signs to enable easier access when trying to locate Resurrection Parish Signs could be placed on New Linden Road, Upper Pike Creek Road, and Polly Drummond Hill Road These signs would be of different sizes with the largest at the end of the Driveway on New Linden Road The meeting began at 7 p.m. and concluded at 8:30 p.m.
What overlaps do you see with the objectives and goals of other Teams?	In the course of doing your project work, please note any overlaps you see with other Objective Team goals.
Possible overlap with Communication committee when informing New Parishioners of parish services, events, and activities through the web site and Parish Bulletin Work with Jack Sanders to compile a list of new home owners so that a visit from a team member to welcome them and inform them about Resurrection Parish can take place
Challenges/Discoveries:	What did you do about the problems or challenges you encountered: actions taken, results achieved, people informed, etc.?
Challenge: To recruit volunteers for Welcoming Committee Action Plan: Will place “an ad” explaining the objective, offering information on what a volunteer will do, and then asking for volunteers in Resurrection’s Sunday Bulletin Challenge: To develop a “calling card” for presentation to any New People that are visited so that the success of the visitation can be monitored. This card will also enable the Greeter to recognize a potential new parishioner and to discuss the parish at length with the perspective parishioner when the card is presented at Church. Actions Taken: No action at this time- Printing of the cards will be discussed with the Members of the Council for any contacts that the members may know who may help in the development of the card.

Resources and Information Required: Do you envision a point where PC approval is needed prior to implementation of goals?	What additional resources or information do you require to continue to make progress? If so, from whom would you like assistance and for what actions?
Committee will need a contact and/or a plan through the Real Estates to identify new homeowners who could be potential new Parishioners. Committee will also need funds to create the New Parishioner “calling card” and the “new signage” for easier access for new parishioners
Consider the impact that implementing your goals or actions are likely to have on parishioners. What will you do to prepare parishioners for the changes you are proposing to implement?	Please describe your approach to inform parishioners of the changes you are proposing. What parish committees will be impacted by your proposed changes?
Parishioners will be made aware of the Need for Greeters through the Sunday Parish Bulletin. A hand-out placed in the Bulletin explaining our objective and needs could inform current as well as new parishioners. Additions to the Web Page and the Bulletin could impact the Communication Committee. Adding Additional Signage could impact the Finance and Communication Committees.

Susan noted that this committee would be meeting next on May 1 ^st. One idea mentioned for increasing parish membership was recruiting more people for a Greeters committee. Jack brought up the targeting of new home owners in the area- perhaps a Welcome Wagon, or sending a note or card with Father Graney’s name on it. Linda later mentioned that it can be hard to find people at home, and that it sometimes is better to send the card. Susan agreed, but felt that the personal touch of a visit is more effective.

Susan noted that special programs would be helpful to attract young families and get them more involved. She noted that baptisms are a good time to invite new people to keep coming back to the parish. Susan also stated that more signage is needed as you approach and arrive at the church.

Al asked what can be done to attract lapsed Catholics. Susan asked how we could get information on lapsed Catholics. Father Graney said that manpower is needed to go through the census- Maritza suggested finding volunteers for this work.

Rich noted a visit to a church in Ithaca, where he was warmly welcomed by the parishioners. He said that getting to this point might require a cultural change.

Dick asked about the geographic boundaries for the parish. Father Graney replied that it’s an interesting boundary-Christiana Hospital is in our parish, but Delaware Park isn’t. Regarding the sign, he noted that the state imposes limits on the size of a road sign for a church. Rich offered to help as needed with the permit office.

Objective: Improve visibility and presence of Parish Council in Parish community

Activities/Accomplishments:	Since your last Status Report, what have you accomplished on your Objective & Goals work?
We met with the Communications team and went through the functionality of Flocknote to see if there was an opportunity to use Flocknote as a parish directory as well. It does not look like Flocknote will be able to be used as a parish directory, so we will continue to work on another solution.

What overlaps do you see with the objectives and goals of other Teams?	In the course of doing your project work, please note any overlaps you see with other Objective Team goals.
We will meet with the Social Concerns group to discuss the organization of the tables in the Gathering space to communicate about the different ministries to the parishioners
Challenges/Discoveries:	What did you do about the problems or challenges you encountered: actions taken, results achieved, people informed, etc.?
We didn’t encounter any problems
Resources and Information Required: Do you envision a point where PC approval is needed prior to implementation of goals?	What additional resources or information do you require to continue to make progress? If so, from whom would you like assistance and for what actions?
We will need some additional people to help with the effort for the Parish directory once we determine which format/vendor is the best way to go. We will need to have them verify contact information for parishioners and potentially coordinate picture submission.
Consider the impact that implementing your goals or actions are likely to have on parishioners. What will you do to prepare parishioners for the changes you are proposing to implement?		Please describe your approach to inform parishioners of the changes you are proposing. What parish committees will be impacted by your proposed changes?
We will be organizing a communication effort prior to beginning the effort to verify parishioner information. Bulletin, Mass announcements, Emails, The parish stewards will benefit from the verified parishioner information so they can contact them easier.
Planned Activities (Please use the Timeline on page 3)	What are you planning to accomplish prior to your next scheduled Status Report? (Please use the Timeline on page 2)
We are planning to meet with the Social Concerns committee to review how the tables in the gathering space should be organized. We will be meeting with a representative from Lifetouch to see what their directory offering is.

Kathy reported on meeting with the Communications Committee, noting that the meeting reinforced the idea that Flocknote is not an online directory. The committee will be meeting with the representative from Lifetouch before the next council meeting. Kathy also noted that she will be meeting with Sharon to discuss coverage for the Social Concerns table.

Kathy discussed the advantages of having an online parish directory, but noted that this option can also be combined with the option to print hard copies as needed. There is still the possibility of printing a “fancier” copy for the 50 ^th anniversary of the parish in 2019. Al commented that this seemed ambitious.

Objective: Develop new parish model in absence of a resident parish priest

Objective: A New Parish Model			Date: 4/8/2018
Team Members: Maritza Poza-Grise, Dick Schwer, Rich Mayes, Mike Reis, Al Mercatante			Reported by: Maritza Poza-Grise
Activities/Accomplishments:	Since your last Status Report, what have you accomplished on your Objective & Goals work?
Updated Res Community via monitor presentation in the gathering space. Submitted the Parish Life Coordinator Model Role descriptions (Parish Life Coordinator, Sacramental Ministers, Priest Moderator) and a sample job posting for the Parish life Coordinator to Bishop Malooly & Msgrs. Hurley & Kelly – (see attached) Developed proposal for next steps to be reviewed at Pastoral Council April 8.
What overlaps do you see with the objectives and goals of other Teams?	In the course of doing your project work, please note any overlaps you see with other Objective Team goals.
Primary intersections: Communication Team: communication, prayer and engagement plan with the extended Resurrection community in January-February and beyond Improve Pastoral Council Team: review by-laws and update Pastoral Council approach to support the new parish model.
Challenges/Discoveries:	What did you do about the problems or challenges you encountered: actions taken, results achieved, people informed, etc.?
We have not heard back from the Bishop and may not get clear guidance in the near future. We will need to decide what, if any, near-term steps we should take based on expected slower than desired clarity from the Diocese.
Resources and Information Required: Do you envision a point where PC approval is needed prior to implementation of goals?	What additional resources or information do you require to continue to make progress? If so, from whom would you like assistance and for what actions?
The final proposal for a new model, including budget impact will require Pastoral Council approval. Assistance needed: your daily prayers for discernment in our path in this major transition for Resurrection and the Diocese.
Consider the impact that efforts are likely to have on parishioners. What will you do to prepare parishioners for changes you are proposing to implement?		Please describe your approach to inform parishioners of the changes you are proposing. What parish committees will be impacted by your proposed changes?
Continued multi-channel updates as things change: bulletin, mailchimp, monitor. We will need to also update through periods of silence that nothing new is occurring yet, so people come to expect our transparency.
Planned Activities (Please use the Timeline on page 2)	What are you planning to accomplish prior to your next scheduled Status Report? (Please use the Timeline on page 2)
Pending discussion at Pastoral council, move forward to hire a Parish Administrator.

PARISH OF THE RESURRECTION
Parish Council 2017-18 Objectives & Goals Timeline
OBJECTIVE: A New Parish Model

Launch
COMPLETE

Sept – October

Launch Task Team Align on scope & approach, how we will work together, identify key stakeholders and when to engage
Gather Data from prior studies including PC work, conduct internet searches, identify 2-3 organizations to interview

Gather Data & Benchmark

100% COMPLETE

Refine Preferred Model
Engage Key Stakeholders
100% COMPLETE

Finalize Option &
Activate Readiness

Nov

Dec

Jan

Feb

Mar

April

May

Conduct “expert interviews”
to understand approaches, “better” practices and what to pay attention to.

Jane Hanson Mary Louise -done
Fr. John Hynes – done
Carol Pacione – St. Pius X – Dec. 8
Deacon Fred Passauer - St. Bernadette, Severn MD (TBD)
Pete Schafer – Youngstown Diocese Dec 14
Others TBD

Engage Bishop Malooley and key Diocese stakeholders
Prepare Summary Findings report and Proposal for new Model
Engage Staff & PC for input
Engage Finance Council to ensure financial implications align with 2018 budget

Initiate Parish Communication plan
Review Resurrection by-laws for implications of a New Model
Refine role description for the diocese

Clarify search strategy and whether to Initiate candidate search for PLA

Refine budget plan

April / May TBD

Align on next steps with PC
Establish candidate search team
Initiate candidate search for Parish Administrator
Begin candidate interviews
Down-select to short list of candidates
Select final candidate and hire in 3Q 2018

May and beyondà

Select final candidate and hire in 3Q 2018
Begin search for sacramental ministers
Transition and successful onboarding is the next phase of work. Activating Parish communication plan, additional change management actions to ensure successful transition, etc. to be chartered separately

3/15/18 DRAFT
PARISH LIFE COORDINATOR MODEL
Parish Life Coordinator – Role Description

I. Basic Definition

The Parish Life Coordinator is a professional minister who is appointed and installed by the Bishop and entrusted with leading a parish without a resident pastor in accordance with Canon 517, §2.
The Parish Life Coordinator is responsible to the bishop and serves at his pleasure. Assisted by a priest(s) who provides sacramental ministry and the supervision of a Priest Moderator, the Parish Life Coordinator guides the parish community as it determines its vision and discerns needs. The Parish Life Coordinator also leads and facilitates the pastoral care and administration of the parish and empowers staff and lay volunteers to minister to the spiritual and temporal needs of the parish and greater community.

II. Responsibilities

Leadership

Collaborate with the Pastoral Council, other parish leaders and staff to define the community’s vision and mission, develop and direct a plan for implementation, and evaluate parish programs, goals, and objectives to actualize the mission and vision.
Recruit and oversee the formation, training, and support of faith community leaders and volunteers who provide leadership in or manage key areas of the life of the community
Foster a collaborative and supportive atmosphere, where Parish staff, clergy, volunteers and parishioners work well together.
Participate as a member of the Parish Pastoral Council and Finance Council and facilitate the work of these councils.

Worship and Sacraments

Work closely with the Liturgy Committee, Sacramental Minister(s) and Deacon(s), and liturgical ministers to ensure prayerful liturgies
Collaborate in the planning and evaluation of the Sunday Eucharistic celebration and other special or seasonal liturgies
Provide for the recruitment, training, and coordination of lay liturgical ministers
Preach when pastorally and canonically appropriate, and as authorized by the Bishop
Carry out other liturgical responsibilities as designated by the Bishop

Pastoral Care

Provide a personal presence to the faith community, especially at liturgies, workshops and parish events
Facilitate opportunities for social gatherings to promote hospitality within the parish
See that spiritual direction, counseling, and/or psychological resources and support are available to individuals and to families at critical moments in their lives. Assist families with moral issues, personal decisions and, if necessary, make appropriate professional referrals
Heighten the faith community’s awareness of national and global realities and of possible community response to the gospel imperative for social justice in the local and global community

Oversee the charitable giving of the parish to local and global organizations in collaboration with the Pastoral and Finance Councils
Work with community groups to foster ecumenism

D. Formation and Spiritual Development

Oversee and support faith formation, collaborating with appropriate leaders of faith formation and youth ministry to provide quality faith formation and religious education at all age levels
Provide for renewal and spiritual growth opportunities such as missions, retreats, various study programs that would enrich the parish community
Oversee and support parish evangelization efforts to new members via the RCIA program and reaching out to inactive Catholics

Administration

Oversee or make provision for the administration of the parish including:

the annual budgeting process as well as the management of the budget in collaboration with the Pastoral Council and the Finance Council
developing a capital and operational budget and a plan for maintaining the physical plant
maintenance of buildings, grounds, and other facility operations
operation of a school where applicable

Oversee the selection, supervision and evaluation of all administrative staff, including termination when necessary
Oversee and support the work of the Principal of any associated parish school in providing quality Catholic education for its students; collaborate with the work of the School Board
Promote effective communication with parishioners including social media and other channels that best serve the parish

Ensure a safe environment for children and young people in the parish by adherence to diocesan policies to protect children

Represent the parish at deanery and diocesan meetings and gatherings
Ensure that all annual reports and records (financial, personnel, historical, and sacramental) required by the diocese are completed in a timely manner
Represent the parish in ministerial associations, ecumenical relations, and community events

III. Qualifications

A Master’s Degree in Theology, Divinity, Pastoral Ministry, or similar; or equivalent based on work and ministry experience
3+ years’ experience in an active parish ministry or in management of a non-profit organization
A person of faith, in full sacramental union with the Church who demonstrates
- adherence of mind and heart to the Church’s Magisterium and actively integrates faith and life.
- liturgically-based spirituality centered on the prayer life of the Church; a deep ecclesial spirituality;
- a strong sense of service and discipleship
- commitment to regular prayer and a desire to foster Christian community
Strong managerial and leadership skills with a proven track record of developing others
Ability to listen and communicate effectively with a wide variety of people
Strong understanding of people and situations; able to ascertain needs and match resources
An ability to relate well and collaborate with people, and make necessary decisions
Able to maintain appropriate confidentiality
Commitment to ongoing professional growth and formation

3/15/18 DRAFT
Priest Moderator – Role Description

I. Basic Definition

The Priest Moderator provides supervision of the pastoral care given by the Parish Life Coordinator. He is accountable to the bishop and collaborates with the Parish Life Coordinator.

II. Role in General

The Priest Moderator, while having all the powers and faculties of pastor in accordance with norms of Canon 517, §2, is not the canonical equivalent of a pastor and does not assume the canonical rights and obligations of a pastor. The Priest Moderator should have a deep understanding of the nature of collaborative ministry. It is essential that he understands the baptismal call of every Christian to the ministry and be solidly rooted in Vatican II theology and liturgical reform. Therefore, the Priest Moderator must demonstrate a pastoral ability to:

accept the role of the Parish Life Coordinator and support him/her in that role,
serve as a spiritual advisor and mentor
provide pastoral counseling on request
communicate respectfully with others
use effective conflict resolution principles

III. Relationship to the Parish Life Coordinator

The Priest Moderator is appointed to supervise the pastoral care of the parish assigned to a Parish Life Coordinator. For this reason, the Priest Moderator ought to seek to be informed of the parish life, its needs, growth and development, as well as how the Parish Life Coordinator is responding to the pastoral need. The Priest Moderator and the Parish Life Coordinator will discuss and devise ways of assessing the effectiveness of the Parish Life Coordinator’s ministry.

Mutual trust and respect is necessary for genuine collaboration. The Priest Moderator will be available for information, advice, clarification, and support when needed by the Parish Life Coordinator and may visit the parish occasionally. It is essential that the Priest Moderator and the Parish Life Coordinator communicate regularly to enhance and foster mutual understanding, bearing in mind that both the Parish Life Coordinator and the Priest Moderator have been appointed by the bishop to their respective roles.

The Priest Moderator and the Sacramental Minister may or may not be the same priest.

3/15/18 DRAFT

Sacramental Minister – Role Description

I. Basic Definition

The Sacramental Minister is a priest appointed by the Bishop who will provide regular weekend celebration of the Eucharist and the other sacraments by mutual arrangement with the Parish Life
Coordinator. He is accountable to the bishop and collaborates with the Parish Life Coordinator.

II. Role in General

The Sacramental Minister should have a deep understanding of the nature of collaborative ministry. It is essential that he understands the baptismal call of every Christian to the ministry and be solidly rooted in Vatican II theology and liturgical reform. Therefore, the Sacramental Minister must demonstrate a pastoral ability to:

accept the role of the Parish Life Coordinator and visibly affirm him/her in that role with the faith community, including appropriate participation in liturgical celebrations
collaborate with the Parish Life Coordinator, Liturgy Committee, Deacon(s), and liturgical ministers to ensure prayerful liturgies in the style of the community
provide pastoral counseling on request

Due to his key role in the sacramental and liturgical life of the parish, the Sacramental Minister is to be somewhat involved in the work of liturgical planning and understand the liturgical traditions of the faith community. He should establish a relationship with the faith community, when possible participating in parish activities outside of sacramental duties.

The Sacramental Minister is the first priest on call for emergencies (e.g., anointing of the sick), funerals, and weddings. If he is unavailable, the Parish Life Coordinator makes arrangements with neighboring priests (retired and active). These neighboring priests may also supplement the Sacramental Minister in weekend, daily Masses and other sacramental needs by mutual arrangement with the Parish Life Coordinator

The Sacramental Minister and the Priest Moderator may or may not be the same priest. The Bishop may appoint more than one Sacramental Minister for the parish.

III. Relationship to the Parish Life Coordinator

The Sacramental Minister is appointed to meet the sacramental needs of the parish assigned to a Parish Life Coordinator. The Sacramental Minister should strive to get to know the community, engage in parish life and seek to become familiar with the parish culture and liturgical styles. Mutual trust and respect is necessary for genuine collaboration. It is essential that the Sacramental Minister and the Parish Life Coordinator communicate regularly to enhance and foster mutual understanding, bearing in mind that both the Parish Life Coordinator and the Priest Moderator have been appointed by the bishop to their respective roles.

Diocese of Wilmington
Sample Position Posting for Parish Life Coordinator
TITLE: Parish Life Coordinator APPOINTED BY THE BISHOP STATUS: Exempt
STAFF SUPERVISED: Director of Liturgy, Deacon(s), Director Religious Education, Youth Minister, Secretary
WORK CONDITIONS: Office environment. Infrequent lifting of light office equipment and materials
MAJOR FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
The Parish Life Coordinator is a professional minister who is appointed and installed by the Bishop and entrusted with leading a parish without a resident pastor in accordance with Canon 517, §2. The Parish Life Coordinator is responsible to the bishop and serves at his pleasure. Assisted by a priest(s) who provides sacramental ministry and the supervision of a Priest Moderator, the Parish Life Coordinator leads and facilitates the pastoral care and administration of the parish and empowers staff and lay volunteers to minister to the spiritual and temporal needs of the parish and greater community.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS INCLUDE:

Collaborate with the Pastoral Council, Finance Council, other parish leaders and staff to define the community’s vision and mission, develop and direct a plan for implementation, and evaluate parish programs, goals, and objectives to actualize the mission and vision.
Recruit and oversee the formation, training, and support of faith community leaders, lay liturgical ministers and other volunteers who provide leadership in or manage key areas of the life of the community
Oversee the selection, supervision and evaluation of all administrative staff
Collaborate in planning and evaluation of Sunday Eucharistic celebrations and other special or seasonal liturgies
Provide a personal presence to the faith community
Ensure spiritual direction, psychological resources and support are available for those in need
Promote effective communication with parishioners
Oversee and support faith formation, collaborating with appropriate leaders of faith formation and youth ministry to provide quality faith formation and religious education at all age levels
Oversee and support parish evangelization efforts to new members via the RCIA program and reaching out to inactive Catholics
Represent the parish at deanery and diocesan meetings and gatherings
Oversee or make provision for the administration of the parish including operational and capital budgets, maintenance of buildings and grounds, complete Diocesan and other required reports

QUALIFICATIONS INCLUDE:

A Master’s Degree in Theology, Divinity, Pastoral Ministry or equivalent based on work and ministry experience
3+ years’ experience in an active parish ministry or in management of a non-profit organization
A person of faith, in full sacramental union with the Church who demonstrates
- adherence of mind and heart to the Church’s Magisterium and actively integrates faith and life.
- liturgically-based spirituality centered on the prayer life of the Church; a deep ecclesial spirituality;
- a strong sense of service and discipleship
- commitment to regular prayer and a desire to foster Christian community

The successful candidate will possess strong managerial and leadership skills with a proven track record of developing others; the ability to listen and communicate effectively with a wide variety of people; strong understanding of people and situations; able to ascertain needs and match resources; an ability to relate well and collaborate with people, and make necessary decisions; confidentiality; commitment to ongoing professional growth and formation

Send resumes to Human Resources, P. O. Box 2030, Wilmington, DE 19899-2030, Fax (302) 573-6944, e-mail [email protected], apply on-line or download application at www.cdow.org go to Offices and Ministries, then scroll down to Human Resources and select Diocesan Offices and Services. EOE M/F/D/V

Maritza presented a slide deck for the report. She started off by saying that hiring a Parish Administrator (PA) sooner would help to reduce Father Graney’s workload. Having a PA or Parish Life Coordinator (PLC) along with a full-time resident pastor is doable financially for an interim period. For a longer period, it would not work.

Maritza noted that the typical solution, when there is a shortage of pastors in the diocese, is to link two parishes together (with one common pastor.) Both Bishop Malooly and Monsignor Hurley are open to the hiring of a PLC, but with Bishop Malooly retiring in 2019, it may depend on the opinion of the incoming bishop.

Maritza outlined two paths that the parish could take, and how the situation might pan out. The parish can either do nothing for now (see what happens once Father Graney retires) or work to hire a PA. If the parish does nothing, then the financial situation will be okay; however, Father Graney does not get any help/relief before retiring, and the transition to the next pastor (or PLC) will be tough.

If the parish moves to hire a PA now, then Father Graney can work with the PA and ensure a smoother transition. If the diocese goes with the linkage model, then Resurrection Parish would then get a part-time pastor, who could get help from the PA. If the diocese finds a resident pastor, then the parish could not afford to continue with a PA. If the diocese goes with the PLC model, then the PA could transition to the PLC role.

After describing the various scenarios, Maritza noted that the committee feels that hiring a PA now, rather than waiting, would be the better choice. Susan asked if there’s any way to know how the next bishop will feel, and also asked what happens to the PA if we either get a new resident pastor or pastor with the linkage model. Maritza noted that the PA would have to be hired on a short term basis, and Dick added that the person being hired as PA would have to be made fully aware of the situation.

Maritza explained that the linkage model is when 2 distinct parishes have one pastor. Dick noted that if the linkage model is used, we would likely be linked with a larger parish, so that the pastor would likely need to devote more time, as needed, to the other parish. Maritza noted that the current job description that was drafted was actually for the PLC position, but that this description could be modified to fit the PA role. Sharon asked if we need diocesan approval to hire a PA, and Maritza answered that the parish can hire a PA without need of outside approval.

Some questions were then asked about the budget. Mike Reis mentioned that if the parish proceeds with hiring a PA, that we could not have a balanced budget next year. If adding a PA to next year’s budget, the $85-$90K surplus of this year would be needed to cover next year’s budget shortcoming. Elaine asked what the salary would be for a PA. Someone replied that the PLC position was expected to pay $60-$75K per year, plus benefits; the salary for PA would be less.

Maritza said that the best chance to succeed in the hiring of a PA would be to keep Kelly Donahue (diocese-HR) and Monsignor Kelley aware of the parish’s process, to help get their buy-in. Maritza also stated that communicating the message correctly is key. We cannot say “we are hiring a future PLC”, because right now, we are simply looking to hire a PA. Al asked what message Maritza would recommend, and suggested working on message points after the meeting.

Elaine asked about what could be included in a bulletin insert. Al suggested listing the key points, and keeping the communication low key. Deb added that it’s not possible to overcommunicate, and that the small group sessions done previously were a great additional mode of communication. Dick said that we must stress the need for a PA, and that there’s no need right now to consider a possible future PLC position. Linda agreed with Deb about the use of small group discussions, as did Sharon. Elaine and Nancy requested getting copies of the communications around getting a PA, so that this could be forwarded onto families in the parish.

Maritza motioned to approve moving forward with chartering a search team to hire a PA. JoAnn seconded the motion, and the motion carried unanimously. Al thanked the committee for their work, and Maritza asked everyone to continue to pray for the parish!

Objective: Communicate, Increase Participation in Social Concerns

Activities/Accomplishments:	Since your last Status Report, what have you accomplished on your Objective & Goals work?
Team is regrouping, and focusing on updating the Resurrection website. Plan is to provide a simpler “landing page” which lists areas of Social Concerns that Resurrection supports and has significant participation. The team will compile information of the various Social Concerns - contacts, agency information, etc, and have Resurrection staff maintain this information. Focus will be on describing volunteer opportunities for parishioners.
What overlaps do you see with the objectives and goals of other Teams?	In the course of doing your project work, please note any overlaps you see with other Objective Team goals.
Social Ministries should be coordinated with Resurrection Staff, and communications coordinated with the communications committee.
Challenges/Discoveries:	What did you do about the problems or challenges you encountered: actions taken, results achieved, people informed, etc.?
We did not anticipate objection from Resurrection staff regarding the request for information from those involved in Social Concerns ministries.
Resources and Information Required: Do you envision a point where PC approval is needed prior to implementation of goals?	What additional resources or information do you require to continue to make progress? If so, from whom would you like assistance and for what actions?
We will need information from Resurrection Staff and from current ministry coordinators and volunteers. We will need to work with Resurrection staff to update the website.
Consider the impact that implementing your goals or actions are likely to have on parishioners. What will you do to prepare parishioners for the changes you are proposing to implement?	Please describe your approach to inform parishioners of the changes you are proposing. What parish committees will be impacted by your proposed changes?
Bulletin Announcements, emails, locknotes, meeting for coordinators and parishioners who are interested in Social Concerns
Planned Activities (Please use the Timeline on page 3)	What are you planning to accomplish prior to your next scheduled Status Report? (Please use the Timeline on page 2)
End of April - Begin to compile contact information and descriptions for the Social Concerns ministries from Resurrection Staff. End of May – Have a draft of Social Concerns Ministries on Resurrection Website, with a focus on describing volunteer opportunities Design/schedule a Social Concerns weekend at Resurrection in 2Q 2018 to let parishioners know about the Social Concerns activities. June – Work with Debbie Seymour to publish new Resurrection Social Concerns website

Sharon indicated that after meeting with the staff, that there was a new game plan. The website will be re-gutted in terms of the information for Social Concerns, and how it’s presented. There will be description of the areas that the parish supports, and Debbie would be the keeper of contact information for the ministries. Interested parishioners would contact Debbie, who would then refer them to the appropriate contact. Maritza asked why contact info for specific ministries wouldn’t be on the webpage- the primary objection was privacy. Maritza suggested including contact info for people who didn’t mind.

Deb Buckels suggested creating a Resurrection e-mail address for people to send “letters of interest” to- Elaine agreed and said that the e-mail address wouldn’t have to include the contact’s name, but could be something like specificsocialministry@resurrectionde.org. Susan noted that the website could just provide the ministry, a name of someone to contact, and a phone number at the parish. Sharon noted that Sandy Landoll was added to the team, and would help work through objections.

New Business:

Parish Picnic, May 20 ^th: Linda said it would be helpful to have announcements after Mass on May 6 ^th or 13 ^th to solicit help for the picnic. Someone suggested that having tables out in the gathering space and using SignUpGenius might be helpful for getting help with the picnic. Using a Mailchimp e-mail would also be good to let the parish know about the picnic. It was also brought up that Welcoming Weekend would fall on the weekend of the picnic. Maritza and Al agreed that this was great timing!

Kitchen Renovation Plans: Rich handed out drawings/plans for the new patio and upgraded kitchen. Rich explained that the patio would start where the windows are near the current donut counter, and would continue outside to the door of the nursery. The estimated cost of cabinetry is $10-$15K. The installation will be done for free by Rich and his committee. Rich will be asking for volunteers to help with the project.

The upgraded kitchen will include stainless steel countertops, which are more sanitary. There will be additional garbage receptacles, too. Al asked about lighting- Rich responded that the current lighting will be sufficient for the new kitchen. Rich also addressed concerns over a permit for the new stove- the stove will only be used for reheating food, and the top will only be used for boiling water (there will be no frying of foods allowed.) It was also noted that the Food Closet is being moved.

JoAnn asked about the timing of the next Pastoral Council meeting. The normal meeting date (2 ^nd Sunday in May) is Mother’s Day, and the 1 ^st Sunday in May won’t work because of the youth group. Everyone agreed that this means the meeting will fall on May 20 ^th at 6:30 PM- it will be a busy Sunday for the parish!

Maritza noted that the Triduum services this year seemed to be better attended than in previous years. Father Graney said that the numbers for Communion hadn’t been pulled together yet to make the comparison.

Parish Buzz:

Father Graney shared a letter from Ruth Sanders, thanking all of the people who helped prepare for, and participated in, the Triduum liturgies this year. She greatly appreciated the extra time and effort put in by musicians, lectors, altar servers, Eucharistic ministers, sacristans, bread bakers, greeters, and ushers. She also expressed a special thank you to the following people for the extra time they put in: Mike Reis, Patti Falkowski, Jane Hanson, Steve Grise, Joe Paulus, Mary Louise Chesley-Cora, Ellen Turano, Ken Tulenko, Mary Ann McLane, Ellen Pringle, Doug Keilman, Father Graney, and Deacon John. And finally, she shared a portion of “Prayer for the Work of our Hands” by Diana McIlintal.

Sharon moved to adjourn the meeting, Dick seconded, and the motion carried. The meeting was adjourned at 8:57 PM.

Respectfully submitted, Mike Mitchell