Ruthann read a reflection suggesting that we are all displaced persons.
Members Present: Father Graney, Deb Buckels, Mary Louise Chesley-Cora, Anita Delaney, Deacon John Falkowski, JoAnn Hedrick, Dolores Lepori, Heather Little, Ruthann Maisonet, Maritza Poza-Grise,Tina Prior, Mike Reis, Mike Rzucidlo, Chip Schussler, Ellen Turano.
Members Absent: Susan Dagenais, Sharon Gidumal.
Guests: Elaine Little, Nancy Maloney, Ruth Sanders.
The minutes of the January 8, 2017 meeting were approved.
Parish Buzz: Father reported that he has met a few new families who attend Mass; one is from New York and includes children who may participate in the Elementary Christian Formation program, although the family is visiting different parishes to see. Nancy had also met them as they had visited the Christian Formation program.
It was suggested that perhaps we should have a community weekend quarterly as a way of learning names of parishioners.
Father suggested that the approach of Lent is a good time for the stewards to call the people in their areas of responsibility. They can inform people of the times of Ash Wednesday services including the noon Mass at Jesus House.
Old Business:
With regard to our goal setting process, the overriding concern is still how to get input from parishioners – do we phone them, have after Mass conversations or form focus groups.
If a questionnaire were compiled, Nancy and Elaine are willing to distribute it among the families with whom they have contact.
Father brought results from previous surveys conducted in 2011 And 2012 which he shared with the Council.
Small group faith sharing is key to making people feel connected.
We need to put our energy into the things we do well.
A contemplative prayer group may be forming soon and different religious denominations will be invited to participate.
There have been several groups for young adult professionals in the area in the past. However, people get married and the groups fizzle out. They are difficult to keep going.
Father has asked Trish Herron to follow-up with families who have had a baby baptized at Resurrection with the goal of having them become active in the parish.
It was suggested that it may be time for a new Parish Directory to be published.
John reminded us that what we are about is making an impact on people who then go out and make an impact in their community. We may never know what impact we have had on someone.
Committee Reports: Deb Buckels thanked everyone for their generosity in volunteering time and treasure for the upcoming Family Promise weekend. She also said that, on February 22, 2017, there is a Family Promise annual meeting at 7:00 p.m. at Limestone Presbyterian Church. Everyone is welcome to attend.
Nancy reported that the Elementary Christian Formation Program serves 64 students in 48 families. She is very proud of the devoted catechists and assistants who serve in the program. She mentioned that there will be openings for two part-time catechists in the near future. In addition to classes, several activities take place throughout the year. The parish picnic is on May 21 this year and help is welcome.
New Business: An election committee to establish procedures and dates for the Pastoral Council election later this year was formed. Mike Rzucidlo, Mike Reis, and JoAnn Hedrick will serve on the committee.
Pastor’s Comments: Father said he found it necessary to cancel the Sunday evening Mass earlier than originally planned. Father Corrigan’s extended absence contributed to his decision as well as suggestions that the deanery consolidate operations. Chip expressed his belief that the decision-making process could have been more open.
Father is exploring the possibility of having Jon Leonetti conduct a mission at Resurrection at this time next year.
For the Good of All: Mary Louise announced that she will be leading a retreat day at Jesus House on February 28, 2017. Her focus is “Our Prophetic Gifts”. There may be some Mardi Gras surprises!
The meeting was adjourned followed by a closing prayer.