As I See It

by Fr. Vin

Priorities for the Future – IV

These past weeks I’ve written about what we’ve been doing on the Pastoral Council and on the ministry staff with what you told us helps you to grow closer to Christ.  Through the Gallup ME25 survey and the listening sessions that followed, we heard from you what deepens your spiritual life.  From that the staff and Council drew six themes, and then we drafted statements about those themes that will help in planning for the future.  Here’s a fourth draft theme text:

A priority of OLOG is to encourage our parishioners to be welcoming and inclusive of all.

By means of creating an atmosphere of fair, clear expectations; preaching and teaching regularly on the importance of inclusion and respect for differences; respecting the gifts and ideas of all parishioners; and encouraging full participation in the community.

In order that all persons who approach us may feel and be welcomed graciously.

Again, we hope to hear your suggestions to improve this draft.  You can (preferably) e-mail your suggested revisions to priorities@ourladyofgrace.net; or you can use the form at the bottom of this page (for this theme or for past drafts)  If we haven’t said things clearly in these six themes, offer your insights.  More next week.  Until then, peace.

[Here are the past three weeks’ draft themes; comments also welcome on these:]

By means of fostering full, conscious, and active participation of all parishioners in the Sunday Eucharist and in other sacraments.  By investing in good music, liturgical environment, ministerial formation, and preaching; and by educating parishioners in how to pray liturgically.

In order that parishioners may better understand and embody the full meaning/message of the Eucharist and so become more like Christ in our daily lives.

By means of knowing and using our gifts; and by determining those areas of need in our community where those gifts are best utilized.

In order that parishioners may grow in knowledge and love of God through the exercise of their gifts; and that we may give witness to the Gospel by reducing the suffering of others.

By means of good preaching that enlightens and challenges; adult education that addresses contemporary issues; and creating an expectation that adult Catholics have an obligation to inform themselves and to hand on faith in Jesus Christ.

In order that parishioners may be more effective disciples in family, church, and society.

You may return this in the collection or to the Parish Office.  Or e-mail your suggestion to priorities@ourladyofgrace.net.