Combined Parish Consultation
Strategic Pastoral Planning Goals
Compilation of Responses by Fr. Tom Welbers
(as of July 8, 2000)
We,
the People of God,
under the patronage of Our Lady of the Assumption
are called to be disciples of Jesus Christ.
As
members of the Body of Christ,
gathering for worship around the Table of Word and Sacrament,
we commit ourselves to live and support one another in
faith, hope, and love.
We
are sent forth as apostles, in the power of the Holy Spirit,
to make the Good News of Jesus Christ present and alive in our world
through evangelization and hospitality, healing and service,
education and the establishment of justice.
January 14, 2000
Notes:
As of July 8, 2000, a total of 204 goals consultation forms were returned. The consultation was submitted to the parish in three stages, (1) a special mailing to parishioners active leadership and ministry roles, the first week of June; (2) a general parish mailing (approx. 4,200 households), the second week of June, and (3) a Sunday bulletin insert the weekend of June 17-18. With one exception noted below, every form was signed. Agreement was indicated by every respondent to every goal, except as noted below.
(1) In the Parish Leadership Consultation, a total of 83 forms were returned. 29 returned with “agree” circled without comment. 54 had the comments listed below. All were signed.
(2) In the mailed Parish-Wide Consultation, a total of 114 forms were returned. 58 returned with “agree” circled without comment. 56 had the comments listed below. One was returned unmarked, with the comment noted below, including some disagreement on particular goals. All were signed, except one. All comments indicated agreement, except as noted.
(3) In the bulletin insert Parish Wide Consultation, a total of 8 forms were returned. 1 was returned with “agree” circled without comment. 7 had the comments listed below. Agreement was indicated except as noted. All were signed.
General Comments
Parish Leadership
Consultation
After reviewing the thirteen goals in the
statement review, I believe we are all already working on them in a limited,
not so much of a priority way. This
does not mean I do not believe we should not try harder to do much better.
Many
of the goals require more education of current and new lay leadership, more
programs, more involvement, more space, etc….Most of all this means a more
serious commitment on many, many more parishioners’ time, talent, and last but
not least treasures.
Which
direction are we going to be headed first?
I believe that we can give lip service to many of the goals. Unfortunately, if we can not back it up with
the training programs and space needed to accomplish all of this we are not
going to be any further ahead in three to five years than we are now.
We
need to increase our contributions now and implement a capital campaign as soon
as possible if these strategic planning goals are to be truly a part of OLA’s
future.
I’ve
been through this kind of process before.
I see the familiar buzzwords: “empower,” “comprehensive,” “diversity,”
develop.” I hope it comes to mean a lot
more than it did in my previous experience.
I
think a Director of Lay Ministries to coordinate all of those activities from
liturgy to religious ed, service and outreach, youth, etc. would bring focus
and strength to the parish.
Who
could disagree with any of these goals?
They all sound like admirable objectives. However, what I see as the
“nitty gritty” goal we should resolve to meet is to help each individual realize
his need for God and desire to know Him personally
– every day – not just in church on Sunday.
Use
the information given from the Strategic Pastoral Planning narratives; focusing
on current and future perspectives as a guideline. What more can be said that’s
already mentioned?
P.S.
In terms of process, have we included those at daily Mass and offered the
opportunity to those at Sunday Masses and homebound to shape this sheet before
the parish-wide consultation?
I
seem to agree, but need more discussion in lay person’s terms. Am I being foolish for asking?
My
experience with goals and objectives is that a long list turns out to be
an excess of words and nothing gets done.
Why a list of 13, when 10 or less might have some margin of success?
I
don’t understand the mission at all, and I don’t understand much of what the
goals are saying. These seem to be
“legalized generalizations” of what is to be accomplished. Many of these things we are doing
already. I see no overall integration
of these goals.
#’s
8, 9, &10 I think Fr. Tom is doing an excellent job.
What’s
to disagree with? These are all
wonderful. Broad goals. All “pie in the sky,” if too broad. The key, of course, is in the implementation.
How
to implement these goals is my concern.
I
believe these are all worthy goals, and in line with the post-Vatican II
teachings of the Church. I would like
to see emphasized the goals that stress greater lay participation, and greater
training of future lay ministers (paid professionals?) and lay leaders.
Prioritization
suggestion: #1 s/ #11; #2 s/b #1; #3 s/b #12; #4 s/b #13; #5 s/b #2; #6 s/b #3;
#7 s/b #10; #8 s/b #7; #9 s/b #4; #10 s/b #8; #11 s/b #5; #12 s/b #6; #13 s/b
#9.
Comment
re: goals #12 & 13. Are these goals
reflection of what is meant by a “mystagogical parish”? This is term that I volunteered to study for
the RCIA. If I come up with anything, I
will let you know.
Obviously,
no one could argue with these goals.
How they are implemented will make all the difference.
I
would like it if we could form a group to visit people in prison, in English
and Spanish. Thank you.
On
all items not circled, it has been my perception that these things have already
been the policy of the parish, and to some degree, most of the rest as
well. Of course, all things can be
improved upon. Other things that
concern me: the poor quality of the microphone at the piano/organ location,
when the musician announces the hymn numbers.
The deafening volume of the “guitar” group at the Sunday 5:30 Mass. (There are young children there whose
hearing is especially vulnerable to damage and loss.) I can tell you it’s not fun having a hearing loss. [Note: this respondent circled “agree” to
goals numbers 4, 5, 6, 7, 10, and 12,
with comments on 7 and 12; leaving the others blank.]
My
thanks to all of you who have devoted your time and efforts to this large task.
There
appears to be overlap in goals and most are very ambiguous. I suppose they must be, and “fine tuning”
(if possible) added at a later date.
Goals are politically phrased and lack clarity. [did not mark agree or disagree on any]
Disagree
on all goals. See
extended comments, attachment #1. [This
is only unsigned, anonymous return as of June 24.]
Disagree
on all goals. See
extended comments of Octavio Boubion, attachment #2
Disagree
on all goals. They are
ambiguous, general, non-specific and unmeasurable. It appears to me as though our parish spent a lot of $ on
consultants and a parish weekend that appears to be throwing $ at some
perceived problem. At a parish level
you should have 3-5 goals that are focused, specific, and measurable. The only criteria here appears to be, “did
we spend all of the money they gave us?”
Good
job!
Thanks
to everyone who has shared in this process as our leadership. God bless you. I am thankful for your time and talents.
I
think all of these Goals are terrific.
Good
start! The “rubber meets the road” in
the details.
I
agreed completely with all these goals.
I am happy my parish has sought my input. I live in LaVerne, but due to the way this parish has functioned,
I am committed to this parish. I am
proud to have my children baptized in this church. Thank you for soliciting my input.
Just
wonder why Msgr. Barry wasn’t on the Strategic Pastoral Planning team?
Unmarked. Thank you for sending me this
questionnaire. However, I do not feel
qualified to make any comments or judgments since I have been away from the
faith for many many years. I just
returned to the church a comparatively short time ago.
I
hope this sharing of things that “stand out” in our hearts, and which we may be
hesitant to voice, but long to see, may be helpful and encouraging! May God bless in new and beautiful ways.
As
a Christian it would be difficult to dispute these aims. As a practical person, the ultimate goal
seems utopian. May God bless your
efforts.
Although
I am no longer a member of OLA, I found it to be a “great” parish. I now belong to Holy Family Catholic
Community in Hesperia, Calif. Another
great parish. (I love Father Tom Welbers.)
[none]
Goal #1: Worship/Liturgy
Our Lady of the
Assumption will establish and implement a collaborative process to provide
liturgical celebrations that form and nurture us as a diverse community and
empower us to live our discipleship.
Parish Leadership
Consultation
Be
sure to include more members of the Spanish and Vietnamese communities in the
planning.
Some
parishioners speak French, Italian, and Philippine languages. It may help if these languages can be
included at some point in the liturgy
I
agree. Greater effort should be made to
have the Anglo, Hispanic, and Asian groups come together, to appreciate each
other’s culture. Perhaps the Vietnamese
choir should sing more often at the Anglo Masses, or our English-speaking choir
should sing at the Vietnamese or Spanish Masses.
One
method to bring together an appreciation for diversity would be to have 1 Mass
designated on the weekend to be “hosted” by different liturgical celebrating
groups on a rotating schedule.
Every
effort must be made to be sure that all communities are represented.
The
liturgical life must flow from the people and their baptismal charisms. The planning process can then enhance the
thirst for good liturgies the people will have. This is the second most important goal.
I
don’t really know what this means.
Isn’t the Liturgy Team collaborative?
I need more explanation.
When
we use the word “live our discipleship,” it can be done in an easy manner, not
by leading groups but by a smile, a move over to let an extra person in the
pew, not a nasty look. No great program
is needed to worship God in His house.
Action
plan: to fly the papal and American flag in the church at all times. This is not a political statement; it is a
matter of patriotism.
Substitute
“carry out our mission” for “live our discipleship.”
Add
“and united” after “diverse.”
No.
1 priority is liturgy coordinator to enable us to grow into lay
leadership in planned steps.
Maybe
on the feast of Our Lady of the Assumption, we can have a better organized,
advertised, and participation from different ethnic groups in our community
I
think we should explore the many graces in the existing liturgy without
experimenting with new additions to the liturgy.
Maybe
more tri-lingual celebrations.
Of
course, I think we are already doing a pretty good job of this
Possibly
more from the pulpit—we need to hear homeless, black, homosexual, not by
prayer of the faithful but scripture and today’s example.
The
Liturgy Committee needs to be expanded to truly represent a diverse community.
I
totally agree with this statement, but would like to soften, warm up. I need to have verbiage [?] come from the heart.
If
any parish can do this, I believe OLA can.
Over the 20 years that I have been a parishioner, I have attended many
wonderful liturgies that show a real effort to involve and engage the assembly.
I
found this goal as written somewhat difficult to understand, e.g.,
“collaborative process,” “forming us,” “discipleship.”
Please,
please, please include strong efforts to begin Mass on time.
What
does “collaborative process” mean?
Explain
“collaborative.”
Our
People serving at the altar should dress according to the celebration.
??? Not sure what this means. Are we going to change or adjust to
liturgy? I think the masses need to be
more educated in what in going on at Mass and why. They will certainly be empowered to live their discipleship and
answer their calling.
When
I attend Mass, I expect it to be said in English.
Are
we going to do it?
This
is an important part of a Catholic’s life and should be made relevant to the
way we conduct our lives.
Disagree. What’s written here is fine, but . . . Worship/liturgy is primarily directed toward
God – who [sic] do we worship after all? I would like to see at least a mention of God in a goal for our
liturgy.
Ultimate
authority for approval or disapproval of liturgical forms must be with the
pastor. You do not want to be
blindsided here.
? What does this mean? Too vague.
I have no idea what I would be agreeing to.
I
miss the missalette. I think it keeps
peoples’ attention more, and I miss the prayers in it.
We
really miss the old missalette, with the printed scripture! Why did it disappear?
Help
in organizing and support in “solidarity.”
Family rosaries (related to various Masses) to encourage prayer together
of various groups.
Agree,
but Imust say that without further elaboration/clarification I am not sure what
this goal is all about
In
our secularized society, there is a special need for reverence and a renewed
appreciation for the sacredness of the Mass.
How
will this collaborative process take place?
Disagree. See attachment A.
Goal #2: Parish Community Spirituality
Our Lady of the Assumption
will develop and implement a unified spiritual enrichment program that supports
the many facets of Christian life as we seek to understand and live our mission
as a parish.
Parish Leadership
Consultation
Need
to link each organization’s existence to the Mission of the Parish.
Retreats,
led by our priests and other talented religious, to promote spiritual
enrichment.
Republication
and/or reissue of the list of our Christian life organizations will give this
goal a jump start.
Possibly
have a director of formation that would assist this development and provide
opportunities for sharing of spiritualities and stimulate growth and challenge.
Emphasis
must be on developing an active prayer life.
This
must be the most important goal.
Without a foundation of a personal relationship with Christ, liturgies
and all other aspects of parish life lack foundation.
I
don’t know what this means either. Does
it mean more adult education? Retreats?
We
can use a lot of big words that have no meaning to the masses. People will go to a church that has a warm
feeling to the masses. We go to
celebrate life and our love for our God.
Prayer
Warriors will pray with people at their home if they wish. Each parish organization might take one hour
of monthly adoration. Have a box or
book to list intentions which would include petitions, thanks, and praise. Have more processions with our Lady and the
Eucharist. Insist on family prayer—refer
to the Bible. Pray as Jesus
prayed. Pray with the eyes and heart of
Jesus.
More
Bible studies are needed. How about a
man’s [?] Bible study?
I
see this goal as complementary to goal #9, religious education.
Affirming
unity by fostering communication and planning joint events, that is build
upon existing groups.
I
am praying that someday we will have perpetual adoration of the Blessed
Sacrament (like St. Joseph, Upland, and St. Dorothy, Glendora), which will
definitely allow more graces into our parish and community members.
Could
combine 2 & 4.
Please
include Bible study groups (for all ages) in spiritual enrichment program.
“Gather Faithfully Together” needs to be shared
with the whole community.
Maybe have a bit more adult education.
Aimed
at whom? How does goal #2 dovetail with
goal #9? What’s the difference?
This
program could be effectively developed in conjunction with an adult education
program. It is certainly needed.
Sounds
challenging. Would contacting the
Spiritual Growth Center in Orange for consultation be of any assistance?
Ask
for possible topics for homilies and honor them.
Spiritual
or theological? We need a spiritual
renewal in this church to bring people into a personal relationship with
Christ, and teaching on that.
To
visit the Pomona Valley Hospital every day and take communion to the sick.
It
will be interesting to se what the action plan for this goal is. I believe that an effective action plan will
include a component for getting along with other Christians.
Would
like Bible studies.
? What does this mean?
The
upcoming celebration of Corpus Christi is an excellent step in a forward
direction.
This
might also relate to #9, using parishioners’ time well in classrooms paralleling
Sunday Masses, when people are at church.
Offering of confessions times at least once a month following daily
Masses, and possibly on Sunday p.m. I
believe this willl encourage more to receive the blessings of those sacraments
regularly, and “overloaded” laity will be grateful for the opportunities to go
when they are already at church even with families as they feel led.
Periodic
days of recollection would be helpful.
Agree. See attachment A.
Goal #3: Unity and Diversity/Ethnic Communities
Our Lady of the Assumption,
recognizing that we are a multi-cultural community, will respect and support
the integrity of our diverse traditions, and foster cultural awareness as an
important aspect of our unity.
Parish Leadership Consultation
Our
Parish is blessed by the diverse communities.
Perhaps
a “Movie Night” showing movies such as “Romero” for our adults, or for our
youth who have not as yet seen the movie, would be helpful. (This is an interim, or jump start
suggestion.)
Programs
needed to support and enflesh this reality.
For example, educational, social, etc., and cross-cultural retreat
days. Audio equipment for instantaneous
translation where all 3 communities can come together for meetings.
It
is vital that OLA be a model for inter-ethnic cooperation and respect, and a
place where all peoples will feel welcome and have a place. It also is important that other cultural
aspects of worship are respected and passed to younger generations.
Have
we not been doing that? To tell you the
truth, I’m about multi-cultured out.
I’m sick of having it shoved down my throat. And I don’t see that diversity produces a unified whole. I know this is terribly un-PC, but you
should know that there are not a few of us who are very tired of seeing
differences touted to the detriment of national unity.
Very
good idea!! I feel we can work together as a Church community with the city.
FIRST
COMMUNION 5:30 SATURDAY NIGHT, FULL PARKING LOT. We Look at other people that come to Mass of Saturday and the
comment ot me was, “who are they, where is their church?” We can hurt more of God’s people with a
look. WELCOME AND SMILE>
We
need to remember that when we are paying for services that it is our money and
time. We should mention God. Speak a word of joy and blessing.
Disagree.
I have felt for years that having separate ethnic functions (including Masses)
fosters separateness. We are one
community. Division promotes division.
Change
“foster cultural awareness” to “foster celebrations of our cultures and
languages.” “Awareness” seems too
limited. A needed witness in our society today.
Unity,
respect and understanding are the result of a conscious effort to be together
and do together.
Participation
from each group in major programs or ministry should be encouraged.
Does
this eliminate separate Masses for English and Spanish and Vietnamese, i.e.,
merge ethnic groups?
Absolutely. I think both the Spanish Mass and Vietnamese
Mass on Sundays are an asset.
Providing
opportunities to know more about the cultures represented in our diverse Church
community would enhance this goal.
Being
aware of our multi-cultural community when establishing any task forces,
committees, etc. is very important.
Make sure that the groups are multi-cultural.
What
does this mean in terms of translating it into action?
Agree,
but disagree with last clause, “and foster…unity.” When my boys went to school here at OLA,
many mornings I awoke to 6-7 boys in my house, 2 Hispanic, 1 Black, 1 Russian,
1 Vietnamese. Nobody thought anything
about race because it was not emphasized.
Then they went to Damien! There
was an Asian Club, an Hispanic Club, an Afro-American Club, a Fishing Club,
Chess Club, etc. But no Caucasian
Club. They were so surprised. What these separatist clubs did was
separate, not unify. They (all
races) thought it was crammed down their throats. Why wasn’t there a bowling club, fishing club [sic], etc… I have seen that when you emphasize the
difference, you foster racism. My sons
and their friends of all ethnicities were really put off, and disgusted by all
the emphasis on cultural awareness.
After all, isn’t it true that it’s our likeness and similar
interests that draw us together, and not our differences? Sure we all have differences, and we can
accept that. But if we concentrate on
it or to use the words I Goal #3, “foster” (promote, nurture…[Webster’s]), I
have seen division result rather than unity.
What a paradox!
More
bilingual and trilingual services.
?
We all have multi-cultural backgrounds which should be
respected. This is America, and we
should all learn to speak English. Whne
communication is possible, differences can be easier to resolve.
This
goal could be included with the next goal.
I
believe that this is a very important goal because we cannot live out the
meaning of Christ’s message if we don’t try to synthesize the traditions of
Catholics from various places in a cohesive whole.
Agree
with the first part. Support each
culture with their own liturgical celebrations. Disagree with the last clause. Depends on how this is accomplished. Multicultural Mass, bi-lingual songs, etc. don’t really unify
us—just reduces how much each one of us participates in the Mass.
Aren’t
we already doing this?
This
is fine as long as cultural awareness does not alter or add to the basic truths
of the gospel.
Sensitivity
to diversity is a virtue; should avoid its extreme, political correctness.
Solidarity
rosaries might also include possibly monthly Masses integrating various
ethnic/cultural groups, gifts, intentions, ages.
While
a member of OLA Parish, I attended meetings of Church Women United with a
friend from the Presbyterian Church.
More women should be encouraged to join CWU—Dorothy Keller is our
contact.
Disagree. I believe we should be respecting and
supporting the integration of our separate traditions and cultures into
one, catholic community. Cultural
traditions should be left at home or within associations of like-minded
people. That which we share in common
should be promoted and celebrated. We
are all the same in the eyes of God—why “foster cultural awareness?” Doesn’t this just underscore our differences? Let us foster one faith, our common goals
and hopes for the future, for our own lives, for those of our children and for
the OLA Parish that we all share—as ONE community. I do, however, think that every effort should be made to bring
together all ethnic communities within the parish with invitations to all and
with various other forms of outreach.
We all have so much to offer and we are a wonderful group. Please let’s celebrate what we all have in
common.
Disagree. Tend to disagree somewhat. I see a need for renewed emphasis on our
spiritual commonality, and to take special care that we do not become further
divided from one another.
Undoubtedly
an essential consideration in the light of California’s extraordinary racial
mix.
Goal #4: Community
Our Lady of the Assumption
will actively foster a positive, visible and dynamic presence in the
Pomona-Inland Valley community.
Parish Leadership
Consultation
Important. Fr. Tom offers a great visual presence in
civic organizations.
Our
people need to be invited to attend various meetings in the Pomona-Claremont
areas.
This
is good. Do we have a person with a
publication background who can send information to our local papers, regarding
OLA activities? (“Press Release”)
Look
for ways to network and cosponsor with other churches, etc., different activities
that promote common good.
Develop
awareness to the OLA website and its use to learn about “volunteer “
opportunities in the community.
As
parishioners become more aware of their baptismal character, they will
evangelize in their community.
How
do we measure this?
To
my thinking no person has ever been able to sell God to others, at least for
that selling to have value. Here again
we are back to the smile and extended hand of friendship.
Hospitality
committee might help.
As
the largest religious community in the PIV, OLA is notably underrepresented in
the civic and political life of our area.
Which
would include feeding and taking care of the spiritual needs of the homeless..
This
must be a multifaceted campaign to engage parish.
Through
what? How? Aimed at what group?
I
don’t live in the area.
In
the past, OLA was actively involved and represented in the religious gatherings
of the Pomona Inland Valley Community—not a new idea.
Are
we (the parish) active and represented in the Pomona Valley Council of
Churches? I was on the Christian
Education board at one time. The
Catholic presence was appreciated.
#11
might be part of this.
Disagree.
Be specific. Presumably this means
through evangelization and hospitality, healing and service, education and est
[establishment?] of justice (or we could just be a nuisance. NOT!)
How? In terms of “social justice”? Does this
include political involvements?
Need
to be more present to their members, especially in cases of illness,
disability, or other trouble.
I
believe goals #1, #2, and #3 should be combined into one goal.
This
will be a challenge is we happen to disagree!
Disagree.
I think we might actively foster vocations to the religious life or actively
encourage our parishioners to a richer life of prayer and/or service to our
less fortunate brothers and sisters.
But to actively foster a “visible and dynamic” presence in the community
sounds like we are concerned more about what others think than what God desires
of us. Jesus said we will be hated “because of me.” “Blessed are you when they insult you and persecute you, and
utter every kind of evil against you because of me.” Matt 6:11. Also see Matt 10:16-22.
The
IAF with Ken Fujimoto is important.
Will create a power base for positive change. Also it will encourage new leadership.
To
what degree of implementation?
Not
just the Pomona communities, but all communities of Catholic faith.
Agree!!!!
This
is definitely a worthy goal, one which would demonstrate our commitment to
developing a cohesive community through active participation in the community
as a whole.
Disagree. No need to get involved in community issues.
Apologetic
classes on “what it means to be Catholic” might include invitations to other
groups to increase and enrich understanding (including joint goals).
I
think this community presence should stop short of joining inter-denomination
councils or engaging in protests not integral to our Catholic faith.
How?
Disagree. I don’t understand what sort of activities
would relate to this goal.
Is
this related to ecumenical activity and collaboration?
Goal #5: Decision Making
Our Lady of the Assumption
will develop and implement a collaborative decision-making model, including the
establishment of an effective pastoral council.
Parish Leadership
Consultation
Establish
a more active, involved, empowered Parish Council, perhaps with clear
“job description” (if this is not already done).
Change
“parish council” to “pastoral council.”
My understanding is that a “parish council” deals more with the nuts and
bolts of the parish, while a “pastoral council” is more concerned with mission,
visioning, and leadership. Some overlap
with #6.
Parish
council goals need to be organized.
Every
effort needs to be made to ensure all constituencies are represented.
I
welcome the opportunity for “leadership labs” and our parish plugging into such
programs offered within the Archdiocese.
This
is a vital component for strong parish life if the laity are to be empowered.
?
What’s a pastoral council? I don’t know
what this means.
?
We for sure do not need a decision-making group. Many of us know how to worship God; no group has to tell us. The collaborative could do more good on their
knees cleaning pews.
Have
an on-going, suggestion box.
Disagree.
Parish councils have not worked in the past, and I don’t see that
changing. They have no power.
Disagree. Not certain we need a pastoral
council—unless the pastor is willing to allow the PC to make decisions.
Effective
pastoral council—YES.
So
many stories regarding pastoral council are ones of divisiveness. This goal needs to be approached carefully
and prayerfully. What decisions need
the influence of our holy people? Are
our clergy trained or interested in such collaboration?
A
parish council is not only about shared responsibility, but also simply coming
together from many areas to see who we are.
My
experience with pastoral councils is that the pastor still has complete
control.
I
think that it would be a good idea to have a pastoral council. I understand they had one a number of years
ago.
Yes,
we have had a pastoral council in the past.
If the parish is to have true collaboration there needs to be a way for
individual members and groups to be heard.
Will
council be to advise, or to make parish decisions?
The
formation of a successful pastoral council is long overdue! In all my years at OLA, up to date, no
pastoral council has lasted long.
We
already have that!
Sounds
good. Members should be representatives
of our many cultural communities.
Include
mediation as part of collaborative process.
Agreement
is provisional, depending on the make-up of the council.
Great
idea that’s time has come.
(illegible
word) pro and con!
Disagree.
We had a parish council at St. George where I grew up. It did not work well. A lot of people did not feel properly
represented, anda pastor is appointed to pastor his flock.
Include
different members, and mentor new members on pastoral council
Past
councils have been ineffective because they were limited to advising only and
did not actively participate in the decision-making responsibility.
We
need to mingle together more in the church.
I think OLA and the entire Catholic system should form a multi racial
group to help racism.
As
with the pastoral council, such a process should be advisory to the
pastor.
I
would hope that some day we would even follow the Swiss Catholic model, that
is, the Council must approve the budget, and not merely advise the pastor in
its preparation.
A
good idea. The more of us involved, the
more effective a council can be.
? Need more detail. Who will participate in the pastoral Council, and to what extent?
Consider
including youth in leadership roles (as even “interns” to experience the joy of
service and challenges of mission). Can
inspire everyone, and also vocations—youth inspire and encourage and stimulate
others!
How
does the pastoral council represent the whole community? It is such a large community.
Hopefully
this will relieve Fr. Tom and the other priests of work and stress, and not add
a new layer of projects and meetings to their already overtaxed schedules.
?
I don’t know if I agree or not. Is this
model consistent with the pastor’s responsibilities and authority?
This
should be a priority. Highly
recommended.
Our Lady of the Assumption
will support the well being of our ministers and programs, through the
cultivation, training and utilization of staff and volunteers, adequate
financing, and effective communication.
Parish Leadership
Consultation
I
think there may be many parishioners with talents and/or skill who might
volunteer to do projects or specific tasks but may not want to over-extend
themselves or for indefinite periods of time—then would need good
administrative coordination.
The
need to have parishioners accept and understand stewardship and baptismal
responsibility.
This
goal is essential if we are to rise to the challenge of fewer clergy in the
future.
Yea
for the OLA website!! Let us really
promote it and continue to invite parishioners to write in!
A
staff coordinator of volunteers will be a vital support of ministers. Also the position may be pivotal in the
evangelization of the congregation in goal #2.
Staff
can be used to advantage not by memos, but by good works. The church has grown to be officer
heavy. In fact all titles and few
workers. “The person that cleans the
toilet is as good as any child of God.”
Will
this be only office and day worker, or does this include people with day jobs?
How
does this goal relate to or differ from goal 11, Christian service and
outreach.
Volunteer
training is a good investment.
A
yearly get-together, training, or retreat would be nice.
Goal
is full of nice buzzwords. There
seems to be a large staff at OLA—is this making OLA better?
There
should be periodic evaluation of all programs and staff to determine their
effectiveness.
Training
must be ongoing. Ministries like the
E.M.’s and lectors training should be a mandatory requirement for continued
participation. I thin all ministry
appointments should be for a specific period of time, like for 3 years.
Not
sure what this means! What
ministers? What programs?
Where
will this come from?
Any
well-run organization or community needs information and skills to function
effectively. There is a great deal of
talent in the parish community that has not been tapped with regard to using administrative
talents and skills.
It
is my belief that the training and financial support of lay ministers are
crucial to the future success of the Church, both internally and in the world.
OLA
truly needs a volunteer coordinator.
Very
important! Everyone needs to feel
supported in their efforts.
Disagree. Again, I see the need to
be more specific. E.g., “…support the well being of our parish community by
supporting our ministers…”
Absolutely. Lay ministry is vial in lieu of a shortage
of priests.
Yes,
we need highly qualified individuals to run our ministry.
Within
the limits of budgets.
Should
focus efforts on using existing resources in particular.
Possible
creation of a prayer for those employed by the church in various roles,
including missionaries.
Disagree.
If adequate financing, on any one program or well being of our
ministers, might be over an amount of $5,000.00, it should be submitted to a
vote of the parish members.
We
do need a real person at the desk at all times instead of a machine!
Lay
participation should be a cohesive force in the amalgamation of a parish
community as large as OLA.
Goal #7: Buildings and Grounds
Our Lady of the Assumption
will design and implement a parish facility master plan with components
including needs assessment, space utilization and capital campaign feasibility.
Yes. Again, include staff and groups who will
actually use the space to have input into the planning, discussion, etc.
A
master plan would help the Parish to understand the need for a capital
campaign.
I
agree; however, a quick fix on the parking lot problem on Sunday could be some
“Enter only” and “Exit only” signs.
Regarding church capacity and parking lot capacity: Since we already
have a Vigil Mass on Saturday evening, can we have additional Vigil Masses of
Saturday to reduce the Sunday overcrowding?
These could be bi-lingual, for cross-culture reasons.
This
goal must be based on the needs of the parish as the People of God—people
first.
Absolutely—especially
in need for an educational, training facility.
Fundamental
to implementing our mission
This
goal will have to be carefully considered and the size and vitality of the
parish community will be a major factor in any decision.
Need
a “plan B” should a capital campaign not be viable.
It
seems that the need for a new very large church building at a new location is
very much in order.
We
must consider accessibility for people with disabilities.
There
should be no free ride in the use of the hall.
Every group should pay for using it.
Respect should be expected for the church and school.
Will
anyone get to make suggestions?
Nothing
wrong with having a viable plan.
Top
priority.
Current
fundraisers, appeals should be evaluated and priorities established. Additional fiscal pressure (in the parish)
may be difficult to accommodate.
Agree/disagree. This seems to be discussed a lot, i.e.,
goals for OLA school. Is it still a
discussion item? Maintenance is in a
sorry state.
Many
buildings need to be upgraded.
Maintenance staff may have to be increased.
Desperately
needed.
I
thing our present church is not large enough, but many parishioners disagree.
Strongly.
With more space comes more money.
Important
to have commitment and feedback from majority of parishioners if this is to be
successful.
Keep
in mind that the school, its families, students, parents and faculty cannot be
facilitated in one enclosed area.
It’s
time! I think we’ve done the best we
could with our limited space.
While
the buildings do not make the parish/school, I think we should consider
starting over. So much money could be
spent trying to fix up when I think we should consider new buildings.
Leave
room for the Holy Spirit’s guidance in each situation, or it will become a
monopoly of a few elite.
More
disabled parking space closer to the church building, for those unable to walk
any distance.
Build
a budget that matches our needs.
Not
imposed by L.A.
(agree)
but no new church!
We
need more car parking.
This
goal should include the establishing of financial reserves to assist in
pre-schedule maintenance needs.
I’m
guessing if we have fewer priests in the future, and continuing immigration, we
will need a bigger church to accommodate more parishioners and visitors at
fewer Masses.
For
starters, establish a plan to replace the rectory. As one Cardinal noted, it is
a maze! The present rectory makes a
poor use of precious space. We need a
well-designed facility.
Tend
to disagree. Maybe not so soon
on the implementation.
Should
be needs assessment with all facets of the program.
Will
this include capital improvements to the school?
I
would rather see fundraising focused on the needs of the poor rather than
creating buildings for ourselves.
Maintenance is needed of course, but hopefully not a capital campaign.
Goal #8: Youth
Our Lady of the Assumption,
recognizing the vital importance of our youth in all aspects of parish life, will
provide a comprehensive program for our youth and young adults.
Parish Leadership
Consultation
Yes. I concur in involving the youth in the
discussion—this would add to inter-generational cooperation. It would be an educational experience for
the youth.
Work
with the local Hisp. Schools, public and Catholic, in the process of helping
families.
A
full-time youth minister is highly desirable.
I
was on this committee and firmly believe that if we do not educate the youth in
their “faith,” the next generation will not be outgoing evangelists.
The
extent to which we succeed in this area will determine the future of the parish
and the church. This is the third most
important goal.
A
program promoting ABSTINENCE would be great!
Desperately
needed for all youth.
We
need a Director of Youth Ministries.
There
should be more programs for our youth (teens).
Other religions seem to have more of a variety.
Having
watched the students on a daily basis, I have seen everything from out of
control 8th graders to a student mooning the whole class on the p.e.
field. There was no censure, only go
over to the table and enjoy your pizza.
One example of many.
Spiritual
development is an important part.
Missions, retreats, prayer, service, instruction, activities. Need real value, not just entertainment.
Suggest
rewrite: “Recognizing the challenges faced by our youth in coming of age in a
materialistic, self-centered, media-driven culture, OLA will provide a
faith-filled program for our youth and young adults.
The
youth are in need of a Bible study group.
Do
we pay an adequate salary to attract qualified individuals and to provide a
livable income? Youth is a more
extended period of time than in past generations, which creates a need for
greater attention. It’s a point in life
when we lose Catholics.
This
is of vital importance for our youth and young adults.
Perhaps
this should be higher goal, say, #4.
Sounds
good, but implementation (if the past has any value) will be difficult to
achieve.
Hopefully
this includes the children’s liturgies at the 9:30 and 11:00 Masses.
The
youth are our future hope to energize and renew this Christian community.
Point
systemfor7-8th grades might be well received.
We
need to implement and maintain a strong youth organization. (Where are our
youth?)
I
hope that those responsible will study the comprehensive approach to youth
ministry and be creative within that model and not try to invent a new
one. Does “youth” include junior high?
Hopefully
this would include encouraging high school and college age youth to serve as
eucharistic ministers and lectors—at all Masses.
Each
age group needs appropriate representation, depending on the issues.
Disagree.
Too vague. Social? Religious? Both?
Youth
and young adults need to enrich their spirituality. I don’t see many young people attending regular Sunday Mass these
days.
With
youth input.
It
would be nice to see an active youth group in our church.
Thank
you for hiring youth minister with a fair salary.
Perhaps
a youth program beginning at a younger age would better promote participation
of our teenagers in the teen youth group.
Add
strong financial support.
Very
important
Hooray! Easier said than done. I hope that in this process the current
young adult ministry—such as it is—i.e., Michael and I, will be contacted and
consulted in this process, before we leave the state (May ’01).
Teaching
and exploring when attending Mass and other prayer how to give and open
ourselves so that they are able
I
feel that our youth groups have come along way in their participation in our
church activities.
I
would hope that this plan would truly include the Scouts. In the recent past, it has not.
Very
important!
May
want to focus efforts on involving youth that do not currently participate.
Especially
encourage youth as leaders in all worship, prayer roles, so they are enriched
as they lead others too.
This
should be top priority. A
qualified youth minister with a proven track record should be hired, who knows
how to rally and inspire young people with a structured faith-building
program. Too many of our young people
leave (to more “exciting” Protestant youth groups). Will they ever return?
Very
important.
Goal #9: Religious Education
Our Lady of the Assumption
will provide a religious education process that focuses on life-long
participation, exploration, and deepening of our Christian identity in all
levels of parish life, from adult to child.
Parish Leadership Consultation