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St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church
“And this is my prayer: that your love may increase ever more and more in knowledge and every kind of perception, to discern what is of value, so that you may be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ for the glory and praise of God.” Philippians 1:9-11
18 June 2011
Dear Parishioners,
It has been eight months since I joined you as pastor of this wonderful parish. In those months I have had the opportunity to meet and speak with many, although far from all of you. It has been my pleasure to learn not only about you, but the parish history as well. Although daunting at times, ‘Leo” and I are blessed in being here with you.
In October and November I met with the Finance and Pastoral Councils, as well as Buildings and Grounds. In those meetings I spoke of my desire to not only guide St. Francis de Sales so that we may maintain, but more so, that we may thrive in the future. My own vision for the future must be tempered and guided by the needs of all of you. This is the purpose of this letter and invitation to participate in a needs assessment of the parish family that we are.
In my first homily with you I expressed my main purpose in being here, that is to help get us all to Heaven. The journey is one of life, living and celebrating our Catholic faith means learning about the faith and how it can guide, uplift, support, and enrich us. Keeping that in mind, my questions to all of you are:
“What are the types of ministries, education, and activities do you see as needed for us to become the community of disciples that we are called to be? What is it that would help you to grow in your faith? How would you like to see us celebrating our faith?”
Your answers to these questions may be from some previous parish (other than St. Francis) experience, personal or family needs, or an historical context here at St. Francis. You may express an educational interest in Scripture, the Catechism, Catholic Social Teaching, Prayer, or Hagiography (Lives of the Saints). It may be that a ministry to those who have lost a loved one, experienced divorce, or are a single parent is needed. Programs for strengthening married relationships or young families, prayer groups for men and women, or some social network for 18-25 year olds might be needed. Do we need to revitalize the celebration of our faith in Mass and liturgy in more contemporary ways and expand devotional opportunities? You know your parish family, so your insights are necessary and valuable for me.
Please prayerfully consider what it is you may see as a need for our parish and submit them to me using either the back of this letter and drop it in the ‘Survey Response‘ box in the gathering space, answer on-line at sfnortonshores.com, or submit on a separate sheet of paper.
I, and the leadership of St. Francis appreciate your comments and suggestions. May the Spirit lead us all as we continue our journey of faith.
With love, your brother in Christ,
Fr. Phil
Dear Fr. Phil,
After prayer, thought, and discussion, I (we) have identified the following for consideration by you and the Leadership of the Parish to enlighten, enliven, and enrich us and the individuals and families of our Catholic faith community. |
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