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Strategic Planning

In every age the Church fulfills its great commission by responding to the spiritual hungers of God’s people. This Diocese has experienced what could be the largest restructuring in the history of the American Catholic Church.  Whether or not a particular parish has directly experienced changes the audiences and attitudes all around our parishes have shifted dramatically.  We are carrying out the mission of the Church in a new terrain.  Successful  parishes are responsive to the audiences of an emerging landscape.   

Now is the time to take strategic steps forward to insure parish vitality.  Churches set on thriving, and not just surviving, are becoming strategic about parish purpose and plans.  Strategic planning may involve rethinking old assumptions.  It may change the way a parish operates.  But parishes willing to think strategically, and act boldly will find new partners in the work of the Gospel.  No matter what lies ahead, these parishes will thrive.  The Diocese of Buffalo will help interested parishes take the next steps forward on this path.

PLANNING TOOLS
Pastoral Planning Survey
Parish Listening Session
Parish Cafe: A Process for Listening and Planning
A Process for Engaging Change
Parish Assessment Tool
Exit Interview
 
TOOLS FOR STRATEGIC COOPERATION
Sharing Best Practices - Toward Parish Cooperation

Leadership in Multi-site or Parish Clusters
Best Practices in Interparish Cooperation 
A Process for Cooperation
Partner Parishes

The Office of Parish Life provides facilitation, consultation and skill workshops for parishes interested in the strategic planning.  There is no cost for this service.  Parish vitality does not just happen.  It is the result of strategic choices. If you are interested in the cooperative advantage, the Office of Parish Life is at your service. 

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