September 7, 2006

Multi-parish ministry workshop planned

As many parishes in the Diocese of Buffalo move closer to new configurations, one of the challenges will be learning how to adapt to a multiple-parish ministry. A daylong workshop is scheduled for Tues., Oct. 24 at the Church of the Transfiguration in the Rochester suburb of Pittsford.

Sister Regina Murphy, SSMN, director of Research and Planning for the diocese, said there are many types of multiple-parish situations. "Ordinarily, the phrase refers to a situation where one priest or pastoral administrator is responsible for two or more parishes, or there is a single parish with more than one worship site. Often these situations involve shared staff and ministries. Another type of multiple parish ministry is one where independent parishes are clustered so that they will function with a high degree of collaboration, often sharing resources including personnel."

Pastors, pastoral administrators, parish staff, key parish leaders and others who are currently ministering or preparing to minister in multiple-parish settings can take advantage of this opportunity to learn from experts in the field. Participants can expect to gain a greater awareness of the range of issues to be considered in a multiple-parish setting, learn best practices, skills and strategies, and network with others in the New York state who are already involved in this type of ministry.

Two speakers are scheduled to make presentations. Mark Mogilka, director of stewardship and pastoral services for the Diocese of Green Bay, Wis. and Charmaine Williams, director of planning and human resources for the Diocese of Fort Worth, Texas will share their experiences.

The cost of the workshop is $16 and includes a continental breakfast and buffet lunch. Sponsors include the Office of Research and Planning of the Diocese of Buffalo, the offices of Pastoral Planning of the dioceses of Rochester and Syracuse, the Conference for Pastoral Planning and Council Development, and the National Federation of Priests' Councils.

For registration information, go to www.stbernards.edu and click on "Upcoming Events," or call 585-328-3228, extension 1255. The registration deadline is Oct. 10.

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