Diocesan Pastoral Council

PURPOSE - A diocesan pastoral council carefully investigates, prayerfully considers and, in consensus, recommends action to the Bishop regarding pastoral concerns facing the Diocese. (Decree on the Pastoral Office of Bishops 27)  At the heart of this service is a confidence in the inspiration, wisdom and creativity that the Holy Spirit grants to God's People.  The Bishop's pastoral council also serves as a liaison between the Bishop and the vicariates of the Diocese.  This assembly operates in accordance with relevant articles of Church Teaching and Canon Law (cc. 511-514).  This confidential forum is invaluable to the Bishop in discerning how to best promote the Gospel in light of the pastoral needs of the day. 

MEMBERSHIP - Membership is restricted to Christians who are in full communion with the Catholic Church, who are firm in faith, possessing good morals and prudent judgment.  Numerically speaking the council membership consists primarily of vicariate representatives.  It is customary to have two representatives from each vicariate to insure adequate regional representation on the council.  The Bishop may, at his discretion, appoint additional members-at-large to insure adequate representation of various other groups of significance within the Diocese (e.g. generation or ethnic groups) as well as the priests, deacons, religious or other Catholic Rites. 

COUNCIL YEAR - The council year starts in September 1^st and ends the following August 31^st.
The following are pertinent documents on the policies, procedures, membership, meetings and other operational norms that govern the diocesan pastoral council.  

Complete Council Norms and Structure

Executive Committee Description

At-Large Member Position Description

Vicariate Representative Position Description

Map of Representatives

Meeting Format

Organization Chart

Mid-term Evaluation

For questions regarding the diocesan pastoral council contact Office for Evangelization and Parish Life or call 716-847-8393.