Pastors consult by asking councillors to study and reflect on some aspect of parish life. The main purpose is to plan for the future, but the work of planning can also educate and build commitment in the present. For more information, see the links below.
Councils investigate issues that the pastor proposes, analyze them, and offer their conclusions.
- When to consult? Pastors consult when the council is ready and when general agreement is needed.
- When to delegate? Pastors may need to create an ad hoc committee or consult experts.
- Shared responsibility. In a good meeting, the council not only plans what to do but also who will do it.
- Volunteers. The proper task of councils is planning, not the coordination of volunteers.
- Building commitment. Developing popular enthusiasm is important but subordinate to pastoral planning.
- Facilitation. Good facilitators care but stay detached so the council can do its own work.
- Investigation. Pastors should invite councillors to perform this basic work.
