Parish Council
The purpose of the parish council is to act as a consultative body to the pastor and his staff. In essence, this means that the members of the council help the pastor consider the implications of specific actions and also help imagine ways in which the parish can more effectively fulfill its mission of worship, service and celebration. For example, Catholic Charities approached the parish asking to use space in our Ministry Center for a jobs-training program. The parish council met with representatives from Catholic Charities, then debated the issue, and finally came to a consensus recommendation to the pastor.
At St. Gertrude, this advisory role is shared by the parish “cabinet,” made up of leaders from 12 ministries and organizations which, by their function or spirit, give direction and help animate the parish. These groups are:
| Spirituality & Liturgy | St. Gertrude East | Gym Mass |
| Friendship Club | Young Adults | Social Life |
| N.C.A. | GIF – Youth | SJ / HC |
| Growing In Faith | R.C.I.A. | Facilities / Finance Board |
Here’s what a parish council member agrees to:
· 10 meetings per year
· Plan and host the Parish Leadership Summit in May
· Review materials for specific agenda items prior to each meeting
· Contact newly registered parishioners to offer welcome.
Here’s the schedule of yearly parish advisory meetings:
*= Council meeting += Meeting with Cabinet
| *+ | May – Parish Leadership Summit (Council sponsors this) |
| * | June – Reflect on the Summit insights and nominate new members |
| * | August – Council welcomes new members over dinner |
| *+ | September – Cabinet meets with council to take a temperature and consider staff proposals |
| * | October / November / January – Regular meetings |
| *+ | February – Council meets with Cabinet to assess fiscal year-to-date |
| * | March / April – Council meets to begin planning the May Summit |
Terms of service on the council are 2 years with 3rd year option.
Filed under: Church
