The Local Pastoral Council (LPC) is a vital component of parish life, embodying the collaborative spirit of the Church as envisioned by Vatican II. It serves as a consultative body to the pastor, working together to discern, plan, and implement pastoral initiatives that nurture the spiritual, communal, and evangelizing mission of the parish.

What is the Local Pastoral Council?

The LPC is a representative group of parishioners, chosen through discernment, nomination, and election, tasked with fostering the mission of the Church within the local parish community. Rooted in prayer, reflection, and dialogue, the council seeks to understand the needs of the parish, develop strategic plans, and promote active participation among all parishioners.

The Purpose and Role of the LPC

1. Mission-Centered Leadership: The LPC focuses on the spiritual and pastoral well-being of the parish, ensuring alignment with the mission of the Church to proclaim the Gospel, celebrate the sacraments, and serve the community.
2. Advisory Role: While the pastor holds ultimate responsibility for the parish, the LPC provides valuable insights and advice, reflecting the diverse perspectives of the parish community.
3. Pastoral Planning: The council develops long-term and short-term plans that address the spiritual, catechetical, and pastoral needs of the parish. This includes outreach programs, liturgical enhancements, and initiatives for youth and family engagement.
4. Community Building: The LPC fosters a sense of unity within the parish, encouraging all parishioners to actively participate in the life of the Church.

Who Can Serve on the LPC?

Members of the LPC are typically parishioners who:

• Exhibit a strong faith commitment and prayerful discernment.
• Possess a collaborative spirit and willingness to work for the common good.
• Demonstrate an understanding of the parish’s mission and the broader vision of the Church.
• Have a genuine desire to serve the parish community.

Selection processes involve prayerful discernment, nominations, and elections to ensure the council represents the parish’s diversity.

How Does the LPC Operate?

• Regular Meetings: The PPC meets periodically to discuss parish needs, review ongoing initiatives, and plan future activities.
• Prayer and Discernment: Each meeting begins with prayer, fostering a Christ-centered approach to decision-making.
• Collaboration with Parish Ministries: The council works closely with various parish ministries to align efforts and resources.
• Transparent Communication: Clear and open communication with the parish community is a priority, ensuring that parishioners are informed and engaged in the council’s work.

Why is the LPC Important?

The LPC is a sign of the Church’s call to synodality, embodying the principle that all the faithful, guided by the Holy Spirit, share in the Church’s mission. It strengthens the parish as a community of disciples, promoting unity and a shared commitment to live out the Gospel.

How Can You Support Your LPC?

1. Pray: Keep the LPC members and their work in your prayers, asking for God’s guidance in their decisions.
2. Participate: Share your ideas, concerns, and suggestions with council members to help them understand the needs of the community.
3. Engage: Volunteer for parish activities and ministries that align with the LPC’s pastoral goals.
4. Discern: Consider serving on the LPC if you feel called to contribute to the life of the parish in this meaningful way.

The Local Pastoral Council is a living example of how the Church thrives when the laity and clergy work together. It reflects the richness of the Body of Christ, where each member’s gifts and talents are valued and utilized to build a vibrant, faith-filled community. 

For more information about your parish’s LPC, including how to get involved, reach out to your parish office.

Parish Finance Committee

The Parish Finance Committee is an essential ministry within the Catholic Church, dedicated to ensuring the prudent management of the parish’s financial resources. Guided by the principles of stewardship and transparency, this committee helps the parish fulfill its mission to spread the Gospel, serve the community, and maintain the parish’s temporal goods.

What Is the Role of the Parish Finance Committee?

The Parish Finance Committee is a consultative body that assists the parish priest in overseeing the financial affairs of the parish. Its primary responsibilities include:

1. Budget Preparation and Oversight
   The committee develops an annual budget that aligns with the parish’s pastoral priorities. It also monitors income and expenses to ensure financial stability and accountability.
2. Financial Reporting
   Regular financial reports are prepared to keep parishioners informed about the parish’s financial health. Transparency fosters trust and encourages active participation in parish life.
3. Fundraising and Stewardship Efforts
   The committee works with other parish groups to promote tithing, stewardship campaigns, and fundraising events. These efforts are vital for sustaining the parish’s ministries, outreach programs, and facility maintenance.
4. Advising on Investments and Major Expenditures
   The Finance Committee evaluates and advises on major financial decisions, such as property purchases, renovations, or significant charitable contributions. Their guidance ensures that funds are used effectively and in accordance with Church teaching.

Who Serves on the Parish Finance Committee?

Members of the Parish Finance Committee are typically parishioners with expertise in finance, accounting, business management, or related fields. However, more than professional skills, members are expected to be:

• Faithful Catholics who actively participate in the sacramental life of the Church.
• Committed to the principles of stewardship and the Church’s mission.
• Trustworthy individuals who respect the confidentiality of financial matters.

Why Is the Finance Committee Important?

The Parish Finance Committee embodies the Church’s commitment to responsible stewardship. By ensuring that financial decisions support the parish’s spiritual and pastoral goals, the committee enables the parish to thrive as a sign of faith and charity. Their diligent work also ensures that resources are managed in compliance with diocesan guidelines and canon law.

How Can Parishioners Support the Finance Committee?

Parishioners play a crucial role in supporting the Finance Committee’s work. Here are some ways to get involved:

• Practice Stewardship: Contribute time, talent, and treasure to the parish.
• Engage with Financial Reports: Attend parish assemblies and review financial updates to stay informed.
• Volunteer Expertise: If you have skills in finance or management, consider joining the committee.
• Pray for the Committee: Spiritual support is vital for those entrusted with managing the parish’s temporal goods.

The Parish Finance Committee is more than a financial advisory board; it is a ministry rooted in service to God and His Church. Through their work, committee members ensure that the parish remains a thriving community of faith, hope, and love. By fostering transparency, encouraging stewardship, and supporting the parish’s mission, they help bring the Gospel to life in tangible and transformative ways. 

For more information about your parish’s finance committee, including how to get involved, reach out to your parish office.

Parish Building Committee

In every Catholic parish, the spaces where we gather for worship, community, and service are vital to our shared mission. Whether it’s the church or parish hall, these structures are more than mere buildings—they are sacred spaces that facilitate our encounter with God and each other. To ensure the responsible stewardship of these facilities, parishes often rely on a Parish Building Committee.

What is the Parish Building Committee?

The Parish Building Committee is a group of parishioners, typically appointed by the pastor, who bring their expertise, time, and passion to oversee the planning, maintenance, and improvement of parish buildings. This committee ensures that parish facilities are safe, functional, and reflective of the dignity of Catholic worship and community life.

Responsibilities of the Parish Building Committee

1. Planning and Visioning
   The committee collaborates with the pastor, parish council, and finance committee to develop a clear vision for parish buildings. This may involve long-term strategic planning for future needs or addressing immediate concerns.
2. Project Management
   For new construction, renovations, or significant repairs, the committee works closely with architects, contractors, and diocesan representatives to ensure projects align with parish goals, budgets, and diocesan policies.
3. Maintenance Oversight
   Regular maintenance is essential to preserve parish facilities. The committee helps coordinate repairs, landscaping, and safety inspections to keep spaces in excellent condition.
4. Budget and Fundraising Support
   Managing the financial aspect of building projects is critical. The committee often assists in preparing budgets, overseeing expenditures, and supporting fundraising initiatives, such as capital campaigns.
5. Ensuring Liturgical and Aesthetic Integrity
   The committee ensures that any changes to worship spaces respect liturgical guidelines and the sacred character of the parish.

Who Should Serve on the Building Committee?

A successful Parish Building Committee includes members with diverse skills and perspectives. These might include:

• Professionals: Architects, engineers, contractors, and financial advisors bring technical expertise.
• Parish Leaders: Representatives from the parish council or finance committee provide continuity and alignment with overall parish goals.
• Committed Parishioners: Members who are invested in the parish community and its future ensure that decisions reflect the broader needs of the congregation.

Why is the Building Committee Important?

The work of the Parish Building Committee goes beyond bricks and mortar. By ensuring that parish facilities are well-maintained and thoughtfully planned, the committee creates spaces where the faithful can experience God’s presence, celebrate the sacraments, and build lasting relationships. Their dedication reflects the Church’s call to be faithful stewards of God’s gifts.

How Can Parishioners Support the Building Committee?

• Pray: Support the committee’s work with prayers for wisdom and guidance.
• Volunteer: Offer your skills and time to assist with projects.
• Give Generously: Participate in fundraising efforts to support building and maintenance projects.
• Stay Informed: Attend parish meetings or read updates to understand how building plans align with the mission of the parish.

The Parish Building Committee plays a vital role in ensuring that our sacred spaces continue to inspire faith and community for generations to come. Together, as one body in Christ, we can build not only physical structures but also a stronger, more vibrant parish family. “Unless the Lord builds the house, those who build it labor in vain” (Psalm 127:1). 

For more information about your parish’s building committee, including how to get involved, reach out to your parish office.