July 23, 2013

Post date: Sep 10, 2013 9:13:04 PM

PARISH COUNCIL MINUTES

JULY 23, 2013

Members Present: Sherrie Moreno, Ken See, Tom Thelen, Paul Mueller, Wendy Brys, Judy Kohn and Fr. Shaun.

Meeting began at 7:00 with a prayer led by Fr. Shaun. Due to time constraints by some of the members it was decided to only discuss the Bishop’s evangelical mission challenge to all churches and the direction that St. Mary’s will take in answering this challenge. 84% of our Catholics are now over the age of 50. We need to not only provide for our parish faithful but also reach out to our youth and all who have fallen away from the church.

Parish Direction - There was much discussion on whether to bring Fr. Murray in to give an introduction to Salesian Spirituality to the Parish Council and a core group of parishioners. One of the churches that Fr. Murray has worked with is St. John Newman in Reston, Virginia. It is a very large parish but has reported success in their evangelical mission. “Rebuilt” – the Story of a Catholic Parish by Michael White and Tom Corcoran was recommended for reading for all parish council members. Fr. Shaun is going to get books to all members. It is a quick read and should be read by our next meeting in August for further understanding and brainstorming.

There was a motion to bring Fr. Murray to St. Mary’s for an introduction to the Salesian Spirituality and seconded. A vote was taken and it was passed with 5 voting and favor and 1 voting no. We are looking at October for Fr. Murray to come and possibly tie into the Advent Season. Fr. Shaun will make the contact.

August Meeting: It was decided to meet informally at Paul Mueller’s to discuss “Rebuilt” and to brainstorm further ideas to move the parish forward. We will meet August 27th at 6:30. Please contact the parish office for directions.

Activities Committee Update - Fr. Shaun gave a reminder that the Parish Picnic will be on August 25 and that Saturday, October 12 there will be an adult activity card night.

Fr. Shaun’s Pastoral Induction - Sunday, November 17th at 10:45.

Parish Council Membership – Mike Clement has announced that he will be stepping down from the council. He has served 6 faithful years and felt that it was time and also he will be devoting many hours to Doug Spade’s campaign. Our gratitude to Mike for his years of service on the council. Replacing Mike will be discussed during the August meeting.

Respectfully Submitted,

Judy Kohn