Minutes JUNE 2013

Post date: Sep 10, 2013 12:14:13 PM

PARISH COUNCIL MINUTES

Members Present: Fr. Shaun, Lyla Leito, Kenny See, Tom Thelan, Sherri Moreno, Connie Reid Guffey, Paul Mueller and Judy Kohn. Members Absent: Andy Herevia, Wendy Brys and Mike Clement.

The main purpose of the meeting was to have a conference call with Fr. Michael Murray to discuss his take on Salesian Spirituality and what his role might be if he were to come to the parish to introduce it to our parish. The format was an introduction by Fr. Murray followed by questions by the council. The minutes will be presented in that format.

Introduction: Fr. Murray would initially introduce the Salesian tradition to a core group of anywhere from 10-30 people (interested parties). It would be a half day training (possibly 9-2:30) which could then lead into a parish-wide program the following Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday (mission format) or similar dates. The core group would make up a Salesian disciple team. It is collaborative in celebrating this tradition and providing opportunities for spiritual and communal growth. The ½ day training would revolve around brainstorming, identifying priorities, values, approaches to each one’s natural talents and gifts.

It would be specific and intentional about what you are doing as an individual or church. That could look like a small group, bible study, etc.

Question – What is the growth in parishes as a result of implementing this?

He has seen growth. The great gifts of Salesian Spirituality in a parish that offers it is that it provides language and imagery that there is a place for all. No one is 1st or 2nd place.

A. Provides individual growth and responsibility B. My personal faith is perceived in a community. Stresses the importance of community.

Question - What will the average JoSchmo see implementing this tradition?

A. Providing people with opportunities. B. Practical – gives them a framework, responsibility within the community. C. Invites, entices, and welcomes people. D. Opportunity for socialization. Can be as complicated and as simple as you want.

Question – How can Salesian Spirituality make us a more evangelistic parish?

A. He will email Fr. Shaun some materials for this. B. It embraces the mundane. Through the lens of Salesian Spirituality everything is related to grace.

Question – How is Salesian Spirituality different from other engagement programs?

A. It is the centerpiece – the tradition. B. Each parish, individual decides what gifts in the tradition speaks to them.

Question – What happens after the mission?

A. We need to have offerings and things for people to be involved in. Core group generates ideas.

Question – What are some common attributes of a successful Salesian Spirituality parish?

A. People are looking for some tradition. The values are being consistently reinforced. B. For the young/old, tradition/liberal. The oblate looks at us and says “we” not you.

Question - Does this sell to the youth?

A. Getting them to make current resources on their own?

The intent of the council is that we discern these questions/answers, research the history and tradition of Christian Humanism and how this is demonstrated in Salesian Spirituality, and pray about this for ourselves and our parish community.

Additional resources: Oblates.org and go to the Spirituality tab. “Rebuilt” – The story of a Catholic Parish by Michael White and Tom Corcoran.

We will reconvene on July 23 to hopefully reach a decision. We are taking very seriously the Bishop’s call to be an evangelical church and are looking for ways to do just that.

Fr. Shaun’s Installation as Pastor: Several dates were given to us by the Bishop and following discussion, it was decided to have the installation on Sunday, November 17. It was also suggested that we combine the 9:45 and 11:45 mass and have one mass at 10:45 or 11:00.

Respectfully Submitted by,

Judy Kohn