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NEWS RELEASE: Phase two of strategic planning process begins Parishioners from the eight counties of the Diocese of Buffalo are beginning reflection and discussion as the diocesan strategic planning process moves into its second phase. Priests and parish life coordinators met on Oct. 27 at Christ the King Seminary in East Aurora to hear from speakers from other dioceses who have already experienced the planning process. Parish representatives were at the seminary two days later. They were briefed on the planning process and materials and also discussed diocesan core values and the meaning of a vibrant parish. Deacons will meet at the seminary on Nov. 19 for similar discussions. Planning materials are now being distributed to allow clusters of parishes to begin to develop recommendations for the future configuration of parishes and schools within the cluster. That information includes a checklist of some of the objective indicators of a vibrant parish and vibrant school. Parish cluster recommendations will be forwarded to the vicariate council and vicariate recommendations will be sent to the Strategic Planning Commission by January 1, 2007. However, some restructuring of schools may be announced at an earlier date, depending on circumstances. “There’s seems to be agreement among many of our faithful that decisions need to be made,” said Bishop Edward U. Kmiec. “As we move to reenergize the diocese, we will need to do some things differently. It is extremely important for parishioners to become involved in this process, allowing them to have a say in future decisions. It is vital that we all work together as we continue on our journey of faith and grace.” The new diocesan vision statement approved by the planning commission, states, “The Buffalo Diocese will be a vibrant, welcoming, Eucharistic-centered faith community reflective of God’s love for us all and our love for our neighbor mirrored in justice, compassion, understanding, holiness, solidarity, and peace.” It also calls for increased lay involvement, working “collaboratively with the clergy to minister to the People of God. “Restructured parishes and schools will give evidence to the good stewardship of our resources while creating vibrant parish communities and academically excellent, fiscally sound schools. The diocese will continue to read the signs of the times and make every effort to respond to emerging needs.” The strategic planning commission will review cluster recommendations for reconfiguration between January 2007 and December 2007. Those recommendations will then be forwarded to Bishop Kmiec for his input and approval. The implementation schedule will be determined as the process unfolds. The next meeting of the Strategic Planning Commission will be Jan. 25, 2006. For more information, including the new diocesan mission and vision statements and other strategic planning materials, go to this Web site: www.buffalodiocese.org/plan
FR. DAVID’S COMMENTS The meeting on Thursday, October 27th, with Bishop Kmiec, and my brother priests concerning the restructuring of the Diocese was a great experience of what it means to be Church. As I go through the materials I will be giving you more information. Now I would like to share with you some initial thoughts in no special order. * The future is in God’s hands therefore it is a bright future for the Diocesan Church and us. * Each year we have fewer Catholics practicing the faith, even though ever year we have many people converting to Catholicism. Last year it was close to 2,000 converts. * Priest from other Dioceses shared with us their experiences on restructuring in their dioceses so we have a better idea of what works and what to avoid. Both dioceses are stronger and healthier. * From the time the Apostles left the upper room to the present day the Church has been going through changes to make her the best instrument for Almighty God. Many times the Church had no idea where the road would lead, the Church only knew that Christ was leading her. We too are called to walk in faith. *Every time the church steps out into the darkness for the glory of God, the Church is forever young. This idea comes from Bishop Donald Trautman. * If we have the Word of God in us what more do we need. (Think about this statement) * We are called to do what is best for the whole Church. We exist for the glory of God and to do His work. * Our Faith is to enable us to love Jesus more each day and to help others to love Him. Below is the Diocesan prayer for our Diocese. Please pray it often. A PRAYER FOR OUR JOURNEY IN FAITH AND GRACE God our Father, We are one Church in praise and in prayer. Send the Spirit to us, members of the one Body of Christ. We ask for vision and courage as we grow in Faith, in Hope, and in Love. Thank you for the gifts of yesterday. Today and tomorrow give us gifts of unity and peace. Make us signs to our world of fidelity to your Word. With Mary and Joseph we ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen. |
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