| |
This fall, as part of an important planning process, many parishioners, parish councils members, and parish staff members gathered in clusters to discuss Archbishop Dolan’s “Letter on Pastoral Planning to the Catholics of Southeastern Wisconsin." In all districts, evangelization was mentioned as a priority. This includes inviting and welcoming new members, and encouraging ushers and hospitality ministers to contact parishioners who have not been to church for some time. There has been discussion about how to approach a family member, co-worker or neighbor about the Catholic church and how to make home visits. Archdiocesan statistics in the past 10 years indicate that the number of adults being received into the church through celebration of the Sacraments of Initiation (Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist) and those being received into full communion in the Catholic church has increased.
Resources are available for parishes as they take the time to reflect upon evangelization and to work with their mission statement and goals. Parish council/staff retreats and parish "missions" provide excellent opportunities to reflect upon and discuss the U.S. Bishops’ Pastoral Plan and the Archdiocesan Evangelization Handbook.
Another tool for prayer and discussion is Disciples in Prayer - a collaborative effort between the U. S. Catholic Conference of Bishops Secretariat for Evangelization and Oregon Catholic Press. Disciples in Prayer is an exciting new resource that guides prayer groups in their reflection on the Lectionary readings throughout the church year. It contains synopses of the Sunday readings, responsorial psalm texts, musical selections and suggestions, and study group questions. It is especially suited for personal reflection by parish councils, committees, staff members, liturgy teams, RCIA and small faith-sharing groups. The cost for ten or more copies is $3.50 each; 1-9 copies, $3.95 each. CD $15.00. (Disciples in Prayer can be ordered through the USCCB Publishing Department, http://www.nccbuscc.org)
In 2004 the archdiocese will extend an invitation to all those who are interested in evangelization for a morning of prayer and sharing of "best practices." Details will be sent to parish leaders in January. If you are interested in materials or have questions about evangelization, contact Val Keller, Evangelization, (414) 769-3395, (800) 769-9373 ext. 395 or kellerv@archmil.org
|
