Phase 3 calls us to focus on cultivating a culture that supports the long-term mission of the Church. Phase Three of the Beacons of Light Initiative aligns closely with the St. Gaspar Family of Parishes Pastoral Priority Plan, the work of the Catholic Leadership Institute (CLI), and the Implementation Team in several ways:
Integration of Canonical and Pastoral Visions
Beacons of Light Phase Three focuses on establishing a single canonical parish while fostering unity and collaboration. This goal is mirrored in the Pastoral Priority Plan, which emphasizes unity and the creation of a shared purpose and vision for the family of parishes. The Implementation Team works to operationalize the canonical restructuring mandated by the Beacons of Light, ensuring it is done in a way that respects the priorities set in the Pastoral Plan.
Support from the Catholic Leadership Institute
The CLI’s guidance has been instrumental in forming the values, ground rules, and strategic focus areas for the Pastoral Priority Plan. Their expertise helps ensure that the transition aligns with the broader goals of Beacons of Light while staying rooted in respect, guidance, and accountability. CLI also provides leadership training, including the Parish Missionary Disciple Training, to empower parishioners and staff to live out the mission during and after the transition.
Pastoral Priorities Informing Implementation
The four priorities of the Pastoral Plan—encounter, unity, faith formation and education, and communication—serve as guiding principles for the Implementation Team.
For example:
- Encounter: The team might organize programs fostering spiritual growth and community engagement to ensure the merger strengthens faith life.
- Unity: Efforts are focused on overcoming parish silos to create a unified parish identity.
- Faith Formation: Initiatives ensure all parishioners, from children to adults, continue growing in their faith within the new structure.
- Communication: Transparent updates help parishioners understand and embrace the changes, minimizing confusion or resistance.
Feedback and Collaboration
Phase Three encourages parishioner participation and input, which aligns with the Pastoral Priority Plan’s commitment to listening to the needs and hopes of parishioners.
The Implementation Team ensures collaboration between the combined parish and finance councils, the CLI, and parishioners to make the transition smooth and mission-focused.
Strategic Alignment
Beacons of Light provides a diocesan-wide framework, while the Pastoral Priority Plan tailors the vision to the local realities of the St. Gaspar Family of Parishes. The combined efforts ensure that the canonical and pastoral restructuring isn’t just a structural exercise but also a spiritual renewal that supports long-term vitality and growth. In essence, Phase Three of Beacons of Light acts as the structural framework within which the Pastoral Priority Plan, CLI’s training and tools, and the Implementation Team’s efforts converge to foster a stronger, unified parish community.
