Local Parish Planning Teams

Each pastor has established a Local Parish Planning Team for his parish or parish cluster to assist him in guiding planning efforts.

Formation and Composition

This past summer, pastors identified 4–6 lay members from their parish or cluster to serve on his Parish Planning Team. Team members may include trustees, parish administrators, pastoral council chairs, finance or facilities experts, or other trusted parishioners. Members are those the pastor feels are able to collaborate effectively with the Diocesan Planning Commission and respond to guidance from the Bishop’s staff.

Responsibilities of Local Parish Planning Teams

1. Prepare for Regional Leadership Summits

• Attend their designated New Life Regional Leadership Summit alongside their pastor to learn about parish planning and mission-centered strategies.

2. Review and Study Parish Data

• Examine parish and cluster data to understand current resources, demographics, and trends.

3. Use Parish Planning Tools

• Work with their pastor to apply diocesan planning tools, discerning how the parish or cluster can become more mission-centered.

• Explore opportunities for collaboration across the cluster and within the regional context.

4. Submit Parish and Cluster Plans for Consideration

• Collaborate with Diocesan Parish Planning Commission members for guidance and accompaniment.

• Identify additional resources needed to support parish planning locally.

5. Assess Processes and Seek Efficiencies

• Evaluate ways to create operational efficiencies within parishes, across clusters, and in coordination with diocesan offices.

6. Gather and Develop Feedback

• Collect input from parishioners as required for the planning process.

• Provide feedback to the Bishop and the Diocesan Planning Commission regarding potential changes, collaboration, and timelines.

7. Participate in Additional Regional Meetings

• Share insights and updates from their parish or cluster with the Diocesan Planning Commission.

• Attend meetings with Bishop Cozzens to discuss opportunities for collaboration or adjustments in their region.

8. Take Part in Development of a Five-Year Regional Plan

• Assist the diocese in shaping a long-term, mission-focused plan for parish life and collaboration across the region.

Through this work, Local Parish Planning Teams will play a key role in helping parishes discern, plan, and implement strategies that strengthen mission, foster collaboration, and ensure vibrant parish life for the future.