What is Parish Council?

Prior to 2014, only one council gave oversight to the activities and the finances of each parish.  Then in 2014, Canon Law 536 addressed the formation of two councils in each parish; a Pastoral Council and separate Finance Council.  Now with two separate councils, each could focus on information to advise the pastor. 
 
The congregation nominates and selects people for the Pastoral Council. This may be a self-nomination or recommendation from folks in the pew. One of the hopes is to help both the parish and the individual gain a better understanding of the operations of the parish through a diverse community of faith.  Parishioners are encouraged to serve a term or two.  By contrast, members of the Finance Council are selected by the pastor. 
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Our devoted Pastoral Council team consists of twelve volunteers (hey just like Jesus and the Apostles!)  with the pastor, two trustees and nine lay members. Together, their function is to advise, assist and support the pastor and through him, the members of his Parish Staff with consultative vote only.   They share with the pastor the responsibility for carrying out the mission of the Church and supporting the faith growth of our community.   
 
St. Peter’s dedicated Pastoral Council meets on the second Thursday of each month at 6:30pm at the Parish Office Center (aka Rectory).  They welcome anyone interested in learning the goings on within our parish.  Members serve a three-year term with liaison duties to one of the committees.  There is an annually elected chair, vice-chair and secretary from the committee personnel.  
 
Pastoral Council terms typically begin in June with three folks rotating out each year to help with the continuity of the council.  Please consider joining us…. we have a seat at the table waiting for you.  

​Would you like to know more?  Contact the Parish Office to connect with one of our current members!

Council Members