The Angelus – April 2012- Parish Council Discernment – Jim Anderson

Why did I decide to submit my name for discernment for the Parish Pastoral Council? For me the question is not why but who. I was volunteered by my beautiful wife of over 30 years, Marion.  This does not mean that I did not pray and discern if this was the right ministry for me prior to being discerned, it just means the Holy Spirit had a different plan for me than I did. Marion and I had several discussions on me submitting my name for discernment. My problem was not that I was not willing; the problem was I was procrastinating. My wife along with the Holy Spirit knew I needed some help so Marion submitted my name on their behalf.

I have been on the Parish Council now for 10 months and I have to say this is one of the most rewarding and fun experiences I have had in all my Parish Ministries at St Michael. I have met new friends, spent time in prayer, and have become aware of how our Parish functions administratively, and have learned about all the great Ministries we are blessed with.  St. Michael Parish is a vibrant and active Parish that has over 2600 families and over 60 ministries. I have found the Parish Council to be a group of Parishioners who are not political but are truly interested in the Spiritual well being of St. Michael. Our Parish needs your time and talent.

The Parish Council is looking for Parishioners who are willing to share their time and talents with the Parish. We need Parishioners that are passionate about their Catholic Faith and want to be a part of helping to determine the strategic direction our Parish is moving.  How often do you get the opportunity to work alongside 12 other Parishioners including Fr. Tom to guide and advise our Parish into the future?

Though this is an important ministry this is not a ministry for everyone. The Parish Council is an advisory board to Fr. Tom and works on the principle of consensus decision making.  All must have the capacity for giving their opinion along with hearing the opinion of others on the Parish Council.  We discuss issues, give our opinion, and come to consensus to recommend to Fr. Tom.

I encourage all of you to discern within yourself, pray, and ask the Holy Spirit what ministry (s) is best for you.  Maybe you can be as lucky as me and have family members or friends who are willing to help move you in the right direction.  Please pray and ask yourself a question. What can I do to help make my Parish a vibrant and thriving community of Saints?