The Diocesan Pastoral Council [DPC] is an advisory group that collaborates with the bishop to offer support and to help clarify a vision for the diocese. It fulfills its mission through prayer, study, reflection and dialogue. Convening five times a year, the council is a channel of communication between the vicariates and the bishop.
The DPC has three primary responsibilities: to study the pastoral reality of the diocese as determined by the bishop, reflect on it, and make recommendations to the bishop.
Who established the need for a Pastoral Council?
The Decree on the Bishops’ Pastoral Office in the Church (Christus Dominus) approved by Vatican Council II encourages the establishment of diocesan pastoral councils.
Who serves on the Diocesan Pastoral Council?
The Diocesan Pastoral Council is composed of laity, religious and clergy.
Current membership includes:
- The Bishop
- Vicariate Representatives: Lay representatives selected in consultation with the local leadership and appointed by the Bishop
- Ex-officio Members: Chancellor for Pastoral Services; Director of Pastoral Planning; and the Administrator for the Diocesan Pastoral Council.
- Appointed Membership: Parish Life Director Representative, Deacon Representative, Young Adult Representative, and Representatives from the Diocesan Youth Ministry Team.
What does the Diocesan Pastoral Council Do?
A key responsibility of the Diocesan Pastoral Council membership is to provide and maintain a communication link between the Bishop, diocesan departments, and individual parish pastoral councils. In addition, members of the Diocesan Pastoral Council:
- collaborate with the Bishop so that pastoral activity can more effectively meet the needs of the people.
- work with the Episcopal Vicar and the local vicariate to better serve the local faith community.
- represent the DPC on diocesan committees as requested by the Bishop.
- foster and promote their own spiritual growth and that of their constituents.
