The Ministry of the Parish Council:  Roles, Responsibilities & Leadership Expectations

Collaborative leadership from clergy and laity is critical to creating a bright future for the parishes of our Archdiocese.

Imagine if:

• Parish Councils are seen as a center of inspirational parish leadership - an energizing force helping to transform the parish to live a Life in Christ.
• An atmosphere of trust and collaboration exists between priest and council. Clergy develop skills to enable, empower and delegate. Laity develop capacity to be followers and leaders - and to see the church not as a business but the Body of Christ.
• Council members grow and deepen in their faith. When their council service ends they are inspired to continued service in important parish ministries.
• Parish council members are recognized by all as exemplary parish stewards.
• Energized with a new vitality, meetings seem shorter than they actually are!
• The parish’s best people see value and honor in serving on council.

Join Us Oct 18 to Begin Rethinking Parish Leadership

Most observers would agree the typical Orthodox parish council has room for improvement. Join us as we explore and rethink parish leadership. How can we transition parish councils from the parish fire department to a shared leadership body that cooperates with the priest to discover possibilities, discern priorities, drive change and prepare the parish for vital ministry?

Session Goals

• Explore Proper Parish Governance - Describe a proper atmosphere of shared leadership and governance within Orthodox parish communities. Help parish leadership groups to understand their proper ecclesiological roles in the parish and to fulfill that role.
• Establish Expectations - Explore the responsibilities and expectations of serving on an Orthodox parish council.
• Offer Good Practices – Deliver concrete ideas, proposals and proven good practices.

This workshop will consist of short presentations, group discussions and small group sessions led by Parish Development Ministry Leader Joseph Kormos

Who Should Attend

Clergy, current/future parish council members and all non-council leaders are strongly urged to attend.

Target Outcome

Expect to leave this session having identified at least two functional improvements applicable to your parish council.

Registration

Regsitration of $10 per person includes luch and attendee workshop materials.  To promote this event and to communicate registrations to the Archdiocesan Chancery download this flyer.