The following is a description of the Study process which has been used since 2004.
Each study was slightly different, but all completed these tasks during the study period.
Preparation for each Study included months of meetings with the Pastors in the area
A parish life survey was conducted at Masses on an appointed weekend and tabulated mechanically. This information was used in the “Discover” phase.
Basic formation opportunities in mission, ecclesiology were offered to parishioners and study participants alike both in advance and during the study.
The diocese coordinated a communications plan to communicate the progress of the study to parishioners in a timely way.
Stage 1 – Discover: Study participants examined, generated and discussed information.
Parish profiles: general census, envelope count, attendance, sacramental statistics
Parish history and practice as told by parishioners (story)
Diocesan data and projections from CARA
Diocesan
Variation on S.W.A.T. analysis
Financial summaries for each parish
Scatter maps of where parishioners reside
Demographic Data
Stage 2 – Dream: Study participants worked together to come to a shared vision.
Name the “big, hopeful, audacious” goals for ministry in the cluster
What needs to be developed? What needs to be changed or eliminated?
Investigate new models for ministry and growth
Stage 3 – Design: Study participants explored various models for organizing and
supporting ministry in the area.
Presentation of the Canonical Restructuring Options to consider
Design a variety of scenarios for leadership in the cluster that will address
ministry needs in light of changing realities (demographic shifts, decreasing
number of priests and religious, increasing diversity, costs: operating, maintenance, repair, staffing, etc.)
Evaluate those scenarios
Stage 4 – Destiny: Study participants offered a set of recommendations to the Bishop.
Get feedback from parishioners on limited number of scenarios
Find consensus on recommendations
Present recommendations to the Bishop for consideration
The recommendations, once received by the Bishop, were evaluated in light of current circumstances and needs. In consultation with his closest advisors, the Bishop determined whether it was prudent to act upon these recommendations in the near term or to hold them as advice for future decisions as the opportunity arises.