CENSUS & SYNOD
Last month, we submitted census information to the Archdiocese. Many of the questions had to do with basic parish facts, e.g., physical address, staff members, and programs.
There were also “number” questions about the 12 months ending September 30. How many parishioners? How many for this or that sacrament? How many children in Faith Formation?
We reported 511 registered parish households and 1,214 registered parishioners. (We also have several dozen active parishioners who are not registered.) We had 27 baptisms (various ages) and 27 funerals. We had 32 students in various levels of Faith Formation.
When it came to questions about our implementation of the local synod, I reported that we do not have a SET (Synod Evangelization Team) or an ECT (Executive Cell Team) in place. At our modest size—and given how many other things we have going on—it was not feasible for us to do everything called for by the Archdiocesan synod.
Rather, we have parallel processes, influenced by the local synod and by Pope Francis’s recent synod on synodality.
Among those parallels, I include Fr. Steve’s frequent preaching on the importance of listening to others. [See: Community Conversation at Humboldt this Tuesday evening. Details in the bulletin insert.] We also have various small groups of active parishioners, engaged in ministry to each other and to others. We do not have SETs or an ECT. We do groups our way. You’re welcome to join or even start a group. What interests you?
HAVE A BLESSED ADVENT
Happy New Liturgical Year as of next weekend! The season of Advent starts our church calendar anew.
One reason I look forward to Advent each year is that we have the opportunity to sing special music of the season—Advent season, that is. Look for hymns of anticipation and longing. I also like Advent’s gradual build up to the full glory of Christmas, as opposed to skipping straight from Thanksgiving to Dec. 24-25.
Thank you for your support, and have a great week!
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