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Each parish is unique. Each has its own history, its own way of doing things, its own personality, no matter how large or small. The uniqueness of each parish accounts for the vitality and energy of the diocesan and universal Church.

At the same time, there are basics that each parish should be providing in its community ministry. There should be concrete, descriptive ways of naming the ministries which are essential to parish life. The following description of “parish” identifies how the Mission of the Church should be evident in every local site.

A parish is a definite community entrusted to the care of a Pastor under the authority of the diocesan bishop (c. 515).

·        The word of God in its entirety is announced (c. 528.1).

·        The Eucharist is the center of the parish assembly and the other sacraments are devoutly celebrated (c. 528.2).

·        The poor, the sick, the lonely, the exiled, and all those with special difficulties are sought out, refreshed, and strengthened (c. 529.1).

·        The role of lay members to participate in and support the Church’s mission is promoted (c. 529.2).

It is important to point out that this description includes a responsibility for diverse populations. In the Diocese of New Ulm, the fastest growing group is Spanish-speaking people. The Mission of the Church is to provide ministry to people in an understandable language and in a culturally appropriate way. To this end, some form of diocesan or regional Hispanic ministry structure will be required. Additionally, grants have been requested to assist with language skills.

The description identifies the four essential elements of the Mission of the Church. This is the same Mission for the Diocese, the area faith community, and the parish. The four essential elements are: Word, Worship, Service and Stewardship. Each of these elements can be characterized by the ministries which flow from them. The ministries of the four elements are described below.

WORD — The Gospel of Jesus Christ must be handed on in daily life by:

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·        Religious instruction and formation of children and youth

·        Methods of evangelization to those inactive, distanced or new to the community

·        Ongoing faith formation of adults, families and groups with special interests and issues

·        Teaching and spiritual guidance to individuals during times of special need

·        Access to Catholic schools for those seeking enrollment

WORSHIP — The mysteries of faith must be celebrated in order to build up a community of faith, hope and love by:

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·        Preparation and participation in the Eucharistic liturgy on the Lord’s day

·        Communal and individual celebration of the sacraments

·        Promotion of spiritual practices, including family-centered prayer in the home

·        Special prayer services, gatherings, and events to build the faith life of the community

SERVICE — Public witness must be given to the Gospel of Jesus Christ by:

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·        Outreach to meet the temporal needs of the poor, lonely, and disenfranchised

·        Study and action related to issues of social concern and justice

·        Care for the sick, suffering, dying and grieving, and other works of mercy

·        Fostering healthy relationships and family life through contact, support, and activities

STEWARDSHIP — Attend to the proper use of parish personnel, fluids, properties, and activities by:

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·        Providing support, supervision, and training for parish staff and volunteers

·        Assuring just treatment and adequate compensation for personnel and volunteers

·        Ensuring proper maintenance and safe upkeep of resources and properties

·        Exercising fiscal responsibility in manners consistent with diocesan policies and in compliance with civil law

One of the purposes of the area faith community model is to provide quality ministry throughout the diocese. Quality ministry can become a reality if parishes prayerfully and reflectively assess their ministries on a regular basis, determining: what is done well, what needs improvement, and what may need to be initiated or revised. These elements and ministries will serve as a guide and criteria for goal setting when beginning the area faith community process.

Bringing parishes together in the four essential elements:

Word, Worship, Service, and Stewardship