Pillar Information Sheet
Formation of Pillar Groups:
- Each pillar group should contain between 7 – 10 members.
- Representation from each parish should be on each pillar group, if that is not possible that is ok and will be addressed in the pillar training.
- Pillar group members should be prepared to meet minimally twice a month for six months
6 Church Pillars
Liturgy
Description: The Liturgy is the primary way in which we worship God. The focus on the liturgy pillar is to make sure we have the very best worship taking place within our family of parishes. Priority is to be given to the dignity of each celebration, focusing on good ministry, music and participation. Priority is not to be given to appeasing locations and times. Consideration also needs to be taken into account for church capacities and accommodation of people at a location.
- Mass Schedules for each parish within the Family
- Sacrament schedule
- Liturgy Committee
Spiritual Life
Description: Spiritual Life works hand in hand with Liturgy. The Spiritual Life pillar should focus on fostering a relationship with Jesus Christ through para-liturgical experiences, retreats, devotions and any activity within the family that will help bring people closer to Jesus.
- Devotions
- Retreats
- Life in the Eucharist
Forming Disciples
Description: Forming Disciples involves all aspects of education. If your family has a Catholic school within it, your pillar group for forming disciples must contain a representative from the school. How the family supports all education is the primary function of this pillar group.
- Religious Education (K-12)
- Catholic schools
- Youth Ministry (Grades 6-8)
- Youth Ministry (Grades 9-12)
- Young Adult Faith Formation
- Adult Faith Formation
- Adult Leadership Training
- Inclusive Catechesis
- Family Formation
- RCIA/OCIA
- Sacramental Preparation
Out Reach / In Reach
Description: This pillar involves how we as church respond to the needs of our people, both in and outside of our family of parishes. Social outreach/justice are a key component of this pillar and can work together with organizations that already focus on specific outreach activities; St. Vincent de Paul, Food Pantry, etc.
Out Reach
- Any ministry or activity aimed at bringing relief for those who are suffering, while maintaining inclusivity
- Evangelization efforts geared at people who are unchurched and seeking Christ
- Promotion of missionary discipleship to attract new Catholics
In Reach
- Ministry to those who are in physical or spiritual need
- Empower parishioners
- Develop a culture of welcome
Stewardship
Description: Stewardship looks at how we utilize time, talent and treasure among our parishes for the good of our parishes and people. Working closely to make sure our efforts in fundraising do not compete with one another, this pillar group works on coordinating efforts for a fundraising schedule, determining how volunteers get involved in ministries between parishes within the family and ways that people can get involved in the family.
- Volunteers
- Donate time, treasure and / or talent
- Family / Parish hospitality
- Any activities that have to do with the above
Administration
Description: The Administration Pillar looks at the business components of how our parishes operate, and looks at creating efficiencies that respond to the challenges of diminishing resources and personnel as we move forward. Determining each parish’s fiscal responsibility within the family is also a part of this pillars task. This pillar will work closely with the Pastor of the Family and the Renewal office to ensure expectations for the family within the Renewal are being met.
- Human Resources
- Compensation, benefits & policies
- Safe Environment
- Governing / Family leadership
- Central office
- Processes / On-site Hours
- Personnel
- Budgeting / finances
- Communications
- Data / Reporting
- Security / Compliance