Over the next eight years, 20 men will be ordained priests for the Diocese of Providence. Although it would be ideal to have more seminarians, it is good news that these men have responded to God’s call. At the same time, however, over the next eight years, 63 priests will be eligible to retire.
It is obvious that the numbers don’t add up. Therefore, as we look to the future, it is vital that priests and parishioners begin to think differently about parish life. Many dioceses and archdioceses are preparing for the future by implementing plans of restructuring. For example, in November, the Archdiocese of New York announced that 112 parishes would be consolidated to create 55 new parishes. While there is no such plan in our diocese, it is unrealistic to think that keeping the status quo will serve us well into the future.
On Monday, February 23 at 7 p.m., Mr. Mark Mogilka, director of Stewardship and Pastoral Planning for the Diocese of Green Bay, Wis., will share his extensive experience in the area of diocesan pastoral planning. This event is open to the public and will be held at the Cathedral of Saints Peter and Paul parish hall.
It is time for us to discuss how we can prepare for the future with enthusiasm and hope. While the challenges are real, we can also see them as opportunities to create more vibrant parishes that will serve us for generations to come.
For more information about this event, contact Father Michael Najim at 331-1316 or mnajim@me.com.
