Parish Synod Proposals
St. Mary’s Parish
SYNOD PROPOSALS
As accepted at the General Assemblies.
Commission A - Faith Education
Commission B - Prayer and Sacraments
Commission C -
Commission F - Children and Youth
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Legend: Priority proposals are written in BOLD, Accomplishments are noted in RED
Commission A: Faith Education
A) General Adults
1. We propose that a teaching mass be offered periodically throughout the year during weekend mass times where parishioners are educated on the parts of the mass and the rationale for each part. Also, have the priest devote a short time during homilies focusing on the significance of each of the various rituals in our sacraments and liturgies. -- We had the parts of the mass discussed prior to mass last year just before advent and lent
2. We propose that information regarding the Alpha program and Life in the Spirit seminar be made available to parishioners and consideration be given to offering these programs at St. Mary’s. -- We ran a Life in the Spirit Seminar
3. We propose that an open discussion forum with a question period be made available for parishioners to have the opportunity to ask questions on the position of the Church on various contemporary issues that challenge it. For example: inter-faith marriages, the fate of non-baptized children, abortion, homosexuality, euthanasia, pre-marital sex, the marriage of priests, women in the priesthood and morality for children and youth. Other issues that might be considered for discussion are ethical issues in health care (stem cell research, cloning) and same-sex marriages.
4. We propose that a directory of Catholic resources and services be made available to parishioners who have questions concerning adults taking care of dying family members.
5. We propose that written materials such as pamphlets, leaflets, resources for prayer, including resources for simple family prayers (in English and other languages) as well as, lectures, seminars, workshops, presentations and retreats, be made available. -- We invited Gaffney's to sell written materials and Fr. Claude Noel ran a retreat during lent
6. We propose that there be education on: the official prayers of the Church, including the liturgy of the hours and prayer itself, i.e. what to pray for, how to pray, how long.
7. We propose that links to web-sites regarding the above-mentioned topics be made available. -- useful links have been put in the parish website
8. We propose that the weekly bulletin provide information on various faith education topics or recommended readings. -- the bulletin has incorporated these information as they become available
B) Making Resources Available for Independent Study
9. We propose that a parish resource centre be established with adequate staff as a means of providing information to parishioners. At the centre books, magazines, newspapers, journals, audio and video materials would be available to lend. -- Materials are available in the church basement
10. We propose that computers be made available in the parish resource centre where parishioners would have the opportunity to access numerous quality faith education web-sites.
11. We propose that a bulletin board be set up in the foyer of the church and downstairs in the coffee area that would offer suggestions for quality books, web-sites, radio and TV programs on faith education.
12. We propose that various bookstores be invited to come to St. Mary’s, at appropriate times, with various items to purchase for home use. -- We had Gaffney's prepare a booth to sell printed materials
13. We propose that various religious items be available for sale, on a regular basis, at St. Mary’s. -- During advent and lent, we had Gaffney's as well as the carvings from the Holy Land on sale
14. We propose that the B. C. Catholic be more readily available to parishioners. -- We had a B.C. Catholic Sunday to collect donations and also an opportunity to register for a subscription
15. We propose that recruitment, training and skill development workshops for various ministries such as choir, lectors, ushers be made available. -- this is being done by the different ministry coordinators
16. We propose that parish retreats, seminars and missions be offered during appropriate times of the year, aimed at various age groups. -- Fr. Claude Noel, Leif Kehrwald, Sr. Barb Fiend, Archbishop Adam Exner, Chuck Lutrell, a series on the Question of God, a series on the Life of Pope John Paul II, a showing of the Passion of the Christ, and a retreat for women hosted by Carol Arnold were all retreatsand seminars held this past year
17. We propose that guest mass presiders, speakers, host lecturers, preachers or religious leaders from various institutions such as St. Mark’s College be invited to St. Mary’s and offer a variety of talks, lectures and classes with both a devotional and instructional focus. -- please refer to # 16
18. We propose that workshops, talks or monthly symposiums directly focused on self-confidence, self-esteem, anger management, anxiety, depression etc., be offered in a Catholic context.
19. We propose a directory of Catholic professionals (psychologists, doctors, nurses, counselors, palliative care workers, etc.) be made available.
20. We propose a listing of other Catholic services such as the Office of Religious Education and Office of Family and Life be made readily available. -- there are links to these groups in our website (Related Links)
D) Promoting Bible Study
21. We propose that Bible study be offered to many groups in our parish with a format and time appropriate to each group. -- There is a group that meets every Tuesday evening at 6:45pm, one meets on Friday evenings at 7:00pm and another one on Saturdays at 12:30pm
E) Families
22. We propose that a guest speaker be invited to speak about sex education, youth, marriage and family life.
23. We propose that resources, such as books and videos, be made available to parents in order to help them teach the faith to their children. -- these are available in the Parish Resource Centre
24. We propose that a video night be made available to encourage and help parents and other parishioners to foster faith development for themselves and their children.
F) Multicultural/Other Languages
25. We propose that our parish offer opportunities for parishioners to express their faith through their culture.
26. We propose that if it is feasible, and there is a significant interest, that we offer certain faith education programs and resources in other languages.
G) Training and Resources for Catechists
27. We propose that training and education both in teaching practices and faith education topics for all catechists be strongly encouraged. -- All Liturgy of the Word for children presiders, R.C.I.A. facilitators have attended institutes hosted by the Office of Religios Education (O.R.E). P.R.E.P Teachers attended these institutes and have had in-service training done by the O.R.E.
28. We propose that more awareness of resources and services such as the Office of Religious Education be made available to catechists. -- The catechists have been given access to resources and support from the ORE through the PREP Coordinator
29. We propose that catechists be pre-assessed for suitability before being accepted to teach Parish Religious Education Program (PREP). -- This is being done on a continuing basis
30. We propose that a formal process of catechist recruitment and development be considered. -- this is being done by the Coordinator
31. We propose that more active recruiting be done in the search for catechists. -- This is being done on a continuing basis
Commission B: Prayer & Sacraments
A) The Eucharist
32. We propose that there be a mass and novena to Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal during the evening. (Discuss if the novena should come before or after mass)
33. We propose that there be more opportunities to receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation before and or after mass, if possible, not just at the scheduled time on Saturdays. -- Sacrament of Reconciliation is now done after ALL Masses
34. We propose that a permanent statement be added to the parish bulletin saying that private appointments for confession can be made, if needed. -- You may see this statement at the back of the Parish Bulletin
35. We propose that there be more opportunity to receive communion under both species and a short explanation be given about the protocol on receiving both species. (subject to hygiene) -- We have started doing this.
36. We propose that the parish adopt a specific weekly intention to be prayed for during mass.
37. We propose that the priest invites the congregation to take a moment to pray for their own intentions in silence, after the general intentions have been read. -- Time is given at each Sunday mass
38. We propose that a book of intercessions be available to parishioners in the foyer of the church for any parishioner to write down their intentions. -- a prayer box has been made available for this purpose
39. We propose that when flags are displayed, all countries of our parish be represented, if possible.
40. We propose that there be one added weekly evening mass during Lent. -- we now have 3 weeknight Masses all year round
41. We propose that the priest announces what Eucharistic Prayer will be used and the page number. -- This is being done
42. We propose that the parish establish a pool of adult acolytes, adult servers, to augment the duties of the children or youth servers. -- A list is in the process of being prepared
B) Music Ministry
43. We propose that the choir directors write articles in the bulletin which explain things like the uses of books and copyright law, especially with regards to the limitations of photocopying music.
44. We propose reviewing the blue book entirely and see if we can find something suitable to replace it with or to update it. -- the blue books have been updated and repaired and we also purchased new song books
45. We propose that the priests be reminded that the first verse of the entrance and recessional songs be sung before the procession begins. -- This is being done
46. We propose reaffirming that the role of the choir is to guide the congregation to sing more. There should be caution taken that it is not a performance. -- choir directors are continually reminded about this
47. We propose that the cantors be trained.
48. We propose that new songs be introduced and sung before and after mass for a few weeks, before they become part of the liturgical celebration.
49. We propose that the priests and/or the choir directors occasionally encourage the congregation to sing more. -- this is being done once in a while
C) Special Devotions
51. We propose that the church be open during special times for adoration. -- this is being done
52. We propose that there be healing services throughout the year. -- this is being done
53. We propose that prayer chains be established in the parish to which parishioners can forward their intentions.
54. We propose that a feast day for St. Mary’s be designated.
55. We propose that we offer Taize services.
56. We propose that the morning masses from the 16th to 24th of December be designated novena masses.
57. We propose that devotional prayer pamphlets be made available throughout the year.
58. We propose that the parishioners be reminded of appropriate liturgical etiquette. -- This has been addressed through write-ups in the weekly bulletin and through the priests' homilies
59. We propose that our usher ministry be developed to include more training. --
60. We propose that guidelines be established for the crying room. -- please refer to #58
F) Rosary
61. We propose that the parish foster a devotion to the rosary including the Living Rosary.
62. We propose that tapes and cassettes and other resources relating to the rosary be made available in the Parish Resource Centre.
G) Homily
63. We propose that the Church’s current teaching on current issues be addressed.
64. We propose that the homilies be delivered in “simplified English”. -- This is being done on a continuing basis
H) Church Open Hours
65. We propose that the hours the church is open be extended as feasible. -- this is being done
66. We propose that the Pastoral Council visit the feasibility of a 24 hour chapel for private worship/prayer/adoration.
I) Promoting Prayer
67. We propose that parish meetings should continue to start and end with prayer. -- this is being done
68. We propose that we continue to promote prayer as a foundation of our faith through private prayer, family prayer, prayer partners, prayer groups, meditation, mealtime, morning and evening prayers.
69. We propose that there be outdoor processions.
70. We propose that we incorporate other aspects of church like RCIA and Children’s Liturgy into other masses besides
71. We propose that a list of churches that offer masses and workshops in other languages, be posted on the bulletin board in the foyer of the church.
72. We propose that there be parish pilgrimages to churches and holy sites. -- this is being done in smaller groups
73. We propose that the Pastoral Council and the pastor discuss the feasibility of integrating other religious practices and customs into our current services.
74. We propose that all of the proposals in Commission B - Prayer, Liturgy and Sacraments - be referred to the Liturgy Committee and the Liturgy Committee implement statutory meetings at least quarterly. -- The Liturgy Committee has implemented statutory quarterly meetings
A) Adults
75. We propose introducing the Catholic Women’s League into the parish. -- A CWL Chapter has been formed
76. We propose organizing activities for adult parishioners with the goal of promoting fellowship. -- we do this once in a while
77. We propose that the parish sponsor social events for singles.
B) Seniors
78. We propose that opportunities for discussion of topics relevant to seniors such as nutrition, exercise and home security be provided.
79. We propose taking a survey to determine seniors’ needs and to gauge the number of seniors belonging to the Parish.
C) Activities
80. We propose that an annual summer picnic be held. -- We've had 2 Parish Summer Picnics
81. We propose that a Multicultural Fair be held.
82. We propose that the parish promote social events such as pub nights, curling, soft ball etc.
83. We propose that the parish organize day trips. -- this is being done in small groups
84. We propose that a core group be formed to promote the establishment of arts and crafts groups.
85. We propose the creation of a hospitality committee.
86. We propose that a “Welcome to our Parish” potluck dinner be hosted for new parishioners -- We've had a couple of "Welcome to New Parishioners" Dinner spearheaded by the CWL
87. We propose that means be found to celebrate each of the nations that make up our parish.
F) Archdiocese and the Wider Christian Church
88. We propose that we look for ways of forming closer relations with other parishes especially those in our deanery.
89. We propose that we look for ways of forming closer relations with other Christian denominations, especially those in our area.
G) Helping our own Parishioners
90. We propose providing general job vacancy information. -- We do this in the weekly bulletin from time to time
91. We propose sharing information with respect to things offered or needed.
92. We propose investigating the feasibility of providing transportation to parishioners in need.
93. We propose that the Hospitality Committee provide support to parishioners who are new Canadian residents.
94. We propose sponsoring a refugee family.
95. We propose that the parish promote marriage support groups.
96. We propose that the parish support and reach out to divorced and/or remarried Catholics.
97. We propose that a ministry specifically geared to help families in crisis and single parent families be developed.
Commission D:
99. We propose that the parish provide skills training for all parishioners involved in evangelization.
100. We propose that the parish strengthen the level of commitment of committee members by encouraging involvement in evangelical groups such as the Cursillo Movement.
101. We propose calling upon the Order of the Dominicans for guidance and contribution to the committee on Evangelization.
102. We propose that as a gesture of outreach toward the unchurched and non-practicing Catholics, the parish hold a fair at appropriate intervals, complete with bazaar, food fair, social and fund raising activities.
103. We propose that the parish encourage a network of families that hold prayer meetings and other activities together.
104. We propose that the parish hold/sponsor evangelization workshops, seminars, retreats and missions.
105. We propose that the parish develop a sense in all parishioners of their personal responsibilities to invite and encourage the unchurched and non-practicing Catholics.
106. We propose that the parish make St. Mary’s presence known in community centres and libraries.
107. We propose that the parish encourage evangelization by example through volunteer work.
108. We propose that the parish be sensitive to the customs and traditions of other cultures with a view to evangelizing.
109. We propose that the parish make the people of other cultures, particularly recent immigrants a priority in our evangelization efforts.
110. We propose that the St. Mary’s St. Vincent de Paul Conference determine the need and feasibility of running a soup kitchen and food bank and determine other needs that we as a parish, could best serve. -- St. Mary’s St. Vincent the Paul has established its program of distributing food to the homeless.
111. We propose that the parish expand our existing Visiting Ministry to residents in extended care homes to include a ministry of friendship for those who belong to any creed and are completely alone. --This is a part of the mission of the Hands of Veronica Ministry
112. We propose that the parish develop a ministry of visitation to hospitalized parishioners upon the request of a patient or the patient’s family.
113. We propose that the parish raise awareness of opportunities which exist in nursing homes for group ministries and encourage our parish groups to engage in these ministries.
C) Community Outreach (Drug Addiction, Homeless and Youth Prostitution)
114. We propose that the Pastoral Council create a committee which would be responsible for a parish ministry of spiritual guidance and support for those struggling with substance abuse. -- The Street Ministry is providing support to women who are in the sex trade and suffering from substance abuse.
115. We propose that the Pastoral Council mandate that someone in the parish be familiar with the services offered by groups such as Catholic Family Services, Community Police and Collingwood Neighbourhood House in order to provide a referral service.
116. We propose that the Pastoral Council make known to the parishioners the various possibilities that exist for Ministry to the Homeless and to Prostitutes.
117. We propose that the Pastoral Council work with the Agape Ministry in extending their services to meet the needs of prostitutes and the homeless in our parish area.
118. We propose that the parish organize prayer ministry for the homeless and the street prostitutes.
119. We propose that the parish invite representatives from various organizations that minister to people in need to speak about their work. -- We have had members of Luke 15 house, the prison outreach team and Talitha Kuom speak at masses about their work
120. We propose that a representative from the parish act as an observer to city council committees and report back to the Pastoral Council on relevant social issues.
D) Justice Issues
122. We propose that our existing Prison Outreach Ministry be expanded to include participation in the reintegration of prisoners into society and support for victims and their families within our parish community.
123. We propose that the Pastoral Council organize workshops or talks on restorative justice and that St. Mary’s School be encouraged to do the same.
124. We propose that our parish representatives on the Education Committees of St. Mary’s School and
125. We propose that resource persons be recruited to present and conduct open discussions on the Church’s encyclicals pertaining to social justice.
126. We propose that the parish foster among all parishioners a welcoming, respectful, non-judgmental attitude towards everyone.
127. We propose that the parish hire a Volunteer Coordinator to oversee all the volunteer activities in the parish.
128. We propose that the parish hold an annual Volunteer Fair as an opportunity for the different ministries at St. Mary’s to present their mission and to introduce to the parishioners those actively involved in each ministry.
129. We propose that in addition to soliciting help, the ministries respond quickly to their applicants by acknowledging receipt of volunteer applications and providing direction to all applicants as to the next step in the volunteer process.
130. We propose that a complete catalogue of all volunteer opportunities in the parish be produced and up-dated on a regular basis. -- A complete catalogue of volunteer opportunities is now available
131. We propose that the Pastoral Council adopt policies and practices in view of ensuring the highest possible level of competence in all our ministries, but especially in the delicate areas of catechesis, faith-education and out-reach ministries requiring special skills. These policies would ensure verification of potential for any given ministry, and enhancement of them, by means of on-going formation.
132. We propose that masses be offered for the intentions of parish volunteers and for their work.
133. We propose that our parish find ways of acknowledging our volunteers.
134. We propose that the activities and accomplishments of parish ministries both inside and outside the parish be frequently mentioned and commended.
F) Global Ministry
135. We propose that the Pastoral Council affirm the work of our parish’s Amnesty International committee and urge them to make efforts to increase and reinforce their membership.
136. We propose that the Pastoral Council create a parish environmental group whose mandate is to ensure that St. Mary’s is environmentally friendly and to raise awareness of sound environmental practices.
137. We propose that those who have expressed interest in Development and Peace enlist the help of the archdiocesan regional director of this organization to help St. Mary’s establish a parish Development and Peace committee.
138. We propose that the Pastoral Council appoint a parishioner to enquire into various existing programs for sponsoring either families or children in the developing world and to make a recommendation of a specific program.
139. We propose that the Pastoral Council establish a committee to explore the possibility of establishing a relationship of partnership, exchange and friendship with a First Nations parish in the Lower Mainland/Fraser Valley area.
G) Parish Wellness
140. We propose that the Pastoral Council determine the need and the feasibility of establishing a “parish nursing program” at St. Mary’s.
141. We propose that we mandate the Pastoral Council to introduce a “parish wellness program” on a volunteer basis.
A) Priests
142. We propose that the archdiocese devise a system to ensure a priest be available 24 hours a day in case of emergency.
143. We propose that every effort be made to lessen the administrative burden of our priests so that they can devote more time and energy to their priestly ministry and be available to parishioners. -- this is being done
144. We propose periodic meetings (at least twice annually) open to all, be held with the priests. The purpose of these meetings would be to meet the priests and to have them answer, and perhaps ask, pertinent questions.
B) Parish Bulletin and Other Means of Parish Communication
146. We propose that a quality St. Mary’s website be established. -- Website launched on June 25th, 2006
C) Church Grounds/Facilities
147. We propose that ways be found to improve lighting, security and traffic safety on church and school grounds. -- we now have roaming security guards on weekends
148. We propose investigating the possibility of creating an exit to
149. We propose signage to be made and posted to remind parishioners not to leave valuables in the pews and their cars.
150. We propose building a better sign to improve visibility of church hours.
151. We propose establishing a standing committee to plan a strategy for the improved use of parish land and facilities.
152. We propose that the above committee research the feasibility of establishing a Parish Centre.
153. We propose that sound dampers be put on the kneeling benches and doors. -- this has been done
154. We propose that the sound system in the church be monitored and maintained to the optimum.
D) Miscellaneous Items
155. We propose that there be an open meeting before Project Advance begins for all interested people to determine the use of Project Advance rebate funds.
156. We propose looking at improving the airflow in the church and better maintenance of the washrooms and the walkway towards
A) Faith Education
157. We propose that catechism classes for children have more emphasis on scripture. -- This is being done
158. We propose that we look at the need to offer a second option for Children’s Liturgy (by survey?).
159. We propose that serious consideration be given to the possibility of double streaming St. Mary’s School. -- St. Mary's PREP started double streaming last Sept. 2005. We now have 15 PREP Classes total with around 300 catechism students
160. We propose that the Parish’s programs of catechesis of initiation for teenagers be maintained and enhanced.
161. We propose the extension of a religious education program similar to PREP throughout the high school years. -- We've had TEEN PREP for a few years now, which is the catechism program for grades 8 to 12.
162. We propose that the new Parish Resource Centre focus on expanding resource materials for youth including audio, visual and print.
163. We propose that the parish work toward providing childcare services for the children of adults who are attending faith-building activities such as novenas, retreats or catechism classes.
164. We propose encouraging parent participation in childcare at masses.
165. We propose that an ad hoc committee be struck, with the mandate of assessing the usefulness and feasibility of establishing a parish pre-school program.
B) Prayer, Liturgy, and Sacraments
166. We propose the revival of a Youth Mass to allow for more participation of youth in liturgy and sacraments. -- the new Youth & Young Adults Mass was launched on Jan. 20th, 2008
167. We propose that the homily be personalized and geared to the younger people of the congregation. -- this is being done in the new Youth Mass
C) Community
168. We propose that a youth ministry program be established in our parish, in conformity with archdiocesan guidelines. Such a model would include a paid youth ministry coordinator, a leadership team which works with the coordinator, and a commitment to on-going leadership training for all those involved in this ministry. -- The Youth Ministry Program is up and running. We initially started with Grades 6 to 8 (Jr. YM) and branched out to Grades 9 to 12 (Teens' Ministry). There is a full-time YM Coordinator and a very active YM leadership team whose members are committed to continuous training and development