St. Mary's Pastoral Council Commission Mission Statements

Human Concerns and Outreach

St. Mary's parishioners will fully understand that a basic and primary dimension of one's spirituality is compassion for, acceptance of, and assistance to those who are less blessed with the amenities and comforts of life on earth.

Ecumenical in our ministries, we are empowered to support and assist people in their search for spiritual meaning amidst their brokenness, loss and suffering, and to encourage and support those who have been called to this ministry.

To the end, parishioners will continue to learn about and act with concern regarding social justice issues. We will give of our time and talents to assist those in need. We will inspire an obligation and commitment to service among all parishioners to serve those in need.

Education Commission

The Education Commission believes that the acquisition of knowledge and information alone is not sufficient for an individual to lead a meaningful and productive Christian life. This knowledge and information must be internalized and result in meaning for the individual and be expressed in a personally unique manner.

To this end, the Education Commission is committed to providing a variety of spiritual learning opportunities to all parishioners of all ages and developmental stages including formal Catholic education, consistent with the teachings of the Catholic Church.

Spiritual Life

We envision Mass and other forms of worship designed to enrich our lives and bring us to a greater understanding of our faith walk with God. We encourage participation by the laity in ministries, that all who wish may become lectors, Eucharistic ministers, greeters, ushers, musicians, liturgical planners and serve in other worship related activities to assist in meeting the spiritual needs of the community.

St. Mary's is committed to being a place where, in the words of Joseph Cardinal Bernardin, the "hunger for a deeper spirituality" will be given the highest priority.

Parish Life

St. Mary's will be a place of worship where all people are accepted and feel a part of the parish.

Programs, activities, and ministries will enhance a sense of community. Emphasis will be placed on increasing the participation of youth, families, and the elderly in parish activities, including liturgical ministries. We envision increased numbers of young adults regularly attending Mass and actively participating in parish ministries. We envision all our members embracing Christian values and teachings and as being active in service to others less fortunate.