On numerous occasions from the pulpit or through the bulletin I have mentioned the restructuring that is taking place throughout the AOD.

Over the next two years, all parishes of the Archdiocese will join other parishes in new groupings called “Families of Parishes.” It is a grouping of parishes, generally three to six, to share resources and advance the mission to Unleash the Gospel.  It is expected that there will be 60-80 Families of Parishes created in this restructuring. The current model of one priest for one parish will be replaced by the new model: one pastor over 3-6 parishes with several others, ideally both clergy and lay ecclesial ministers, or a pastor moderator of the family working collaboratively with other pastors in the family.

St. Clare Parish will be part of the Family of Parishes. I have gathered information from the members of our Parish Council, Finance Council, Parish Team and Leadership Team about what our vision is for our place in the Family of Parishes. I have also met with the pastors from St. Matthew, St. Ambrose and St. Paul to discuss the matter. I have shared this information with all chairs of our parish groups, ministries and councils and I asked them to inform their members as well. I have submitted our proposal to Vicar Fr. Jim Commyn, from St. Lucy, that St. Clare would like to join St. Ambrose and St. Matthew, to create a Family.  Fr. Pelc and Fr. Novelly both support this idea.  Another proposal endorsed by the priests of the vicariate is that we join with St. Paul, St. Ambrose and St. Matthew as the South SERF Vicariate
Family.

On Dec. 9, 2020 Archbishop made an announcement placing St. Clare with St. Ambrose, St. Matthew, and St Paul on the Lake parishes that in the wave 2 will start their journey together.  Please continue to pray for our parish leadership, and the leaders in all the parishes of the AOD as we strive to meet the growing needs of the Church in our region.  For more information please visit https://www.familiesofparishes.org/

Father Andrew