The appointment of a new bishop is an important moment in the life of a diocese. It is a time of transition, reflection, and renewal.

Over the next several months, diocesan leaders, priests, deacons, parish staff, and parishioners will participate in a process designed to help our new bishop understand the strengths, challenges, and opportunities across the Diocese of Palm Beach.

The Catholic Leadership Institute offers Episcopal Transition Support to accompany a diocese before and after an episcopal transition through a multifaceted service to support the areas of chancery operational effectiveness, priest & parish health, and the ongoing leadership growth of the incoming bishop so that he may competently and confidently shepherd his newly assigned diocese.

LISTEN | LEARN | PLAN

Timeline

Spring: Listening and Assessment

- Invitations to participate in surveys
- Requests for feedback
- Opportunities to attend listening sessions
Spring: Listening and Assessment
April – June
- Orientation and planning with the new bishop
- Gathering information from diocesan leaders and staff
- Interviews and listening sessions
- Communication and organizational reviews
- Initial reports prepared and presented
Summer: Clergy Engagement and Continued Support

- Behind-the-scenes planning and review work
- Limited direct participation during this phase
Summer: Clergy Engagement and Continued Support
June–August
- Priests participate in leadership and ministry assessments
- Continued coaching and support for the bishop
- Analysis of information collected during the spring
Fall: Parish and Mission Focus

- Additional surveys or parish participation opportunities
- Workshops, presentations, or diocesan gatherings
- Discussion of emerging priorities
Fall: Parish and Mission Focus
September–November
- Diocese-wide parish engagement initiatives
- Workshops and training opportunities
- Further review of parish strengths and opportunities
- Development of diocesan priorities
Winter and Beyond: Planning for the Future

- Sharing of findings and recommendations
- New diocesan initiatives
- Future planning efforts that reflect what was learned
Winter and Beyond: Planning for the Future
December and Following Year
- Review of all collected information
- Creation of diocesan priorities and action plans
- Ongoing support for the bishop
- Continued implementation and communication

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this an evaluation of parishes?

No. The purpose is to understand and support parishes, not to rank or judge them.
Will parishioners have a voice?

Yes. Listening to parishioners is a key part of understanding the life of the diocese.
Why are surveys and interviews being conducted?

They provide a structured way to gather feedback from people across the diocese so decisions are informed by real experiences.
What will happen with the information collected?

Feedback will be combined with other information to identify common themes, strengths, opportunities, and priorities for future planning.
Will results be shared?

The diocese plans to communicate major findings and priorities as the process progresses.