As our Diocese welcomes a new bishop, we are taking time to listen to the people he has been called to serve.
Over the coming months, parishioners, priests, deacons, and diocesan staff will have opportunities to share their experiences, hopes, and concerns. Using the Catholic Leadership Institute Episcopal Transition Support the bishop will better understand our parishes and discern priorities for the future of the Diocese of Palm Beach.
The Catholic Leadership Institute 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.
Why Is This Being Done?
A new bishop arrives with many questions:
- What are the strengths of our diocese?
- What challenges do our parishes face?
- What are people most hopeful about?
- Where should we focus our efforts in the years ahead?
Rather than making decisions from an office, our bishop wants to begin by listening.
How Will This Help Our Parishes?
This effort is designed to:
Listen to Parish Communities
We want to hear directly from the people in our pews about their experience of parish life, faith formation, and the mission of the Church.
Support Our Priests and Deacons
Priests and deacons will have opportunities to reflect on their ministry, identify areas for growth, and receive support for their ongoing service to the Church.
Strengthen Parish Life
The feedback gathered will help identify what helps people grow in faith and what resources may be needed in our parishes. Areas examined include parish welcome, preaching, communication, discipleship, and participation in parish life.
Shape the Future of the Diocese
The bishop will use what is learned to establish priorities and create a vision for the future of the Diocese of Palm Beach
How You Can Participate
When opportunities become available:
✔ Complete surveys
✔ Attend listening sessions
✔ Share your experiences honestly
✔ Pray for our bishop, priests, deacons, and diocesan leaders
✔ Stay informed through diocesan and parish communications
The goal is to understand what is helping people grow as disciples and where improvements can be made. Participation is voluntary, but every voice helps provide a clearer picture of parish life across the diocese.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Is this an evaluation of parishes?
No. The purpose is to understand and support parishes, not to rank or judge them.
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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.
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Will parishioners have a voice?
Yes. Listening to parishioners is a key part of understanding the life of the diocese.
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What Will The Survey Ask About?
The parish survey focuses on topics such as:
- Your relationship with God and the Church
- Your experience of parish life
- Opportunities for spiritual growth
- Participation in parish activities
- How welcome and supported you feel in your parish community -
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.
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Will results be shared?
The diocese plans to communicate major findings and priorities as the process progresses.
