When Don Pigi was first appointed as pastor of Sant’Eustorgio parish (Italy), only 12% of parishioners attended Sunday mass. Don Pigi felt discouraged and trapped in routine, unable to connect meaningfully with his parish community. This changed when he learned about the parish renewal happening at St. Boniface in Florida
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The book Excellent Catholic Parishes: The Guide to Best Places and Practices by Paul Wilkes, identifies several key factors that can assist a Catholic parish in becoming a vibrant and dynamic community. These factors are the result of extensive research conducted by the author, Paul Wilkes, and his team of
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In the diverse landscape of people we meet in our lives, we find a wide range of dispositions towards Christ and the Church. People’s stances on faith can be classified into categories based on their dispositions. Understanding these categories is helpful as we engage in sharing the Gospel. By tailoring
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A fundamental aspect of evangelization is welcoming visitors and guests into the parish. This first impression sets the tone for the rest of their time in the church and will usually not be forgotten. The art of greeting is more than just a customary gesture; it embodies the values of
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Based on the book “Creating the Evangelizing Parish” by DeSiano and Boyack, here are the characteristics of an evangelizing parish. Kenneth Boyack, C.S.P. was Director of the Paulist National Catholic Evangelization Association and is Consultant to the to the U.S. Bishops’ Committee on Evangelization Frank DeSiano, C.S.P. is president of
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Evangelization can encompass various dimensions, each serving a unique role in sharing the Gospel. Some of these dimensions include: 1. **Relational Evangelization:** This dimension emphasizes building personal relationships and connections with individuals. It involves sharing one’s faith through conversations, acts of kindness, and personal testimonies. 2. **Intellectual Evangelization:** This aspect focuses
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In Western culture, success is often described as becoming famous, rich or powerful. Surprisingly, dictionaries make no reference to the search for meaning, fulfillment, happiness or human relationships. Isn’t that odd? Doesn’t it seem counterintuitive? In the book of Deuteronomy, we read: “If you obey the Lord your God and
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Pope Francis has often emphasized the importance of evangelization and the role of every member of the Church in spreading the Good News of Jesus Christ. In his Apostolic Exhortation Evangelii Gaudium, he states that “All the baptized, whatever their position in the Church or their level of instruction in
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Rural parishes face a unique set of challenges that can make evangelization and vitality seem like insurmountable goals. Declining and aging populations, few resources, and maintenance burdens on aging buildings can all contribute to a sense of struggle or even despair. However, with intentionality, creativity, and a focus on empowering
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