Vital parishes read the signs of the times with hope and missionary vision. They understand their local neighbourhoods, culture, and history. Having been shaped by the past, they are nevertheless filled with hope for their future. This may involve openness to new ideas, acknowledging that past methods no longer fit where God is calling the parish today. They have clear direction, purpose, and collaborate effectively with others to further the kingdom of God.
The image for the Vital Parish dimension depicts interlocking gears.
When one turns, the others turn, too. But if one stops, and it doesn’t matter which one, so does everything else.
Parish vitality is about identifying what gears need to fit together for our communities—not only for their smooth functioning, but so that we can get to where we want to go.
Vital Parishes brings to the fore three focus areas that, when working together, support and enhance the overall life of the parish.
A shared missionary vision that fuels the activity of the parish.
A leadership style that embraces both clergy and lay vocations, drawing on the unique gifts of each, and encourages creativity and willingness to try new things.
An outward-facing perspective, looking beyond the parish boundary and demonstrating willingness to collaborate with other parishes and ministries within the Archdiocese of Melbourne.
It is important to recognise that all of these things are a challenge. They require learning and discernment, collaboration and imagination. They may even invite deep shifts in our perspectives and behaviours.
Nevertheless, together they form the crucial ‘engine’ of leadership that allows the whole community to journey further on the path of renewal.
