The All Things New planning process continues to move forward, and we pause at this moment with deep gratitude, honest reflection and hopeful trust in what God is unfolding among us.
is the director of planning
for the Diocese of St. Cloud.
First, we give thanks. All of the plans are in. Countless hours of prayer, listening, sacrifice, frustration, discussion, and discernment have gone into this work. Parishioners, parish leaders, clergy and planning teams have faithfully shared their wisdom, concerns, and hopes for the future of our Church. This process has honored our past by acknowledging the deep roots and sacred memories that have shaped our parishes for generations. We stand on holy ground because of those who came before us.
As we look ahead, the next step in the All Things New process is review by the Committee for the Affirmation of Plans (CAP). By the end of January, all submitted plans will have been carefully reviewed by this committee, whose role is to ensure that the plans are realistic, pastorally sound and aligned with our diocesan guidelines and parameters.
Following CAP’s review, the plans will be forwarded to the Presbyteral Council, a consultative body of priests who advise the bishop. Their role is to offer insight and counsel as the bishop considers the best path forward for the people of God entrusted to his care.
Bishop Neary will make decisions in the coming months. These decisions will be rooted in prayer, consultation and a desire to strengthen our parishes for long-term vitality and mission. While change is never easy, it is important to remember that this process is not about erasing our history, but about stewarding it wisely for future generations.
The first step of implementation will be parish mergers. At this stage of the process, no parishes will be named to close in the Spring. This is an important clarification, and we share it to help reduce anxiety and encourage patience as the discernment continues.
All Things New invites us to trust that the same Spirit who guided our parishes in the past is guiding us now. We move forward together—honoring what has been, embracing what is and preparing for what God is calling us to become.
Let us continue to pray for one another, for our parish leaders and for Bishop Neary, that we may walk this path with faith, courage and hope.
Brenda and CM Catholic, thanks for ongoing articles keeping us who read the articles up on the latest. My prayers join with others eager to see what and how the Spirit leads. My admiration and thanks also to the hard and diligent work by so many up until now and after.
I read with interest your “Where is Grace Today”. It conflicts with parish meetings being held by the diocese. First and foremost – WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN MERGING AND CLOSING? Merging definition: combine or cause to combine to form a single entity. What is the diocese definition of merging, We are all anxious for an explanation of this. Please pass this on to those trying to make decisions.