D E A L I N G E M O T I O N A L LY W I T H
Parish Changes BY FATHER ROBERT J. HATER, PHD
How do parishioners cope with major changes occurring in their parishes? This question is especially significant when a member of the faithful is involved in parish affairs or has a long history with the parish. We all experience life changes. Some are rewarding, like marriages, births and job promotions. Others, such as a spouse’s death or serious illness, lead to anger, fear and disappointment. Whether positive or negative, change brings emotional upheavals. Similarly, uncertainty arises when parishes change, close or restructure, which is happening now throughout the country. With our own parish restructuring around the corner, we are naturally concerned about our own parish’s future. I offer the following reflections as parishes shift focus to a Family of Parishes.
Something similar happens when our lives are turned upside down. It’s easy to recognize God in changes for the better, but those that first bring fear and disappointment are difficult to fathom. They often leave us feeling far removed from what we experience as God’s presence. The latter is how the faithful feel who have great concern over new plans for their parish changes. Some feel left out of the decision-making process and are angry and frustrated. It’s hard for them to see the blessings, especially if they believe the process was handled poorly. Regardless, God is present in these happenings and eventually we’ll see His good from what may now seem tragic. The same God moves among us who transformed the early disciples’ fear and dread into hope. What’s happening in our parishes is bigger than any of us.
1. Be open to the inevitability of parish change. Life is a process made possible by change. Our bodies transform as we grow, as do our social relationships. God never abandons us when we face the inevitable. When we recognize that God’s designs are greater than we can imagine, we can open our minds and hearts to the changes coming in our parish.
3. Be open to listen, as Church leaders and parishioners address parish changes. The local bishop oversees the overall process that influences a parish’s future, assisted by priests, religious men and women and the laity. He is responsible for addressing the clerical shortage and other issues to support the faithful. To do so effectively, many factors are considered, including the number of priests available to minister in parishes and to celebrate the sacraments.
2. Be open to see God’s presence in what’s happening in parishes. The disciples scattered after Jesus’ death, hiding and cowering in fear of the Romans. Their lives seemed shattered and their future uncertain. Then the Resurrection happened, and they experienced joy beyond their wildest dreams. Eventually, they realized God’s way was not their way.
Today, both clergy and laity realize something needs to be done. Many loyal parishioners have valuable knowledge and skills that are useful for this decision-making. The starting point, however, requires Church leaders and parishioners to listen to one another: Listening to the bishop’s words, the archdiocese’s proposals, and the pastors and parishioners’ advice. Processes are most successful when everyone involved respects one another.
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