Dear Parishioners,  

I would like to share with you an update of the Town Hall Meeting facilitated by Mark Kemmeter from Meitler Consultants and guided by the parish leadership. Based on the independent studies, the demographic data, and the parish data, the growth plan: “Vision 2020 – Plan for Engagement and Growth in Discipleship and Evangelization,” was presented and discussed. There were 140 people present at the Town Hall Meeting and the great majority supported the plan, although some had reservations. Our key leaders met with Bishop Pates on Friday, August 23, and the Bishop affirmed the decision regarding the growth plan. 
 
Four priorities were identified in the Growth Plan.
1. Excellence in Liturgy and Hospitality 
2. Evangelization of Families and Outreach
3. Discipleship through small groups 
4. Stewardship and parish consolidation

The most difficult aspect of the plan is the parish consolidation into ONE primary site of Corpus Christi Church in Lent 2020. I recognize the excruciating pain of loss and sadness for those who have been part of Holy Family site. I ask for patience, persistence, and understanding of all as we make this difficult transition into a new beginning: opening hearts and extending loving hands to each other. All the key sacred elements -- the altar, the tabernacle, the stations of the Cross, and beautiful stained glass art -- will be integrated into the main Corpus Christi Church.  Dialogue will continue with different parish organizations to merge and consolidate for a greater future together. Corpus Christi-Carter Lake will continue to collaborate. I ask everyone to pray ardently through this difficult challenge and work hard, so we might unify and grow together. It is true that what we are going through is a paschal mystery process of dying and rising with Jesus. We are at the foot of the cross journeying together through sorrow, pain, and struggles to arise together as Corpus Christi Parish since we merged in 2011. 

As we experience the labor of bringing forth a new future together, may our deep faith help us to grieve together and grow together.

Fr. Tom