A deanery enables neighboring parishes to come together to share resources, support one another, and collaborate more effectively in ministry. The goal is to make our ministry even stronger by sharing ideas and working together with neighboring parishes. Through this partnership, we can strengthen our communities and improve communication.

Our Deanery's goals for the first year are:

Collaboration: To cultivate a vibrant and sustainable culture of collaboration among the pastors in the Central Deanery, fostering unity, shared purpose, and mutual support for the greater mission of the Church.

Communication: To establish clear, consistent, and effective communication channels across all levels (clergy, staff, ministries, and faithful) within and between parishes in the Central Deanery, fostering transparency, engagement, and a shared understanding of the Central Deanery Parish Planning. 

Administration: To streamline and enhance administrative practices across the parishes in the Central Deanery through collaboration and shared resources, promoting efficiency, good stewardship, and freeing up resources for direct ministry.

Ministry: To enhance the effectiveness and reach of ministries across the Central Deanery through collaboration, shared learning, and the development of innovative approaches to better serve the spiritual and temporal needs of the faithful and the wider community.

We understand that you may have questions as we move forward with the creation of the Central Deanery. We can think of this as a new beginning, a new opportunity to build a renewed spirit of collaboration and unity. Together, we are working toward a future where our ministry is stronger, more vibrant, and better able to fulfill the mission of Christ. We are grateful for your faith and your commitment to the Church. 

Below are some questions you might have as we begin this journey together. 

What is a deanery, and what will it mean for my parish? A deanery enables neighboring parishes to come together to share resources, support one another, and collaborate more effectively in ministry. The goal is to make our ministry even stronger by sharing ideas and working together with neighboring parishes. Through this partnership, we can strengthen our communities and improve communication. 

Why these ten parishes? With fewer priests, fewer people attending Mass, and sometimes fewer resources, the parishes within the Central Deanery provide an exciting opportunity to focus on collaboration. This collaboration will help us support one another and continue to serve the people of God even more effectively. The hope is to ensure that ministry in every parish remains vibrant and strong for years to come.   

What role will parishioners play in the Central Deanery? Initially, your role will be to participate in listening sessions in both the Fall and the Spring where we’ll hear from you directly. Your feedback matters. This is an opportunity for you to share your hopes and dreams for your parish and for the Central Deanery. We want to work together to make sure this new collaboration reflects what is best for you and your faith community. Your active participation—whether in Mass, in ministry, or through your me, talent, and treasure—will continue to be vital to the life of the Church.   

Will we still have our own pastor and parish identity? Yes! Each parish will continue to have its own pastor. The Central Deanery will simply help us strengthen what we’re already doing well by encouraging collaboration where it makes sense. This partnership will not erase your parish’s unique character; it will build upon it, helping you and your community grow stronger together. 

Will this impact parish finances and collections? All offertory collections, donations, and bequests will remain within your parish.   

Will there be changes to Mass times, locations, or sacramental services? There will be no immediate changes to Mass times or sacramental services in your parish. Any future changes would be made in consultation with the Pastoral and Finance Councils and, most importantly, with feedback from you. The goal is to ensure that we’re all able to continue providing the best spiritual care for our communities.