It has been more than a decade since the Diocese of Grand Rapids has undergone a pastoral planning process. As circumstances have changed and new opportunities have arisen, it has become clear that a new plan is needed to direct us into the future.
Pastoral planning seeks to identify fertile ground for future evangelization efforts while addressing critical realities. This process will involve data collection, parish visits, and dialogue to identify challenges facing our parishes, schools, and the diocese, along with exploring opportunities for growth and evangelization.
The pastoral planning process is entitled “Rooted in Christ.” In his Letter to the Colossians, St. Paul writes, “So as you received Christ Jesus the Lord, walk in him, rooted in him and built upon him and established in the faith as you were taught, abounding in thanksgiving” (Col 2:6-7). As St. Paul challenged the early Church, we too, must be rooted in Christ to bear fruit for the Kingdom.
To assist us, the diocese has engaged Meitler which has worked on similar campaigns in dioceses across the country.
As we enter this process on the cusp of Jubilee Year 2025, let us place our trust in the Lord to be guided by the Holy Spirit as pilgrims of hope.
Read Bishop Walkowiak’s letter to parishioners: (English | Español)
Additional information
Explore: Frequently Asked Questions about the planning process
