A message from the bishop
November, 2006
My dear brothers and sisters in Christ:
For the past few years, I’ve been working with my advisory councils and gathering input on pastoral matters in the diocese. Earlier this year, I asked all Catholics in the diocese to share their reflections on pastoral priorities. I’ve considered all input and am now pleased to promulgate as my first diocesan pastoral plan, “Lead Us to Holiness.”
Within this document is a pastoral vision statement for the diocese. This statement springs forth from the works of the Diocesan Synod of 1995. It has been updated to inspire us in all our pastoral activity and associated goals. The Synod pastoral letter, “Enthusiasm for the Faith defined six pastoral areas. As many of our parishes have developed ministries around those pastoral areas, they have been included and expanded in this document.
Under each pastoral heading is a set of goals for the diocese and “Best practices for parishes.” For parishes, I ask the pastor or administrator to dialogue with his pastoral council to determine the local needs and do what is possible and appropriate for the parish. Parish pastoral councils, under the leadership of their pastor, can refer to this statement as they engage in pastoral planning endeavors.
I ask every Catholic in the diocese to embrace this vision and plan with renewed fervor so we can continue the work of the Lord, building up the kingdom of God, in our efforts to “renew the face of the earth” in the Diocese of Charleston.
With assurance of my steadfast prayers for you and appreciation of your prayers for me as well, I am
Sincerely yours in Christ,
Most Rev. Robert J. Baker
Bishop of Charleston