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Council Survey 2004
A first look at the results of NFPC's 2004 survey of presbyteral councils show that most are alive and well.
The average council has almost 19 members, four of whom are ex-officio. An increasing number of ex-officio members are Vicar Generals, Vicars for Priests, and Judicial Vicars. Approximately five members of the council are appointed. The average council meets a little over six times per year for a half-day. The agendas are most often set by the bishop, the chairman and the executive committee. Fewer priests-at-large are contributing agenda items. The number of annual convocations has dropped about 16% since 1998.
Council members have assumed a greater role in contributing agenda items, while fewer dioceses are holding annual convocations/assemblies. Sex abuse has jumped up to the top of the list as a key agenda item. Also, while fewer councils participate in USCCB regional meetings, more are participating in provincial assemblies and a significantly increasing number would consider attending an NFPC sponsored province meeting. Finally, more dioceses are paying for priests’ NFPC dues.
A total of 112 U.S. dioceses, both NFPC affiliates and non-affiliates, participated in this 2004 survey which was compared with data gathered in 2002 and 1998. Council chairs prepared most of the surveys. About three quarters participating in the survey were NFPC affiliated members.
Other than sex abuse, top council agenda items in 2004 include continuing education, retirement, vocations, declining numbers of priests, liturgy, morale, and social justice.
Full results of the survey will be presented at the NFPC annual convention workshop on presbyteral councils. Reports also will be sent to all councils that participated.
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