Parish Discussion Events

One Nativity 2035 hosted two parish discussion events in October 2019 to engage parishioners in conversation about how Nativity can better communicate, bolster and sustain our parish mission.



More than 90 people of all ages participated in the events sharing their perspective on the following key questions:

• What stands out in the new Nativity mission statement?
• What should Nativity keep doing or do more?
• What should Nativity consider doing differently or start doing to live out the mission into the future?

Following the parish events, the Parish staff, Pastoral Council and School Advisory Committee reviewed the thoughtful feedback and ideas to recommend priorities and key challenges for the One Nativity 2035 team to consider in its work.


Themes from the parish discussion events

Parishioners shared ideas on a wide range of topics.  Key themes that emerged:

• Nativity has a rich sacramental life and parishioners and staff expect this to continue—and grow—as a priority. 
• There is an existing intention to reach of all ages within the Nativity community.  And, there is desire for greater faith formation opportunities for the parish as a whole and stronger youth ministry outreach and programs to support high schoolers and young adults in the parish.
• Continuing to support Nativity school and parish families who need financial support is a priority. The school is an important ministry of the parish and helps to build Nativity’s strong sense of community.  
• Parishioners are engaged in many different ways and some have a desire to engage even more — and they would like to involve more people.  Although there is a strong desire among many to be actively involved in the parish, it can be very challenging to seek out enough volunteers on a continued basis.
• Parishioners are interested in better understanding and clarifying the roles of parish leadership councils, staff, clergy and lay leaders for increased awareness, accountability and collaboration. 
• Parishioners recognize that there are capital needs of Nativity that need to be addressed in a sustainable way.
• Parishioners appreciated the opportunity to discuss ideas and would appreciate additional opportunities for more open and honest communication.