USCCB - (FLWY) - What Could You Do...

What Could You Do...

Spanish Versions

Recognizing that we are all Church together, the last question in the survey asked each respondent to identify what he or she could do specifically to help address the most important needs.The following is a sample of the many responses received to this question.

"What could you do specifically to help your parish better address some of the needs which are important for you?"

1. Knowledge of the Faith

A parish can help us deepen our knowledge of the Catholic faith so that we are better able to respond to how God calls us in life.

I would be willing to become better educated in the area of Adult Faith Formation.
Take graduate classes in order to teach RCIA or CCD.
Attend adult education courses.
I would take responsibility for directing a weekly adult education class.
Lead a faith-sharing group.
I could get more involved in the extra activities and help out in the CCD program.
Continue volunteering with youth religious education programs.
Attempt to organize an adult Bible study.
Volunteer to help plan adult education.
I could teach, if the opportunity were offered.
Start home groups such as bible studies.
Join a small faith community.
Ayudar a encontrara el personal apropiado.
Offer to help with the development and planning of adult education.
I would like to start a program facilitating small groups, but I don't knowhow to go about it.
Participate in any faith-based programs and help formulate others, which are needed.
Submit articles for newsletters.
Colaborar con la educacion parroquial de los mas pequeños, nuestros hijos.
Have a Catholic Book Club in my home.
I would like to evangelize/catechize -- but I need training first.
My latest thought is to put together family packets for every month of theyear.I will need to work with others in making this a reality.It is my summer goal.
I started a parish library.
Start a theology discussion group.
I could personally teach a class in several areas of religious studies as I have a Masters Degree in Religious studies and a JCL.
I could help form a drama mass to help young children and teens to- better understand the teachings of the bible.
I already volunteer as a youth minister for the confirmation classes, my wife and I work in marriage enrichment ministry, and my wife volunteers in CCD.
write and edit articles, ads and letters for bulletin, newsletter, other media.
I teach CCD currently.
I am currently helping to set up a new group for adults ages 20-40, as well asa women's Bible study group.
I would be happy to help coordinate classes or studies, volunteer time to help with a lending library, open up my home to host a class or study as we have limited space at our rectory at this time.
I already teach a bible study--I would like to continue my Catechist training so I can help educate in more ways (maybe parents and married couples).
I can volunteer to have some in-home activities.I can volunteer to partner with other families for supporting the education of our children.
Recognize the need for continual faith formation for myself, be willing to sacrifice time, effort and pride in order to bring about some of the programs mentioned, and always pray.
Not sure, but willing to help!!Maybe be a religion teacher for kids or adults (would need some training!)
I will be looking into becoming a C.C.D. teacher or assistant.
Offer to facilitate a class, but I would like to further my own religious education taking university courses.
Be available to lead study groups, participate in such groups, help in anyway I could be of service.
Continue my master's studies for an MA in theology; continue teaching RCIA and helping with Religious Ed/Evangelization program at the parish.
Attend bible study already offered.
I am already publishing, updating and very active in our parish web page.
Get a master's degree in ministry.
We are new to the area and retired.I could get involved in religious education perhaps.
I will be completing my Master's Degree in Pastoral Ministry next year.I could help my parish in the area of adult education.
Work with deaf CCD students.
Suggest a parish library.
We are attempting to make our religious education class to 9th graders more alive, and full of service.
I have made myself available by writing and running an adult study group, which concentrates, on the Bible, CCC and Church Fathers.I will continue to do this and welcome other opportunities.
Work as a group leader to help little kids begin early in their understandings of God in their lives.
I am helping to start an adult RE program.
There is going to be a Family Life committee set up by the end of March.I plan to join, and also plan to bring up having literature and info in the foyer on various topics.
Offer my home for bible study groups or become a leader in teaching about the bible.
I will continue my efforts as a catechist.
Read and learn more about the Catholic faith.
Help establish an adult Ed commission and reflect on "Our Hearts Were Burning Within Us."
Organize a home school support group as an outreach of the school to share liturgy, holy days, etc.
Lead discussions on the social teaching of the Church.
Help start a network of"Catholic Reading Groups," which we do informally in our own home with a group of friends -- we read books, encyclicals, articles, etc and discuss them once a month.
I would be happy to speak with potential catechists about teaching.
Plan on going to more classes offered by the diocese to help my parish and community.
I could volunteer to organize a lending library or help with some children's programs.
Become more informed by reading the church fathers and current writers.
offer my services for scripture, I am doing that now with an "at home" class.
I have a load of books and tapes I could donate.
Conduct/coordinate adult Catholic Social Justice education.
Offer my services to run, organize some of the mini teaching sessions thereby utilizing my theological degree in a different way.
I have started a monthly group of people which studies documents of the Church, reads scripture, and studies the lives of the saints.
Attempting to enroll in the Lay Pastoral Ministry Institute so that I can learn skills to be able to lead, teach, and help others in spiritual need.
Attend Bible study classes, etc.
Suggest bible study tapes for a group use to allow a bible study without over-burdening our Pastor.
Become qualified to teach.
Help donate books for a library.
I would like to teach the faith to children in school. Religion class, any grade.
Study the faith and history and issues as much as I can.
Involvement /membership in the adult faith formation team of the parish.
Start and support women's bible studies.
Help lead a study group.
Help recruit more volunteers for CCD and other programs.
Help facilitate singles faith-sharing/fellowship group.
Become better educated in the church's teachings and policies.
I am a teacher and would love to put on programs to educate adults in everyday topics.
Become a catechist.
I could facilitate another scripture group if there were interest.....or presentations of biblical overviews or church history.
I would like to get involved in an adult education program.
Help organize an evening Bible study group.
Lead a small group that would discuss Catholic teachings and traditions and their place in today's world.
Get training beyond the parish and bring it back into the parish.
As a certified Catechist my talents could be used in the parish.
We could work to involve people in areas that they could be of service to the parish and the community.
I could help the parish organize a bible study group.
Get organized. Get more involved as a parent as my son approaches first Communion age.
Attend adult education and prayer opportunities.
Teach the bible, catechism, sacred scripture to those who want to know their faith so that they can live it fully.
Participation in programs that are offered.Receive training to serve the parish in a capacity, which I am not serving now.
Continue to ask for more classes involving youth and adults in learning our faith better.
Volunteer as an adult formation educator.
I'm in preparation with a local University for adult catechesis.I'm already teaching leadership discernment/gifts to parish members.
Help teach as needed.
Organize a home school support group as an outreach of the school to share liturgy, holy days, etc.
Help with the reading rack.
Help with organizing/sponsoring youth programs.
Spend more time in educating myself.
Become usefully skilled or educated in some area of concern to the Church.
I am taking classes towards a ministry certificate.
Offer sessions for younger parents.

2. Liturgical Life

The liturgical life of the parish nourishes, sustains and strengthens us to live out the faith we received in baptism.

I could speak with the Priests as to the most important Homily topics for a person my age.
Attend meetings and make suggestions.
Be involved in liturgical planning/education and implementation.
I could be more involved in the programs that are already in place.
Remember to be a foot washer.
Continue my participation in existing lay leadership programs and put that training and experience to use.
I am going to become a sponsor in RCIA.
Be a committed, alert, and participating member of my parish.
I am the chair of the worship committee, which has drawn me closer to some community activities. I am participating with others in the development and activation of our pastoral plan.
Share my experiences with returning to the faith after 30 years
I could write or talk to our Pastor about giving some sermons on current events in the church.
Encourage the hiring of a Director of Liturgy.
Be more active in my parish instead of being angry and putting my head in the sand (not attending).
I'm a shut in myself- I would like to do what I am able but there aren't any programs to address how I could serve.
yo me hice ministro laico para poder ayudar major y estar preparado para sevir a mi comunidad.
Volunteer to do computer work & do more art work for the church - free.
Establish a team to be responsible for opening and closing the church so that it is more accessible for extended hours.
Direct Children's Choir/Youth Choir, train Cantors, teach music in CCD.
Help teenagers and young adults find the area in their church where their talents can be developed and used.
Try and be more visible as a single person.
Since I am already extremely involved in church life, I could help identify others who have gifts to share with the church.
Work on liturgy commission.
Sing and pray out loud at Sunday Mass.
I help with music ministry and some liturgical planning.
Taking communion to the homebound & sick every week.
I would like to get training to teach the RCIA class
Go amongst the parish trying to get people to become more involved than just attending Mass.
Working with music ministry.
I am part of the Worship Commission.
Help to organize an evening Mass for middle/high school students.
I would like to be a Eucharistic minister.
I volunteer my time and contribute my energy as a member of the Confirmation program for teens.
Volunteer more time, since they are clearly under-staffed.
Work with Catechesis for the children, conduct retreats for the children, Work in a Liturgy with Children program.
I have been helping start up a database that will make it easier to find and use volunteers.
Get involved in the music program by joining the choir.
Give my full active participation!!!!!!!!
Live my life with deeper attention to what is already there - and become the good news myself.
Be more supportive of the programs that we have at our parish now
I am thinking of joining the choir.
What I am presently doing: Coordinating the Marriage Preparation and Baptismal Preparation.
I will remain in the RCIA program for the coming year, not only as a sponsor but also as a catechist.I will explore the expansion of the period of mystagogia.
be at team leader for sacramental preparation.
I've joined the Adult Choir. The ministry of music has helped to deepen my faith.
Donate money and complete building of the Church.
Assist in the music ministry.
Offer to organize Guitar Mass.
Help to form a Gregorian choir.
I may respond to the Monsignor's request for me to join the choir.
We try "to be there" when needed. Volunteers as EM, lector.
Coordinate RCIA.
I know I am planning to start serving as a lector (something I have done before).
help with a Family Mass.
Participate in church more than just going to mass every Sunday.
Get on liturgy and spiritual life commission.
I need to share my musical concerns with the pastor and the music director to others instead of complaining.
Assist Pastoral Council with planning processes, liturgy planning,
Become more active in ministries.
At least show up at the things I would like to see happen.
I am thinking about encouraging other denomination communities to participate in our services - possibly the music ministry to start with.

3. Moral Formation

Moral formation helps us to grasp the wisdom of our tradition and givesus tools to reflect upon and analyze our everyday situations in light of the Gospel.

Suggest a forum to discuss social problems that are important to all.
Help teach about living wills, some ethical decision making in health care.
Offer to start a small interest group for people my age.
Help get more people to volunteer or participate in current activities.
I would like to be on a "Morality in Media" committee.
Support the programs in place by attending them.
I could be more active in my own area of expertise.
Pray, Hope, and be Charitable!
Start a group to discuss issues of everyday life.
Provide organizational skills to improve programs.
I could organize lectures from guest speakers.
I am involved in a committee that plans adult formation/spirituality opportunities.I'll continue working on that.
Volunteer to lead discussion groups.
I could train in ethics, philosophy, at the high school or college level.
Initiate faith sharing on work issues and everyday life issues.
I have offered suggestions for catechist mini retreat to better prepare us for teaching, to share our gifts with each other and to build community between catechists.
Be a good model of a Christian who is working to follow Christ by actions and speech.
Participate in open discussions on today's problems.
Stay involved--be a part of the solution.
Become better informed.
I could give talks on abortion and domestic violence.
Become a better listener.
Be willing to serve on an ad hoc committee to research the need and what is available from the diocese.
Go to Seminary.
Good question...maybe offering to talk to interested families about Catholic schooling.
Become a Natural Family instructor and teach people about the blessings of this method.
Yo personalmente hago lo maximo, pero estaria dispuesta a ser instrumento para asistir enla formacion de grupos juveniles y otros grupos de oracion y formacion cristiana.
Should make a spot on the parish council for a younger member of the church.That way, the younger member can find out everyone's ideas, and the council could get an idea of what they want.
Promote a program a week so that people have a clear understanding of what is offered and how to become involved.
Talk to our youth about abstinence, etc.
Address and affirm the validity of the single adult life vocation.This is mostly ignored in most parishes.
Start helping the priest to search out potential vocations to the priesthood and religious life, and help to sponsor them.
Dar clases de Planificacion Natural Familiar a hispanoablantes.
Get more active, alter the priorities in my life, regain the work-life balance in the proper perspective.
Open a club for all teens where we can talk about modern problems and looking at the Catholic Church's teachings.
I have many suggestions about improving vocations through observations I made. People interested in the priesthood are often nervous. Having a first-contact layperson would be a good idea.
As a young adult, I can keep promoting my generation to go to Youth Group if the parish offers it so that the younger lay people stays involved within the Catholic Faith.
Be an active voice for the 18-35 age group that seems to be left out so often in non-college campus churches.
Find ways to involve young adults that have found their way to mass because they want to not because their parents are telling them they have to go. I have somewhat "returned" and want to revive my Catholic faith.
In talking with many of my catholic friends, the idea of living a "holy" life seems so foreign to them.I would love to help develop and implement a program that leads people back to wanting to live a "holy" and saintly life.
I will like to help start a group of families meeting regularly to discuss Bible readings and themes that are relevant to raising a family, etc.
Join a discussion group. Help to organize it, lead it.
I could participate in seminars on ethical and moral issues.
Coordinate a discussion/study group that meets consistently at least on a monthly basis.
It is not what they can do for us (the opportunities are there!); we need to utilize them more fully.
Become a more active participant in the parish.
Give 'constructive' feedback and offer to assist.
I am already very involved, but I could encourage others to do the same.It seems that people need to be invited individually and not just given a general invitation from the altar.
I am going to volunteer more within my community, Ii want to reach out to those who are not as active, and tell what Ii get from the experiences with my parish.
Let them know when I see a need, and be ready to fill it when possible.
The best thing I can do is to speak with fellow parishioners and the clergy.Perhaps they would like to see the same things and we could work together.
Create safe climate for groups to dialogue and address hard issues.
Give more time.
I have been helping my Parish to address some of these needs by my participation and my encouragement to others especially the young.
Reach out to include children and support parents raising kids in public school setting, other religions have family fun nights in basketball, camp outs etc.

4. Prayer

Prayer deepens our relationship with God, a relationship that is at the core of every aspect of our lives.

I could start a centering prayer group, or call on some Benedictine nuns I know to provide guidance for those of our parish who are interested in this type of contemplative experience.
Suggest to someone in the Parish office the need for a parish sponsored retreat for couples.
Be more faithful to prayer.
Pray for more leaders in our church.
At my age 80, I can do intercessory prayer.
Pray constantly for my parish.
Be even more involved.I currently teach 3rd grade RE, but I could become more involved with beginning some small prayer groups for people my own age.
I teach CCD but I could help organize and/or lead retreats and spiritual programs.
I can begin a prayer list of parish needs, publish it in the bulletin, and request that others pray with me.
I will have to think and pray over this one, I am active in many of our programs and try to help as much as I am able , but there is always more one can do, right now I will increase my prayers for my parish and thank God more for the blessings .
I should pray more for our parish and religious.
Offer to lead a community retreat.
I would be willing to be involved in starting a program relating to the "how to of prayer".
Organize prayer groups.
PRAY HARD AND CONSISTENTLY! Pray hard and consistently!!
Start a prayer group
Since I am almost 76 years old and still active in our parish there isn't much more I can do but would love to do more.I like to think I help by showing up for the devotions we do have.
I would like to start a Marian prayer group.
Share with others the aids and helps that have helped me to grow more spiritually.
I will pray for your Bishops conference.......please pray for me.
I could host prayer groups, bible study; offer kindness to those in need; create programs such as evangelistic activities – just invite!
I can only pray as I am 82 years old and I am as active as I can be.
Help to organize an adult education course on spirituality and applying it to living your life.
Volunteer to start a prayer chain.
Pray together and recognize that with God all things are possible. God is LOVE!!!
Prayer and listening to the Holy Spirit's guidance.
Attend missions that are provided (make it worthwhile for church to sponsor them).
I am in training to become a Spiritual Director.
Pray for all parish members.
Willing to take part and advertise retreats.
I would be happy to help organize and/or teach a workshop on prayer.
I'd like to start a faith sharing prayer group.
I am trying to form a women's prayer group.
Be a part of a day of renewal team.
Continue on the spiritual development leadership committee.
Teach a class in spirituality emphasizing our calling to true intimacy with Christ.
offer spiritual direction to those who are interested and promote it
I have volunteered and have taught a class during Lent on Spirituality in the Bible.
What I am doing is trying to get a men's retreat organized.
Try to get a Scripture study group started or, a favorite dream, try a discussion group for women on women's spirituality as found in contemporary literature and art.
Help organize a men's prayer group.
I could give classes to adults and young people and help lead retreats and days of prayer.
Pray for the Holy Spirit to dwell in the parish and by our example
Help implement a how to pray work shop.
Ask more people to join our small prayer group.
Pray for conversion of my own heart:pray for the Parish.
Lead a group in centering prayer.
Being a senior who lives in the country alone--not much but pray
Yikes! Teach that prayer class, maybe!
Suggest the possibility of morning or evening prayer.
Research and obtain prayers for our website.
Pray for my parish.
Pray daily for my pastor and my parish family.
Take a more active leadership role in spiritual e.g., prayer line, daily communal prayer (at home).
Can participate in group prayers, Bible study and workshops.
Probably pray more before I act.
Facilitate a series of discussions on ways to pray.
Pray for guidance.
Pray for our priest, leaders and parish members including myself!!
Pray more for my parish!
Remember our parish needs in my prayers.
Set time aside each week to pray for the needs of our mission parish.
Help to get some of these groups and retreats going.
Try to ask priest for more teachings and prayer opportunities.
Pray for the Church.
Several of us have started an intercessory prayer group to pray for the needs of our parish.
Pray that my pastor & parish be lead by the Spirit.
Facilitate lay-led faith sharing and prayer groups.

5. Communal Life

The parish is, first, a community of people called together by God and unified by the Holy Spirit.The communal life of the parish is continually fostered so that, through our personal relationships, all parishioners may evidence our identity as brothers and sisters in the Lord.

I would love to get more involved to be part of the solution, instead of raising the issues - I can donate more time to help in general.
Take a more active part in parish happenings.
Become involved again.
Integrar parte de un comite de servicio a la comunidad.
Advise on matters of buildings and site; I am an engineer.
Attend more of the events, which already occur.
Get to know new members of the community and encourage their participation.
Volunteer as a parish nurse.
Become involved.Lack of participation is what stops most programs.
Join one of the committees.
Make people aware of singles' needs and encourage families to reach out to singles and newcomers who are away from their families.
Join with other parishioners on an active welcoming committee.
Visiting homebound members with the Eeucharist; taking them to doctors & store when needed.
Offer my education, gifts and experience that I have received in Clinical pastoral care.
Participar proactivamente en el diseño de un enfoque y administracion renovados.
As a "new" Catholic, I have much to learn before helping others, however, my experiences so far may help others reunite with the Catholic Church.I have found a peace unexplainable in my home coming.
Mejorar la comunicacion entre parroco/consejo pastoral para dar las opinios a conocer. Rezar por la parroquia y darle gracias a Dios por lo que ya se ha logrado.
I could let them know how isolating it can be to have a disabled childand no assistance.
Instead of going alone to make suggestions I should take the time to find people of like mind and then visit with the priest.I need to have the attitude of 'we can do this' rather than 'Father can you find someone to do this'!
Go back to the Church.I stopped going when divorced and don't feel like I belong.
Make websites. Evangelize online. Free architecture. Choir. Show up. Tithe.
Volunteer and actively participate in outreach programs for gays and lesbians.
I would like to be more involved with helping people go through the annulment process. I have been thru it myself, and its benefits are truly holy.
Write more articles in the newsletter.
Host the internet chat?
Find a way to help create/promote lay leadership (but it's difficult to suggest it without volunteering to head yet another organization).
Help reach out to the Hispanic populations, especially the youth.
I could keep advising my mother, who is President of our Pastoral Council.
Hang out as Jesus did.Simple presence goes a long way.
Trying to build a union among Latino and Anglo communities.
I need to be more faithful in tithing.Our parishioners come from the suburbs to a church in a deteriorating neighborhood in the city.They really need our financial support.
Continue to make the parish aware of the need for support of the single again.
Be more available to fellow parish members and their needs. More involvement in Parish projects.
Continuing to dialogue with the pastor, parish council & other parish organizations.
Be positive, cheerful, welcoming, and open to opportunities to assist where needed.
Be more supportive of people with problems & who are different thanmyself.
Offer our home for small groups or youth groups to meet
Organize a class or band or social event so that I wouldn't burden someone else to do it.
I could spend more time giving and ministering to my family.
Meet as many parishioners as possible.
Continue to increase my role in stewardship.
I can show up for the various things the parish offers and show that we are receptive to what they are trying to provide.
Voice my opinion, go to a meeting or class, and/or participate.
Make time to participate whenever the diocese offers a workshop that can help in our parish.
Very important is commitment to married life - Share my story
Be more tolerant of people.
Continue doing my part re; stewardship-as well as not publicly criticizing the good folks who are trying their best!
I attended a stewardship conference and have requested the parish council start a stewardship committee next fall.I have offered to be a working member.
Really listen.
I would be willing to volunteer with the children since I have 4 children of my own.
Volunteer to organize more babysitting for Bible study, adult religious education.
Become more involved and truly care about the people I encounter there.
Bring needs and ideas up at meetings, talk to leaders, members of community, and remember to pray for our church to serve God
Let them know more - sometimes I'm shy.
Each week, greet at least one new person I don't know.
I could baby sit in a group nursery.
I have served several years as a Eucharistic minister to a local nursing home.I would be happy to encourage/assist others in the same ministry.
I would love to research and write about parish history and church architecture.
Form a support group for singles.
Become more involved in the parish leadership and make people more aware of Marriage Encounter.
I am actively engaged in the parish newsletter.
Become their Financial Advisor.
Share ideas from other parishes.
I would serve on a committee for any new activity planned by the parish.
I'd use my art design talent for brochures, ads...
Give more of my time to doing church jobs well, rather than perfunctorily.
Build community with other Catholic families.
Attend more meetings; maybe start a new committee to better improve our parish beginning with a survey to the entire parish family.
Actually take time to talk with the parish priests more and not feel that I am bothering them.
I would be willing to visit new parishioners or home bound elderly, etc.
Give more money.
I want to provide education & support groups for elderly caregivers
Reach out to others in time of need.
Lead a small group to get people to know and share their lives with each other.
Start a support group for those of us reluctantly divorced with children.
Volunteer to chair and form a stewardship committee.
Be more patient, especially with those who I disagree with theologically or liturgically.
I feel that my call to teach teens and to be active in youth ministry could beexpanded to teach adults and to do service for adults.
Take a course on one on one ministry and reach out to others in the same boat.
Help others to feel comfortable here.
Welcome others into the volunteer areas in which I have felt so welcomed. Support those with other gifts.
Reaching out to other in the parish by simply greeting more people at Sunday Mass.
Volunteer as possible during the next Time and Talent opportunity
My dream for our parish is to start a catholic mom's home schooling support group.
Become a better public speaker and learn how to resolve a conflict instead of just walking away or wishing it away.
Be a more positive person.
Take part in the Synod meetings available this year
Organize a fellowship hour.
Offer ideas about education desired, share ministry ideas that others in my parish might want to become involved in.
Get to know others.
Make an effort to get more involved and stop saying they should do this that or the other, and do it myself with the help of others.
I can help welcome people and try to understand that everyone is different and has different needs.
Not leave when frustrated.
Work with a small committee on how to improve the parish.
Lead by example in organizing some lectures and outings. It shouldn't be up to only a few people.
Help to build a sense of community in the parish. I'm not sure how....
Form a committee that would do things like take a food dish to family at time of illness, drive old or disabled to appointments, activate a prayer chain, maybe have list of people who could baby sit for parishioner without family around in time of emergency.
Suggest an open forum where issues and ideas that are of concern to parish members can be discussed.
Be more welcoming to new parishioners.
Be less grumpy.Complain less.
I can pray and nurture my family.
Use my multilingual skills to encourage different races/ethnic groups to worship together.
Try to form a small "service group" to help frail, elderly and handicapped people of parish.
Help to make it a friendlier place...encourage socialization/fellowship
Be willing to lead programs.
I guess I had better volunteer to start a greeter system!
Offer more time in the areas that tie in to my own expertise.
Talk, communicate, listen and use Cardinal Bernadin's model of common ground.
Contact other senior citizens.
Need to invite the priest to dinner and talk!
Be encouraging - help people identify their gifts - ask them to do some one thing that may lead to other things.
Reach out in love to my fellow parishioners. I know so few. People / families in my parish. It's like we are all strangers.
I could take advantage of the requests for help in the weekly bulletin and make a greater effort to participate.
Organize, publicize and chair a group or an activity for young professionals.
Continue to be active in service, witness, and the social life of the parish, get to know many people.
I would be willing to visit people and to talk to people I have not seen before.
Become friendlier.
As a stewardship committee member educate myself more thru books, seminars etc to find what works for our particular parish.
Help with overall business management of the Parish.
Participate in round robin telephoning inviting and reminding parishioners re upcoming events.
Start small Christian communities in our parish.
Volunteer to promote/lead after Mass hospitality.
Give my parish priest more feedback.
Offer to set up/be involved in a "welcoming committee."
Introduce myself to the parish staff and say I can help.
I could step out of my comfort zone more, get to know more people and invite them to participate.
Encourage dis-enchanted parishioners.
My goal is to begin a ministry with those who are grieving & dying within the parish.
I would be interested in leading marriage preparation classes, organizing events for families, and contacting new parishioners.
Meet other people.
Improve my Spanish.
I would like to form a hospitality committee to welcome newcomers.I would also like to set up an "Employment Opportunity" bulletin board to help those unemployed locate employment.This area is currently experiencing many lay-offs.
Mentor new families.
Find other singles like me and begin to find ways to help ourselves and the parish.
I am working with three other people to start a group for single young adults.
Encourage better participation of parishioners in the Health Ministry; there are so many older and lonely people in our parish.
Help form a committee to welcome new parishioners and provide opportunities for newcomers and less active members of the community to become part of the larger parish community.
I am in a lay formation program so that I can acquire the skills to be a more effective leader.
Donate to a lending library; be available to other young families in need of social support.
The area most important to me now is welcoming the Newcomers.I have agreed to Chair that commission.
I could mentor young married women/mothers.I have 7 children and home school 4 of them.With the mobile family, we all need someone with wisdom to talk to, including me.
Give to collections.
Devote more time & get more involved in parish leadership.
I could become the greeter at least at my mass...
I do not feel connected to my parish-- I need to reach out and find others who have my interests.
Spend time with the young children--playing and sharing experience and praying with them.
I would be interested in serving on Parish Council, meeting parishioners, sharing ideas, and working on committees for serving the poor, the children, etc.
Introduce new people to some of the "old" parishioners.
Construct a database of parishioner skills and talents.
Get together with newcomer once a month right after Mass to let newcomer feel at home.
I could e-mail with other parishioners or chat on-line, I am limited with children, but am available.
I could help with social functions in the parish hall.
Participate when church has seminars missions etc and bring a friend
Join a particular group or program that interests me and learn how to be a bigger part of the parish.
Continue to reach out to people who don't feel as connected as I do.Search for ways to reach these individuals.
Overcome my fear of being rejected for my views and join in the discussion, I suppose.
I would participate in organizing family oriented activities along with the aid of other parishioners.
I could improve my computer skills to help the parish maintain contact with students who are away at college.
Be more aware of the needs of individuals in the parish; be more welcoming to newcomers and strangers.
I could let go of the judgments I place on others and love them for who they are.
Be more open to taking more of a leadership position for the activities. that I would like to see in the parish (including not getting discouraged if/when they don't work out).
I am currently helping to grow a group for 20-somethings in my parish.
Become more involved socially.
Work to start activities such as biking & hiking.
Do more for the parish members that are in need.
Respect opinions. Love everyone no matter what they stand for
Deepen my own commitment to God and the Church, choose a mission in the parish, and consistently dedicate time to that.
Send an email/letter to my priest.
I would be willing to provide daycare/co-op for people willing to volunteer.I am trying to help with computer work at home, too.
Participate in a group to assess where improvement is needed in our parish and encourage more people to volunteer.
Volunteer my skills as a teacher, a computer programmer / application developer and as an organizer of small events and programs.
I am a leader in our Health Care Committee, working toward access to health care for all.
Get to know my fellow parishioners better.
Participate more actively in the activities and service opportunities of my parish.
Better stewardship of my own time & talent!
Attend and participate, myself and my family, the programs that the parish offers. Share the opportunities that the parish offers with others. Volunteer to help as help is needed.
encourage young adults to be more involved in our parish‘
I've started a moms group.
I could help build a web page and computerize church tasks that lend themselves to PC use.
Continue to speak out in a positive and non-threatening manner
Volunteer to greet people at the doors.
Attend town meetings and; participate in ministry leadership.
Love unconditionally; host a potluck; orchestrate a day of service or a club; create a welcoming system.
Perhaps run for parish council.
Ask for the programs I want to be taught at the church.Take a more active part in the areas I want to change or learn about.
I could reach out to others who don't look as though they feel comfortable and encourage them to share their concerns with the parish, both priests and laity, who all would be happy to help.
Start a parish-nursing program.
I could help organize events.
Help to organize a stewardship drive and picnic.
Talk with others I meet about parish programs; actually visit new parishioners; live as a Christian.
I would volunteer to help with youth groups and their activities.
Serve as Parish visitors.
Attend parish council meetings.
I guess I could get involved and maybe create a support group for divorced Catholics and their children.
Introduce myself to people I don't know to make them welcome and to increase the fellowship.
I would be grateful for the chance to serve my parish as part of Parish Council and take some of burden away from the Pastor.
Develop a group of people in their 20s and 30s.
Help with formation of Small faith community development
Offer to help with the planning of some events of the parish
Outreach to visitors and new comers.
Make phone calls, work in the office, and coordinate events/classes.
I'd like to be on committees for the sick.
Volunteer to help in any programs that might be established.
Be willing to head up committees or run for council.
I someday want to help establish a program or small group or workshop whose goal is to help people live their Christian values in their daily lives, and to come to find that God is not just found in church on Sunday but is with us in our work world.
Do personal visitations to people who have just moved to the parish and to people who have stopped coming.
Be a participative member; emphasis the positive; be constructive in attitude and action.
I could attempt to start a group of 21 - 35 year olds who would like to pray, learn about our faith, and have fun together.
I am an excellent fund-raiser and am always glad to help with the monetary needs of the parish.
I shall contact the parish to see what I can do to help with homebound seniors who are unable to get to doctors etc.
Respond honestly and thoughtfully when opportunities for suggestions are sought.Participate in parish retreats, social events, adult education classes, and other opportunities to grow in our faith.
Volunteer for welcoming committee visits.
Relieve pastor of some administrative work that he performs. Am retired manager who could assist in office management, etc.
I could encourage people of my own age in my parish to get involved in some form of ministry within the parish.
Increase offerings.
Support those in leadership roles through active participation whenever possible.
I can speak directly to the pastor rather than gripe about things among a group of people; I would also talk positively among parishioners to encourage more people to get involved.
Use my gift and talents at organization.
Express my opinions to people working on the pastoral council, the priests, and the staff.
Volunteer specific suggestion ideas for church bulletin revisions; be a "welcome to the parish" greeter.
Lead the life that God has called me to as husband, father, and employer.
Participate in the monthly parish council meetings.
Encourage bridging between our migrant population (which has its own segregated mass) and our regular parish activities.
Assume a leadership role.
Participate more in multi-cultural activities in the church, community we live in.
Try to remove some of the administrative burden from the pastor
Keep peace!
Use our men's society in an effort to stop the gossip and backstabbing that currently divides many members in our parish.
Be more involved and not just complain about what should or should not be done.
Offer my professional skills and increase donations.
I serve on the Pastoral Council, and am especially working on race relations within the parish.
Become more loving, welcoming & accepting.
Be more open and friendly to new faces in the church so that they feel welcome there.
Participate in parish planning.
I could and would participate in planning and contacting others who would help.
Encourage others to become involved.
Speak up, take more initiative - currently we coordinate marriage prep, but want to extend that to newly married ministry.
Reach out-be friendly.
Encourage members to continue to belong and to be active in our own Parish and not to give up.
Each Sunday I try to greet everyone warmly, we have a huge parish and a lot of visitors.

6. Missionary Spirit

The parish exists not for itself, but for the mission of Christ.Each of us, both as individuals and as a parish community, is called to bear witness to the Good News in and through our daily lives.

Provide support and advocate for social justice within the parish.
Teach English to new immigrant parishioners.
Join other denominations to improve life in the city.
I would be happy to help my parish open the doors to a young peoples study.
Be an example for others in the community so people will desire to seek out the Christian life.
If I had the time I would love to start a committee to help inactive Catholics.
Am very active in prison ministry.
I hope to become more involved in the youth program, as we get a bit more settled here.
Co-ordinate some community service projects
Perhaps organize a parish retreat involving service to a community in need.
Begin a youth group.
I could volunteer to spear-head a social justice outreach group that would sponsor speakers, discussions, and service projects.
Lead a father and husband group to support family role and responsibility.
I would like to be trained to make sick and hospital calls.
Help with disability awareness projects.
Become more active in social, ministry; help to develop a lay committee.
Begin a service opportunity group on my own.
Continue to work for women's issues such as domestic violence, pregnancy support, women as leaders in the church,
Am already pretty active in community, but could become more proactive rather than relying on priest(s) to take initiatives.
I could start a small church community for divorced Al-Anions, who want to learn how to deal with co-dependency issues.
I am trying to get folks to "think outside of the box" but it is hard when you have been in the box for a while!!!!
Research resources to help implement programs and activities to fulfill our mission in life.
Pray to the Holy Spirit and search diligently for the truth about systems which oppress us all, and for help with the struggle in dealing with these.Educate myself.Multiplication of meetings is not a good solution.
Make contact with the pastor and folks who are actively involved, open the door and see what that leads to.
I being a gay male could speak to gay Catholics, and try to get them back to the church.
I can run word processing software to send out letters, do surveys, set up databases. I can shovel snow or garden.
I would offer to start up a single parent support group
Participate in interdenominational events-lead and/or participate in study group on women's issues-be present to women who are thinking of leaving because of church attitude.
Ayudar a reclutar e invitar aquellos fieles que no participan activamente en la parroquia.
Start a Pro-Life Group to help educate the parish.
Get involved with evangelization committee.
Estar a la disposición del párroco y sobre todo recordar que SOY Iglesia.
Find out more about the needs of the community and assist with efforts to achieve goals.
Start a marriage mentorship/fellowship group.
My wife and I already are teaching classes with PreCana.
I want to get involved in Project Gabriel.
Volunteer as a group leader to talk of and take action in evangelical and charity organizations.
I serve as youth minister, and try to involve other young adults in the group.
Be more proactive in suggesting/developing programs for married couples
I could start a fatherhood or parenting ministry.
My husband and I can do pulpit talks to promote Marriage Encounter
Reach out to those not attending Mass.
Participate in those parish programs that build a sense of community and that offer service to others.
I have started a Catholic women's support groups … addressing any for any reason they need support.
Stay active in social and service groups. Live out my faith and try to be a good example to others.
Participation in the peace and Justice committee.
I could voice some specific ideas - like reaching out to some of the outcasts in our parish; more soup kitchen coordination.Time is my biggest problem. If I voice, I may be in charge....
I'm trying by starting a youth ministry program.
Try to start social justice ministry.
Spend more time with the youth of our parish to help grow in their faith in the years when it is not "cool" to be a Catholic.
Be more welcoming to all I come in contact with.
I would like to help with a program that meets with unmarried or newly married to counsel.
Help out with parenting classes.
Assist with parenting and marriage programs
Start or assist in an outreach program for inactive Catholics.
Help form an adult singles group.
I would be glad to help organize a preteen or teen youth group.
I can be the first person to evangelize through outreach to homeless, imprisoned, troubled marriages, etc.
I have just started participating in the social action committee.
Participate more in the volunteer missions that are encouraged.
I would like to get our youth group to do more service projects and get more involved with helping the poor.
Would like to help organize a Vacation Bible School for our youth.
Volunteer more time to guide young people's activities.
I support and volunteer in our parish...but I could assist in the helping of the less fortunate.
I am looking into organizing a class for those not yet married or engaged, to help them explore the Catholic idea of Matrimony.
Participate in community outreach and invite parishioners to join me
Encourage an interest in serving people who are dealing with HIV / AIDS.
I would be willing to organize an outreach program to imprisoned children if I could figure out how to get permission.
Continue to speak up and speak out, in a respectful manner, if social justice issues are neglected or ignored
Be willing to provide suggestions to the parish leadership for welcoming the strangers among us.
Help participate in a program for people who are having a difficult time finding employment, also educate people how to budget, wisely
I'm involved in the social ministry committee.
Offer to work on social justice issues by presenting workshops; take a leadership role in promoting political advocacy on issues related to Catholic Social Teaching.
Be involved in evangelizing.
Bringing more friends with me.
Volunteer more in the Aid to Women Center.
Start a program for the grieving.
We could help around the community. We can also show leadership for the younger children that look up to us.
Gather my fellow youth parishioners to put together food and clothe drives.
Be more active in social justice and outreach.
Give classes and workshops on creating healthy marriages and relationships.
Pray for the return of inactive Catholics.Invite them to return.
I would work with the parish to outreach to the gay and lesbian community.
Ask some of the teenagers what they think, then try to help.Do things like food drives.
Volunteer to start a youth group.
I'm already pretty active in our mother's ministry & the respect life program.
Just suggest more at youth group meetings.
I would be willing to visit new members, or speak with lapsed Catholics.
Volunteer to spearhead an "outreach to the poor" group. I think I will do it!
I can get behind an initiative that helps children, (i.e. children with aids etc.)
Be more active in activities like the soup kitchen and Outreach.
Be a prominent example of a happy, satisfied married couple in order to promote Marriage Encounter to other couples.
Be mentors to couples who are going to be married.
Help teach English for those wanting to improve their language skills.
I would make sure that I personally would spend time with the battered women at the shelter.
Perhaps help in organizing support groups for the anxious and severely depressed.
Recruit more of the youth to get involved.
I would be interested in forming a ministry to divorced people.
I would be willing to work in an outreach program to Gay & Lesbian Catholics.
Start a community out reach and evangelization team.
I am just beginning to get involved with my parish, organizing around calling for a moratorium on the death penalty.
Good question.In two months, I will finish a Ph.D. program in clinical psychology. Once I am licensed (another year away), I would like to facilitate a support group for battered women.
Help in a youth group. I would welcome the opportunity to be an example to Jr. high/H.S. aged kids.
Be more involved in leading in single adult activities.
Continue convalescent hospital visits on weekly basis.
Design a parish web page.
Form a peace and justice group.
Help with the food program--we have a lot of people in the Winter who need assistance in this.
Be a liaison for a prison ministry, since I already work at a prison chapel.
Supply information on prison ministry and social justice issues, suggest and support spiritual growth opportunities.
I will continue to be involved in a regional ecumenical faith-based community-organizing project aimed at strengthening the individual communities and promoting social justice in our region.
I could offer to start a study group for married couples or help in the instruction of couples preparing for marriage.
To reach out to those who are facing difficulties and / or not practicing faith.
Work on a social justice and parish service program.
Become more active in outreach to the poor and elderly.
If asked, I could select clippings showing convergences or common statements from various ecumenical dialogues for insertion into the bulletin.
Work closer with our small peace and justice group and stay focused on the youth of the parish.
Encourage travel to see how other half-lives.
Form a teen leadership program.
I would love to offer my services for a prison ministry in my parish or offering some kind of support for families of inmates
Seek the pastor's support of events, like a mission trip to Mexico or Habitat for Humanity.
Possibly start a home school support group.
Organize a sister parish relationship with one from the inner city. Work toward women's ordination.
Lead jail ministry, hospital ministry.
Start a mothers group and listen to various tapes.
Come back as a youth minister.
Become involved in creating a ministry of healing.
Build a website.
Present talk on social teachings; host dinner dialogue/sharing for small group of parishioners; partner with newcomers to the neighborhood/parish.
I would love to help the elderly and those who are home bound.
I would gladly help with a Project Rachel group.
Become an RCIA sponsor.
Participate in visiting the sick.
I can step out of my comfort zone and work with the homeless and the hungry.
Help organize a social organization for new parents.
I should probably become one of those Big Brothers!
Volunteer as Out-Reach Minister; contact organizations/programs with the parish boundaries; select one initially, and setup a volunteer schedule with parishioners.
Participate in service group activities.
Visit the homebound.
I would be willing to organize groups to do minor repair and maintenance for the elderly.
Be a mentor couple for engaged couples.
Would be willing to participate in outreach to those disenfranchised.
I am working with a group to start a crisis pregnancy center.
Organize a "Guardian Angel" organization in which an individual, family or group of families "adopt" an elderly shut-in with no local family.Activities could include visits, phone calls, taking them to doctor appointments. ,movies or to our homes.
I am starting a girls club within the youth group. Pray for me...
Tutor kids, teach skills to adults.
Become more involved in some of the community building programs - its hard with small kids, but perhaps some type of child centered program would be good.
Start a Men's group focusing on bringing Church teaching into practical application for the lives of Catholic Men.
Start a Parish Nurse program.
Aid in the youth department through suggesting activities and volunteering when they need help with youth functions.
Run a youth social justice group; organize shelter trips in urban areas.
Spend more time assisting with web work.
Try to start up a group of leaders who go out and encourage youth to join the youth group.
I would be willing to help create a volunteer coordinating service beginning with contacting the various service organizations that already established in Houston and how we can work with them.
Visit the home bound.
Get involved when they have social justice issues that need to be addressed.
Provide counseling for domestic and sexual abuse.
Do more home visiting, hospital follow-up.
Liaison work with non-Catholic churches.
Donate food for the homeless along with clothing also.
Start an outplacement service for those who lost their jobs.
I have started a study group in my home after mass on Sundays ...to help us grow in sharing our faith with others outside the church.I start taking it upon myself to search out material I need to grow ...taking classes in this area.
Organize a group to help with those who have had abortions or divorces.
Set up an internet web site.So many other parishes have them where not only general information is available, specific targeted information, and why not an on-line bible study.
I would be willing to initiate a "Bereavement" group.
Continue putting all my change + spare monies in the poor boxes.
Get trained as a "Detention Ministry volunteer".
Volunteer to be on an "outreach" program for inactive parishioners
Show slides of mission work I have done
organize visits to the lonely, elderly, and nursing home residents
Work more closely with the Food Pantry
I have helped start a program that assists the families of persons in our local jail
Help create a family support group for families living with teenagers.
Continue to work with metro wide interfaith group.
Support the programs offered, not only by attending, but by bringing friends.
I could get more involved and start a community service group
I volunteer with the nursery and at the hospital.
I would like to see my parish have a parish-nursing program and I would help.
Recruit some parishioners to accompany me in my work with the missionaries of the Poor.
I am going to work with RCIA, and St. Vincent de Paul society.
I could propose some of the community service programs that I am interested in and see if we could get a group together to go out and do them.
I will be working on the newsletter and visiting, thinking about whether I can make a commitment to Hospice.
Participate in the programs we sponsor to assist those who are homeless or poor on a more regular basis.
Marriage Enrichment-already involved in a yearly Celebration of Marriage mass for couples.Special anniversaries & engaged couples. Counseling would help w/with marriage enrichment!
I'll join the newly formed Bible study class and continue to support its programs for the needy when called upon. I could pay more attention to the bulletin so I'm up to date on what needs the parish has.
Talk to a priest, I would love to work more with youth but do not know where to start.
Work at food drives and clothes drives.
Have a clothing drive to help the people a little less fortunate than others.
Take a more active role, especially with the Social concerns committee.
Suggest different activities that I think would be fun for teens and they will learn things they didn't know about their faith.
Meet more people in my community.
Volunteer to work with youth or young adults.
Volunteer to be a mentor for new & inactive members.
Participate in our city's ecumenical service group.
I've volunteered as a hospital Eucharistic minister.
I could ask the pastor about starting a social concerns committee.
I offer my technical skills and experience in efforts to evangelize via the internet.
Start a marriage enrichment program.
I head our Confirmation Team for high school aged children.Now I hope to some how create a youth center.
Volunteer more with our community service projects.
Network with others interested in participating in a Respect Life Committee.
I could help with outreach programs, especially to the large Jewish community in our area.
Continue to organize world marriage day, coordinate the child care room, and continue speaking about ideas we can borrow from other Christian denominations to increase our knowledge of scripture, alternative methods of prayer, and support for married couples
Interact with the poor and needy.
I am a volunteer with Habitat for Humanity.
Start reaching out to Catholics who have fallen away.
Speak to the parish priest regarding support for a foreign mission.
Stand up for the church in a way that would show others how attractive it is.
Facilitate marriage enrichment programs.
Mentor engaged couples; share my experience of marriage (almost 32 years).
Sacrifice my time to help those less fortunate than myself.
Be more active and creative in ideas for the Social Action Committee.

7. General

Some people are willing to help address the needs within their parish, but are waiting to be invited or need some help getting started:

I need to know where there is a need.
I have offered to volunteer in a variety of parish capacities and am awaiting responses.
I'm big on being involved - all I have to do is be asked!
Work in any effort the pastor asks.
If a meeting were called in my parish, I would be glad to attend.
Be responsive to calls for assistance.
I have creative ideas but do not know how to make them part of parish life.
I will do anything.
Still praying about this one.
Pray, be willing and be available.
Hmmmmm.Wasn't ready for this one.I don't know.
Willing to participate but few opportunities for working adults and those without children.
I could come up with ideas and action for helping the poor elderly if I knew where to start, a forum? an ear? an established program?
I don't know,.I'm only 16.
Primero necesito ayuda a dicernir que son mis ideas y cuales son las realmente necesarias de proceguir en el empono empe(o de ayudar a los que mas necesitan de la Palabra de Dios.
I wish I knew, I am spiritually hungry, but I don't know where to turn or where to start.
Go back to the Church. I stopped going when divorced and & don't feel like I belong.
I'm calling today to ask where the need is most. God bless you.
I am a lay minister of at the hospitality. I and would do more (if asked).involved if only someone would ask.
I'd be happy to get involved and offered to when joining, but no follow up...
I have skills, but don't know what the parish needs.I'd like to give more of myself, not just in a spiritual sense.
Not much; I am homebound because of illness but I would love to find ways to help; I need suggestions.
I feel I could be of more service, but I am not asked. One hesitates to "push" oneself on others.
I could do lots of things to help but I can't afford the gas to go places.
I don't know, but if they asked I hope I would say "yes."
I could help them address the needs instead of sitting back and complaining.
I have no specific idea but if someone else were to ask me for my participation, I'd be too happy to do so.
I want to be more active in my parish, but don't know how.
Stay focused, be open and available to possibilities, remember: "Be still and know that I am God."
Be available to the call to serve personally.
Share my skills when asked, instead of waiting for others to respond.
Continue to volunteer, say "Yes" when asked.
I suppose I could decide to try to become more involved.
Become more involved with my time in the areas that are important to me.
Become involved more and recruit others to help.
Approach the pastor and learn how to get more involved.
Not sure specifically.Never have been asked except in bulletins.I feel guilty that I am not doing more than attend Mass on a regular basis.
I don't know. The parish is too big.
Investigate more of the programs my parish has and get involved where I have interest or see need.
I need to be more involved.Only I can do this.It is up to me.
I would like to help more but I am not sure how to do it or what to do.
Become more involved in the church in whatever capacity.I realize that I am the church, too.
The PARISH is really the people and we just need to get together and address the issues raised in the rest of the survey.This includes me too.
I have time and talent that I'm willing to give but I'm not sure how.