We, the members of St. James Parish, are an active Roman Catholic Christian believing community nestled in the urban setting of Wilkinsburg Pennsylvania, while drawing members from throughout the eastern suburbs. We, individually and collectively, proclaim the Good News of Jesus Christ in worship, word and service. Our strength resides in our sense and experience of community and in the sacraments, especially the Eucharist.

As a parish, we affirm the church’s teaching on the sacredness of every human life and allow ourselves to be transformed by Jesus Christ and the Gospel. Our mission includes participating in, respecting, transforming and bringing hope to the vast and diverse area we serve. We invite all members of our parish, our sister faith communities and our urban community to dialogue with us on the issues of mutual concern especially those that hinder our understanding of each other.

We commit to discern current issues of church and society through personal and communal sharing of faith. Our goal is to be an evangelizing parish that invites, is hospitable and is faith filled. Utilizing our God given gifts and talents, it is our duty to search out injustices, quell hatred, build hope and bring comfort to those who are hurting and in pain.

By working together we will fulfill God’s instruction to preach the Good News to all.

Goals and Objectives

I. Expand and deepen our experience of community at Saint James Parish (internal).
1. Rediscover and deepening our faith through education and faith sharing experiences.
2. Develop resources for parishioners to recognize and interact with one another.
3. Involve at least 30 more parishioners in the ministries of the parish within one year.
4. Establish ways to disseminate information throughout the parish.
5. Develop an atmosphere of welcome and hospitality.

II. Ensure the survival of Saint James Parish.
1. Develop a plan within 2 years for succession of pastor.
2. Revitalize committees and programs.
3. Stabilize finances.
4. Enhance the celebration of the Eucharist and paraliturgies.
5. Lead and facilitate the improvement of the immediate area surrounding Saint James (within one year).
6. Increase membership by at least 10 households within 1 year and by 20 in 2 years.
7. Explore the opportunities of gift sharing with other parishes.

III. Broaden the engagement of Saint James Parish and its members with the community of Wilkinsburg and beyond.
1. Develop a dialogue with the diocese on challenging issues.
2. Lead and facilitate an outreach effort by the parishioners with the Wilkinsburg community and engage them in our common interests.
3. Deepen involvement in external groups beyond Wilkinsburg.

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St. James Catholic Church Wilkinsburg

St. James Catholic Church Wilkinsburg

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