Bishop's Advisory Councils
The diocesan Bishop has the responsibility to "ensure that everything concerning the administration of the whole diocese is properly coordinated and is directed in the way that will best achieve the good of the People of God entrusted to his care." (Canon 473.1)
A number of advisory councils assist the Bishop in this mandate:
College of Consultors
The College of Diocesan Consultors is a group of priests who act as official advisors to the Bishop in certain matters pertaining to the administration of the Diocese as detailed in canon law. The College of Consultors also acts as a governing board for the Diocese when the Diocese is vacant. Consultors are appointed by the Bishop from members of the Diocesan Presbyteral Council. Consultors serve as a body for a five year term.
Council of Priests (Presbyteral Council)
The Council of Priests is a consultative body representative of diocesan and religious priests in service to the Diocese. The Council’s role is to assist the Bishop, in accordance with the law, in the governance of the Diocese, so that the pastoral welfare of that portion of the people of God entrusted to the Bishop may be most effectively promoted.
Diocesan Pastoral Council
The Diocesan Pastoral Council is a body of clergy, religious and laity who advise the Bishop in those matters which concern the pastoral works of the Diocese. The Council is consultative in nature. Its primary task is to study all aspects of the life of the People of God in the Diocese and to make recommendations to the Bishop concerning them.
Cabinet
Priests' Personnel Commission
The Priests' Personnel Commission is a group of diocesan priests who assist the Bishop in his responsibility of appointing pastors, associate pastors, permanent deacons, and Parish Life Directors. The Commission serves in an advisory capacity to the Bishop and assists him in serving the pastoral needs of the People of God in the diocese.
Diocesan Finance Council
The Diocesan Finance Council is an advisory body appointed by the Bishop for the purpose of assisting and advising him in the administration of the business and financial affairs of the diocese. The Council is composed of clergy and lay persons skilled in financial matters and who are familiar with the civil law. The Council works closely with the Diocesan Finance Officer. The Bishop presides at all meetings. Council members serve for a term of five years.
Sisters’ Council
The Sisters’ Council is an advisory body to the Bishop and serves as a liaison between the women Religious who serve in the diocese and the Bishop.
