The vision of the community, or more precisely the synthesis of a vision that reflects both the expectations of the broader church and the individual character of the local parish, is discerned through the ministry of the Parish Pastoral Council. This council is a visioning body, not concerning itself with the mundane realities of parish life, but instead working to develop guiding principles, goals, and directions for the community as a whole. They exist to aid the pastor so that as he forms a pastoral strategy and seeks to make decisions that reflect the common good, he will know firsthand what the needs of this group of people might be. He will also know the values that the community has. This helps him to shape policies and procedures that build on the strengths of the community, meet the needs of the community, and challenge the community when it lacks a more global vision.

St. Francis parish follows a modified version of the plan for pastoral councils devised and promulgated by the Diocese of Dallas. At St. Francis , because of the unique role of the Parish Ministry Commissions, the Council becomes a clearing house of ideas and communication. In a parish this large, the council's task of keeping all members in relationship, in communication, and in unity is a tantamount goal.

The Parish Council is a support and advisory group to the pastor. The Council establishes channels of communication among all parish groups and coordinates parish activities. The main task of the council is to aid the pastor in discerning the priorities and principles that govern parish life at St. Francis.

Parishioners are welcomed to contact any Parish Council Member regarding any questions, comments, or concerns.

Regulated by universal law, as well as norms issued by the Bishop, this council of the Christian faithful will assist Fr. Larry Pichard in the administration of parish goods and development.

Parish Pastoral Council Meeting Minutes

•  April 2013 Minutes

•  March 2013 Minutes

•  February 2013 Minutes

•  January 2013 Minutes

•  November 2012 Minutes

•  October 2012 Minutes

•  September 2012 Minutes

•  August 2012 Minutes

•  July 2012 Minutes

•  June 2012 Minutes

•  April 2012 Minutes

•  February 2012 Minutes

•  January 2012 Minutes

•  December 2011 Minutes

•  November 2011 Minutes

•  October 2011 Minutes

•  September 2011 Minutes

•  August 2011 Minutes

•  July 2011 Minutes

•  June 2011 Minutes

•  May 2011 Minutes

•  April 2011 Minutes

•  July 2012 Amended By-laws

•  1st Amendment