Diocesan Required Questions:

1. Overview of the demographic of participants. How were the consultations carried out?
   • Most of the people who participated are practicing Catholics. There were a few who identified themselves as Catholics who attend monthly Mass and on special occasions. Some of the respondents shared information about people they know who no longer come to church.
   • Most of the people who responded are 45 years old and older.
   • Listening sessions were held with different organizations of our parish.
   • In addition, we handed out surveys to people in church and the survey was available on the parish website. Overall, approximately 250 participated.
2. Summary of responses to the Fundamental Question: A synodal Church, in announcing the Gospel, ‘journeys together.” How is this “journeying together happening today in your particular Church? What steps does the Spirit invite us to take in order to grow in our “journeying together?"
   • The three Catholic Churches in Falmouth recently merged to form the new parish of St. Joseph, Guardian of the Holy Family. As with any merger, we have experienced some challenges. However, according to the responses we received, the merger is a good example of how we are trying to work together. Many people are also pleased that the Diocese is participating in the Synod. People would like the line of communication between the parishes and the Diocese to improve, and feel this is a good way to start. The Synod is giving parishioners a chance to be heard and an opportunity to share what they are feeling as modern day Catholics. Many of the people who participated, would like to see this process continue. It’s very clear from the responses we collected that the Catholic Church has a lot of work to do.
   • The seven gifts of the Holy Spirit are Wisdom, Understanding, Counsel, Fortitude, Knowledge, Piety and Fear of the Lord. Wisdom is the first and greatest gift of all. In order to grow in our “journeying together” we need to use these gifts, especially Wisdom, as the tools to navigate this journey. The information we collect will help us better understand the needs of our parishioners during these challenging times. The Church however, needs to respond and not let it fall on deaf ears.
3. Other themes that came from the consultations.
   • Common Concerns:
     • Clergy abuse is the number one concern.
     • The shortage of priests came in as a close second.
   • Other common concerns:
     • Parishioners are worried about “pastor overload."
     • Concerns about getting people to return to church after Covid. The numbers are significantly down.
     • Ways to attract the younger generation and to keep them engaged are needed.
     • More ministries for younger people are needed.
     • Women need to have more of a role in administration and in church leadership.
     • There needs to be more focus on evangelization.
   • Additional responses:
     • Need to balance traditions with modern day culture.
     • Need for more pro-life initiatives.
     • Need to be more welcoming to the gay community.
     • Women should be allowed to become priests and deacons.
     • Priests should be allowed to marry.
     • We should have more female altar servers.
4. How well has this consultation allowed the Parish community the opportunity to listen and share the experiences of Church?
   • People appreciated the chance to speak out, and to have parish representatives listen to their concerns. More time was definitely needed, but we are off to a good start.
5. What practical suggestions do you have for your faith community to continue the synodal journey and be a more discerning and participatory Church?
   • We are working with our pastor to continue meeting with parishioners and organizations throughout the year. We are also trying to reach out to people who have left the church. The plan also includes to have updates in our bulletin and website.
6. What practical suggestions do you have for the diocese to support parishes in becoming more synodal?
   • Allow more time for future projects.
   • Share results in a timely fashion
   • Have a good communications plan

Parish survey and listening session Questions:

1. What attracts people to the church?
   • People like our pastor and priests
   • Enjoy homilies and music ministry
   • Look forward to participating in the Eucharist
   • Like to connect with fellow parishioners
   • Feel a connection with God
   • Ministries i.e., St. Vincent De Paul, Food Pantry, Faith Formation and the Thrift Shop to name a few
2. What keeps people away?
   • Too many rules that stray from mission
   • Church is hypocritical
   • Sex scandals
   • Fear of Covid
   • Too many family activities
   • Work
   • Caregiving
   • No time
   • Poor health
   • Elderly without transportation
   • Too “clicky”
3. What are some examples of Parishioners Working Together?
   • Merger of the three churches
   • Ministries including St. Vincent De Paul, That Man Is You, Food Pantry, Faith Formation, and the Knights were mentioned
   • Special Collections
   • Altar preparations
   • Praying the Rosary outside
   • Morning prayers after Mass for special intentions
   • Special events
   • Live streaming Masses
4. What are some examples of What Prevents Parishioners From Working Together?
   • Elderly and handicapped need rides to church and special events
   • Some people feel isolated
   • “No one asks for input from regular parishioners”
   • More parishioners need to be involved. Always the same people.
   • Some people don’t recognize the songs.
   • No time
5. What steps can be taken to ensure all parishioners have a voice, especially those not often heard including the poor?
   • Surveys - Positive response from Synod survey
   • Reporting the results of the surveys
   • Sharing solutions to problems
   • Free coffee and socializing after Mass
   • Reserve front section of the church for people who are hearing impaired
   • Welcome people who rarely come to church
   • Priests and deacons should be more approachable
   • Suggestion box
   • Elderly people who used to be active would like active people to reach out to them
   • More women included in decision making
   • Form a non-judgmental committee to reach out to people who don’t participate in church
6. What needs to change in order for people to return to church and participate more?
   • More education about the meaning of the Mass and the celebration of the Eucharist.
   • More people need to stand up for Catholicism
   • Need to recognize women as valued participants
   • In our parish, provide more opportunities for 3 churches to come together
   • Improve communications and public relations. Promote the good news of the church.
   • Results of surveys need to be shared
   • Focus on evangelization, especially after Covid
   • People want to feel included.
   • More social events
   • Bible study for retirees
   • Live stream in all churches
   • Provide transportation to the elderly and people who don’t drive
   • Larger screens for hymns
   • Re-establish events that bring more people together
   • Return of Women’s Club
   • Priests need to be more visible in community
   • Bring back familiar songs
7. What are the greatest challenges in 5-10 years?
   • Closing of churches
   • Priest shortage
   • Change in abortion laws
   • Declining enrollment
   • Getting more young people involved
   • Changes in family structure
   • Lack of values and respect