They are led by elected parish councils of lay people and clergy. Abiding by the Scriptures, the Confessions of Faith, and the church's by-laws, each parish assumes full responsibility for fulfilling its tasks. Most of the church's activities take place in the parishes. People may avail themselves of the services of child day care centers or outpatient health centers. Parishes are places for discussions on various issues and problems.
Parishes also serve to enhance the cultural and philanthropic efforts of the community.
This happens in ministries which give life orientation - e.g. in confirmation classes and adult education, in caring for the sick and grieving, in home visits, or in parish fellowship. In addition, many parishes specialize in ministry to the marginalized in society, and last but not least, to people in need in the Third World. Musical events and art exhibits further contribute to the maintenance and upbuilding of human culture. This extends to the very church buildings themselves, which area historical and cultural inheritance. The pastors alone cannot accomplish the many tasks linked with parish life.