Regardless of the culture, there is a lot to be said about clarifying the task of pastoral councils. In the past, councils have generally tried to take on too many tasks. Many have become frustrated or burned out. For that reason, it is important to limit their role. That threefold role is a clear blueprint.
Pastoral planning is the best task to which councils are suited.
That is why I advocate the pastoral planning model. But the trip to Kodiak showed me that the model must be adapted to fit the cultural situation. Father Fred Bugarin wants a council less concerned about maintaining existing ministries than about being a leaven in society. For that reason, he has broken with the common practice and hand-picked his members. He wants a council that will examine the economic and civic issues that his parish faces.