IR/OR & Spiritual Life Pillar Joint meeting
Date: December 10, 2025
Time: 6:00pm
Location: Immaculate Conception
In Attendance:
Darya Brach (IC), Deacon Marty (SVD), Bill Broderick (SVD), Joe Morcelle (SVD), Evelyn Morcelle (SVD), Paul Murak (IC),
Consultants in Attendance:
Sharon Snyder (SVD)
Missing:
Randy Krolewicz (ANN), Cheryl Krolewicz (ANN), Gail Buehlmann (ANN), Linda Gonzalez (SVD), Grace Jaworski (ANN), Frack Lewandowski (IC), Deb Keenan (ANN), Sr. Sharon (IC), Jessica Russo (IC),
Opening Prayer was the Prayer for Renewal.
Agenda Items
1. Pillar Training Update
Those who attended the November 15, 2025 Pillar Training shared updates on Fr. Bryan’s presentation and his recommendations for areas each Family of Parishes should be focusing on. Fr. Bryan is planning a spring visit to all parishes to review progress.
2. Expanded Family Council Update
Marty and Darya have joined the Expanded Family Council and provided an overview of the council’s role and mission. It was emphasized that all parish programs should align with one of the established Pillars. Assigning an event to a Pillar does not mean the Pillar is responsible for managing the event; rather, it helps maintain a unified and accurate list of offerings within each Pillar’s scope.
The Family Council has also committed to assisting with recruiting new members for the Pillars.
3. Joint Efforts for 2026
Several collaborative initiatives for 2026 are being explored. The first is Make Every Person Count, a Diocese of Buffalo–supported structured telephone outreach program, strongly encouraged by the Diocese and Sr. Louise. Training would be provided by the Diocese, with a proposed launch in the first quarter of 2026.
The second initiative under consideration is a Life in the Spirit retreat in Fall 2026. Deacon Marty will follow up with Fr. Bernie regarding both programs and will also contact the retreat team to explore hosting it at Immaculate Conception in Fall 2026.
4. Theme Ideas for 2026
The Diocese of Buffalo is encouraging all Families of Parishes to adopt a theme for 2026. Ten themes were reviewed and narrowed down to four. The Family Council will vote on one at their January meeting:
- One Community in Faith
- Called Together by Christ
- One Mission, One Spirit, One Community
- Gathered as One Body
Closing
The meeting concluded with the Hail Mary.
Next Meeting
January 14, 2026 — location to be determined.