The Parish Leadership Team was formed in 2019 to succeed the Parish Council. With the appointment of a new administrator, it was suggested to the Parish Council that it investigate a new Parish Governance Structure. The Parish Council heard from a Melbourne Parish Priest with expertise in this area. A governance structure more suitable to St. Bernard’s was adopted. The structure that was introduced consists of an overall leadership body and Five Pillars.

St Bernard’s Parish – Parish Leadership Team (PLT)

Parish Priest

School Principal, Pillar Leaders, Chair

Elected Parishioners 

 Liturgy Pillar

The Liturgy Pillar co-ordinates liturgical celebrations throughout the year, assists all involved in liturgy & those who provide support behind the scenes. It includes the following groups : Liturgy Team, liturgical ministers, musicians, Friday communion to the sick at home & Aged Care facilities, baptism preparation, children’s liturgy, sacristan & rostered church volunteers.

Education in Faith

The role of this pillar is to support groups and facilitators of faith formation within the Parish. These include the RCIA program, the Parish Sacrament program for children. It also supports events provided by the Archdiocese.

Outreach and Engagement

This pillar embraces St Vincent de Paul Society, Passionist Family Groups, Play Group, Ladies coffee and Social Group, Men’s Group. The Pillar maintains a friendly connection and two-way flow of information between the various groups and the Leadership team.

Infrastructure

The Infrastructure pillar oversees the maintenance and development of the Parish buildings and grounds. It is responsible for establishing a Master Plan, as required by the Archdiocese, to encompass both the Parish and school facilities.

Management and Finance

This pillar is responsible for financial planning and budgeting for the Parish, auditing, legal compliance, risk management and health and safety of parishioners.