A Time for Fortitude: Task Force Update

I am pleased to share this update on our Stronger Priests, Stronger Parishes, Stronger Church Initiative. The four task forces have been assembled to begin their work to examine various aspects of diocesan, parish, and priestly life to develop a series of innovative and practical solutions. Each of these task forces, highlighted below, has between 7 and 10 members. You’ll recall that my pastoral letter in December, “A Time for Fortitude,” introduced the vision of the Stronger Priests, Stronger Parishes, Stronger Church Initiative: to foster a Church culture that places priests at the core of its mission so as to strengthen them to meaningfully live their vocation.

Rectory Life Task Force
A priority of this initiative is centered on strengthening priests so they can form vibrant parishes. As the Second Vatican Council affirmed, the renewal of the Church depends on the ministry of its priests, who, through ordination, lead the faithful. To support this vision, I appointed a Rectory Life Task Force to assess and improve priests’ living conditions, fostering a healthier, more fraternal, and spiritually enriching environment. For example, in the past, priests found themselves living with several brother priests. Now, some priests may live in isolation in a large rectory. This task force evaluates rectories, identifying areas for enhancement, and recommending actionable improvements that encourage community and reduce isolation. 

Parish Life & Ministry Task Force
We recognize that the renewal of the Church depends on the strength and success of our priests, who, through ordination, lead and minister to the faithful. To support this vision, this Task Force will identify challenges that prevent priests from fully embracing their spiritual mission and propose solutions to enable them to focus on evangelization and administering the sacraments. Through a comprehensive analysis and a commitment to systemic change, this initiative seeks to create a parish environment where priests can thrive in their vocation and continue to lead their faith communities with purpose.

Seminarian Formation Task Force
We are committed to forming priests who can effectively lead and renew the Church, recognizing that the future and strength of our Diocese and parishes depends on their fortitude  and formation. To ensure seminarians are fully equipped for their ministry, this task force will assess current formation programs, explore potential improvements, and enhance the transition from seminary to parish life. Through a comprehensive review of the formation program, how we support newly ordained priests, and formation experiences, this initiative seeks to cultivate holy, healthy, and well-prepared priests who will foster vibrant faith communities.

Parish Staff Training Task Force
We are also committed to creating a Church culture that prioritizes the strength and support of priests, recognizing that the renewal of the Church depends on their formation and well-being. This Task Force will develop a one-year online course designed to equip parish staff with the skills and knowledge needed to effectively support their pastors and parishes. Our pastors cannot perform this work alone. This training is part of a broader educational initiative that will empower priests, staff, and parishioners, ensuring that every aspect of parish life is aligned with the Church’s mission of evangelization and service.

Please pray for the continued work and success of these task forces.

Year of Jubilee 2025 Pilgrimage

Photo: CNS, Lila Gomez

Despite the hospitalization of the Holy Father Pope Francis, the Jubilee Year is underway as many Catholics have embarked upon, or are planning pilgrimages. As a reminder, those who wish to go on a pilgrimage do not need to travel to Rome. For some, such a trip is not practical, but please know that the following churches in the Diocese of Fall River have been designated official Jubilee pilgrimage sites. They are:

Pilgrimages can take on several forms. This includes something as simple as a break from social media. Whichever pilgrimage you choose, it should be one that provides time for contemplative prayer and reflection; a physical or spiritual journey that deepens your faith and brings you closer to Christ. 

Here are some additional resources for the Jubilee Year:

And don’t forget, as you discern a pilgrimage, please pray the Jubilee Prayer. (English, Português, and Español.) If you are unable to go on a pilgrimage, please consider saying a prayer for those in the greatest of need. 

Prayers for Pope Francis

As you know, our Holy Father, Pope Francis, has been hospitalized since February 14. Yesterday, the Vatican announced that he has been diagnosed with double pneumonia. Let us all continue to pray for him, asking Christ, the Divine Physician, to bring him strength and healing. The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops has shared this prayer for Pope Francis.

Sincerely,

Bishop da Cunha

The Most Reverend Edgar M. da Cunha, S.D.V., D.D.
The Most Reverend Edgar M. da Cunha, S.D.V., D.D.
The Bishop of Fall River
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