Per Canon 536 §1 of the Catholic Church’s Code of Canon Law, “a pastoral council is to be established in each parish, over which the pastor presides and in which the Christian faithful, together with those who share in pastoral care by virtue of their office in the parish, assist in fostering pastoral activity.”

Here at St. Christopher’s and in accordance with Canon  536 §1, our Parish Council which is made up of a body of elected and appointed representatives, collaborates with the pastor to set priorities, advise, encourage, and implement programs affecting all aspects of parish life. Governed by the Council Constitution linked here, we hold monthly meetings on the third Thursday of each month, with a break during July and August. Minutes are taken at each meeting and are made available for review on the parish council webpage within a few days following the meeting.

If you would like to reach out to the Parish Council with ideas, questions, or concerns, please use the contact form on this page.

The Parish Council serves as the guiding body for all ministries, ensuring that we work together harmoniously to fulfill our mission as a community of faith. To streamline our efforts and help each ministry better understand its role, we’ve organized all parish ministries into one of the following five committees:


PARISH & FAMILY LIFE
This committee focuses on fostering community and supporting families. Ministries such as Bereavement, Knights of Columbus, Men of St. Christopher, Our Lady of Perpetual Help Sodality, Parish & Family Life Committee, and Prayer Shawl Ministry fall under this category. The goal is to promote a Catholic community and create an environment of mutual support, assistance, and growth in living the Catholic faith in today’s world.

LITURGICAL
The Liturgical committee encompasses all ministries related to the celebration of the sacraments and the liturgy, including Altar Servers, Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion, Lectors, Music, Environment, Live Streaming, Sacristans, Ushers, and the Liturgy Committee. These ministries work to ensure the dignified and reverent celebration of Sacred Liturgies.
   
SOCIAL CONCERNS
Ministries in this committee are dedicated to serving those in need within our parish and the wider
community, such as Outreach, Respect Life, and the Backpack Program. This committee also collaborates with Maryland Catholic Conference, and Haven Ministries. Its mission is to engage parish members in responding to immediate needs and human rights issues.

CHRISTIAN FORMATION
This committee includes ministries focused on deepening the faith of parishioners of all ages, including Religious Education, OCIA (Order of Christian Initiation of Adults), Adult Faith Formation, Family Catechesis, St. Christopher’s Preschool, Vacation Bible School, Walking with Purpose, and Youth Ministry. The goal is to foster Catholic development through a comprehensive formation program.

BUILDING & MAINTENACE
This committee oversees the upkeep and improvement of our church facilities and grounds, including ministries like the Monday Morning Marthas. Its purpose is to ensure proper maintenance and address any necessary improvements to parish property.

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Below is a Parish Ministry Organization Chart, which outlines how each ministry is grouped under its respective committee and lists the committee liaison. This chart also explains how the committees report up to the Parish Council, helping to ensure a clear flow of communication and support across all ministries.: