Reverend Joseph E. Kurtz, D.D. Bishop | Archdiocese of Louisville

A prayer has been introduced for the Archdiocese of Louisville's pastoral planning process, aiming to inspire parishioners to be good stewards and maintain focus on the church's mission. Dr. Brian B. Reynolds, chancellor and chief administrative officer, emphasized the spiritual aspect of this initiative: "We hope this is a practice that reminds everybody that this is about the spiritual work of the church."

The planning process, which spans a year and a half, seeks to address evolving needs within the local church. It commenced in May with parishes tasked to prepare reports detailing their statistics, strengths, and challenges by August.

Reynolds stressed the importance of engaging parishioners throughout this period: “It’s essential that the parish planning process engages the faithful as we determine how best to address some of the challenges we’re facing as a local church.” The prayer serves as a tool for involving parishioners across all parishes in seeking guidance from the Holy Spirit during these months.

According to Reynolds, "the prayer roots the process in prayerful discernment as opposed to just analysis and planning." He encouraged priests to incorporate it into various settings such as meetings or bulletins and occasionally at Mass.

Archbishop Shelton J. Fabre supports local-level recommendations for parish planning, with Reynolds noting that "this prayer begins at the local level." The Pastoral Planning Prayer was authored by Dr. Karen Shadle, director of the Office of Worship.