Parish Boundary Census
A parish boundary census involves an intentional effort for church volunteers, partnering two-by-two, to visit every home within the geographic boundaries of the parish. The effort is primarily aimed at gathering up-to-date data about the number and location of Catholics, especially those who are not actively practicing the faith. The data acquired can also guide parishes in addressing the spiritual, pastoral and educational needs of their community. The process also helps the laity gain a deeper sense of what it means to be the “face of Christ” to every person as Catholics engage
in an active role in their communities.
Training volunteers thoroughly is a crucial part of the process so that visitation teams have the needed understanding and preparation for the proper spirit in which they are to represent the parish, the type of information they are seeking, the variety of responses they can expect, and how to deal with particular challenges.
Various "best practice models" can be used to guide parishes in how they approach their particular parish census. Members of the Evangelization Commission will be happy to work with parishes in designing their own particular strategy as needed. Below are some helpful links:
in an active role in their communities.
Training volunteers thoroughly is a crucial part of the process so that visitation teams have the needed understanding and preparation for the proper spirit in which they are to represent the parish, the type of information they are seeking, the variety of responses they can expect, and how to deal with particular challenges.
Various "best practice models" can be used to guide parishes in how they approach their particular parish census. Members of the Evangelization Commission will be happy to work with parishes in designing their own particular strategy as needed. Below are some helpful links:
- The Diocese of Covington's recent census project
- The Diocese of Cleveland's guide for parishes
- The Diocese of Peoria's home visitation program
- The Legion of Mary's home visitation program
