Pastoral Associates

In the Melbourne Archdiocese Pastoral Associates are lay or religious women or men appointed by the Parish Priest to assist him in leading the mission and pastoral care of the parish community. Pastoral Associate ministry reflects engagement in a variety of areas depending on the specific needs of the parish and the expertise of the pastoral associate. Pastoral Associates are appointed at the local parish level by the Parish Priest.

Generally the position will include some of the following roles:

• Initiating pastoral programs and encouraging the faithful to a deeper spiritual life within the broad constructs determined by the Parish Priest.
• Playing a role in developing, shaping and reinventing the mission of the parish.
• Directing and undertaking specific pastoral programs, eg RCIA, sacramental programs for children and adults, youth programs.
• Drawing the faith community into roles within the parish.

AOFE

The Archbishop’s Office for Evangelisation is responsible for the accreditation and support of pastoral associates. It seeks to maintain standards that equip pastoral associates for the key roles they undertake in parishes leading and ministering to the people of God. AOFE provides subsidized educational, supervision and faith development opportunities to support pastoral associates in their ministry.

CONTACT US

For further information on pastoral associate ministry please contact us: phone: 03 9926 5761, email: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

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