The purpose of the two councils is to inform, make recommendations, and support the pastor in matters of the parish. The Pastoral Council concerns itself with the planning and implementation of the commissions and ministries as well as church policies. The Finance Council implements budgets and offers advice regarding financial matters of the parish. In 2001, seven recommended commissions were established at St. John Neumann and were revised by the Diocese in 2007.  (Click here to review the 2007 Diocesean Parish Council Handbook.)  The purpose of these commissions are to support both the Pastoral Council and each of the ministries within the respective commissions by acting as liaisons between the Pastoral Council and the ministries.  The commissions also help existing and new ministries run smoothly and reach their goals and objectives.   More information on SJN's commissions can be found on its web page on this site; ministry and activities can be found on the Ministry & Activities web page and in the Parish Resource Directory.

Both Councils have a responsibility to advise the Pastor on matters concerning our parish, to develop the physical and spiritual aspects of the parish, and to encourage parishioners to lend their talents to its activities.  Seven commission groups are prescribed by the Diocese of Charlotte.