Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,
Thank you for being part of our Journey in Faith. Over the past year, thousands of you have prayerfully shared your thoughts, hopes, and dreams for the future of our Church in the Archdiocese of Dubuque. This process has truly been guided by the Holy Spirit and enriched by your deep love for your parishes and for the mission of the Church.
After months of listening, gathering feedback, and discernment, I am pleased to share that the Journey in Faith Core Team has now developed the first version of a final pastorate plan. It reflects significant changes shaped directly by your feedback and that of your pastors. In fact, not a single pastorate from the earlier models (A, B, or C) made it into this new version—an encouraging sign of how seriously your voices have been heard. In some cases entirely new models were given and in others the parishes were grouped like a previous model, but there were changes in Mass locations or the number of Masses. I am grateful for the careful and thoughtful work the Core Team has done in creating a recommendation that best represents the feedback we received.
The Archdiocesan Planning Commission reviewed this first version of the final pastorate plan this January, and the priests will review it in early February. Based on their feedback, we will continue to refine the plan prayerfully and collaboratively in the months that follow. This next phase represents the right work at the right time in the right way, working together to ensure vibrant, sustainable communities of faith across our Archdiocese.
As we prepare for the next steps, I also want to highlight the ongoing Journey in Faith Prep Series, which is being sent weekly to priests and parish staff. These important resources are helping the parishes prepare for tasks and processes prior to the announcements this spring.
I know that change can bring both hope and heartache. New beginnings stir excitement for what God is making possible, yet they also can awaken a sense of loss for what is familiar. Both experiences are natural and part of our shared journey. The Holy Spirit is guiding us toward renewal. Together, we are discerning how to bring the light of Christ more fully into our parishes and communities.
To stay informed and connected, please visit dbqjourneyinfaith.org, where you will find helpful updates, accurate information, and resources for ongoing engagement.
Thank you again for your faith, your trust, and your willingness to embrace this journey. I am filled with great hope for the Church in northeast Iowa and for what God is doing among us.
Walking with you on this Journey in Faith,
Archbishop Thomas Zinkula