Update from the Parish Pastoral Council and the Images of Our Lady of Guadalupe & Divine Mercy
The Parish Council provided feedback to Fr. Cargo at its January meeting regarding the images of Our Lady of Guadalupe and Divine Mercy, and, after much prayerful reflection and discussion, the decision was made not to move these images at this time. The images will come down for the sanctuary painting for a few weeks, but will return to their current location. The crowns above each image and the candles underneath both images will be removed and will not return after the sanctuary refreshment. The candles are being removed in order to prevent further staining of freshly painted walls, and to help distinguish areas of the sanctuary that are appropriate for public worship and private devotion. The candles and devotional areas in the back of the sanctuary underneath the statues of Mary, Joseph and St. Jude will remain where they are.
Thank you to everyone who provided feedback to Fr. Cargo directly or to the Parish Council on this issue!
The Parish Pastoral Council has added 10 new members through its discernment process this fall.
Thank you to everyone who attended and supported this process! The St. Mark parishioners on the Parish Council are Roy Areeckal, Debbie Betz, Adrian Cortinas, Colin Delaney, Nouela Eleanya, Zaira Mahon, Carl Mica, Nick Olivier, Mayela Rodriguez, Sarah Salvia, Tim Smith, Laura Swaney and Fr. Jason Cargo. The primary purpose of the Parish Council is to develop a vision for St. Mark Parish, including St. Mark Catholic School, called a Parish Pastoral Plan. Developing this plan, in coordination with the St. Mark Parish Staff, will take some time, so please be patient!
The Parish Council also welcomes input from St. Mark parishioners on how things are going and provides that feedback to Fr. Cargo. If you have input on St. Mark Parish or St. Mark Catholic School, please email
parishcouncil@stmarkplano.org with your feedback, or speak to one of the Parish Council members after Mass. Each Parish Council member wears a white nametag with green lettering during and after Mass, and is eager to hear your recommendations and concerns! Through your input, we will grow together and be more effective in our efforts to build up the body of Christ. The Parish Pastoral Council humbly asks for your prayers for its work and support to Fr. Cargo and the St. Mark community as it goes forward.
Nick Olivier - chair of Parish Pastoral Council