Eucharist as the Heart of Our Mission:
A Reflection on the Pastoral Plan
A Reflection on the Pastoral Plan
I approached the Diocesan Synod of January 2023 with an open mind and with confidence that the Holy Spirit would be at work. At the same time, I cannot deny that I had feelings of anticipation and nervousness for the unknown that was to unfold. Being part of the Synod’s General Assembly at Santa Clara University was a blessing, a renewal of hope, and a great personal experience. The General Assembly, with hundreds of Catholics from across the diocese, renewed and reinforced the communion of the local church. The Pastoral Plan that resulted is an extension of that historical event. I am proud to say that it is imbued with the local church’s enthusiasm, and it carries the hope of the community as we proceed with the renewal process.
I approached the Diocesan Synod of January 2023 with an open mind and with confidence that the Holy Spirit would be at work. At the same time, I cannot deny that I had feelings of anticipation and nervousness for the unknown that was to unfold. Being part of the Synod’s General Assembly at Santa Clara University was a blessing, a renewal of hope, and a great personal experience. The General Assembly, with hundreds of Catholics from across the diocese, renewed and reinforced the communion of the local church. The Pastoral Plan that resulted is an extension of that historical event. I am proud to say that it is imbued with the local church’s enthusiasm, and it carries the hope of the community as we proceed with the renewal process.
Participating in the Pastoral Planning Commission to create the pastoral plan from the delegate feedback was not just an honor but a transformative experience. Taking on the responsibility of receiving the delegates’ inputs and shaping it into a practical plan was a challenge that left a lasting impression. The diversity of voices within our local church was a gift, and I am hopeful that our collaborative work will yield a positive outcome through the Pastoral Plan.
The two words that succinctly summarize my overall experience as a member of the commission are hope and openness. As a growing and renewing local church community, assured of being guided by the Holy Spirit, we were united in our hope. Openness was also a key concept because, during the process, our work was collaborative. We knew we were all working towards the same goal. No one worked on a personal plan or project, and more importantly, everyone was open to the voice of the Holy Spirit.
For me, the most exciting part of the Worship priority is the renewal of devotion and connection with Christ in the Eucharist, which our new Mission Statement proclaims as essential — rightly so. The Church beautifully teaches how the Eucharist is the source and summit of our faith. It will be wonderful to witness how these words, transformed into actions, will take shape in our local church. The Eucharistic Revival is not just another project but rather the heart of our mission, our source of joy and strength.
I look forward to a great renewal of our Eucharistic celebrations. I pray for more faithful attendance at Mass, with many returning to church and some returning after a long time. I also pray for a renewed spirit in those currently part of our celebrations that increases the vibrancy of our worship.
Undoubtedly, the most poignant moment for me was the Mass that marked the conclusion of the Diocesan Synod General Assembly, followed by a cultural festive gathering. It was then that I realized that all our dreams, projects, and plans resulting from the process could only come to fruition if we, as a community, are centered on Christ, who remains with us in the Eucharist. All the obstacles and difficulties that we may face can be overcome, not because of our strength or abilities, but because of His love and grace, which we all play a part in manifesting.
Father Walter Suárez López is the pastor of Saint Athanasius parish in Mountain View.