Pastoral Council

The Pastoral Council exists to advise and assist the pastor in fostering the spiritual growth and pastoral mission of the Church community. It focuses on the life and mission of the Church — evangelization, liturgy, catechesis, service, community, and spiritual growth. It provides a forum for dialogue between clergy and laity about the parish’s pastoral needs and direction (Vatican II § 26). It ensures that decisions and priorities reflect the lived experience and spiritual needs of the people. Its foundation derives from Canon 536 §1 and §2.

Charter of the Pastoral Council of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Parish, Carmel Valley, California
Adopted April 2026.

Current members:

  • Orla Cook (Secretary)
  • Sherie Dodsworth
  • Daryl Lyon
  • Kyle McKay
  • Trini Resendiz
  • Whitney Robare
  • Lonnie Trykowki
  • Alondra Valdez-Klemek (Chair)

Pastoral Council Meetings and Key Topics and Decisions (Reverse Chronological Order)

2026

(scheduled) April 23 at 5:30 PM

March 5 at 5:30 PM — agenda — minutes

  • Minutes not yet available.

February 5 at 5:30 PM — agenda — minutes

  • Minutes not yet available.

2025

November 5 — agenda — minutes

  • Presentation by Ian McKay regarding his opinions on the back altar and paintings.
  • Discussion of where the money came from for the new furnishings, and influence on the design.
  • Fundraising ideas.
  • New parishioners Christmas Party.
  • Draft Charter for the Pastoral Council, to be followed up with a separate meeting.

October 8 — agenda — minutes

  • Altar and Sanctuary feedback, including discussion of alternate frames.
  • General discussion about the structure of the Pastoral Council, especially bylaws.
  • Ideas requested for fundraising.
  • New Council email address.
  • Plans for a new parishioner open house and early Christmas party.

September 4 — agenda — minutes

  • New council members were introduced.
  • The requirements of Canon Law as they pertain to the pastoral council were reviewed, particularly with respect to electing council members.
  • Minutes from the previous meeting were reviewed.
  • There will be another Lenten reconciliation next year, as the one this year was very popular.
  • There are two scholarship recipients, with a total of $3000 awarded.
  • Sanctuary changes were discussed, various opinions aired.
  • Next meeting October 8 2025.

February 21 — agenda — minutes

  • $3000 in scholarship funds are available, there were discussion on how to distribute.
  • Holy Day for 2025 were identified and Mass schedules planned.
  • A decision was made to keep the Eucharistic Adoration tradition (because of poor attendance), but changing to simple sign-in instead of sign-up.
  • A group reconciliation is planned for April 9 at 6:30 PM.
  • Fr Jim Nesbit will speak on March 22 at 5:30 PM. “Why meditate on the Stations of the Cross?”
  • Discussion about a post-Easter Community brunch.
  • A new crucifix for the altar is anticipated, sponsored by Tom Albanese.
  • Dede Woodhead is stepping down due to her upcoming move. Several parishioners were suggested as new council members.
  • The feast day fiesta is scheduled for July 13, with Bishop Danny presiding.
  • The council needs to schedule a new volunteer social event.
  • Next meeting May 22 2025.