"As the clustering process moves forward in faith, I commend our work to the protection of the Blessed Virgin Mary, under the title of the Immaculate Conception."

A cluster is a regional grouping of parishes united to share experiences of ministry, resources and the talents of their members. The chief purpose of clusters is twofold. First, they are meant to help parishes to meet the pastoral needs of their people more effectively by sharing ideas and resources on the local level. Second, clusters are to strenghten the unity among parishes and throughout the Diocese by bringing people together in work and prayer. In both respects, clusters primarily exist to give pastors and those who work in parochial ministry the support and resources they need to become more effective servants of the Gospel.

From their inception, clusters began a variety of initiatives in education, adult faith formation and outreach to the poor. the men and women involved in the cluster meetings have drawn closer together in mutual cooperation and support. Many feel a new sense of vigor in their efforts to lead the People of God to know, love and serve the Lord Jesus. These developments are very heartening. I pray that they will continue.

I recognize that clusters are only beginning to take shape. They will continue to evolve over the next few years. this evolution will require the constant guidance and support of all who are involved in clustering. To assist this task, I created the Office of Cluster Planning and Collaboration. I am grateful for the excellent work that this Office has done over the past year to direct the work of the clusters. I urge everyone involved in parochial ministry to continue to cooperate and support the work of the Office.

... I hope that the future work of clustering will continue to enrich the pastoral and spiritual work of our Church.

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