As a continuation of the work of Renew My Church, first envisioned by Cardinal Cupich in 2016, our

parishes have remained open as independent parishes and were directed to engage in a strong

commitment, to support one another in ministry.

Progress has been made on creating a covenant agreement that will influence the relationship between

St Andrew and St Benedict Parishes. The agreement, called "Better Together," was completed by team members from both parishes and we are ready to find creative ways to implement it.

Our initial work focuses on three important areas:

· Relationship building: Parishioners of St. Benedict and St. Andrew parishes will come to know each

other's needs and strengths so they will recognize their co-responsibility to each other.

· Communication and Evangelization: Inter-parish communications will increase so that the parishes

form paths to better collaboration, sharing of pastoral insights and outreach to non-churched individuals.

We are also committed to cohesively communicating the needs and progress of the Covenant

Implementation Team.

· Leadership Development: We will create and implement a strategy for leadership development that

will affirm existing leadership, invite new leadership, and ensure parishioners recognize their gifts for

leadership in the church.

As the Covenant Implementation Team begins meeting, we ask for support in these ways:

• First, if you have skills and interest in any of these focus areas and would like to contribute to the

important work of this Covenant, please email kmcmillan@stbenedict.com or

david@standrew.org so we can help you get connected.

• Second, please pray for the success of this important work! We ask the Holy Spirit to provide the

wisdom and guidance we need to enrich our parishes and the community around us.

Let us all use our time and talents to contribute to the ministry we are being called to share.

"Where two or three are gathered in my name, I am there." - MT 18:20