The product of this phase of the pastoral planning process is a series of objectives which address the identified problems. Further, the objectives must be consistent with the doctrine of the Catholic Church and cultural values of the community.
The most elegant plan ever developed is a waste of time, money, and effort if it is never implemented. Commitment is that phase of the planning process which identifies responsibility for implementation of the pastoral plan and in which responsibility is accepted.
Each of the objectives includes an identification of those offices which are responsible for the implementation of the objective. Each objective allows accountability, because of specific assignment of responsibility.
The mission statement, the listing of pastoral problems, and the objectives are brought together by the plan coordinator in a draft pastoral plan. This draft is presented to the deliberative body for review and discussion. This provides an opportunity for further clarification and integration of the plan. The full body, when it is satisfied with the amendments to the draft, formally votes to approve the draft and to forward it for consideration to the Bishop and Board of Consultors. This expresses support for the plan and commitment to the plan’s implementation.
Using the Diocesan Pastoral Plan as an example, after the finished plan is presented to the Bishop, then the Diocesan Board of Consultors or the Presbyteral Council, representing the clergy, reviews the plan. They discuss its contents and recommend modifications, if they feel there is a need. In the end, they either support the plan or recommend against its acceptance. Their acceptance of the plan signifies their commitment to its implementation.
The final formal act of commitment is the promulgation of the plan. The Bishop accepts the document as the official pastoral plan of the diocese and commits the resources of the diocese to its achievement by his act of promulgation. Of course, the Bishop has the right to modify the Diocesan Pastoral Plan that is presented to him before it is formally promulgated, though any concerns he may have with the plan should have been cleared up during the consultation with the Diocesan Pastoral Council and the Presbyteral Council.
Commitment to the plan by the entire Catholic community is encouraged through publication of the pastoral plan, in the Diocesan Newsletter and in booklet format. Also, talks are given to various Church groups to orient them to the pastoral plan and to obtain their support.
In a similar manner, the Parish Pastoral Council or other body assigned to develop the parish pastoral plan should formally present its final plan to the pastor. While the pastor has the authority to promulgate the plan with no further consultation, the wise pastor will provide those committees and groups within the parish that are effected by the pastoral plan an opportunity to review the plan and offer comments. It is also wise to have the plan reviewed by the parish finance committee as well, as they need to assess the financial practicality of the plan. After sufficient reviews and feedback the pastor can introduce any modifications that have arisen from the reviews, and then promulgate the pastoral plan for the parish community.
