This report summarizes the findings of a survey created and administered by the Archdiocesan Task Force on the Ministerial Covenant for the second phase of their work. The goal of this phase was to assess, analyze, and summarize the understanding, convictions, beliefs, and opinions of a variety of archdiocesan stakeholders regarding the Ministerial Covenant and its use in employment decisions.

The Archdiocesan Pastoral Council, in partnership with Catholics, developed the new pastoral planning process, which invites people to prayerfully discern how we are living our faith and carrying out the mission of the Church. This process provides the vision to help people encounter Jesus. It is an invitation for parishes, schools, ministries and individuals to more faithfully live out the mission Jesus is calling them to.

With the recent social unrest and increased divisiveness in our society, Archbishop Paul D. Etienne recognized the need to create an advisory group dedicated to racial justice. He formed a new Racial Justice and Cultural Diversity Commission to guide the Archdiocese of Seattle on issues and initiatives concerning intercultural competency and the sin of racism.

The goal of this handbook is to invite you to take an active part in the pastoral leader transition process, regardless of your role or formal position. Rather than letting events dictate your experience, we encourage you to recognize what is happening and take positive steps to move through the stages of transition.