Although it may seem like Into the Deep just began last summer, the truth is that we are almost at the two-year mark in the process.
Into the Deep — our diocese’s multi-year, strategic planning process — began early in 2022 with extensive research.
PartnersEdge, LLC, an outside research and assessment firm, was hired to provide a comprehensive report on the situation in the Diocese of Madison.
The data on our current reality was shared extensively in 2022 and is available on the Into the Deep website at intothedeepmadison.org/current-reality
This data was used to guide decision-making and to create a formal plan.
In the fall of 2022, the diocese formed subcommittees around all the key operational and spiritual areas critical to parish life.
Made up of priests and lay people from all over the diocese, these committees worked for months drafting guidebooks, action plans, and worksheets related to administration, leadership, finance, evangelization, faith formation, schools, worship and sacraments, human resources, facilities, and more.
The Into the Deep plan formulated by the diocesan team and committees is made up of multiple phases. Phase 0, which focused on research, planning, and preparation, ended on June 30, 2023.
We are currently in Phase 1, which began on July 1.
The priests, parish staff, and transition teams in each pastorate are using the Phase 1 guidebooks and planning documents to assess the situation at each parish, create plans that will work at the local level, and prepare for the coming merger of all the parishes into one unified parish.
While the situation in each pastorate is unique and demands customized solutions, having the strategic plan, accompanying documents, and the assistance of the diocesan offices provides the guidance and resources needed to continue on the path to renewal.
Most importantly, the strategic plan helps us stay focused on our six guiding principles: Following Jesus, reclaiming Sunday, evangelizing others, engaging youth, serving our neighbors, and equipping our parish and school leaders.