What is the justification for appointing pastoral administrators (non-priest pastoral leaders) when there are non-retired priests that are serving in roles other than pastor?
Bishop Clark has made clear that he desires to appoint a pastor for each of the diocese’s parishes. Given the number of parishes and the number of priests, this is not possible. Therefore, in accord with canon 517.2, he has appointed non-priests to provide pastoral leadership when it is not possible to appoint a priest as pastor. While only a priest can be appointed as pastor, not every priest will necessarily have the experience, health, desire, and/or aptitudes to serve as pastor. The judgment of the suitability of a priest to serve as a pastor and to serve in a specific setting is made by the Bishop in consultation with the Priest Personnel Board. While ordination is a necessary requirement to be appointed pastor, it does not necessarily confer the abilities, skills, and qualities required for effective pastoral leadership.
