Sunday Mass Survey Report

Sunday Mass Times Survey Report

The committee met on 2^nd April. In attendance were Father and Justin; Margaret and Shirley were unable to attend.

Thanks to Margaret and Merle for sorting out all the forms for us.

This was very successful; 369 of 606 people who attended Mass the weekend of March 29/30 responded to the survey.

The decision to go to only one mass on Sunday mornings would in all practicality affect only those who attend the 9:00 and 11:00 am masses. Therefore, we concentrated on those surveys. But we did look at the responses from the 4:30 mass also.

There was only about 30% positive response for a Sunday evening mass. There were about only five (5) who indicated they were willing to get involved in ministry (music, lectors, Eucharistic ministry, ushers) to make that mass viable. There were also a few who did mention that there are already two Sunday evening masses in the city. Some commented that Sunday evening is a family time for them. A few suggested times other than 10:00 am for the single Sunday mass.

A good majority of the surveys were signed. This indicates to us that high level of trust and they were sincere to the process used. Many thanked us for asking their input on this and also thanked PPC for helping Father in his work. There were many comments concerned about not wishing to over extend our pastor. About 30% of the parishioners responding took time to write comments. There were several children who also responded. There were about 5 negative comments.

A few made comments about overcrowding. We looked at the number of people who are at the masses. The 4:30 mass averages 280; this is good number; the building is full, but not over-crowded. If the same number of people who currently attend both Sunday morning masses would all go to a single mass on Sunday morning, it would average to about 350. This would be a full, crowded building.

We discussed this quite a bit, it was felt that this is an important factor to consider. This affects not only the presence or lack of elbow room, but questions of air quality, and parking.

Although this last point was mentioned by only a few parishioners, the physical comfort of people as they worship is very important.

Therefore it was decided that the recommendation to PPC is that:

We continue with two masses on Sunday mornings. And that we should extend our summer schedule to all of June, July, August, and September.

The participation of parishioners in this process was very encouraging, and PPC should use this approach again (we may use it in the fall when determining our goals).

Thanks,

Respectfully submitted,

Justin Legault.