Frequently Asked Questions regarding the Listening Sessions
What happens during these listening sessions?
Each parish will be presented with several models. Each model will propose different groupings of parishes that form pastorates within that specified geographic area, also known as a planning area. After the presentation, a facilitator will moderate the discussion as members of the community are invited to share their feedback on the models presented. A member of the parish community, identified by the pastor, will act as the scribe for the listening session and record the feedback to ensure that it is accurately captured and submitted.
How should I prepare for my parish listening session?
First, pray: The most important thing we can all be doing as we approach this time of listening in our parishes, is to pray. Next, read your Parish Workbook found on the restructuring website. Finally, reflect: Take time to name your feelings about restructuring, and ask the Lord to open your heart to be receptive to where He is leading your parish and the entire Archdiocese of Detroit.
How many listening sessions should I attend?
Everyone is encouraged to attend one session at their parish and to fill out the online survey to be made available on the restructuring website after all the sessions in the planning area are completed. Some people may choose to only do one option – attend the listening session or fill out the online survey – or neither, but that is up to them.
What happens to all the feedback from the parish listening sessions?
Every comment shared through listening sessions, the online survey, and other avenues, will be read and prayerfully considered. From there, common themes and shared experiences from the people of the Archdiocese will be identified. This listening is one important part of a broader discernment that also includes practical information such as Mass attendance, demographic trends, priest availability, and parish finances. Decisions about future parish structures and collaboration will be made through prayerful discernment by the Archbishop, informed by the full picture of parish life across the Archdiocese of Detroit.
How Can I Get Involved?
First and foremost, join us in prayer. You can view the Prayer for Archdiocesan Restructuring on the restructuring website. You can also sign up to receive specific prayer intentions each month, so you can include them in your personal prayer, or as part of your parish’s intercessory prayer team.
During the spring of 2026, all Catholics in the Archdiocese of Detroit will have the opportunity to share their feedback on various drafts models. Each model proposes a different option for grouping parishes together into pastorates. Each Parish will host two listening sessions during which you can learn more about the plans and share your feedback. Within a few weeks of your Listening Session, every parishioner will be provided an opportunity to share additional feedback in an online survey. Every piece of feedback will be discerned and considered as valuable contribution to this process.
When are My Local Parish Listening Sessions?
Listening sessions for St. Irenaeus will be on Tuesday, May 12th and Thursday, May 14th from 7-9pm. REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED. Please register here.
For more information, visit restructuring.aod.org
Update from Mar. 20
The Archdiocese of Detroit began a season of intentional renewal in November 2025 through a two-year journey of discernment and planning. We are now in Phase 2: Listening and Refinement.
More than 400 Listening Sessions will take place this spring across the Archdiocese of Detroit, offering parishioners the chance to review draft models, share feedback, and help shape the future of their parish and Planning Area (we are Planning Area 10). Your voice and prayerful input are essential to this process.
Beginning in July 2027, different groups of parishes will form pastorates led by a single pastor and his team. While some communities may merge or buildings may change in purpose, no decisions have been made in advance; outcomes will be shaped by the collective wisdom of the faithful. You are invited to participate, listen, and journey with us as we discern a mission-focused future for our Church in Detroit.
This process will be transparent, collaborative, and grounded in faith. We invite every member of our community to walk with us — shaping a Church that is spiritually alive, geographically connected, and mission-driven. We encourage you to stay informed, share your voice, and join us in this journey. Here, you’ll find updates, resources and opportunities to engage in this historic moment of renewal (we are in Planning Area 10).
The restructuring effort is a proactive step toward a more vibrant and sustainable future. Guided by prayer, discernment, and inclusive dialogue, the focus will be on three pillars: Vibrant Parishes, Flourishing Priests, and a Mission-Ready Church.
